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LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:22 PM Page 1

No. 35 • January 2015

Leaside Life leasidelifenews.com

Waiting for a BIA By ALLAN WILLIAMS Bayview merchants had expected to have an answer on whether they would have a Business Improvement Area by our deadline, but Michael Saunders, of the BIA office of the Economic Development Division at City Hall, said that ballots were still being counted and verified. There has to be a minimum 30 percent voter turned out of eligible business and property owners, with a majority in favour. Trae Zammit, owner of The Smokin’ Cigar and spokesperson for the BIA steering committee, says, “When we started working on this in January 2014 there were 13 empty stores between Davisville BIA, Page 8

PADDY DUNCAN

‘

Happy New Year

DOUGLAS OBRIGHT outlines the big developments facing us in his keynote address at the Leaside Property Owners' Association annual general meeting.

If we are to continue to enjoy the attributes which prompted us to move to Leaside, we must be engaged and proactive both individually and collectively

By GEOFF KETTEL

’

Because we face major planning challenges, we need to think of aspects of Leaside that we value and how those aspects might be preserved as the community deals with an ongoing onslaught of new development proposals. That was the message delivered by Douglas Obright, Leaside resident and Registered Professional Planner, in his keynote presentation to the Leaside Property Owners’ Association (LPOA) annual general meeting on Nov. 25. To drive home this message he challenged attendees to think of how those aspects of Leaside – low density, small town feel, leafy streets, Georgian Revival and Tudor Revival homes, consistent streetscapes and setbacks, good schools, recreation and community facilities, peacefulness, cleanliness, safety, walkability and bikeability, ease of access to public transportation and downtown – might be impacted by new development.

AN OVERVIEW, Page 20

LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:22 PM Page 2

Leaside Life, January 2015

WINTER FEEDING HELPS BIRD SURVIVE

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Rolph Road will fundraise to repair its tennis courts Rolph Road Home and School has decided to fight plans by the Toronto school board to create a public-private partnership to repair tennis courts at the school. The Toronto board earlier this fall made the move because it doesn’t have money to do the work itself at many of its courts. Robin Dickie, chair of the Rolph H&S, said last month, “Our committee plans to meet in the new year and we are going to fundraise within the parent community but also in the wider Leaside community. The newly re-formed Lions Club has been suggested, as it originally was involved in building the court. Gerri Gershon, our trustee, is very supportive. “We do not have details yet except to say that the initial quote the Toronto District School Boad facilities department gave us was $15,900 to do the basics.” Proposals for the partnership have not yet come to the school board. When they do, says Gershon,

Robin Dickie the community will be involved. The Leaside Property Owners’ Association is opposing the publicprivate plan because it believes the answer is not selling off public property, despite lack of funds. ■

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LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:22 PM Page 3

If anyone can revive the old Lions Club, she can

| Leaside Life, January 2015

Raija Rosenthal is on a mission to find members for a new Leaside 100 Lions Club. So far she has signed up 16 people. She needs 20 to obtain a charter. If her history in the Lions is an indication, sheâ€™ll do it. In 1972 she joined the Lions as a Lionette, then a Lioness, both programs developed by male members of the mainstream Lions Club. While each program allowed women to assist men in community activities, such as rummage sales and raffles, it did not confer voting status upon them. "The men didn't want women in their club," says Rosenthal. "I told them they were fools, but they simply said, 'We like it the way it is.'" It was not until 1987 that the Lions Club constitution was ratified

to allow women equal status. As soon as she heard the news, Rosenthal developed the North York Trillium Lions Club, where she served as governor 1994-95. She was only the second female governor in Canada, and one of 16 in the world. In 1997 she founded the Toronto Rainbow Lions Club, the first gay club. Having worked for 27 years for the Toronto District School Board and the North York Board of Education, also makes Rosenthal no stranger to struggling to reach a goal. Rosenthal acknowledges the existence of a previous Leaside Lions Club, now 76 years old. It twinned with the Central Demerara Lions Club in Guyana in the 1990s. Today, members of this club, primarily Canadians of Guyanese origin, live in Woodbridge, where they

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LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:22 PM Page 4

Leaside Life, January 2015

meet infrequently, according to Rosenthal. Rosenthal says she invited members of the Central Demerara Club to meet in Leaside, and service the local community, bu its members declined the invitation, even going so far as to keep the velvet banner affixed with badges representing the club's good works over the years. Undeterred, Rosenthal seeks a charter for the newly-created Leaside 100 Lions Club (named in honour of last year’s centennial of Leaside’s incorporation), which she hopes will be comprised of Leasiders for Leasiders. "We need young people especially," says Rosenthal, 74, who lives on McRae Dr. "They bring relevant and timely ideas about subjects such as child rearing, education, and public safety." The minimum age to join is 18. Rosenthal believes that is a good time to experience the joy that giving to others can bring, while developing practical life skills. Of Finnish descent, she is also focused on attracting members from a wide variety of ethnic groups. At least four countries attended a November meeting where Leandre Casselman, development coordinator for Spinal Cord Injury Ontario, shared memories of how he put his life back together in his 30s after losing the use of his legs in an accident. Once 20 members sign up, she will report the names to former district governor Rollie de la Cruz, who may be able to obtain a charter within as little as a week. "She's a very dedicated Lion," says de la Cruz. "Very keen and enthused in promoting projects that will help the community." As if all her efforts for the Lions isn't enough, Rosenthal also volunteers once a week at the Finnish Canadian Senior Centre on Eglinton Ave., which is slated for expansion. She promises that this is where she and her husband will end up "when we get old". ■

Leaside Life Published once a month in Leaside,Toronto ON, by Ruth G. Publishing Inc., 66 Donegall Drive, Toronto ON, M4G 3G5 Circulation 8,500 to every door in M4G PUBLISHER: Lorna Krawchuk EDITORIAL: Harry Goldhar ADVERTISING: Ruth Goldhar GRAPHIC DESIGN: L. Choy

416‐486‐7387 leasidelife@gmail.com www.leasidelifenews.com

LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:22 PM Page 5

Leaside Life, January 2015

Semi-detached houses lead this yearâ€™s boom By JETHRO SEYMOUR

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A Leaside life seems to be a good thing: Flo Colby, who lived here on Donegall Dr. from 1945 to 1966 recently celebrated her 100th birthday. She has seven grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. She and her husband Harvey had a son, Gary, and daugher, Martha, who hosted a celebration at her home in West Hill. Colby was a seamstress and milliner. â–

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Jethro Seymour is a broker at Johnston & Daniel. All figures are from the Toronto Real Estate Boardâ€™s Multiple Listing Service.

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Semi-detached homes have become the big story in this year of booming prices for Leaside and Bennington Heights homes. From the end of November last year to the end of November this year, which includes the usual endof-year seasonal slump for all homes, sale prices of semi-detacheds have risen 10.4 percent, to $827,245, despite the number of sales dropping 25.5 percent. In contrast, sales of detached homes have had a increase of 21 percent in number of sales, but only 1 percent rise in value. The value of all home sales has gone up only 6.4 percent. This has been a banner year for us, even though this past Novemberâ€™s average price for all homes was down 4 percent, to $1,214,237, partly because of the small number of sales, only 11, compared to 27 the previous month and 15 in November of 2013. The all-time high average prices for home sales here came this past September: $1.343,084 for all homes, $1,465,810 for detached homes and $828,408 for semis. Another interesting number: this year homes have been selling 4.56 percent above the listed price. â–

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LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:22 PM Page 6

LEASIDE STOCK INDEX 6

It’s turning into an excellent year

Leaside Life, January 2015

Another month is in the books and the Leaside Stock Index continues to shine brightly. A bunch of good things happened in November, not the least of which was a 15 percent jump in Best Buy’s stock price. Down 41 percent earlier this year, it’s almost clawed its way back to break even, something that wouldn’t have seemed possible as recently as mid-summer. As a result, the 10 American stocks in the portfolio managed to generate a 7.7 percent gain on the month, including currency. Meanwhile, its benchmark, the SPDR S&P 500 ETF, could only muster a 4.1 percent gain on the month, including currency. Funnily enough, the worst performer of the American stocks was Lincoln Electric, which Beth Parker featured in the November issue of this paper. Year-to-date the LSI including

currency is up 13 percent, well behind the 20.6 percent return of the benchmark, but a vast improvement from earlier in the year when the gap between the two was mid single digits. When it comes to Canadian stocks, the LSI also had a good month, up 4.7 percent, more than three percentage points greater than its benchmark, the S&P/ TSX Capped Composite Index. Approaching 30 percent gains on the year, there weren’t any duds when it comes to performance in 2014. Highlights during November for the 10 Canadian stocks include the approval by the federal government of the Tim Hortons takeover by Burger King and a 2-for-1 split for Dollarama. With its Bayview store looking busier and busier every day, there’s a good chance it will be splitting again in the not too distant future.

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LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:22 PM Page 7

LEASIDE STOCK INDEX 2014 YTD Performance through November 28, 2014

Laden with retail stocks, it’s not surprising the LSI’s Canadian component outperformed the benchmark in 2014. Out of the seven stocks in the index that have achieved 20 percent-plus returns this year, five are Canadian with four being retailers. Do not expect the same kind of performance from the Canadian stocks in 2015. However, the American stocks, which have had a mediocre year, this next year could

6.27% 5.50%

20.13% 16.56%

7.68% 6.31% 4.69%

13.00% 6.08% 29.53%

2.83% 2.02%

16.11% 11.96%

4.08% 2.75% 1.17%

20.61% 13.22% 10.47%

see better numbers as the U.S. economy continues to improve and the Canadian dollar carries on its downward spiral. It’s been an interesting ride so far in 2014. In our February issue we’ll lay out the LSI’s overall performance for this past year. Here’s hoping 2015 is as successful as 2014 was. Happy New Year to all the Leaside stock enthusiasts. May you continue to invest wisely. ■

Total % Return YTD

Leaside Life, January 2015

Leaside Stock Index Including Currency Excluding Currency American Stocks Including Currency Excluding Currency Canadian Stocks ETF Benchmarks Including Currency Excluding Currency SPDR S&P 500 ETF Including Currency Excluding Currency S&P/TSX Capped Composite Index Fund

Total % Return November

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BIA From Page 1

Leaside Life, January 2015

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and Soudan (the proposed BIA boundaries). Some have come and gone in the meantime, but the number is about the same today. “The current rate of business turnover has never been higher and I don’t see it getting better without a BIA.” Zammit has been on the street for 17 years. The second longest business on the street, for 76 years, is Badali’s Fruit Market. From his store window, Sal Badali points to the former Tori & Cates cupcake store across the street that closed Dec. 1 and the French restaurant a few doors north that also recently closed. Four business locations on the east side of Bayview, directly north of Badali’s, are all in transition. The former Flight Centre next door has been vacant since this past summer. The mattress store, Sleep Country, has moved to a new location on Wicksteed. Bell Jewellers owner Photis Philos will be closing shortly. He says it’s mainly for health BIA, Page 13

LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:23 PM Page 9

would like to switch the pink ribbons we have all around our trees and posts for Georgia Walsh to red ribbons? The new ribbons would let the Walsh family know, as well as other families who have suffered tragic loss, that we are keeping them close in thought and prayer this holiday season. We may not understand their loss but we support them. There are many beautiful memories to make families smile but emotions are very raw this time of year. The red ribbons would allow others who walk the Walshs’ path to participate in a meaningful way for them. It might help those who have been grieving and feel so alone to feel free to share. Red represents love, cranberries, holly berries and the warmth of this season. A touch of red amongst all the white we are already seeing! It can also warm us through the whole winter season so there is no reason to take the ribbons down after the holidays. I think it would be uplifting for us all. Our neighbourhood would look beautiful if we matched the participation we had for the pink with red, and some people would know they were not

LETTERS leasidelife@gmail.com Letters may be edited. alone. The bright red would let them feel the warmth of community support. People are already starting to take the pink ones down as they are getting a little worn. The red would refresh the spirit and spread support for us all. Jen Brown, Berney Cres. I am amazed how many dog owners don't want to carry their poop bags home, leaving the privilege of disposing them to the neighbours. One sees them in our shrubbery, on top of our leaf bags, thrown into our garbage cans or just left on the sidewalk. Not very civilized is it? Couple of times the city has left my garden refuse unpicked because it had a little present on the top, which did not belong there. Ulla Nystrom, Sutherland Dr.

Well, a lively exchange with Mr. Buckley in the Letters section last issue. I am a long-retired flight instructor who helped people acquire private and commercial pilot’s licences, and night and instrument endorsements. More recently, I qualified as a virtual air traffic controller online (http://www.vatsim.net). (In the spirit of full disclosure, I was a flight attendant, supervisor and customer service rep. for Air Canada but I left the airline in 1986 – almost 30 years ago. Since then, I've been out of aviation entirely except for the virtual ATC hobby.) You will recall that my first published letter attempted to explain how the world works and to correct some inaccuracies in John Parker’s column in June. It was not intended as an advocacy piece. The second letter was not intended to support the airline industry. It was to balance the perception that airplanes flying over Leaside do so only to benefit the operators, as if the passengers paying for the service – and the community at large – derive no benefit. I don’t have any interest in “promoting the airline industry” per se. It is a service like any other that rises and falls on its own merit.

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Leaside Life, January 2015

‘Let’s change our pink ribbons to red’

LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:23 PM Page 10

Leaside Life, January 2015

Amber, Nancy, Jessica

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I do admit to an interest in aviation entirely separate from the airline industry itself, particularly pilot training and flight safety. My preference would be that any talk of the burden of the “negative effects on the health and welfare of Leasiders” – whatever they may, or may not, be – should be done in the context of a shared burden amongst the citizens of the region and not in the context of the poor, long-suffering citizens of Leaside. And that proposals with respect to air traffic management be made with some understanding that procedures are created in an international, not local, context. Noise around airports is an ancient issue and I’m happy to assume that groups organized to minimize its effects are relatively well informed. Readers of Leaside Life may have strong feelings about the subject but they need some factual information on which to base their opinions and formulate proposals. Tony Koch, Randolph Rd. Re: Challenges facing our churches, by Geoff Kettel in the previous issue. Geoff Kettel poses an interesting question to community residents: Is there recognition of the church’s contribution in community service, community building and outreach that would move residents to support fundraising efforts to help them keep their doors open in Leaside? One of the main reasons the churches are experiencing difficulties is the lack of involvement and participation by members in the community in church activities. Leaside probably has more support than some other communities, but the fact is that if it were not for many churches being able to rent out space to Montessori schools, day care centres, or other congregations and clubs, they could not pay their monthly operating costs. They rely on donations on a weekly basis. Most of the United and Presbyterian churches in the Toronto area are faced with the same dilemma, and I think it is a good time to ask the community residents whether it makes any difference to them if the church is there or not. If it is important, then maybe, just maybe, people, even young people, would be willing to become involved and support their existence. Better still maybe they would offer ideas and solutions for making their operations more viable and in tune with the needs of today. Fundraising is one way to accomplish raising dollars for operations, but the support needs to be ongoing involvement. I note that four local churches have advertised upcoming events in Leaside Life. I wonder how many in our community will attend. If there is no support with involvement, then be assured that the church

LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:23 PM Page 11

Leaside Life, January 2015

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LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:23 PM Page 12

property is valuable and there will eventually be condos, or lots sold for development of some kind, be it private or public. It is sad, but it is a sign of the times. Bev Edgar, Southvale Dr.

Leaside Life, January 2015

Re: Leaside Sports Hall of Fame. Great picture from the Nov. 21 induction ceremonyâ€Ś.one tiny boo boo. My grandson, Preston, is Preston Koroll, not Preston Krol. I know, very confusing, but my daughter Sarah married Drew Koroll, and so went from being a Krol to being a Koroll. This is not the first time, and I suspect won't be the last time there has been a mixup! Thanks again to all involved! Peter Krol, Newmarket, ON In response to the article published in the November issue of Leaside Life, our team at Wilmington Tennis would like to clarify a few facts. First, our proposal is in response to an open bid that was issued by the Toronto District School Board (there are other proposals on the table, not just ours). Rolph Road is among 26 schools listed. Second, our team is suggesting to collaborate with the Board, and the community if desired, to raise the funds required (over $100,000) to refurbish. Our angle leans to accessibility, not privatization. Lastly, should we be selected as the partner of choice, we will implement an online court booking system whereby anyone can secure court time without requiring a membership. The best part? If the courts are not being used, we encourage people to play for free. We think a tennis facility should be fully used! To find out more please contact us at 416 932 8164 or wilmingtontennisgroup@gmail.com. Wilmington Tennis

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As you may or may not be aware, our beloved Second Cup on Bayview's lease is up at the end of the year. A second home to many, it will be sad to see them go. The owner's name is Hong and his manager is Matthew. If you've ever been to the cafe then you know him, as I could swear he sleeps there. I personally think you guys should do a write up on it, get in there and talk to the customers to see what they have to say. I don't doubt you'll be flooded with fond memories and more than kind words. John Radfield, Donegall Dr.

LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:23 PM Page 13

A response to Carol Burtin Fripp: In your article (last month), you state that â€œthe LPOA held an important public meetingâ€?. The key word here is â€œpublicâ€?. The meeting involved a mayoralty race and, therefore, you should expect everyone in Toronto to take an interest in what is debated and everyone in Toronto should be welcome to attend. At first, I was mildly amused by the Ford fans and soon came to be embarrassed and annoyed by their raucous behaviour. I question their motives for being there. It seems that they were more interested in creating a â€œfootball game pep rally kind of atmosphereâ€? than they were to listen to intelligent debate. But they did have a right to be there. To exclude certain segments of society because you donâ€™t like their politics or their response to the political process smacks of â€œLeaside elitismâ€?. My advice: Advise Leasiders to come to meetings earlier. Have Brian Athey moderate all future debate forums. He handled it masterfully. Barry Schneider, Randolph Rd.

Leaside Life, January 2015

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reasons, but he mentions high rents and business taxes too. The space between Sleep Country and Bell Jewellers has been home to a Second Cup coffee shop for the past 20 years. But Hoang Ngo has decided not to renew his franchise agreement when it expires at the end of December. â€œItâ€™s mainly personal reasons,â€? Ngo says, â€œIâ€™ve got two young kids and, driving down from Markham, and working until 10 p.m. most days, I didnâ€™t get to see them enough. â€œBut from a business point of view too, it just wasnâ€™t worth it for me to renew the lease. Traffic is definitely down in the past two years. Parking has always been a problem and construction on Bayview â€“ sometimes people change their regular patterns, and then they donâ€™t come back. But now there are more options â€“ such as along Laird â€“ where thereâ€™s free parking.â€? â€œIâ€™m going to miss the people,â€? says Ngo. â€œIâ€™ve made a lot of friends here.â€? One of the managers at Baskin Robbins says the lease there will also not be renewed when it expires next summer. â– More about the BIA in the next issue.

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LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:24 PM Page 14

PADDY DUNCAN

Leaside Life, January 2015

Councillor Jon Burnside at the LPOA annual general meeting. By PATRICIA PHENIX The only city council candidate in Toronto in October to win election over an incumbent, in our Ward 26, Jon Burnside's policies are well known by now. What may not be so well known are facts about Burnside the man and his upbringing in Leaside. The new councillor, 48, was raised along with his older siblings,

Peter and Jane, in a house on Airdrie Rd. His father passed away in 2003. His mother Jean, 88, a former shift nurse at Sick Kids Hospital, who originally hailed from England, continues to reside in the family home. Displaying the determined work ethic that has served him well, Burnside stocked shelves at Loblaws at Moore and Bayview. He delivered the Globe and Mail

throughout the neighbourhood while attending Rolph Road School, and Leaside High, where he transferred after a brief stint at wellknown boy's preparatory school, St. George's. "I loved Leaside High, especially the social aspect of it," says Burnside, who admits to being an introvert in extrovert's clothing. "I guess I learned early on that I like to steer my own ship."

LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:24 PM Page 15

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Leaside Life, January 2015

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In Burnside's opinion, politics allows both aspects of a personality to thrive. "It's really the best of both worlds. One can work with others but can also shape the agenda," he says. In his teens he played baseball at Trace Manes and street hockey with teammates who would become lifelong friends. On Sunday nights he attended a youth group named SET (Sunday Evenings Together) at Leaside United Church, which featured dances, contests, and retreats. Renee Jacoby, who ran the group along with her former husband Neil, recalls of Burnside, "Whatever the activity, he stepped up. You never had to convince him to participate because he was always the first to volunteer to help." After earning an honours BA in political science from Western university, Burnside emerged asking himself, "What do I do now?" For a while he sold copiers, but knew he wanted more. "I liked working with the public, so I knew that would be a strong factor," he says. Finally he settled on becoming a policeman serving the Flemingdon Park, Bennington Heights and Leaside areas. He served 10 years on the force, the last five in the traffic division in North and South Leaside, where he saw the best and worst in drivers, and reviewed innumerable traffic calming measures. "I learned early on that no matter what strategies we devise to alleviate traffic problems, they will ultimately have consequences to the overall neighbourhood." After leaving the force Burnside launched his successful company, Healthy Heart Meals, that delivers pre-packaged meals to busy people seeking to lose weight, or simply to maintain their good health through nutritionally-balanced food. Married and divorced from wellknown Canadian performer Carla Collins, for the last two years Burnside has been dating Charlene Quesnelle Kew, a project manager with a global health care company. A key strategist in his campaign, Kew saw up close what she calls the secret to Burnside's success: "It's his passion. That's what it all comes down to. He loves to help people. He's definitely in the right field." Asked if he plans to run for any higher office, say that of mayor, premier, or prime minister in the future, Burnside demurs. "I think I'll focus on doing a good job here first." â–

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CANADIAN FEDERATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN, Leaside East York, monthly meeting, Thursday, Jan. 15, 7:30 p.m., Northlea United Church, 125 Brentcliffe. Author Jan McQuay on Scenic Manitoulin Through the Seasons. Visitors, new members welcome. A university degree not a prerequisite. www.leaside.org/cfuw. JANUARY KID’S CLUB, Leaside Presbyterian Church, 670 Eglinton, Friday, Jan. 23, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. for children JK-grade 8. Music, stories, crafts and movies, snacks provided. $30 per child, $50 per family. Special assistance available with strict confidentiality. Grade 9 and up youth helpers appreciated. Grade 7 & 8 youth welcomed as leaders in training. Community service hours available. Adult helpers always appreciated. LEASIDE GARDEN SOCIETY, Leaside Public Library, Thursday, Jan. 8, 7:15 p.m. for 7:30 p.m. speaker Paul Zammitt. LEASIDE PUBLIC LIBRARY Adult and teen programming – Ebook 101: Wednesday, Jan. 14, 7-8 p.m. Bring your own device and make sure you have an email account set up. – Your Brain: What goes on as we age? Wednesday, Jan. 28, 7-8 p.m. Neurodegeneration presented by

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One man, 1,000 toys The big event at the 11th annual Leaside Guys Night Out last month was created by Randolph Rd. resident Stan Flemming, who donated over 1,000 toys to the Christmas toy drive. There were also over 200 presents and over $6,500 raised at the Leaside Pub for distributing gifts to over 2,500 children in Thorncliffe Park, where 50 percent of the children live below the poverty line. Ahmed Hussein, executive director of the Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office, told the 100 men at the Dec. 5 event how grateful residents were for the Christmas help. He said 30,000 people live in a space created for 12,500 because housing has become so expensive and work for immigrants is hard to find. ■

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From Page 1 He provided an overview of recent changes introduced by the City of Toronto, including special policies and rezonings as part of the Eglinton Connects Plan for intensification along the Eglinton corridor: • special policies under the Official Plan facilitating mid-rise development around the Bayview- Eglinton intersection (1), and for townhouse development on the south side of Eglinton between Leaside High School and Hanna Rd. (2). (Official Plan Amendment No. 253) and • rezonings to permit mixed-use, mid-rise development to a maximum of between 22.5 metres (seven storeys) and 25.5 metres (eight storeys) along Eglinton between Sutherland Dr. and Laird Dr. (3), and to a maximum of 25.5 metres (eight storeys) on the north-east corner of Laird and Eglinton (4) (Zoning Bylaw 1030-2014). He spoke to several private sector led rezonings and development applications: • a major five-building proposal along the west side of Brentcliffe between Eglinton and Vanderhoof (5), • the approved Upper House condominium development at 25 Malcolm (formerly 2 Laird Dr.) (6), • a proposed seven-storey seniors’ condominium and eight-storey rental retirement building at 146-150 Laird (7), and • an eight-unit townhouse development with a single family dwelling, on the NE Corner of McRae Dr. and Sutherland Dr. (8). (Since that meeting, the LPOA has learned of a pending application for a nine-storey, 100-unit condominium at the corner of Southvale and the Leaside Memorial Community Gardens access road, until recently the site of Homeculture and a catering business (9). It was noted that the LPOA appealed the Eglinton Connects Official Plan changes and rezonings to the OMB, as well as provided input into almost all planning applications in the area.

CITY OF TORONTO MAP

Leaside Life, January 2015

An overview of special policies and rezonings

In addition, the Eglinton Connects Plan had proposed that a special study of the Laird Focus Area (the lands bounded by Eglinton, Laird, Vanderhoof and Aerodrome Cres.) (10) be undertaken. Apparently this study has now been deferred, which is of concern because it would have provided planning context for the massive proposal along the west side of Brentcliffe between Eglinton and Vanderhoof submitted to the city in 2013. A further concern is the possibility that city Planning department actions may be forthcoming on another Eglinton Connects proposal to redesignate from Neighbourhood to Apartment Neighbourhood lands along the north side of Eglinton from just east of Laird to well east of Brentcliffe (11). Other nearby approved applications were flagged as likely to have an impact on the community: the twostorey Whole Foods complex under construction at 1860 Bayview (12) and the SmartCentre North development approved between Wicksteed and Vanderhoof (13). The Costco retail warehouse and gas bar proposed for 42-46 Overlea Blvd. (14), and the Brown Group proposal currently emerging for the west side of Bayview between Soudan and Hillsdale (15) were also noted, as was the uncertain future for the Centre for Mental Health (CAMH) property at 175 Brentcliffe (16). These larger scale development applications currently under consideration are in addition to ongoing single family dwelling redevelopment, and pose a host of planning challenges for the community.

Assuming most of these applications proceed, the challenges include: determining appropriate heights, massing and setbacks; dealing with pressure on traffic, water and sewer infrastructure, schools, parks, and other community facilities; and addressing detailed site plan issues such as parking, snow storage, garbage, loading facilities, privacy, lighting, noise and similar concerns. Adding to all this is the turmoil to travellers and residents associated with the Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail Transit construction that is expected to extend to 2020 and beyond. Obright encouraged the city to find better mechanisms to involve residents in major planning policy decisions, to actually respond to and address residents’ concerns in their staff reports, to develop a comprehensive plan for the future of the Leaside Business Park, to monitor and control traffic flows and enforce related regulations, and to minimize unnecessary contractor interruptions on local streets. In addition, residents were encouraged to support the emerging Bayview–Leaside Business Improvement Area (BIA), the merchants along Eglinton, the Heritage Conservation District studies, and local tree planting and parkland acquisitions initiatives. He also encouraged residents to support the LPOA as an effective voice for the community on planning matters. In closing, he recommended that the LPOA develop a close working re-

LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:25 PM Page 21

Leaside Life, January 2015

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lationship with Jon Burnside, Ward 26’s new councillor. “If we are to continue to enjoy the attributes which prompted us to move to Leaside, we must be engaged and proactive both individually and collectively,” he said at the end. “The future of our neighbourhood is up to each of us doing our part.” Obright’s presentation to the LPOA can be viewed at www.lpoa.ca. ■

Leaside Life, January 2015

March break volunteer opportunities Are you looking to gain experience volunteering in a client-based program, helping kids with special needs participate in activities to the best of their ability? Then we are looking for you! To learn more about Holland Bloorview’s volunteer opportunities, please visit www.Hollandbloorview.ca/volunteer

Leaside Life, now three years old, was started as a communication vehicle for the community. It has grown quickly over that period. The founders of the paper want to retire and are interested in selling. Do you want to be the new owner of Leaside Life? If you are interested, please call Jeﬀ at (416) 275-0009 to talk about this opportunity to make your mark in our community.

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Come often to McDowell’s valu-mart in January for a free cup of coffee. McDowell’s valu-mart is a proud member of Leaside and Davisville community

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LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:25 PM Page 23

RBC Dominion Securities Securities Inc. Inc.

RBC Dominion Securities is pleased to announce that Investment Advisors David Goddard and Mark Coyle have now relocated to the firm’s new branch located at 45 Wicksteed Ave. (Laird & Wicksteed).

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LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:25 PM Page 24

Are we facing the start of retail contagion? Leaside Life, January 2015

24 A good-size crowd attended the LPOA’s Annual General Meeting on Nov. 25, and it was a lively and informative event featuring our new city councillor, Jon Burnside, as speaker. We also awarded Leasider Roger Cattell, the man behind the Drive Slowly signs campaign, a certificate as the 2014 Honorary LPOA Member. He spoke about the importance of safer streets and individual initiative in getting real results. For those of you who couldn’t be there, let me bring you up to date on Leaside’s State of the Union, as 2014 draws to a close. Many of the issues LPOA is engaging in are ones which will continue into the new year and well beyond that. There is excessive retail development, such as a potential Costco store on Overlea Blvd. on the site of the former Coca-Cola office building and plant. Although not in Leaside, there would be major implications for us, particularly regarding traffic, since streets such as Southvale, McRae and Broadway would carry shoppers from west and north of us. And yet the developer’s traffic impact studies do not include Leaside streets! We have met with the city’s planners and transportation staff to impress upon them the importance of considering the traffic impact of a Costco on our neighbourhood’s streets. There are also related matters, like the impact of heavy retail-oriented traffic on TTC services (including the 88 South Leaside bus), and even more gridlock on Laird. Another concern: what is called “retail contagion,” where one retail mall leads to another retail outlet and then to another one, changing the entire nature of an area, big bit by big bit. We need the city to hold a second official community consultation meeting about the Costco application. The previous consultation meeting was over a year ago, and much more information exists now, and must be considered. By the time this edition of Leaside Life reaches you, we expect to hear news about a Business Improvement Area (BIA) for the South Bayview shopping area. It’s really important to support our local shopkeepers, who face stiff competition from the big box stores along Laird. Bayview offers a unique milieu and is a great asset for Leaside. For that reason, when the LPOA won a fi-

Carol Burtin Fripp Vice-president, LPOA

Roger Cattell nancial settlement with SmartCentres last year, we earmarked $25,000 for this BIA to help them succeed. Traffic issues continue to matter to us all, whether we live on busy or (what we used to call) quiet streets. We know that to ignore traffic problems -- heavy flow, speeding, and drivers diverting through Leaside -only allows these problems to get worse. And the longer they are allowed to get worse, the harder it is to find solutions. LPOA will be involved in pursuing solutions, both short-term (during the construction period of the LRT) and longer term. We expect to be busy on many traffic-related matters in 2015. My co-president Geoff Kettel’s AGM report dealt primarily with development, and related topics. LPOA has been involved in several cases at the Ontario Municipal Board and has made some significant advances, but the OMB continues to present a real hurdle to neighbourhood efforts. We are encouraged that as a new city council term begins there is more and more official interest in seeking a more resident-friendly replacement for the OMB. Builders and developers have deep pockets and can afford lengthy and expensive hearings and consultants; ratepayer groups and individual citizens are at a major disadvantage here. LPOA directors have attended meetings (public and private, to underline Leaside’s issues) of the Eglin-

ton Connects process, in particular regarding their mid-rise policies, and will continue to press for protection of Leaside’s arterials from excessive building height. As well, we depute (always in writing, when possible in person) at Committee of Adjustment meetings, which is where, all too often, building bylaws regarding height and size are misapplied. What should be called a “major” variance is frequently considered “minor,” the result being that huge additions and monster homes are given permission, changing entire streetscapes. It is no longer required for Committee of Adjustment members to actually go to sites to see how the applications before them could affect nearby houses and along the street. We’ll be continuing to assist neighbours. LPOA is also involved in heritage conservation, and with the possibility of establishing a Heritage Conservation District (HCD) here. Contrary to what some people fear, an HCD does not prevent homeowners from improving their homes, and areas which have HCDs generally see their house values increase. If the city agrees to underwrite an HCD for this neighbourhood (there is already funding in the heritage budget) we’ll hold a public meeting to ensure that residents’ priorities will be taken into account. Having already used up much more than my usual Leaside Life column’s length allotment, I had better draw to a close. But check out the LPOA’s website, where you will also find a very good AGM PowerPoint report made by local planner Doug Obright at the AGM on the development challenges ahead (and what we can do about them). Last of all, a very big Thank You to our AGM’s financial sponsors, The Leaside Pub, and realtors Bonnie Byford, Patrick Rocca, Charlene Kalia, and Carol Wrigley. I wish you all a very Happy New Year! The LPOA board looks forward to working with you in the coming year. We meet at 7:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of every month at the Trace Manes building, and you are welcome to come, to depute or just to listen and ask questions. The next meeting is on Jan. 7, when we expect to hear more about a major proposed development on the west side of Bayview between Hillsdale and Soudan. It may not be on “our” side of Bayview, but it would have quite an impact on us! ■

LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:25 PM Page 25

Leaside Life, January 2015

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The good and bad of a new Bayview project There were many residents at a public meeting early in December who had split feelings about a proposed nine-storey mid-rise building proposed for the west side of Bayview Ave. from Hillsdale Ave. to Soudan Ave. There was concern about the height and massing. But there was also support for change to the existing desultory format of apartments, original bungalows and relatively modern townhouses facing a more lively retail faĂ§ade on the east side of Bayview. So that is the issue â€“ how to add density on the west side without overpowering and perhaps overshadowing the consistent two-storey retail format on the east side and to the south. The developer, the Brown Group, says it wants peace with the neighbours, which is why it called the meeting at the Leaside Library before making an application to the city. But a nineâ€“storey height and block-long massing set in a low-rise main street makes for a big impact. The remainder of the street may start to feel mean and insignificant. But again, the other side: there was support for extending and strengthening the Bayview shopping main street, a result expected from putting retail on the ground floor of the development. However, there is one issue that never gets raised by the proponent in these meetings, but always should be asked as a question: what does the Official Plan say for this property? This block on Bayview is designated as Neighbourhood, which means that detached and semi-detached houses, townhouses and walk-up apartments are allowed (no more than four storeys). It is clear that Neighbourhoods are special and not intended for intensification. But this part of Bayview is designated as Avenue and only one block from Eglinton, so does Neighbourhoods designation really make sense

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Leaside Life, January 2015

in the long term? Likely not. However an Official Plan amendment to make a change to Mixed Use is required to proceed, which is a big deal. Plus the usual zoning bylaw amendment. Which raises another question: if nine storeys were to be accepted on this site, outside the Eglinton corridor, what does that mean for the Bayview and Eglinton focus area? The Eglinton Connects plan has already implemented special policies for mid-rise development in the area, but nine storeys would likely become the floor, not the ceiling for developer aspirations. Similar questions and concerns are raised on Laird where 25 Malcolm (2 Laird – the former post office site) was approved by the OMB at eight-storeys, and an application is pending for a proposed nine-storey condominium at Southvale at the corner with the Leaside Memorial Community Gardens access road. And these are only marginally within walking distance of the LRT at Eglinton? Meanwhile an application was submitted in 2013 for a massive development at the west side of Brentcliffe between Eglinton and Vanderhoof that includes several high rise towers. So what’s next for the Bayview mid-rise? The December meeting was arranged by the developer; a city meeting will be arranged in conjunction with Josh Matlow, the Ward 22 councillor, because that’s where the property involved is located, after the application is submitted. Watch for the notice and make your voice heard. This development may be on the other side of Bayview but it affects Leaside. ■

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LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 10:49 PM Page 28

Leaside Life, January 2015

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In particular, my new colleague Ward 26 Councillor Jon Burnside and I share serious concerns about a proposal for a condo on the west side of Bayview between Soudan and Hillsdale. The Davisville Village and Leaside communities heard from developers about plans for a nine-storey building at a public pre-application meeting in early December. Neighbours at the meeting shared my view that the height was completely inappropriate for the location and are concerned about the precedent this proposal would set. In particular, the guidelines try to limit the height of the building to the width of the road. For instance, Eglinton is 27 metres in most sections, which translates to a preferred height of nine storeys in portions not part of the Urban Growth Area near Yonge St. Bayview is only 20.7 metres wide. With a retail component at grade, the guidelines would prescribe about six total storeys on the proposed site. If the anti-democratic Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) didn't exist, the community and city's planning staff, along with my office, would just point to the guidelines and ensure that the developer followed the rules. Unfortunately, that's not the reality we are facing. That's why we must work together to let this developer, and others that will follow, know they will face a long, difficult fight if they put forward proposals that don't fit in with our neighbourhoods. If you haven't done so already, please go to www.joshmatlow.ca and sign up for my newsletter to receive updates about this issue. If you are a Ward 26 resident, you may also contact your local councillor, Jon Burnside. â–

Jon Burnside Councillor, Toronto Ward 26 Don Valley West

We need to step back on Laird In the days after the election I met with residents and began addressing their concerns. However, I officially started my role as your councillor on Dec. 1 and my office

LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:26 PM Page 29

Leaside Life To advertise here: 416-486-7387 www.leasidelifenews.com Deadline January 10.

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place. I met with Mayor Tory and discussed the need for the Redway Rd. extension as part of the traffic reduction strategy and plan to meet with 29 Councillor Fragedakis (in whose ward the road would be built). This is definitely a long term project but my action has begun. We still have spots available for both the North & South Leaside Traffic working groups as well as the Development working group, so I encourage you to call or email me. Your involvement will help us get results for our community. Very importantly, I was left with empty filing cabinets, so if you have any unresolved matters, please contact my office so that we can get working on it right away: 416-392-0215. councillor_ burnside @toronto.ca. â–

others. In a strategic effort to have a more balanced approach, I will be pursuing a change in city-wide development fees so that in areas of saturation, fees will be extremely high but in areas of underdevelopment they will be correspondingly low. Although I see my role as being the voice of the community, I would like you to know my general view on development. For most of us our house is our single largest investment and, of course, it's where our whole life is centred. People make decisions based on assumptions of which of our laws play an important role. These rules need to be respected. I understand development in our city needs to happen but my starting point of discussion will always be the respect for the rules in

Leaside Life, January 2015

team is now in place. My first priority downtown was to build relationships with city staff. I have already had numerous meetings but probably the most important one, as it relates to Leaside residents, was with the chief planner, Jennifer Keesmaat. I was heartened by our discussion about the seemingly piecemeal approach to development in Leaside and the need to "step back" and look at the Laird corridor with a broader lens. Members of the planning staff appear to share my concerns about the proposed development at 146150 Laird (near Commercial Rd.) and the terrible precedent it would set for future development on the west side of Laird. I raised my concern that development in the city is clustered in specific areas to the point of overdevelopment in some and none in

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LeasideLife issue 35- 32pgs-draft 4_LeasideLifev1 14-12-17 7:26 PM Page 30

The Business Park business with two names Leaside Life, January 2015

30 To continue with our series on the Leaside Business Park, probably better known here as the industrial area, I decided to investigate a business that has two names: Parkhurst Knitwear and Dorothea Knitting Mills, on Beth Nealson Dr. and Research Rd. Steven Borsook is now the head of that company, opened by his grandfather, Louis Borsook, in 1926 on King St. West in Toronto, the site of the later, and now former, Ed’s Warehouse. At that time, there were many knitting mills across the city. Louis named his company after his wife Dorothea. It specialized in hats, scarves, gloves and sweaters for women. Louis remained active in the company until his death, coming to work a few hours each day well into his 80s. When Louis’s son, Beryl, took over, he initially moved the operation to Alliston, but found the commute too difficult, so in 1944 he moved to Leaside. He bought the building that formerly housed Research Industries, where gyroscopes and radar equipment for the military had been

been at Dorothea for 30 years, and thinks he’ll be coming in to work for many years. “I’ll probably go out in a box,” he says. “It’s hard to get bored. I’m always challenged to do something new.” The clothing business has changed over the years and he thinks his business may be one of the last of its kind in the Toronto area. The company owns the newer building on Beth Nealson. The original Research Rd. building has been sold, but the company continues to work there on a lease. And, of course, many of us know the Research location for its thrice-yearly sales – spring, early fall and Christmas. There may or may not be a fourth generation Borsook with the company. Two of Steven’s three sons have other careers. One of them is working with Dorothea now, but may not continue. Steven ended our conversation by volunteering that he was “proud that the company is part of Leaside”. ■

Lorna Krawchuk Publisher Leaside Life

manufactured. When they expanded into knitwear for men, Beryl thought the name Dorothea was too feminine for the label. He looked out the window of the plant and saw the street name Parkhurst, which at that time continued well east of Laird. That seemed like a good, Britishsounding name for men’s sweaters, so Parkhurst Knitwear came into existence, to join with parent Dorothea. Beryl was proud that his company, starting with shipped-in yarns, dyed them and produced the finished knitted garments for sale all over Canada and eventually in the U.S. Beryl was with the company for 60 years until his death four years ago. Now, Beryl’s son Steven is in charge. He shares his father’s philosophy and work ethic. He’s already

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Leaside Life, January 2015

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Leaside Life, January 2015

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