Community Captured Magazine High Park Roncesvalle - JANUARY 2016

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01: Photo Credit: William Hertha. 02: Photo Credit: Tineke Jorristisma. 03: Hendrick & Lake with their dog, Bobbi Lou. 04: Photo Credit: Tineke Jorristisma. 05: Gearing up for the release of the new Star Wars movie.

06: Photo Credit: William Hertha.

COMMUNITY CAPTURED •

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TA B L E

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CONTENTS I S S U E

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MORTGAGE RENEWAL: IT PAYS TO SHOP AROUND

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CAPTURED

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RECIPE: WEEKNIGHT MEALS MADE EASY WITH SIMPLE TIPS

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VET CORNER: AVOID MEDICAL EMERGENCIES WITH YOUR PETS OVER THE HOLIDAYS

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PET RESCUE: MEET BEBE

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TOP 10 REASONS TO START YOUR OUTDOOR DESIGN PROJECT… NOW. Article by Adam Eizinas

R O N C Y

PRESIDENT Lisa SHEA

lisa.shea@rogers.com

ADVERTISING SALES Lisa SHEA lisa.shea@rogers.com

A D M I N I S T R AT I O N Diana LYNAS C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R Jason STACEY C R E AT I V E P R O D U C T I O N Dereck ADDIE Tim FRANKIW PHOTOGRAPHER Lisa SHEA PRINTING Best Choice Printing

Community Captured Magazine is published and delivered 12 times per year to Homes and Businesses in High Park - Roncesvalles by Canada Post, agreement #41362062.

Published by LS Publishing under license by THN Publications Inc.

LS PUBLISHING 224 Geoffrey Street, Toronto, Ontario M6R 1P8

Phone: 416.409.0111 Toll Free: 855.355.8502 Fax: 905.829.2885 communitycaptured.ca

STAY CONNECTED! /communitycapturedmagazine

DISCLAIMER: Every effort has been made to publish this magazine as accurately as possible; however errors and omissions can occur.

THN Publications Inc., their employees, agents, representatives and vendors are not liable for any damages relating to errors or omissions in the editorials or advertising which may appear herein except where a specific charge has been made. In such cases THN Publications Inc. shall have limited liability only to the charge for such advertising or editorials.

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ANSWER:

QUESTION:

Mary Gioberti Thornton’s 100th Birthday Why is Alex Trebek coming to town on January 29th, 2016

So who exactly is Mary Gioberti Thornton?

100 years ago, she was born in Hamilton, Ontario to parents Guido and Nazzarena who emigrated from Ascoli Piceno in Italy. In 1922, the family, that now included 4 children, returned to their home town to give the children an Italian education. To this day, Mary speaks fluent Italian and her memories of those days are ones of culture, inspiration, invigoration, religion and hospitality - an excellent foundation for what was to become her life’s work.

several books, acclaimed speaker, and dynamo extraordinaire, Diane’s little puppet theatre has morphed into a world class Dine & Dream Theatre complete with Celebrity Chefs, star patrons, and a Broadway class theatrical presentation. While Diane is the brain and the brawn of Famous PEOPLE Players, Mary is its very soul.

Mary, creator of all the beautiful props, puppets, characters and back drops that

Mary returned to Hamilton, married and had two children Diane and Robert. Later as a single mother, she made her living as a seamstress, unknowingly forging her artistic future. Hamilton Opera Company beckoned and Marys natural soprano voice and incredible stage presence dominated the stage in many productions.

But her true destiny was forged when she encouraged her daughter Diane to express herself by using puppets. Using her skills as seamstress and her theatrical experience, Mary created puppets and a puppet theatre for Diane and the path to the future was created.

Diane went on to found Famous PEOPLE Players, the internationally acclaimed black light theatre company based in Toronto, Ontario. Since their beginnings 41 years ago, Famous PEOPLE Players have travelled the world, had two successful Broadway runs, opened for Liberace in Las Vegas and were inspirational in removing the label of “retarded” for people who were developmentally challenged. Member of the Order of Canada, author of

Mary Gioberti Thornton The Soul of Famous PEOPLE Players enchant and entertain is not only the mother of Diane, but the mother of Famous PEOPLE Players. Founder of the Visual Effects Department, Mary tirelessly still works six days a week. She has travelled the world with the company devoting her life to the developmentally challenged. She is “the hostess with the mostest” and has entertained thousands of people including Hollywood luminaries

such as Ginger Rogers, Robert Wagner, Elvis Presley, Paul Newman, Phil Collins and Tom Cruise (her absolute favourite). No longer able to work in the Prop Department, she starts each day by doing all the dining room laundry from the night before. She then irons all the laundry, folds the napkins into tuxedo shirts shapes that the Players use to set the tables in the Dine & Dream Theatre. She is the first person to take reservations over the phone, she is the hostess extraordinaire, going from table to table in the dining room, greeting everyone, giving balloons and best wishes, inspiring all that age makes no difference in pursuing your dreams.

To this day she acts as consultant to the Visual Effects Department and is always coming up with new ideas.

Mary is the first to tell everyone that she lives by the magic of the “C’s. C for commitment, C for consequence and C for comedy. In honour of this milestone birthday for this amazing person, daughter Diane has written a new book entitled “The Magic of the C’s” which will be launched at the birthday celebrations, hosted by Mr. Alex Trebek.

As Mary turns 100 years old in the new year, she continues to inspire, delight and entertain everyone she comes in contact with. She has discovered the fountain of youth with her dedication, Brett, Dawn, devotion, humour and through her acts and Zarra Pascoe. of giving.

Many happy returns Mary! And many more birthdays to come…

Master Mechanic High Park 2 Howard Park Ave highpark@mastermechanic.ca 416-532-2449 OPEN Mon-Fri 8 - 6, Sat 8 - 1

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Call Master Mechanic High Park and they’ll be there for you with a friendly voice ready to listen to you and assist you with your car troubles right away. From the moment you step into the office you’ll feel at ease. Owners Josie Canidto and Mike Tavares and the staff at Master Mechanic get to know their clients, they empathize and realize how important it is to get your car back on time. Beyond your car needs and repairs, they care about your schedule, your budget and all the little details that make up your busy life.

The staff will be there for you every step of the way, with text or email updates to show you photos of what’s wrong or take you into the bay to explain the repairs in person. Even after you pick up your vehicle, Master Mechanic will be there to ensure service quality and customer satisfaction. Come in and meet Josie, Victor, Mike, Rui, Al, Nick, David, Brandon and of course, let’s not forget Charlie.

You’ll find more than just quality work; you’ll find a team of qualified people who Dawn, genuinely care for you and your car.

Brett, and Zarra Pascoe.

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COMMUNITY CAPTURED •

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financial

Mortgage renewal:

IT PAYS TO

SHOP AROUND ASSESS YOUR SITUATION.

Y

ou work hard for your money. One of your biggest expenses is likely your mortgage. So if you had the opportunity to improve the interest rate, alter the term or otherwise make your mortgage a better fit with your life and finances, wouldn't you take it?

Your lender must provide you with a renewal statement at least three weeks before the end of the existing term, but it's best to act sooner. A few months before the end of the term, ask yourself some tough financial questions and do research to determine whether a different mortgage would better suit you and your family.

Maybe you want to pay down your mortgage faster.

Far too many Canadians do not act on this opportunity when the term of their mortgage expires. They simply renew with their current lender, without seeking better terms or shopping around for a better deal. This, despite the fact that household circumstances often beg for a change in what is often the single-largest expense in the family budget.

AS K

YO UR S E LF :

“Do my finances allow me to increase the amount of my mortgage payments?

Do I have savings set aside that I could use to make a lump-sum payment and decrease what I owe?”

Maybe you want to lower your payments to keep more cash on hand to cover childcare costs and save for education.

AS K

YO UR S E LF :

“Can I live with extending the loan for a longer period?”

Contact your current lender, other financial institutions and mortgage brokers to determine what mortgage terms and conditions they offer. Compare the different products.

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“Competition among

lenders affects how much they will charge to finance your mortgage,” says LUCIE TEDESCO, commissioner of the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada.

“ To find the best mortgage for your financial situation, check out the rates and terms offered by several lenders, and understand the costs involved in updating your mortgage.”

STAY PUT OR MOVE ON. In the end, your current lender may offer the best deal, making your decision easy.

If you do want to switch to a new lender, consider the potential additional costs such as set-up fees or an appraisal fee to confirm the value of your property.

Find out whether a new lender will cover some of these costs. Be sure to get all the information you need to make the best decision for your financial situation.

More information is available at www.itpaystoknow.gc.ca. THN www.newscanada.com

3% GIC for 90 days offer is available to eligible Members who are approved for this product at the Roncesvalles branch. Some additional conditions may apply.

Offer may be withdrawn at any time, without notice. Offers are only available to new Members accepted into Membership at the Roncesvalles branch on or after November 30, 2015. ™Trademarks of Meridian Credit Union Limited.

COMMUNITY CAPTURED •

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RECIPE

Weeknight

MEALS MADE

easy with

Simple Tips

Here are

FIVE DINNERS

to take you through an entire work week:

WHAT'S FOR DINNER?

MONDAY

It’s a question most of us ask every day. With evening routines packed full of extracurricular activities, chores and preparation for the following day, we don’t always have as much time as we’d like to make dinner. Fortunately, a quick, delicious and healthy meal can still be an option for your family, even when you’re short on time.

All it takes is a little planning, some common ingredients and one trip to the grocery store.

Start the week by putting your slow cooker to work for you. Slice off the tops of four to six bell peppers, but don’t throw them out. Remove the seeds and stuff each pepper with a combination of lean ground turkey or chicken sausage, grated cauliflower, carrots, onion and garlic, plus fresh herbs, salt and pepper. Put the pepper tops back on, arrange the peppers securely in a slow cooker, pour a large can of low-sodium chopped tomatoes over them and cook on low for eight hours. Dinner will be ready when you walk in the door.

TUESDAY Soup can be a quick way to have dinner on the table in minutes - and it allows you to use up vegetables that may be near the end of their shelf life. Try a Broccoli Cheese Soup (recipe follows), a classic favourite that the whole family will enjoy. There’s minimal precooking required - simply steam the broccoli, measure the remaining ingredients, put them in your blender and start the program. When the program completes, pour into bowls and garnish with extra steamed broccoli florets and bit of grated cheese. For a heartier meal, chop and add grilled chicken chunks. Serve with crusty bread and a salad for a complete dinner.

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WEDNESDAY Whole-wheat pasta with basil walnut pesto is a crowd pleaser. Take fresh basil, Parmesan cheese and walnuts and puree with garlic, olive oil and lemon juice in your blender for a quick and easy sauce. If there are stuffed pepper leftovers, chop and heat for a tasty pasta topping. Make a large batch of pesto and you can use the leftover portion later in the week.

THURSDAY Throw together a chicken stir-fry for another quick weeknight meal. Chop up your favourite vegetables, including extra cauliflower, onions and carrots from Monday’s stuffed peppers and broccoli from Tuesday’s soup. Sauté the vegetables with cooked, cubed chicken and a mix of soy and teriyaki sauces.

Serve over rice and offer a spicy chili sauce for those who like it hot.

BROCCOLI CHEESE SOUP Yields TWO CUPS

INGREDIENTS FRIDAY You’ve made it through the week. Why not treat your family to pizza? Top a ready-made, wholewheat pizza crust with your leftover pesto sauce, cheese and any toppings you’d like. Add peppers, mushrooms and vegetables you chopped for the soup and stir-fry to create a veggie delight. Follow the cooking instructions on the pizza crust package, and you’ll be ready to kick off your weekend in no time.

With a bit of planning, you can shop once and have your dinners set for the week. Buy canned or frozen fruits and vegetables in bulk and try to prepare at least two meals using the same ingredients. Even with hectic schedules, families can prepare and sit down to a satisfying meal every night of the week.

•

1 CUP (240 ml) Milk, skim or low fat

•

3 CUP (40 g) Shredded, low fat Cheddar Cheese

•

1 CUP (100 g) Chopped fresh or frozen Broccoli or Cauliflower florets, steamed

•

1 TSP Diced Onion

•

1 TSP Cornstarch

•

4 TSP Chicken or vegetable bouillon or soup base

DIRECTIONS Place all ingredients into the blender in the order listed and blend.

Once blended, heat over low-medium heat until hot.

Courtesy of BPC

COMMUNITY CAPTURED •

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COMMUNITY CAPTURED •

13

TOO MUCH

STUFFING If you are anything like me, you have spent the holiday season stuffing your face with sugary goodness, savoury deliciousness and double digit litres of egg nog. I’ve gone from (almost) the Old Spice character to Zak Galafinakis after his 18th instalment of The Hangover, in a matter of weeks. Once again, it is the time of year to re-evaluate our nutrition and exercise lifestyle.

Similar to our gluttonous ways, many pets live in a perpetual holiday season where the good times roll and roll... and roll. Obesity is thought of as an excess of body fat that results in the impairment of health.

It is said that 1 in 3 adult dogs and cats are overweight or obese. We often think that offering food or treats makes our pets happy; in fact, the act of begging does not always relate to hunger but often has more to do with simply seeking attention.

Just as human and pet anatomy and physiology are often comparative, so is the association between being overweight and health repercussions.

Historically, obesity was simply linked to increased mechanical stress placed on the joints and the cardiovascular system. However, more recent studies have shown that fat is a major endocrine organ (similar to the adrenal glands or thyroid gland) which actively secretes molecules that affect appetite and energy regulation, cause insulin resistance and most importantly, release mediators that contribute to a persistent, low-grade inflammatory state - an underlying factor in chronic disease such as diabetes mellitus, osteoarthritis, cardiovascular and respiratory disease, as well as liver and kidney disease. For example, the risk of developing diabetes increases eight fold in obese cats! Furthermore, a recent 14-year study on the effect of food restriction showed that animals that were overfed showed poor joint laxity, earlier and increased severity of osteoarthritis, earlier need for medical intervention and lastly, a reduced lifespan (a difference of two years!).

The old adage remains true in that the first step in improving the situation is recognizing that there is a problem. Many pet owners often do not recognize their pets as overweight/obese. We use a Body Condition Score (BCS) at every appointment in order to discuss weight with our clients. Ideally, we are able to palpate the ribs without excess fat coverage, and see both a cinch at the pelvis and a tucked abdomen. Appropriate weight control diets are those that are low calorie with an increased ratio of essential nutrients to calories in

Dr. Folosea with his trusted companion Mabel, a 12 year old golden doodle.

order to assure there are no nutritional deficiencies during weight loss. They are often higher in protein, which helps increase fat loss and preserves muscle mass, low in fat, and higher in dietary fiber, which helps with satiety. Portion control is imperative - a standard cup should be used and portion guidelines specific to animal size should be followed. If treats are to be used, consider providing smaller pieces as it is the act rather than the amount that counts. Lastly, exercise is a critical tool to be used in conjunction with dietary change to expend calories. For dogs, I prefer shorter but more frequent walks while in cats, interactive play such as toys on a string or laser lights are recommended.

It is important to speak with your veterinarian to develop a comprehensive weight loss plan that includes all of the foregoing and to identify any potential health concerns specific to your animal.

Prevention and early intervention are key to successfully maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Remember, regardless of how small or big a weight loss goal may seem, some simple changes in your daily routine will make a significant difference in the well being of your pet. Wishing you the best of luck individually as well as with your little family members!

Dr. Alex FOLOSEA Co-owner of Dundas West Animal Hospital

2160 Dundas Street W ( near Roncesvalles ) 416 535-8387 • dundaswestvets.com S e r v i n g t h e H i g h P a r k a n d R o n c e s va l l e s N e i g h b o u r h o o d s

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Best Animal Hospital

Teamcatrescue.ca

meet BEBE 1 YEAR, 6 MONTHS. 76 WEEKS. 534 DAYS. Bebe is a sweet and gentle girl. She loves affection, and enjoys

Those numbers? That’s how long Bebe has been waiting. That’s

to be pet and brushed. Once she’s comfortable, she will come

how long Bebe has hoped someone would notice that under-

say hello to your guests, and ask them for pats, too. She has

neath her shy exterior is a girl who is healed, and ready to love.

come an incredibly long way since coming into her foster home.

That’s how long Bebe has been overlooked and misunderstood.

With love, patience, and reassurance, Bebe has opened up so

You see, Bebe came to us confused and afraid after her owner

much! She even went from being unhappy about having a fe-

passed away from cancer. It took her time to move on from this,

line foster brother, to letting him lick her face, sharing food and

just as it takes us all time to grieve. But during her time in foster

litter, and enjoying playtime! If you want to entice Bebe, just

care, she has made huge strides in trusting and loving again.

open your refrigerator drawer...she LOVES lettuce! If you like

We know she is ready to find her special home, where her con-

to cook, Bebe would gladly be your sous-chef. Well, maybe your

fidence can continue to grow.

taste tester...but rest assured whatever job you give her, she will

If you want to give Bebe the love and happiness she has been

gladly be by your side!

waiting for, please contact us at info@teamcatrescue.ca.

Bring in this ad to the GLOBAL PET FOODS store in the Bloor West Village and save $5 when you purchase any bag of Natural Balance Dog or Cat Food 1.5lb - 30lb bag Valid from January 2 - January 31, 2016 Offer available while supplies last: see stores for details.

Must bring original coupon; no photocopies.

TM Trademarks of AIR MILES International Trading B.V. Used under license by LoyaltyOne, Co. and Global Pet Foods Stor es Inc.

®

TOP 10 REASONS

to start your Outdoor Design Project ...

NOW.

1 0 . DO YO U R S E L F A FAV O U R A ND H IR E A L A NDSC A P E A R C H IT EC T Have your Landscape Architect find the best contractor for the best price. Take advantage of their professional experience and knowledge. A competitive bid process results in a savings of 20% or more and well worth the initial upfront cost of a set of design drawings.

9 . CON T R A C TO R S A R E LEA S T B U S Y NOW Contractors are looking for jobs for the upcoming year. Best to get on the top of their list early rather than get up-charged later when they try to squeeze you in between better paying contracts.

8 . S PE N D L E S S Contractors will bid lower in the off-season, and your project will cost less to execute overall.

7 . AVA IL A B IL I T Y O F MATER IA LS Get a head start on sourcing materials to guarantee availability and price.

6 . PE R M I T S Gain precious lead time when dealing with Municipal Permit Approvals and other agency sign-offs. City reviews can take weeks - months when the City is at their busiest. The new year presents the best time for city reviews.

2. STOP I N FLAT I ON Securing early tenders stops inflation creep. Contractor bids hold for at least a year.

1. SPRI N G CON ST RUCT I ON = SUMMER FUN !

Adam Eizinas Landscape Architecture continues to provide landscape design services for homeowners, developers, real estate agents and architects in the GTA. Permit-friendly designs for competitive construction bids.

Through expertise in planning cost-effective landscapes, Adam will help you realize your return on investment and find the best people to build it - on your time and budget.

Contact Adam if you are looking to improve your outdoor living space, make your house look better for resale, or just want to know your options for where you want to put a pool, pond, driveway, or BBQ/outdoor dining area. Adam ensures that your project is done to your needs and budget, by the best contractor available.

Adam is a Licensed Landscape Architect with over 15 years experience solving all kinds of outdoor design challenges all over the world.

A complimentary initial consultation is available upon request.

5 . RE SE A R C H You have time to do your research - and include others to discuss your ideas. Share your plan with your neighbours.

4 . T RA D E S H OW D E A LS Be best prepared for early spring trade shows to make the most of your vision. Trade shows are great for getting deals.

3 . F I N A N C IN G You have time to get your financing in order. Explore financing options.

Adam Eizinas Landscape Architecture 416 999.3273 Land-Designs.com