Editor’s Welcome
It’s time for a new season
92 issues. Seven and a half years. 66,000-plus words. Countless joy.
In May 2017, two-time Stephen Leacock Medal for Humour winner, Leaside-born author Terry Fallis joined Leaside Life as a regular columnist with his first piece: “Leaside Literati: A confession 50 years on.” He’s been writing for us ever since, faithfully, and (a blessing for an editor) always early with his columns. So, it’s with some sadness that I share that Terry has decided to put away his pen – only for Leaside Life – with this issue.
right. Terry has written about twins before, notably in his novel One Brother Shy, and specifically about brother Tim in many Leaside Life pieces.
But…we are thrilled to share that a new columnist will be joining our team in the new year: Tim Fallis, Terry’s twin brother and a talented writer and wit in his own
We have no idea what Tim Fallis will write about, but we’re intrigued to learn if he fact-checks some of what Terry has written over the years about their childhood experiences. In other news to share, this issue we debut a new column, “Leaside Cooks,” overseen by “Layers of Leaside” writer Mitch Bubulj. LC will not be your typical recipe column, instead it’s stories of Leaside’s many cultures brought to life through cooking. Get ready for tasty tales.
Enjoy this holiday season – and the new season to come! n
May your homes be filled with laughter, peace, and the magic of the season.
From our family to yours, we wish you a joyous holiday and a prosperous New Year!
*Sales Representative
No beer please, we’re Leasiders!
Recent reports that Ontario Costco stores, among other retailers, would now be selling beer (and wine) were met with the approval of many Leasiders. To mark the occasion, some folks even posted on Facebook photos of beer cases for sale at the Thorncliffe Park Costco.
How times have changed. Eighty years ago, a similar event would have triggered howls of protest from angry Leaside residents. In fact, it did! Here’s the story of those dry times:
Phase 1
In May 1941, people learned that the Loblaws Groceteria at 529 Bayview Ave. was moving to a new location down the street. It was also rumoured that the LCBO planned to open a beer “warehouse” (Brewers Retail) at the former Loblaws site. Within days, a delegation of several hundred residents appeared before
the Leaside town council and convinced it to pass a resolution opposing the LCBO’s plan.
Over the next few weeks, the antibeer faction took further action. They formed a citizens’ committee led by local lawyer I.E. Houser of
145 Bessborough Dr. and launched a petition condemning the planned warehouse; it was signed by 70 per cent of the town’s voters – nearly 2,000 residents. On June 3, a new delegation presented the petition to St. Clair Gordon, the LCBO Commissioner, who politely told them that the warehouse was going forward regardless.
This provoked a defiant response from Houser, who charged that the LCBO was using Leaside as an outlet for selling beer to residents of nearby North Toronto – a “dry” area. Houser vowed to continue the fight “until the proposal is defeated” [ Globe & Mail , June 6, 1941].
According to the Toronto Star [June 6, 1941], he was supported by many others – including the Leaside school board; Leaside United church pastor
BEER SALES Page 32
Paul Bolté: winning entrepreneur and philanthropist
by STEVE HARDY
“How can I help you?”
That simple query is always what you will hear when meeting Leaside’s Paul Bolté, whether he’s discussing business or philanthropy.
“There are choices to be made out there,” says Paul, who founded his business, www.ecomvmnt.ca , devoted to environmentally approved products, in 2021. “The products you buy can make a difference when it comes to the environment.”
Of his company, the entrepreneur explains, “What (the site) became is from listening to the customers – trying to find products that work well on an e-commerce platform. What I love is that I created it as an advocate for a cleaner environment, but also for a healthy lifestyle.”
But helping people make smart and healthy choices extends far beyond the pages of his website to a career in philanthropy, too.
When his daughter Tori pointed out the University Health Network’s (UHN’s) annual Rally for Rehab, Paul jumped in and offered to help
CHECK OUT OUR DEC. CONTEST ON PAGE 34!
wherever he could be most effective. The event raised almost a quarter-million dollars in 2024.
“We’ve seen it grow,” Paul, who joined the event committee in 2024, says. “We want to continue to grow.”
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As a sponsor, Paul also pitched in by handing out flyers to promote the event.
“These are the type of things I love to do,” declares Paul, who has been married to DeeDee, an executive assistant at Bloorview School, since 1995. “There are people who will write million-dollar cheques. My cheque is my time to help raise money personally or collectively. I want to be part of this again. I don’t think a lot of people in Leaside know about the rehab centres here.”
He stresses he would very much like to make the community aware of the cutting-edge work the KITE (Knowledge Innovation Talent Everywhere) Research Institute at UHN is doing to help those dealing with the effects of disability, illness and aging. KITE’s work includes injury prevention, restoration of function and aiding in independent living and community integration.
Born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), also known as Brittle Bone disease, meant that Paul, a father of two grown children (Zach and Tori) has been prone to breaks and sprains much of his life. Paul estimates he has broken two dozen bones, but as he grew into adulthood his bone density became much stronger.
“OI made me say ‘never give up.’ If you have a bad day, get back on the horse,” he says of his positive attitude. Also a prostate cancer survivor, Paul says he is driven by his DNA to help when he sees someone or something in need.
Combining his desire to stay physically active with his love for sporting activity, Paul has a passion for raising money and has taken part in the Ride to Conquer Cancer (for his sister, who is fully recovered), a 12-hour rowing and spinning event where he raised $4,000 to benefit Trees for Life and UHN, and a fundraising cycling event for children as well.
“It makes me feel really good that I’m giving back,” he says.
Paul says he will never stop learning – and helping.
“You can’t change what happened yesterday, but you can change what you do today, what you do tomorrow,” he says. “I’ll never retire.”n
VIRGINIA TROTT
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Rachel Chernos Lin’s unlikely journey from academic historian to councillor
by LORNA KRAWCHUK
With 12,899 votes cast in her favour, Rachel Chernos Lin handily won the by-election called to elect the councillor for Ward 15 on November 4 after the death of Councillor Jaye Robinson in May. With 31.8% voter turnout in 52 polls, Rachel’s percentage of the votes cast was 54.76%, while runner-up Anthony Furey received 31.17% of the votes cast after what was at times an acrimonious campaign.
This is just the latest chapter in our councillor’s story, which has more than a few twists and turns.
Rachel originally intended to become an academic historian. She completed all the course work and exams for her PhD, but then didn’t defend her dissertation, so she is technically an ABD (all but dissertation). She was studying the slave trade, specifically slave trade investors. She loved the research but found working by herself a lonely pursuit.
So, when she and her husband Ken moved to Leaside 22 years ago, and their three daughters enrolled at Northlea, she found she really enjoyed volunteering at the school for 10 years.
“[I] loved connecting people and adding to the collective good,” she says of those early years. “There was a social piece to it.” Her academic background came into play as she became involved in advocacy about education levy charges. This led to her decision to run as a Toronto District School Board (TDSB) trustee when longtime trustee Gerri Gershon retired in 2018.
As trustee Rachel connected with the schools in her ward, but she also set up regular community coffee gatherings for parents to meet her more informally. For the past two years, she was elected by her peers to be the chair of the TDSB, a position which gave her many more opportunities to connect at the municipal, provincial and federal levels.
Even before Jaye’s death in May, Rachel had been pondering her next move. While she thoroughly enjoyed her time as a trustee, and especially as chair, she knew she was ready for more challenges. As well, her youngest daughter, now in Grade 11, would soon be following her sisters to post-high school opportunities, in all probability, away from home.
So it came to be, after a family holiday and time “to consult with my husband and do some soul searching,” that Rachel decided to run for the councillor position and registered on July 24.
At times, going door to door, she says she felt “like the Pied Piper.” She’d be walking along, someone would stop to chat, and then keep walking with her – and introduce her to other friends along the way. At least one member of her canvassing team is a friend from university days. Others came from her book club or had Northlea connections
from way back. Her eldest daughter came home for Thanksgiving from Alberta, ended up canvassing with her mom, and enjoyed it so much, she’s now looking for more opportunities to get involved, in the west. Calling it “running for office” is an accurate description of the campaign process. Even the week of the by-election and after she had won the seat for Don Valley West, there wasn’t time for a break. On the Wednesday was the TDSB meeting at which she needed to tender her resignation as a trustee. Then there was onboarding at City Hall on the Thursday and being sworn in as councillor on the Friday. Why the rush? She wanted to be able to play an active role in the City Council meeting the following Wednesday so that “her” ward wouldn’t be without representation for another month.
Future hopes? Possibly a bit of a pipe dream, but, harking back to her community coffee meetings, Rachel wants to find a way to have a not-downtown constituency office. There’s also the immediate need for her and her office staff to get to know each other. They also have a novel challenge: There are not one, not two, but now THREE Rachels in that office (though one is a Rachael). Listen carefully when you call the office! n
LINDA CARTE
Rachel (right) with former East York Councillor Lorna Krawchuk
Get needled for wellness at PALM Health
by SUZANNE PARK
You could have predicted that young entrepreneur Nicole da Silva would locate her business in Leaside. After all, she grew up and went to school here, was a fitness trainer at F45 on Bayview, numbers many friends and connections in the community, plus her dad, Tony da Silva, owner of a construction business, was the chief designer of her clinic.
If you ever had a haircut at the Leaside Barber Shop at 423 Sutherland Dr., you know exactly where PALM Health & Wellness is located. In fact, Nicole told me, “A few people have arrived expecting to get a haircut and are now clients.”
Upon hearing she was an acupuncturist – someone who heals with needles, lots of needles – I admit imagining a somewhat unpleasant experience. Perhaps a holdover from the unending pandemic vaccinations. Yet, Nicole in a calm and reassuring voice explained that when she
and ultimately decide if acupuncture is something they’d like to try.
proposes acupuncture to clients, she fully explains the procedure and its benefits. Next, she encourages them to consider it, do their own research,
Stanley’s White House Meats
As the owner of the wellness clinic, Nicole has assembled a multi-disciplinary team of health professionals. She herself is a graduate of the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, completed the Neurofunctional Acupuncture program at McMaster University as well as courses in pre- and post-partum care. At her clinic, she is the lead chiropractor and acupuncturist. Her team of associates includes four specialists:
• Leann Melegrito is a chiropractor with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Science from the University of the Philippines, majoring in biomechanics. As a former competitive gymnast and dancer, she appreciates the toll activities can take on the body.
• Sean Fernandez is a registered massage therapist and the clinic’s certified fascial stretch therapist, a health modality that improves mobility. His clients range from seniors wanting to remain active to professional athletes, including NBA players.
• Kristina Kajcevski is the clinic’s lymphatic drainage and facial massage specialist. She offers exotically named treatments. She is trained in Brazilian lymphatic drainage, Colombian wood therapy, and face massages that include cupping, gua sha, and buccal massage to assist with relieving the pain of temporoman-
L-r: Leann Melegrito, Sean Fernandez, Nicole da Silva, Lisa Beveridge
The sorry state of Georgia Walsh playground continues
by CHERYL VANDERBURG
As a follow-up to my November article, I report that the littered state of the Georgia Walsh playground continues.
Being a woman of action, I emailed 311 with photos of the littered areas. They replied that my message had been forwarded to Josie, the park supervisor, who would contact me within three business days. She did not. They said I could call her if I didn’t hear from her. I did not. They did not provide an email address. Nor does the City of Toronto website. Hmmm….
Curious to see if anything had been done, I went over to take a look a week later. “Someone” had done something. And although there had been some improvement, the old litter seemed to have been replaced with a new batch of chip bags, drink boxes, a vodka bottle, and assorted other garbage “goodies.”
So, I took a bunch more photos, fired off another email offering to
help, called the park supervisor and left a voicemail. Still no reply. Not sure what their policy is on responding to the public’s feedback.
Can you blame me if I feel like I’m living a John Lennon song? With apologies to Mr. Lennon…. Imagine there’s no litter It’s easy if you try
No litter behind the bench seats
In the bushes, or along the fence lines You may say I’m a dreamer
But I’m not the only one I hope one day you’ll join us
And the parks will be clean, and we will live as one.
Is hoping for a clean park on a daily basis really too much to ask of the City and the community? I used to clean it myself but no longer do as it seems a thankless and never-ending task. Plus, the design makes it challenging as you can’t walk easily behind the bench seats or along the tennis court fence, and the bushes along McRae have become a jungle. I do pick up garbage along the Rumsey Road fence as it is manageable, and I find it offensive to look at outside my kitchen window.
Thankfully, my son’s days of playing there are over. And the littered state does not seem to deter families, children and teens from using the park.
I guess if it doesn’t bother them, I’ll have to get unbothered too. Sad, really. We need to take better care of our green spaces as they take such good care of us. n
Code Ninjas Leaside Celebrates Ilia’s Incredible Journey to Black Belt!
We’re thrilled to highlight the amazing achievements of one of our brightest stars!
Ilia completed his White Belt (first) level in an astonishing 2 hours – a task that typically takes over 3 months! Ilia quickly proved himself to be a focused and determined ninja.
Ilia’s drive and dedication to learning, coding, and game development pushed him to achieve his Black Belt in under 3 years. But his journey didn’t stop there. He’s now a published game developer! We’re very proud of Ilia’s success and excited to see where his coding skills take him next. Congratulations, Ilia!
Want to start your own coding adventure? Join us at Code Ninjas Leaside and become the next Black Belt Ninja! Book your free tour class today! 416-546-3114 / leasideonca@codeninjas.com
Long-time Leasider kept the spirit alive
by MITCH BUBULJ
Terry O’Sullivan, who died suddenly last December, had a singular gift for keeping the holiday spirit alive in Leaside.
For over 20 years his jerry-rigged 10-metre-high lighted display, topped with a bright electric star and complete with nativity at its base, reminded passersby of the true meaning of the Christmas season. Not just a feast for the eyes, the display also includes music. Mostly carols but also – after the 25th –tunes like Perry Como’s holiday hits.
The seasonal lawn display is unique, as was Terry himself. Born in 1943, the same year his family bought their home on MacNaughton Road, he attended St. Anselm’s School and later St. Michael’s College School, helping to pay the tuition fee by caddying for his dad, who was an avid golfer. After years of study at St. Augustine’s Seminary by the Scarborough Bluffs, Terry was ordained a Catholic priest. Some of his very first duties were officiating at his brother’s marriage
Terry with his mom and sisters in front of their home on MacNaughton Road in 1957.
and his sister’s funeral.
But Terry’s order, Scarboro Foreign Missions, was dedicated to overseas work, so he headed to the Amazonas region of Brazil in 1970
where he would stay for 12 years. He arrived in Manaus, the capital of Amazonas state, nicknamed the Paris of the Tropics. Manaus is an Indigenous word meaning Mother of the Gods. The large territory he serviced included 17 communities, which he visited regularly by boat, traversing the mighty Amazon in all sorts of weather, including monsoons, to marry, christen and bury his parishioners. He stood with the poor in confronting social issues such as land and water rights and community development.
In the late ’80s Terry left the priesthood, but not the Church and continued doing lay pastoral work. He married in the ’90s. His wife Colleen remembers that when they travelled to the Amazon, Terry was so excited to “show me the paths that he had walked.” Part of the trip was one week on a small wooden river boat with hammocks as beds. Terry’s knowledge of Portuguese returned in no time, so they had a memorable trip reuniting with his old friends and making many new ones.
As life often does, Terry’s came full circle; he and Colleen found themselves living in Terry’s childhood home in Leaside. When asked “why a small creche nestled against a huge tree with music on the front lawn?”
Colleen explains, “It was around 1999 when St. Anselm’s decided not to display a nativity scene outside the church. Terry thought that was a shame, so he decided to make his own humble contribution to celebrate the season.”
Yes, the last eight years writing this humble column have certainly been a trip – not to be clichéd – a trip down memory lane. I wrote my first column back in May of 2017 when I was in my 50s, and the word Covid was still a few years away from entering our lexicon. Since then, I’ve contributed – if my arithmetic skills are intact –92 columns, 92 stories about my life growing up in Leaside, 92 trips down memory lane. And, in case I haven’t been clear, it seems that this is my final kick at the column can.
I didn’t really want to stop. I enjoyed my monthly historical spelunking expeditions in search of another, usually funny, tale to recount in 700 words. The first six years were a breeze. I had lots of stories stockpiled, all of them true, and many at my own expense, most also involving my frequent co-conspirator, my identical twin brother, Tim. But as we headed into year seven, I found myself struggling to find new stories I hadn’t yet told but were fit for the august and renowned periodical that is Leaside
It’s been a trip!
Life. (I confess, there are some other stories I’ve not yet told, but given the current statute of limita tions on certain offences, I’m afraid they will have to wait a few more years. Great tales, just not yet the right time!)
Anyway, it began taking me longer to come up with pieces. I’d wrack my brain and bug Tim and other family members and friends for story ideas. And when I finally came
up with one – or gratefully borrowed/ stole an idea from someone else – I’d then have to check back to make sure I hadn’t already told that particular tale in an earlier column. More than once, I had to abandon a half-written column when I’d get a little twinge of déjà vu. A quick check in my computer files would often confirm my suspicion that I’d already told that story, and I’d be back to the drawing (writing?) board. So earlier this year, I made the difficult decision to wrap up this little storytelling enterprise in the hopes that there might be someone out there with a whole new set of stories to keep the column going. And here we are. Through it all, close to eight years and nearly 100 columns, I have thoroughly enjoyed myself. I’d meet Leasiders walking along Bayview, and they would tell me stories from their pasts prompted by my latest column. It reminded me that my upbringing in Leaside, while mine, was not unique. The neighbourhood, its history and geography, its institutions, and its citizens, come together to create the perfect conditions for an idyllic, adventurous, and memorable childhood. And Leaside has been doing that since its incorporation back in 1913, more than a century ago. And I daresay, Leaside will continue in that grand tradition for generations to come. It is truly a special community, which is why so many of us chose to raise our own kids in Leaside, or in the GLA – you know, the Greater Leaside Area.
Let me pay tribute to Jane Auster, the only editor I’ve ever known at Leaside Life, and Stan Flemming for giving me a monthly platform. It was a pleasure working with them and the rest of the stalwarts at Leaside Life. And for those of you wondering who might fill my tiny, little shoes, take heart. I’ve recently been informed that a new columnist has been found who will write a quarterly column in Leaside Life, following in my footsteps. Yes, it’s true. My successor is… wait for it… wait
Terry (right) and his brother Tim.
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The incomparable Coach G to retire in June
by DANIEL GIRARD
For Jim Georgiadis, the path always led to Leaside High School.
While growing up on Donlea Drive, it was his destination from Northlea Elementary and Middle School, following in the footsteps of big brother, John, and paving the way for kid brothers Peter and George.
After graduating in 1987, the former quarterback of the Lancers football team wanted to volunteer as a coach and do so at Leaside while studying economics at York University’s Glendon College on Bayview.
Once he chose a career in education and completed a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction at the University of Loyola in Chicago, where he taught at inner city schools, Georgiadis returned home.
“There were seven different school boards in Toronto at the time and I was applying to all of them for a job as a supply teacher,” he recalls. “One day I was driving east down Eglinton Ave. from an interview, and I saw Leaside High School in the distance
and thought, ‘why don’t I just go in?’”
A chat that day with Dale Lyons, then-vice-principal at Leaside, secured a spot as a supply teacher. Soon, it was full-time in economics and physed, and coach of a football team that went winless in his first season.
Now, 30 years later, Georgiadis, known affectionately as “Coach G,” is set to retire at the end of June. And, he’s going out on top, coaching the Lancers football team to an undefeated season, the TDSSAA city championship, the fourth of his teaching career, and capping it off with a Toronto Bowl title.
His departure coincides with the graduation of Paul, the younger of his two children.
“I didn’t plan it that way. It just worked out that way,” he says. “But to have the opportunity to coach my son, especially in my last year and as he graduates with his friends, is very special.
“It’s the right time for me to go.” Best known as the Leaside High football coach, Georgiadis has done much more over the years. He’s also coached teams in baseball, hockey, golf and basketball. In addition to teaching, he is co-advisor of the DECA Business Club at the school.
“He is the most influential coach in the history of this high school,” says Jim Wilson, a member of the Leaside High class of 1962, a football and hockey player as a student and an assistant football coach to Georgiadis since 2011. “I’ve never met anyone more dedicated or a better example for young people to follow than Jim, and I say that from the bottom of my heart.”
It’s a sentiment echoed by Matthew Morrison, who graduated from Leaside High in 2011, after playing football all four years and winning
DANIEL GIRARD
The Vital Role of Pelvic Floor Health During Menopause
The menopause transition is quite the journey—it’s a time of growth, empowerment, and finding yourself. Yet, amidst the changes that come with this transition, there’s one often-overlooked aspect that deserves our attention: the pelvic floor.
The menopause transition brings about hormonal shifts that can affect the pelvic floor muscles, leading to challenges such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual discomfort, and even fecal incontinence. By understanding the importance of pelvic floor health and taking proactive steps to strengthen these muscles, we can reclaim control over our bodies and our lives.
Imagine the freedom of being able to laugh, sneeze, or jump without fear of bladder leaks. Picture the joy of feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin (or underwear), knowing that your pelvic floor is strong and supportive. This is the power of pelvic floor exercises, such as kegels, which can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, improve bladder control, and support pelvic organ health. The challenge is remembering to do them, or knowing if you are doing them correctly to make a difference.
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Baseball phenom set to wow at Yale
by SUSAN SCANDIFFIO
A young Leasider focused on academics, athletics and philanthropy is heading for a very bright future.
As a kid who loved playing catch with his dad, Elliot Lascelles was drawn to baseball at an early age. From t-ball to Leaside summer baseball camp, Lascelles’ interest in the sport quickly became a passion. During camp, coach Eric Stickney encouraged Lascelles to try out for a high-level team.
Though he was one year younger than the other kids, Lascelles ended up making the squad and for the next decade played Leaside AAA ball with teammates a year or two older than he was.
But for Lascelles, academics was just as important as athletics.
The 16-year-old Lascelles was always on the Principal’s List for students in the top 10 per cent in academics at his school, Upper Canada College. He was also a member of the Academic Council and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Club, having completed his bronze
and silver awards.
So, when universities started showing interest, the athlete’s ultimate choice of school was not surprising.
hitting shortstop, has played elite baseball in the Canadian Premier Baseball League for the Toronto Mets since 2023.
With his powerful bat-to-ball skills and his tremendous speed, he was named to the Canadian National Junior roster this past fall. Playing against high-level teams in the Dominican Republic in October, Lascelles had the chance to compete with and against some of the greatest players from North America.
Lascelles, a six-foot, left-handed
Only 2.4% of males who play baseball in high school in the U.S. end up playing the sport in Division 1 colleges and universities.
Lascelles was recruited by more than 20 D1 schools.
Ultimately, he chose to attend Yale to study economics.
As the well-spoken Lascelles notes, “academics are really important to me,” adding that he also really liked the coaches, “who have a track record of success.”
At Yale, he’ll also be able to be the starting shortstop.
With a full schedule filled with academics and baseball, you’d think that Lascelles would have little time for any other activities. But he also runs varsity track, and in 2018 created the Leaside Baseball Used Equipment collection for kids in the Dominican Republic and Thorncliffe Park – a program which still runs today.
Lascelles attributes his success to his many coaches, including John Watt and Stickney with Leaside Baseball, who, he says, taught him “sportsmanship and the fundamentals of the game.” Other coaches over the years, he adds, taught him leadership skills, worked with him on skill refinement and connected him to top baseball schools in the U.S.
His at-home team, including brother Oliver, dad Eric and mom Karinne Chan, have also played a major role in his achievements.
Lascelles is enthusiastic about his future at Yale. “The higher level of baseball really excites me; it will be a chance to improve a lot with really great coaches.”n
BASEBALL CANADA
KARINNE CHAN
by MITCH BUBULJ
Introducing Leaside Cooks!
Each month we will cover a Leasider’s special dish with a hearty side order of narrative. And you will find the recipes online by clicking the Leaside Cooks tab.
Inspiration for Leaside Life ’s newest feature, Leaside Cooks , comes from two rich sources: the words of Chavez and the Michelinstar quality dishes emerging from Leasider Laura Tanner’s kitchen. Laura surprises neighbours and friends with a seemingly endless array of culinary delights like goulash and moussaka, each one with a rich back story. But it was her mother’s Lithuanian “pink” salad that brought out a tale of survival, resilience and tradition and it is the dish introduced in this inaugural article.
What Laura calls “Lithuanian pink salad” is also known as Darzoviu Misraine and is served cold and often at formal meals, especially at Christmas time. Variations exist throughout Central, Northern and Eastern Europe.
Aldona Rauktys, Laura’s mom, brought the recipe over in her head, and the ingredients are as adventurous and bittersweet as her own life experiences in Europe before fleeing to Canada after World War II. Born in 1928, Aldona was 16 when her father, a professor at Vilnius University, sent her on a perilous journey out of Lithuania to Switzerland,
If you really want to make a friend, go to someone’s house and eat with him... the people who give you their food give you their heart. – Cesar Chavez and safety. He stayed behind to ensure his students were able to graduate. But it was 1944 and she had more than one run-in with drunken and desperate Soviet and German soldiers, narrowly escaping violent abuse. After the war Aldona came to Canada as a refugee with little
more than asuitcase and a headful of memories, including her native Lithuanian dishes. She met Harry, an Austrian refugee, on the Toronto Islands during a summer downpour, both seeking shelter from the rain. They married in 1953 and Aldona did what most young Toronto brides did at the time: cooked and cleaned, getting most joy from cooking. She jumped right into learning how to prepare Austrian dishes as well as refreshing her memories of several Lithuanian specialties. Laura recalls that as children, she and her sister “didn’t grow up eating like normal families” in suburban Mississauga where her dad was the City’s planning commissioner. Every dinner was an authentic and European gourmet meal. “I remember my father’s hosting
Advent Services
Celebrate Christmas with Leaside United Church
Advent Services
Carols by Candlelight
Advent Services
Carols by Candlelight
Dec 1, Dec 8, Dec 15, Dec 22 at 10:30 am
Carols by Candlelight
Quiet Christmas
Advent Services
Christmas Eve Services
Carols by Candlelight
Quiet Christmas
Quiet Christmas
Christmas Eve Services
Christmas Eve Services
A joint musical celebration with Northlea United & Leaside United. Featuring choir-led carols, saxophone, and organ performances, the program weaves together beloved carols and cherished anthems that celebrate the spirit of Christmas.
822 Millwood Road (at the corner of Millwood & McRae) www.leasideunited.org
This reflective service with instrumental music offers space for all of the emotions we carry at the end of a challenging year.
Christmas Eve Services
Dec 24 at 4:00 pm All Ages Service
An interactive service as we recreate the Christmas story together.
Dec 24 at 8:00 pm Candles and Communion
During this peace-filled service, the Chancel Choir will lead favourite carols as we remember the birth of Jesus.
Laura Tanner
Christmas parties with Mayor Hazel McCallion in attendance. She and other guests would compliment my mother on her cooking prowess, which always warmed her heart,” Laura reflects. “Her joy of cooking for those she loved has definitely been handed down to me.”
“Intuitive cook” is how Laura describes her mom, and, by extension, herself. She didn’t so much follow a recipe as she taste-tested her way through meal preparation. “I remember mom sampling with her small spoon and always knowing if it needed a bit more salt or spice. She would tell us, ‘Watch what I am doing,’ which has informed the way I cook to this day.” Laura says, “my passion for cooking is mostly in the genes but is fueled by my priceless memories of just ‘watching.’” Laura is hopeful the tradition will live on with her two university-aged daughters, who are encouraged to “watch what I am doing” whenever Laura prepares a family meal, especially the Christmas dinner.
Do you have a recipe that comes with a story to tell? Reach out and let us know at leasidelife@gmail. com . We’re interested in featuring the many cultures making up a vibrant Leaside. n
Christmas Christmas
wishing you the blessings of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love this Christmas and always
December 16th 7pm Carols with Friends
A holiday tradition with a carol sing-along and storytelling
(Please bring a non-perishable food donation for the Flemingdon Food Bank)
December 22nd 4pm Quiet (Blue) Christmas Service
A special service for those who find Christmas a difficult time
December 24th 4pm Christmas Eve Family Service
A lively, interactive service with an Instant Pageant (no experience required)
December 24th 8pm Christmas Eve Choral Eucharist with Candlelight
December 25th 9am Christmas Day Service
1399 Bayview Avenue 416-485-0329 • stcuthbertsleaside.com • stcuthbertleaside@toronto.anglican.ca
Aldona Rauktys, Laura’s mom.
Mitch taste testing!
MANOR ROAD UNITED CHURCH
Celebrating 100 Years of Spiritual Guidance and Charitable Good Works, May 2025
UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS:
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Sat. Dec. 7th 9am to 12pm
All-you-can-eat Pancake Breakfast
Family $28.00 Kids $6.00 Adults $10.00 Join the parade at 9:45am. Outdoor photo with Santa. Christmas Market and Entertainment. Please bring a food item for The Food Bank.
OUTDOOR LIVING NATIVITY CELEBRATION Sunday Dec.15th 5pm Live Farm Animals and Hot Cider.
BLUE CHRISTMAS Dec.18 6pm to 7pm A time for healing and contemplation. Shelley Neal on harp and Tom Marcaccini on grand piano.
CHRISTMAS EVE Family Service 4pm Carols by Candlelight. 240 Manor Road East, Toronto, ON manorroadunitedchurch.com
The winning 2024 Lancers!
a junior city championship in Grade 10. A realtor in the neighbourhood, the former defensive back is an assistant coach on the team, crediting Georgiadis with “inspiring me to come and give back because of everything he’s given to the school.
“At any given time, between his classes, his business club and his coaching, Jim is positively impacting and influencing about a quarter of the kids at the school, which is unfathomable for one teacher.”
Angela Brown, a teacher at Leaside since 2018 who has coached the golf and hockey teams with Georgiadis, says, “he has a great ability to explain technical aspects of the game to students.
“Watching him coach, I appreciate how calm and patient he is. He is thoughtful in his responses to athletes and parents and has been a great mentor to other coaches.”
Zack MacMillan, a Grade 12 student who has played both golf and hockey for Georgiadis and also been in his classes over the years, says “his style of coaching made school sports feel more competitive and fun.
“On top of all this, he was also a great teacher. Seeing his name in my schedule at the start of a semester was a huge bonus because I knew I was getting a teacher who really understood me.”
Gabe Burnett, a Grade 12 student who has played on the football, hockey and golf teams for Georgiadis and is in his economics class this semester, called him “a role model of a coach and a teacher.
“He’s very good at talking to kids if they’re struggling in school or in sports and figuring out the best scenario for them to improve,” Burnett says. “And he gives some of the greatest speeches I’ve ever heard — he always knows what to say for the situation and shows how passionate he is.”
For his part, Georgiadis says while the energy has waned, the passion remains. And the pride, which is measured not in wins but by the number of children of high school buddies he teaches and coaches, the past students who drop by with updates on their lives, and the past players who visit the practice field.
“Students are at the centre of everything we do,” he says. “And athletics complements the classroom in that we’re teaching kids to understand they represent their school, their community and each other, and that they have to have respect for themselves and their opponents, and for the game. “When I see that in them, that’s when I know how fortunate I’ve been to be here.” n
PALM HEALTH From Page 8
dibular disorder (TMJ), which can cause pain in your jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement.
• Registered Massage Therapist Lisa Beveridge is interested in movement patterns, injury, and rehabilitation. She graduated with a B.A. in Kinesiology & Health Science and Psychology from York University and a diploma of Massage Therapy from the Sutherland Chan School. She integrates manual therapy, movement, and functional exercise to create a treatment plan that suits clients’ goals.
“It’s an exciting time to be in the wellness industry,” says Nicole. “Preventive versus reactive healthcare is a flourishing mindset. Clients want to proactively remain healthy, active and pain free. Just like your car’s oil change, our bodies need regular tune-ups.”
For more info: www.palmhealthandwellness.ca or Instagram @palmhealth.to. n
DANIEL GIRARD
Discovering Leaside’s very own sweets trail
by LISA PARKER
Who knew that Leaside was such a sweet place to live?
With a bounty of bakeries, patisseries, chocolatiers and confectioners in the area, Leaside is a rich and tasty place for those looking for holiday gifts, delicious desserts or myriad opportunities to satisfy their sweet tooth.
Some of these places have been in the neighbourhood for decades, while others are more recent additions to our community. Whether you want cookies or croissants, pillowy bread, artisanal chocolates or fancy desserts, there is a place for you to find these items in Leaside. Since we each have favourites, or perhaps an occasion that requires something special, the broad range of choices in Leaside ensures there is something for everyone.
Baked goods
has been at their current Bayview location for eight years. Some of the most popular items are croissants, the Dumas cake, the bouches and of course their holiday specialties and beautiful desserts. Manager Samantha Legay says that people “love the authentic European style of Rahier” as their offerings are prepared by Belgian chefs. Rahier is a regular stop for people in the neighbourhood and also draws devotees from all over Toronto. www. rahierpatisserie.com.
that in addition to their wonderful sweets, the shop “has savoury pies like spicy beef curry, classic chicken pot pie and vegan options.” Lots of tasty choices, both sweet and savoury. www.mysweetiepie.ca Epi Bakehouse (1526 Bayview Ave.) is a longtime Leaside establishment at the corner of Millwood and Bayview. This popular bakery is well known for delicious breads and pastries, and also a wide selection of desserts and prepared meals. As their website attests: “From the sweetest pastries to the most savory sandwiches, we have something special for every palate.” www.epibakehouse.com.
Rahier Patisserie (1586 Bayview Ave.) opened in Leaside in 1996 and
Patisserie La Cigogne (1626 Bayview Ave.) marked two decades in Leaside in 2023. This wonderful shop has a broad selection of pastries, cakes, macarons and treats for special occasions, such as the French Wedding Cake and the French Croquembouche. These delicious treats are made by Thierry Schmitt, a French master pastry chef with over 30 years of experience in artisanal baking. As the proprietors of the patisserie say, “think of us for your desserts”! We do, we do. www.patisserielacigogne.com
Bomou Artisanal Bakery (1636 Bayview Ave.) is a relative newcomer to Leaside, opening on March 15th, 2020, right at the beginning of the pandemic. Owner Negar Sabzevari says, “we love the neighbourhood, and the people here were very supportive through the pandemic, which helped us survive that trying time.” The bakery’s breads are very popular. One of their signature items is a ‘shahzadeh,’ a beautiful pastry with pistachio mousse, rosewater and raspberry. For the holidays, Bomou has many chocolate and showpiece offerings along with something special for kids – last year there were decorate your own gingerbread cookies. www.bomou.ca
Charmaine Sweets (115 Vanderhoof Ave.) is a lovely bakery a little off the beaten track with a wide selection of bread, cakes, croissants and pastries. The family-owned business is named after the owner Teresa Ho’s daughter, who is also a pastry chef. The lovely offerings are all made from scratch, in the French style. www.charmainesweetsstudio.com
The Leaside location of COBS (1539 Bayview Ave.) is another favourite in the neighbourhood. There is often a lineup of regulars waiting to purchase the many different breads, scones or hot cross buns, along with special seasonal treats. www.cobsbread.com/ local-bakery/leaside-bakery.
Cookies
The Leaside location of Sweetie Pie (1639 Bayview Ave.), which opened in February 2022, attracts a large following of regulars. Shop manager ‘Jacob’ says that “Leaside favourites include butter tarts and strawberry rhubarb pie.” Jacob also mentions
Craig’s Cookies (1581 Bayview Ave.) opened in Leaside in October 2020. Founder Craig Pike’s business started in his own kitchen and has grown into several shops around the city. Leaside is very lucky to have one in our neighbourhood. According to Craig Shaw, manager of the Bayview store, “Leaside’s favourite cookie is the classic chocolate chip.” There are many other delicious and unusual flavours along with several special cookies for the holidays, including candy cane shortbread and white chocolate gingerbread. Cookies can be purchased either at the shop or online. www. craigscookies.com.
Churchill Fine Gourmet Gifts (882 Millwood Rd.) has been a Leaside favourite for almost 20 years. They SWEETS Page 30
Spotlight on Dr. Michelle Munger
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.
by DAVID CRICHTON
The hand wave. Can any other seemingly innocuous human gesture communicate so much? It’s a question I ponder as I sit in my car on Laird, south of McRae, trapped in a bunged-up, narrowed lane, thanks to construction of yet another concrete beehive encircling the neighbourhood. As James Taylor sang, “Looking in the rear-view mirror, I saw myself the next car back.…” I also see a very long nostril hair that is neither in his lyrics, nor was in my nose, just yesterday. But I digress. This story is not about my follicly fertile proboscis. You see, two minutes earlier, a very large pickup truck had edged its way ahead of me, intent on forcing itself into the lane I occupied. I had to decide whether to be a jerk and risk perceived damage to my car, by pretending not to see the giant, four-by-four of overcompensation beside me or swallow my pride and acquiesce. Pride lost out. As he inched ahead, the driver waved through his back window. The kind
I’m making waves
THE LEASIDE OBSERVER
of wave that says, “Thanks, but I was pushing my way in, anyway.” As a result, I didn’t respond, trying to recapture a bit of dignity. The driver waved again, more emphatically. I ignored him, enjoying the unspoken power shift. He waved a third time. This time, almost frantically. Now, I started to think something was wrong with my car. A flat tire? A squirrel wedged in my grille? I gave in and waved back. More of a backhanded flick than a wave, really, as if to say “Got it. Be happy you got your way, Bozo.” Apparently, it sent the right (wrong?) message. I was promptly given the universally understood one-finger “wave”.
Now at my destination, I sit in Lit, my go-to café, to jot down these ramblings around the observations of humans. In this case, just some of their many waves:
The Pivot: A vertical flat hand that oscillates at the wrist. Otherwise known as “The Queen’s Wave.”
The Flapper: The hand is horizontal, bending at the wrist in rapid fashion, as if hitting a small bongo drum. Often used to instruct children to “lower the
volume.” Or by older parents waving good riddance to their kids after a lengthy visit.
The Curly Claw: The thumb and fingers are held tightly together in a cupped curl. Mechanically, the wave takes place at the second knuckle so only the fingertips do the waving. Reserved for babies and discreet waves, meant to be seen by only one, through a crowd.
The Side Air Slap: A versatile wave, used to instruct slow-moving cars through an intersection, make someone move out of the way, or dissipate an offending odour.
At that moment, a mom rolls in with her baby boy, strapped into a stroller. He’s staring, mouth agape, as children are wont to do with me. I crack and throw him the requisite Curly Claw. No reaction. I give it more “claw.” His face scrunches up and he bursts into tears. Mom looks at me suspiciously. I lapse into my “I’m innocent” wave, palms up, fingers splayed, shaking my hands side to side. The cry turns to a nerve-stripping scream. Mom moves off in a huff. Hmmm, I really must deal with that nose hair. n
Will the Ombudsman investigate?
The ongoing saga of the development application at 1837-45 Bayview Ave. (southeast corner of Bayview and Broadway) continues.
September’s Leaside Life reported on the inability to appeal the Committee of Adjustment decision to approve an additional three storeys (33 units), going against the Ontario Land Tribunal-approved mediated settlement for 22 storeys.
Because of Ontario Bill 23 (More Homes Built Faster Act), there were only two realistic options left: we could request an investigation by Toronto’s Ombudsman and/or go to the media. We have done both, but the Ombudsman injunction to “allow the City a reasonable opportunity to resolve the complaint through its own complaint process” meant that we first had to submit the letter of complaint and documents to City Planning for them to consider and respond before the Ombudsman would investigate. The City provided an official response to the Letter of Complaint on Oct. 9, 2024. What did City Planning say in response to our concerns?
1. The appropriateness of staff/ applicant negotiations on a submitted application resulting in an amended Committee of Adjustment (CoA) application.
City Planning noted that applicants are encouraged to contact the
City for a pre-application inquiry, to provide information and guidance to the applicant. In this case the applicant made an application (five storeys) and then an amended application (three storeys). Staff indicated no objection to the three-storey application. City Planning stated that its “handling on this inquiry and revised application is consistent with its process to encourage pre-consultation with applicants in order to identify issues, refine applications and provide feedback.” We respectfully disagree. Supporting the amended application goes far beyond “pre-consultation advice and guidance” and was inappropriate given the mediated settlement with the City and local residents’ group BayviewBroadway Better Planning, approved by City Council and the Ontario Land Tribunal.
2. The role, process and results of the CoA
Unsurprisingly, City Planning feel that the CoA appropriately exercised its statutory mandate despite the number of deputants in opposition and lack of discussion as to how the application met the four tests.
3. Addressing long-term public
As noted in September’s Leaside article, this is not the only case of the Committee approving a minor variance for a site that had a recently approved site-specific rezoning. City Planning noted that in Bill 23, the Province removed the twoyear prohibition on minor variance applications following site-specific
4. Provincial legislative changes affecting the Committee and public
Again, the provincial government eliminated third party appeal rights for CoA decisions. City Planning in its response noted that staff are reviewing what changes, if any, should be made to CoA rules or procedures given the changes to the
Finally, the response addressed the additional information we submitted regarding serious concerns with the minutes from the July 18, 2024 hearing of the North York CoA. Specifically, the issue raised was a major discrepancy in the recording of letters received in objection and support, relative to what was pub-
Young Poet’s Corner
Welcome to Young Poet’s Corner! Here, we will share poems from students at Leaside High School, either members of the Young Writers Club or students in Writers Craft classes. These poems offer insights into some of the issues that occupy young people and showcase their evolving creativity.
Say their names
Hélène Colgan. Nathalie Croteau. Barbara Daigneault. Anne-Marie Lemay. Sonia Pelletier. Annie St-Arneault. Say their names shout them at the top of rooftops make the clouds gather our shouts and release our anguish back down falling like eyelashes graceful balletic delicate watching as parts of me fall i’m pulling myself apart wishing on a better ending, on anything that might help me understand i’m losing sleep losing eyelashes six fall from my eyes a hope, a wish, a dream a desire, a hunger, a promise lost on each one of their sacred names
Hélène Colgan. Nathalie Croteau. Barbara Daigneault. Anne-Marie Lemay. Sonia Pelletier. Annie St-Arneault. Say their names.
Jada Silver
Jada graduated from Leaside High in 2024, where she led the Young Writers Club and was an active member of Drama Club and Stage Crew. She is currently studying Concurrent Education at Brock, majoring in English and Drama. This poem was a response to the shooting at École Polytechnique in Montréal in 1989, and to violence against women.
are well known for their melty shortbread cookies, a favourite of Leasiders, and many beyond our borders. www.churchillsgourmetgifts.com.
Other notable Leaside ‘sweet’ establishments, many covered by Leaside Life in previous issues, include:
Isabella’s Mochi Donut Boutique 1669 Bayview Ave. www.isabellasdonuts.com
La Diperie 1559 Bayview Ave. www.ladiperie.com
Dolce & Gourmando 1493 Bayview Ave. www.dolcegourmando.com
Macarons and Mint
864 Eglinton Ave. East www.macaronsandmint.com
Laura Slack Chocolate Artist 90 Thorncliffe Park Drive www.lauraslack.com
The Chocolate Messenger 1645 Bayview Ave. www.chocolatemessenger.com
Avoca Chocolates 850 Millwood Rd. www.avocachocolates.com
LaRochelle Confections 209 Wicksteed Ave. Unit 32 www.larochelleconfections. square.site
Many of our local shops appear on ‘best of’ lists, making Leaside a destination for sweets and a nod to the local places creating delicious and beautiful confections. If you have not had a chance, give some (or all!) of these places a try. They routinely receive great reviews from clients, both in person and online, and when you visit any of them, you will know why. Tell them Leaside Life sent you!
Happy eating on Leaside’s sweets trail! n SWEETS From Page
Info@leasidechildrenshouse.com Instagram @leaside_childrens_house
BEER SALES From Page 3
Harry A. Mellow, who announced: “we are not going to take this lying down”; and the Owen Sound Daily Sun Times, which stated in an editorial that the LCBO’s action “strongly resembles Hitlerism.”
Phase 2
By October, the situation had deteriorated for the anti-beer proponents. The LCBO had gone forward with its plans, and the beer warehouse was now open for business at 591 Bayview Ave.
Houser and his committee responded by requesting at the Oct. 7 Leaside Council meeting that Council authorize a plebiscite on whether the warehouse should keep operating. While sympathetic to their position, Mayor Talbot denied the request on the grounds that the cost of a plebiscite – about $1,200 – would be too much for the town to bear.
Houser was livid. “Many outsiders come clogging our streets with traffic to buy beer,” he protested, and “they … are even drinking it on our streets and in their cars.” He demanded that councillors resign if they were reluctant to support the will of the people. Talbot refused. With few options left, Houser took his case to Ontario Attorney General W. B. Common. But Common declined to give an official ruling on the matter and told him instead to go back to the LCBO and see what they had to say – a classic case of being given the “run-around.” To make matters worse, Houser learned that even if he did get permission for a plebiscite, the results might not be valid since Ontario law only allowed for votes on liquor stores, not beer stores [Globe & Mail, Oct. 23, 1941].
One month later, on Nov. 26, Houser admitted defeat and announced that the anti-beer committee was being disbanded: “A meeting will likely be held next week,” he said, “to wind up the affairs of the committee and the whole thing will die a natural death” [Globe and Mail, Nov. 27, 1941].
The LCBO had won.
Postscript
The beer store at 591 Bayview continued to operate until 1960, after which it was replaced by a TD Bank for several decades and is now the site of Cumbrae’s. (Note: after 1960, all the numbers on Bayview were
changed by 1,000 – so 591 became 1591, and so on.)
I.E. Houser remained a Leaside resident for another 18 years but had moved to North York by 1959. He died in 2001 at the age of 90 after a long and successful career as a lawyer.
Leasiders meanwhile, in addition to going to Costco, can now buy beer and other alcoholic libations at multiple locations in their community – such as the Beer Store on Laird, three LCBOs, plus numerous bars, restaurants and grocery stores, including Loblaws!
The moral of this story? Don’t fight the LCBO. n
SPIRIT From Page 12
“Make” being the operative word. Colleen explains that Terry was frugal and practical – common traits among war babies. He was also a resourceful handyman. So, he used scraps of wood, two very long windsurfing poles, hundreds of feet of Christmas lights and figurines for the creche found at the dollar store to create the display. The speaker was his dad’s. He had to climb up the tall pine tree to get the strings of lights just right. Colleen jokes that it was her job “to be on the ground ready to call 911 should he ever fall out of the tree!”
Setup happens “on a nice day in November” with the music that animates the scene switched on during the later afternoons and early evenings just before and after Christmas. Colleen says that “kids have grown up with it” and that in a quarter century there has only ever been one noise complaint, a fact Terry used to say was a sign of its success. “A few years back we found a COBS gift basket at our door. With it was a note from a young woman who was in one of Terry’s confirmation classes at St. Anselm’s. She thanked us, saying she and her sister loved seeing and hearing the display when they were leaving Mass at Christmas time,” recalls Colleen.
Despite his death last year, neighbours, family and friends helped Colleen activate the brilliant display. This year the tradition will live on as a testament to Terry’s love of his community – and of the season. n
I.E. Houser
Robbie Burns Supper Saturday January 25th. 2025
MG Event Centre / York Masonic Hall
1100 Millwood Road, Toronto (at the corner of Overlea Blvd.)
Hosted by The Kiwanis Club of East York
• Roast Beef Dinner • Haggis, Neaps and Tatties (of course) • Door Prizes • Silent Auction
• Scottish Highland Dancing • Cash Bar • Single Malt Whisky Bar
TICKETS - $100 (advance purchases preferred) Income Tax Receipt is available. COCKTAILS at 6:15 PM – DINNER at 7:00 PM. DRESS: Highland Dress or Business Attire FOR TICKETS: Online: eventbrite.ca https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/robbie-burns-supper-2025-tickets-1084808584679
Phone: (416) 451-6777. Email: BurnsSupper@kcey.ca All proceeds go directly to local community programs
Briiv Air Purifier
CONTEST DETAILS:
To enter, email LeasideLife@gmail.com and include the name of the founder of Ecomvmnt.
*Hint: read Steve Hardy’s column on page 4* Include your full name and phone number. The winner will be drawn from all correct entries received between December 1-15th, 2024.
For more information on the Briiv Air Purifier visit: ecomvmnt.ca
One entry per person. For full contest rules and eligibility visit leasidelife.com/contests.
EventsDecember
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
Listen to great live music by local artists and have a coffee and dessert with friends. Friday, Dec 13th from 7:00-8:30 p.m.
“Pay what you can” with 100% of the money going to the Flemingdon Food Bank. We are looking for performers. Contact info@saintaugustine.ca
NORTHLEA UNITED CHURCH
125 Brentcliffe Road 416 425 5252 office@northleaunited.ca northleaunited.ca
Caroling in the Pines Sat. Dec. 7 at 7:00 p.m. Fun for the whole family! Come and meet Santa, sing carols and drink hot chocolate!
Advent Services @ 10:30 a.m. (unless otherwise indicated)
Sun. Dec. 1 – Hope; Communion Sun. Dec. 8 – Peace; White Gift Sunday for Youth Without Shelter
Sun. Dec. 15 – Joy; 7:30 pm – Carols By Candlelight for Youth Without Shelter Sun. Dec 22 – Love Tues. Dec. 24 at 5:00 p.m. – Christmas Eve Family Service with Communion. See ad on pg. 21 for Christmas services.
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! December 3 and 10 only in December. See ad on pg. 21 for Christmas services. See also special Christmas services for: Leaside United Church: pg. 20 Leaside Presbyterian Church: pg. 22 Manor Road United Church: pg. 22
LEASIDE LIBRARY
165 McRae Drive • 416 396 3835 One-off program for TEENS: Art Journaling Wed., Dec 11, 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. The first three weeks of December will offer: Mondays, After School Club: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Board Game Night: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Leaside Needlework: 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Fridays, Family Time: 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. For a full list of programs at Leaside branch, please visit www.tpl.ca/leaside n
acknowledges we are hosted on the lands of the Mississaugas of the Anishinaabe, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and the Wendat.
We also recognize the enduring presence of all First Nations, Métis and the Inuit peoples.
We also recognize our responsibility in respecting and protecting the land and water systems that surround us in the east end of Toronto, that being the Don River, or Wonscotonach in Anishinaabemowin, so that these resources can be enjoyed and flourish for all life and for generations to come.
One more memorial plaque
by GEOFF KETTEL
My article last issue on the plaques of Leaside contained a significant omission – the plaque dedicated to the memory of the 17 servicemen from Leaside who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II. This plaque is located at Leaside Gardens at the end of the front wall, to the left of the main entrance, adjacent to the flag staff.
As Ray White described in his 2018 Leaside Life article, the original Leaside Gardens was completed in 1951, just six years after the end of World War II, and the facility was named The Leaside Memorial Community Gardens in the servicemen’s honour. The stainless-steel plaque featuring the 17 names inscribed on it was affixed to the wall in the lobby area of the original facility’s banquet room, past the main entrance and over to the viewing area of the facility as we now know it. With the expansion of the facility and the construction of the new Dr. Tom Pashby rink, the plaque had to be removed and relocated. On Nov. 8,
LEASIDE UNITED CHURCH
822 Millwood Road
Toronto, ON M4G 1W4
Tel: 416-425-1253
www.leasideunited.com
2013, 50 years after the original dedication (and 100 years after the incorporation of the Town of Leaside), the combined facility was dedicated, and the restored plaque was unveiled. n
licly visible on the City’s Application Information Centre (AIC). The minutes showed over 70 letters of support for the application whereas in fact there were none! In fact, more than 70 individual correspondences were received in objection. City Planning agreed to correct the minutes and have them re-approved by the Committee. They apologized for this “unintentional mistake.”
While the City Planning response was comprehensive, the LRA feels that this whole process involving use of a CoA application to add additional storeys deserves investigation by the Toronto Ombudsman in its mandate to “hold the City of Toronto accountable to the people it serves.”
We believe that it may reflect “systemic concerns of serious unfairness by the City government,” in how it deals with development applications, especially in light of the elimination of right of appeal of decisions of the CoA further to Bill 23.
And the legislative changes that disempower residents? Well, that deserves serious discussion in advance of a coming provincial election. n
GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP
Jan 8 April 30, 2025 2:00 3:30 pm
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)
Join us
Please call or email Alison Jane, Office Administrator (office@leasideunited.org) by December 23, 2024 Please respond ASAP as participants are limited to 10.
Fax (416) 481-5275
Phone (416) 481-1146
M4G 3B6
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE FOR OVER 35 YEARS 410 MOORE AVENUE (AT BAYVIEW) TORONTO, ONTARIO M4G 1C9 416-480-9856 WWW.AIREONTV.COM
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
Leaside’s great bus bust
As Metrolinx moves ahead on the Ontario Line, changes to local bus transit and routes are coming. And while the Ontario Line itself is not coming through Leaside, its construction definitely affects us.
Cars are already avoiding the Thorncliffe area because of construction on Overlea Boulevard. In mid-2025, Beth Nealson Drive will be closed between Laird Drive and Overlea for 18 to 24 months, but of course construction may (will?) take longer. This will create major issues for passengers using the 88 South Leaside bus route, and not just for Leaside residents.
The TTC has prepared options for rerouting buses during the Metrolinx construction. But these still create numerous inconveniences for transit customers.
For at least the construction period of up to two years, Leaside and Thorncliffe Park will not both be connected by the single continuous bus route currently in place via the 88A and 88B buses. The routes will be split and modified, resulting in
significantly reduced service to the Leaside Library and schools located in residential middle Leaside. Any transit connection for Thorncliffe residents with several Leaside schools and with the Leaside Library will also be lost.
To travel from St. Clair and Yonge to Thorncliffe, Route 88 passengers will be directed to head northeast to the new Line 5 Laird station (assuming the Crosstown is in service) and catch a southbound Thorncliffebound bus. Vice versa to go west.
The direct transit link to Laird Drive connecting Overlea to the busy commercial and service areas along Laird and the Leaside Business Park will be severed.
Finally, the two Route 88 bus stops on Millwood Road closest to the Leaside Memorial Gardens
Looking to volunteer over March Break?
We are recruiting volunteers for our March Break* program. Programming includes recreation activities such as:
• Creative Arts Respite Camp
• Ronald McDonald Playroom
• Therapeutic Recreation and much more!
*Minimum age for this program is 16 To learn more about our volunteer opportunities please visit: www.hollandbloorview.ca/volunteer
will be removed during the construction, greatly inconveniencing both nearby residents and users who depend on the TTC to access the City-owned facility.
I attended Round Two of the TTC’s 2025 Annual Service Plan meeting, representing the Leaside Residents Association in mid-November, and raised these issues and others.
What will the economic impact be on our retail and industrial areas? What impact could there be on Leaside’s schools, which are already attended by many out-of-area children? Will these re-routings be restored, or changed again, following Metrolinx’s Beth Nealson construction project?
And finally: are there alternative options which would be less disruptive?
We need more answers before decisions are made by the TTC board in January 2025.
The Leaside Residents Association board meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. These are public meetings, and you are welcome to join us and join in. Our next meeting is on Wed., Dec. 4th Our December, January, February and March meetings will be on Zoom. For contact information and more details and updates, you can find us online at leasideresidents.ca. Press the Contact Us button, or visit leasideresidents.ca/contact-us n
FALLIS From Page 14
for it… my twin brother, Tim Fallis. You probably think I’m joking, but I kid you not! Tim’s first column will appear in February. Go easy on him – I’ve recounted all the best stories already.
In the meantime, I’m not going anywhere. You’ll still see me in and around Leaside and I hope you’ll still stop and tell me your stories. That’s what we Leasiders do.
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
LET’S BUILD A TOY MOUNTAIN TOGETHER!
Drop off a new unwrapped toy at an Access Storage near you.
From our family to yours, wishing you a wonderful holiday season and happy 2025.
