ISLINGTONTIMES

Volume 03 • Issue 02 • Summer 2015 Edit ion

continued on page 04

IN THIS ISSUE

Dog or Cat 02

Gems 04

Etobicoke’s History 05

HOT Eats 06

For the Love of Pets 07

Community Corner 08

Islington Ratepayers 09

Summer Renaissance 10

Agriculture Educated 13

Summer Safety 14

www.villageofislington.com Dogs – Toronto’s Best Friend? By Linda Plater

HAPPY CANADA DAY!

It is great to get outdoors and enjoy our public spaces designed for everyone. These days it seems that an increasing number of Toronto dog owners are walking on neighbourhood streets, sidewalks, running in parks and looking for off-leash sites to exercise their pets. So many of my pet-loving friends swear that they would never walk unless they had a dog to take them! Increasing numbers of condo developments with little green space rely on public spaces for their pet-friendly activities. Last June CTV news reported that Toronto city planners hope to introduce new bylaws that would make amenities for pets mandatory in condo developments as there are more than 200,000 dogs in Toronto – a number that city planners expect to grow. “It is creating all kinds of planning challenges,” said Jennifer Keesmaat, Chief Planner for the City of Toronto. Tridel, after years of managing the condo lifestyle, suggests that the best way to get harmony surrounding pets is to ensure that pet and non-pet owners alike learn what to expect from each other and what responsibilities they have in a shared space (e.g. like an elevator or lobby). To help set expectations, they provide a guide Petiquette: Condo Pets & You A Guide to Living & Enjoying the Condominium Lifestyle. Tridel Corporation’s Vice President of Customer Care, Danielle Feidler, reports that Islington Terrace, located at Cordova and Mabelle Avenues will have 430 units. “We never know how many or what type of pets our communities will have, but with Petiquette and the info in the condo rules, we are very successful at helping our residents with their wonderfully diverse lifestyles, live together.” says Feidler. Depending on the community, the developer puts in pet amenities such as pet convenience stations and on off-leash parks in the neighbourhoods, recommends dog walkers, vets and more. “Tridel understands that pet lovers enjoy condo living and that is why we make every effort to accommodate people and their pets in a respectful environment while making sure non-pet owners can also be confident that their needs will be respected too,” says Feidler.

Name That MuralThe first person to email

Info@villageofislington.com with the correct name and address of

the mural above will win a $25 Gift Certificate from I Love Sushi.

Gary and Gael Hepworth of Premier Homecare Services with Gemma

SEE ARTICLE ON PAGE 10

The Village of Islington Times is printed on 100% recycled fibre. Please recycle.

Toby Gardiner | Publishertoby@rjentertainmentpublishing.com

Follow us on Twitter @RJentpub and like us on Facebook @RJEntertainmentPublishing.Read all our publications on-line @ www.rjentpub.com

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Are you a dog or cat person?

The debate over which animal makes a better pet, a cat or a dog, will never be justified. It seems that people are either cat people or dog people with a few animal lovers who would not chose one over the other.

Dog owners feel they achieve far more positive feedback from their pets. Dogs love to be around humans. They follow you around, sit on the couch and sleep with you at night. Dogs provide security.A dog helps keep you active with daily exercise. Cat owners have their own set to positive reasons. Cats are independent. They can be left alone, do not require extensive exercise and do not need outdoor time for bathroom breaks. Whichever pet you chose, the return of love and admiration is priceless. A pet can make someone feel loved at a lonely time, laugh at a time of sadness and they can even help relieve stress and lower blood pressure. Always remember to be a responsible pet owner. Never leave them in a car during the summer. Clean up after your pets and have your pets looked after regularly by a vet. Have a safe and happy summer.

Village of Islington TimesCommunity Newspaper

Volume 03 | Issue 02Quarterly Publication ~ Circulation 17,000

Delivered by Canada Post

For advertising information,

please contact Toby Gardiner at

toby@rjentertainmentpublishing.com

www.rjentpub.com

Village of Islington BIAP.O. Box 234, Station D, Dundas St West,

Etobicoke, ON M9A 4X2www.villageofislington.com

Contact:Linda Plater

E-Mail: info@villageofislington.comBIA Mobile Line: (647) 703-4802

Editorial Contributors:Linda Plater

@VillageofIsling villageofislington

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Home care you can feel good about

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For independence. For quality of life.

We offer:

• Dedicated and knowledgeable caregivers

• Flexible schedules

• 24/7 on-call availability

• Hourly, overnight and live-in care

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416-623-8229PremierEtobicoke.com

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At the May 2nd Jane’s Walk of the Six Points site, MPP Peter Milczyn, the former Ward 5 Councillor, pointed out that hydro corridors and “dead space” in the area are perfectly suited for “off leash” dog runs. In 2009, the City amended the complex 2007 people, dogs and parks strategy with guidelines for off leash parks but in many areas of the city conflicts between dog owners needing space and people wanting dog free areas are ongoing. Not all people are willing or able to properly care for a dog in the city, and some folks just don’t like dogs. Disgusted with people who don’t poop and scoop, swerved off city multi-use trails to avoid dogs, growled and howled at, many Torontonians are not dog drawn to these four-legged friends. Pet waste accounts for approximately one third of all litter collected in Toronto Parks and everyone pays for its disposal. Peaceful co-existence between dog lovers and people without dogs’ means striking a common ground of respect and public education about pet rights and people responsibilities in the city. Allocating adequate public space for pets while respecting those who do not want a dog to disturb their leisure time in our shared outdoors poses challenges for many city departments. Toronto Animal Services (TAS) is the department tasked with managing all sorts of wildlife issues: establishing laws and licensing which promote safe and enjoyable communities for both people and pets. With pet-owning privileges come responsibilities. For people who love to take their dogs outside here are some helpful tips. Tips on Pets in Public Spaces• It is up to the pet owner to control their pet at all times and to train and socialize them.• Dogs need to be walked often and on a leash, no longer than two metres.• It is against the law to let dogs run loose except in one of the city’s off-leash parks.(Excluded from off-leash areas are female dogs in heat, dogs that must be muzzled or leashed under order from Toronto Animal Services, unlicensed dogs.)• Owners of dogs nervous or uncomfortable around people or other animals should take precautions.• Respect people who fear or dislike dogs• Pick up after your pet.• Microchip your pet. (The City offers a Chip Truck for pet licences and microchips $25 for cats and $35 for dogs).Toronto Animal Bylaws• License your dog or cat. The Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 349, requires that all dogs and cats owned in the City of Toronto must be licensed and wearing a tag. By licensing your dog or cat, Animal Services will make every effort to reunite you with your pet if it gets lost.• The maximum numbers of pets that you can own is six cats and three dogs.• Pick up after your pet on private and public property.• Your dog must be kept on a leash no more than two metres long. You must be holding onto the leash - leashing your dog to a pole or bike rack is not allowed.• On private property, you cannot use a rope or chain less than three metres long.• The owner of a dog is liable for a bite on another person or animal. If your dog is continuously barking or whining and disturbing your neighbours, you can be fined under the Noise Bylaw. http://www1.toronto.ca/animal services Whether you like dogs or not, they are here to stay and pet-lovers will continue to be devoted to their “best friend”! And every year brave dogs are inducted into the Purina Animal Hall of Fame in recognition of their acts of bravery, many for saving humans or warding off criminals.

A Wonderful Evening Recognizing Local Business ExcellenceBernard Trottier, Member of Parliament for Etobicoke–Lakeshore and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs along with Peter Milczyn MPP for Etobicoke-Lakeshore and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Economic Development, Employment and Infrastructure were honoured to host the annual Gems of Etobicoke-Lakeshore award ceremony. The Gems honours outstanding businesses and community organizations from various categories across the riding. Nominations were open for two months and the general public was invited to nominate organizations they felt deserved to be recognized for their outstanding service. All nominations were then reviewed and voted upon by an independent judging panel which consisted of members from the various Business Improvement Areas along with other community leaders. Two winners, a north and south winner, were awarded per category. “Etobicoke–Lakeshore is home to some of the finest small and medium sized businesses in Canada”, stated MP Trottier. “The service excellence that is extended by these fine businesses help to make our community the best part of Toronto. I urge residents to get out there and support our local business and experience first-hand why these truly are Gems”. “The Gems of Etobicoke-Lakeshore offer me a wonderful opportunity each year to acknowledge outstanding businesses and organizations in my riding and encourage residents to shop locally”, stated MPP Milczyn. “These unique small businesses and groups in our neighbourhoods provide incredible service and deserve to be recognized. It is notable that all of the exemplary nominees share a sense of community spirit, demonstrated through volunteerism and involvement in local events and initiatives. The Gems were created to celebrate those who work to make Etobicoke-Lakeshore an even more vibrant place to live, work and play”. The awards ceremony, attended by well over 200 people, is an excellent opportunity for various businesses from across Etobicoke-Lakeshore to come together and celebrate their collective service to the community. The winners of the various categories were as follows:Best Retail, North: Beaulieu Vision Care South: Lakeshore Valu-MartBest Food Service, North: The Pie Commission South: New Toronto BilliardsBest Community Service, North: Islington Seniors Centre South: Storefront HumberBest Restaurant, North: Posticino Ristorante South: Thrive Organic Kitchen and CaféBest Culture & Recreation, North: Westmount Gallery South: Mimico Children’s ChoirBest Service Business, North: Stonegate Denture Clinic South: Kickstart TaekwondoBest New Business, North: Stoney’s Bread Company South: Citrus Medical CentreTo view the full list of nominees and winners please visit www.bernardtrottiermp.ca

Dogs continued from front cover

Bernard Trottier & Peter Milczyn Host the Annual Gems of Etobicoke–Lakeshore Awards Ceremony

Islington Seniors Centre – GEMS winner of Best Community Service

Rachel Terpstra with dogsShamus and Bridgette

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Our story starts with an extraordinary explorer - Étienne Brûlé, a protégé of Samuel de Champlain, the founder of New France (later Canada), who in the early 1600’s lived with the Algonquin Indians for eight years, learning their language and customs.

His explorations on behalf of Champlain and France included his being the first white man to discover Lake Ontario and probably the first to set foot in our area then included in the “Indian Hunting Grounds.” His achievements have been recognized by a park and a junior school in Etobicoke being named after him. With the victory of James Wolfe at Quebec City in 1759, France lost its ownership position in the New World, and Britain set about colonizing Upper Canada, which was the territory west of the Ottawa River. Negotiations with the Mississauga Indians for the Toronto Purchase (from the Scarborough Bluffs to the Etobicoke River/Creek) in 1788 were acrimonious, especially concerning an area from the Etobicoke Creek to the Humber River, but this was eventually concluded with the Mississauga Nation receiving 10 shillings in “good and lawful money” for the land.

In 1791 the British Parliament passed the Constitutional Act, and a British Officer, John Graves Simcoe, who had fought against the Americans in the American Revolutionary War, was appointed the first Lieutenant-Governor of Upper Canada. Simcoe was a high minded individual and immediately set out his intentions on racial discrimination – “The Principals of the British Constitution do not admit of that slavery which Christianity condemns. The moment I assume the Government of Upper Canada under no modification will I assent to a law that discriminates by dishonest policy between the natives of Africa, America or Europe.” This was a remarkable declaration at that time, noting that it was enacted 42 years before the British Parliament abolished slavery in the Empire in 1833, and 70 years before the American Civil War was fought on that very matter. Simcoe proclaimed York (now Toronto) as the Capital of Upper Canada in 1793. Two years later he turned to re-naming an Ojibway expression “Wah-do-be-kaug” which translates as “Where the Black Alders Grow” to one easier for the British tongue, “Etobicoke.”

To be continued in coming issues: the War of 1812, Upper Canada Rebellion of 1837 and more.

Etobicoke’s HistoryBy Terry Reardon

Anne has been teaching at Islington Junior Middle School since 1995 and feels very much a part of the Islington community.

She takes her classes to tour the Murals of Islington Village, so understandably is familiar with the murals. This photo in front of the Prodigy mural is meaningful to Anne as she also studied piano at the Conservatory where her teachers came from the same tradition as the late great pianist, Glenn Gould. Ms. Kong has participated in many events in the community. Some of her favourite memories include: collaborative projects with the Montgomery’s Inn, the Pigeon Creek Pageant with Mabelle Arts and Jumblies residency to celebrate the 175th Anniversary of Islington Junior Middle School in 2007-2008. She appreciates the BIA’s on-going effort in preserving the area’s rich history, while celebrating its diversity and welcoming many changes on the horizon.

Spring Mural Contest WinnerAnne Kong

Pay what you can, Cash bar, $5.00 for a bowl of stew.

Looks like Thursday is the new Friday!

Live Music!

Thirsty Thursdays Montgomery’s Inn 7 - 10:00 p.m.

Last Thursday of the month June 25: Ceilidh

4709 Dundas Street West 416-394-8113 montgomerysinn.com

Hot Eats – Savour the Flavour!

What goes best with great arts and culture? Amazing food! As part of its Cultural Hotspot initiative, the City of Toronto is launching HOT Eats, a program that highlights local Etobicoke restaurants and cafés. HOT Eats will spread the word about the wonderful and varied dining choices in Etobicoke, encouraging people to experience local arts and culture and enjoy a great meal.

Do you own or manage a restaurant or café in south and central Etobicoke? If so, you are invited to be part of HOT Eats. Sign up to have your restaurant, café or bakery featured in the Hot Eats online directory, interactive map and Cultural Hotspot promotions, celebrating local culture, heritage, creativity, business and community. Your business will be included in the Cultural Loops Guide, to be published this fall featuring self-guided tours in Etobicoke neighbourhoods. To apply, fill out an application by July 10 and donate one $25 gift certificate to be awarded through an Etobicoke Guardian contest. Visit www.toronto.ca/culturalhotspot/eats to learn more. Do you love to dine out in your neighbourhood? This is a fantastic way to discover the amazing eateries in Etobicoke and enter a draw to win a gift certificate to a participating restaurant. Stay tuned for more information about HOT Eats – the program launches on July 30, with an interactive map and listing of restaurants at www.toronto.ca/culturalhotspot/eats. The Etobicoke Guardian will be running a series of giveaways so that you have a chance to enter and win a $25 gift certificate to a local restaurant! The Cultural Hotspot initiative shines a spotlight on arts, culture and community in south and central Etobicoke from May through October 2015 with special events, festivals and happenings. For event information, visit www.toronto.ca/culturalhotspot

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cultural hotspot

BREAD IS ONLY THE BEGINNING

JOIN US FOR BRUNCH, LUNCH & DINNER

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Local Resident Reflects on Community and a Dear Friend’s PassingBy Anna Leandro

We’re fortunate to live in The Village of Islington, with its history and beautifully painted murals - many of which tales of when the area was open and unsettled with stories of people long gone. We live on Dundas Street West on nature’s doorstep, near a quiet creek and stunning golf course where we meet many people every day. Fortunate to be working from home and managing the building where we live, we’ve come to know many of the shop owners and local residents. It’s the local crossing guard who helped our son Julian cross Dundas Street as he grew up and who we’ve watched grow older over the years; it’s the local people sitting on the benches, waiting for a friendly person to stop and chat. These personal connections make the area special to us and we value Islington and its people. That’s why it was a very sad day for us in April when we discovered at the coffee shop across the way that one of our neighbours suddenly left us. I remember Roy Buna was always sitting in front of his sister Pina’s family owned restaurant, Espresso Bakery, a staple in the neighborhood. He’d be strumming his guitar and singing for a group of locals that would often stroll by and have a cappuccino with him on the outside benches, directly in front of the restaurant. There you’d often find him helping out when it was busy. Friend to muralist John Kuna, Roy also helped with scaffolding for the first murals The Way We Were I and II on either side of the Espresso parking lot and with stucco for the Gordons Dairy mural on the Islington Seniors Centre.

I’d run into Roy on the sidewalk, and even when he wasn’t on the same side of the street he’d make a point of waving, smiling and shouting out Hello! Seems like I just saw him at the Goodwill, said hello.... but I didn’t have the chance to say goodbye.... Rest in Peace Roy. Thank you for adding so much to the Village and for fostering community in every sense of the word. You will be missed.

Canada DayBy Bernard Trottier, MP Etobicoke-Lakeshore

Canada Day is a celebration of all that is great about our country – it allows us to connect with our past, celebrate who we are, honour our exceptional achievements, and build a legacy for tomorrow. Our Conservative Government is proud to celebrate Canada’s rich history, diverse natural and cultural heritage, strong values and many accomplishments. Canada’s history is filled with notable figures whose legacy has enriched the Canadian and global community. For instance, Alexander Graham Bell’s invention of the telephone changed the way the world communicates forever. Harriet Tubman’s courage and determination helped hundreds of slaves escape to freedom in Canada along the Underground Railroad. Nellie McClung’s leadership paved the way for equality for women in Canada. Terry Fox’s inspiring cross-Canada run continues to raise money and awareness for cancer research. Canada’s men and women in uniform have courageously fought tyranny and evil around the world throughout our history. And, every day, hard-working and generous Canadians from coast to coast to coast contribute to the Canadian experience. The Fathers of Confederation founded our great country with a vision for a united and prosperous Canada, and 148 years later Canada stands on the world stage as a nation strong and free. And, our Conservative Government is committed to building a stronger and more prosperous Canada for years to come. That’s why we are helping create jobs and opportunities for all Canadians, while keeping taxes low and balancing the budget. We are helping make our streets and communities safer. We are making historic infrastructure investments across the GTA. We are conserving Canada’s rich natural beauty. And, we are protecting and promoting Canadian values of freedom, democracy and the rule of law in Canada and abroad. This Canada Day we celebrate our beautiful community of Etobicoke-Lakeshore together with our business owners, families, teachers, seniors, young people, non-profit leaders, and the many other exemplary Canadians that call our community home. We celebrate the dynamic public spaces across this great community that unite and connect us – our beautiful parks, our stunning Waterfront trail and our robust arts, cultural and community centres. We also celebrate the many moments and memories that have been created over the past year. From Mimico to Long Branch, we as residents of Etobicoke-Lakeshore have much to be proud of. While we honour Canada’s past and present, we have a lot to look forward to. This month, Toronto will welcome thousands of top athletes from across the Americas for the 2015 Pan Am and Parapan American Games. Our Government is proud to be a major funding party to the Games. We have invested up to $500 million for construction and refurbishment of sport infrastructure, the 2015 Sport Legacy funds, and will be providing essential federal services such as border security and accreditation support. With Canada’s rich history, tremendous natural and cultural heritage, strong values and sense of purpose, and robust and growing economy, we truly have so much to celebrate this Canada Day. On July 1st, let’s celebrate Canada – the best country in the world. Happy Canada Day!

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Many people live with pets and think of them as members of the family. While pets have their own health concerns, best addressed by veterinarians, they also influence human health, for better and for worse. The benefits of living with pets include:

• Stress reduction – interaction with pets lowers the stress hormone, cortisol.• Lower blood pressure – one study found that, whether they were relaxed or undergoing stress testing, people with pets had lower blood pressure than those who did not.• Pets protect your heart – a study of cat ownership found that those who had never owned a cat were 40% more likely to die of a heart attack than those who had owned a cat. The companionship of a dog offers similar benefits; dog owners have better survival rates one year after a heart attack.• Protection from stroke – it’s not clear why, but research shows cat owners have fewer strokes.• Mood enhancement – the companionship of a pet can raise levels of serotonin, the brain chemical that is involved in mood regulation.

Pets and other animals have also been employed therapeutically for people with conditions such as depression, autism, epilepsy, diabetes, stroke recovery, Parkinson’s disease, and as service animals for people with vision and hearing deficits.

As much as we love them, interacting with pets can increase your risk for bites, scratches, and some infections. Common pet-acquired infections include gastroenteritis from salmonella, Campylobacter jejuni, giardia, and cryptosporidium; skin infections from Bartonella henselae, and ringworm; and systemic infections such as rabies, toxoplasmosis, hantavirus and roundworms. Some things that don’t generally spread directly from companion animals: Lyme disease, colds, flu, pinworms and systemic fungal infections.

Protect Yourself, Protect Your PetThese simple tactics will help prevent the spread of disease from your pet to other members of the family:• Keep your pet healthy by making sure he/she sees the vet regularly and has all necessary vaccinations.• Supervise your pet’s contact with other animals that might carry disease.• Make sure all family members habitually wash their hands after handling or playing with pets.• Be sure to wash your hands after cleaning litter boxes, cages, or disposing of pet waste.• Clean scratches immediately with warm, soapy water. Additional treatment is rarely needed.• Contact your doctor if you have been bitten, especially if there was no obvious reason for the bite. Cat bites may require antibiotic treatment; dog bites are less likely to need antibiotics. Unprovoked biting may be a sign of rabies and should always be investigated.

Pets do their part to improve our health just by being our companions. Return the favour by making sure all their interactions with you are healthy ones.

Dr. Janet McKenzie, MBA, ND is the Clinic Director of Summit Natural Health Centre, where she helps people to feel their best with customized natural treatments.

Summit Natural Health Centre5133 Dundas Street West, Etobicoke, ON M9A 1C1Telephone: 416-236-7642, Email: contactus@summitnaturalhealth.cawww.summitnaturalhealth.ca

For the Love of Pets: Health MattersBy Dr. Janet McKenzie

Merchant Mingle 2015Thank you Roger and staff of I Love Sushi for hosting the 2015 merchant mingle. The sushi making demonstration was interesting, the food was delicious, and the social media talk was engaging and fun. An appreciative group of members networked and enjoyed your hospitality.

PanAm Torch CelebrationJoin in the Torch Relay Celebration at Montgomery’s InnJul 7th 2015 at 2:30 to 3:30PM. Montgomery’s Inn - 4709 Dundas St W, Etobicoke.

New BIA Mural Walls NeededBusiness and Property OwnersDo you know of a possible site for a new mural? We are actively searching for viable walls for new murals. If your building (with the permission of its owner) is a possible site for a new mural, please get in touch with Linda Plater, BIA Coordinator to find out more at 647-703-4802. Cultural Hotspot upcoming eventMABELLEarts hits the road, bringing their brand of art making, story-sharing and public space transformation to neighbourhoods across Etobicoke. With a trusty mobile MABELLE 1974 Sprite camper trailer, MABELLE artists and youth will be collecting and sharing the stories and imagery of diverse residents of all ages and backgrounds, focused on migration, arrival and belonging. As the project develops, the trailer will transform as it is imprinted with stories, images and objects created by participants met along the way.Workshop July 23, 1 – 3 p.m. at Bell Manor Park, Park Lawn and Berry Road About MABELLEartsMABELLEarts is driven by its love of people and fascination with neglected and forgotten places. They make art and build environments that foster community regeneration and invention. MABELLEarts cultivates long-¬term relationships that reveal the transformative possibilities within each unique site, neighbourhood and community. They celebrate cultural traditions, differences and points of connection that help spark collaboration as a creative force for change. MABELLEarts reframes existing social and environmental conditions to make space for new ways of being together. mabellearts.caFor more information please see culturalhotspot.ca

HUMBER RIVER SHAKESPEARE COMPANY presents their 8th Annual Summer Shakespeare TourFalstaff and the Merry Wives of WindsorHide the women AND the money – Falstaff is in town. Shakespeare’s rowdy and hilarious comedy of love, marriage and trickery.Humber River Shakespeare returns again this summer, with one of Shakespeare’s earliest and well-loved comedies.Hard up for cash, the unscrupulous Falstaff hatches up a crazy plan that can’t possibly backfire – to cuckold Windsor’s wealthy husbands and get his greedy paws on their money.However, the merry wives devise a scheme of their own to teach him a well-deserved lesson in Wooing 101. Even with an ego as big as his voracious appetite, Falstaff’s silver tongue cannot prevent the payback to come.Set in the hip and “Far Out” world of the 1960s, and featuring puppets, music and some audience participation, this hilariously magnificent treat of artful deceit is not to be missed.Admission is by donation. Suggested donation is $20July 25 & 26 - Montgomery’s Inn, Etobicoke, July 30 - Etienne Brulé Park, Etobicoke, July 31 - Montgomery’s Inn, Etobicoke, August 1 & 2 - Montgomery’s Inn, Etobicoke.Patron information line: 416-209-2026 Website: HumberRiverShakespeare.ca

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Daytrippers enjoy a self-guided mural tourWe had a great time viewing the murals and finding out about the local history behind each one. With the help of the mural map from your website we found our way around and managed to see all of the murals. Our Facebook friends are very interested in the pictures we posted! We stopped about 1:00 p.m. for a wonderful lunch at St. James’s Gate Irish Pub patio. The staff and the food were very good. Thank you for all of the great info prior to our visit! Peggy, Oshawa Jane’s Walk 2015 a huge successIt was a fantastic weekend to explore local neighbourhoods and the participation in local Jane’s Walks on May 1-3 proved that the international event is growing in popularity. In and around the business improvement area over 200 people participated in local walks. MPP Peter Milczyn led a group of over 60 people on the Farewell Spaghetti Junction Tour. Denise Harris of the Etobicoke Historical Society took two tours along Mimico Creek. Valerie Gibson and Ron Quin led mural tours. Leah Houston of Mabelle Arts championed a park walk and cleanup with a great turn out too. It is wonderful to see so many people out connecting with others and enjoying our public spaces for everyone!

Doors Open TorontoMay 23-24, 2015 marked the fourth year that the Village of Islington BIA has sponsored mural trolley tours for Doors Open Toronto. Over 400 visitors came to enjoy ten trolley tours and two walking tours of the village. Some were return visitors and many said they would be back with their friends and family. Toronto’s Village of Murals thanks all volunteers and business owners for supporting the ever-popular ArtWalk and trolley tours. Islington Health and Wellness Event 2015On April 16th the Village of Islington Business Improvement Area (BIA) hosted its fourth annual Health and Wellness Event sponsored by the Islington Golf Club and CARP. Over 200 people participated in the free community event which included 35 exhibitors. The local business association (BIA) co-ordinates this event to give back to the community and share information about health promotion and illness prevention. A special thank you goes out to BIA Vice-chair, Gary Hepworth and to Jennifer and her team at the Islington Golf Club for their help at the event.

COMMUNITY CORNER

Health Fair 2015 - Aileen, Jennifer and Janet

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Let’s Keep Toronto CleanOn April 18th, 2015 an enthusiastic team of volunteers pitched in to keep our

BIA litter free. Thank you everyone and great to see Councillor DiCiano helping

out too!

The BIA works hard to keep the area attractive by planting flowers, hanging

banners, maintaining lighting and painting murals. Please do your part by

calling #311 to report litter problems to the City.

Litter PreventionTo prevent litter, the easiest, greenest, single action one can ever take is to

not litter. From car windows, on streets, sidewalks, storefront window ledges

and parking lots, in parks, trees, waterways – litter is prolific and 55 per cent of

littering is deliberate.

Litter is like a magnet. Its presence attracts more. Very quickly an impression

of neglect and lack of caring is formed and research confirms that litter drags

down property values and tourism rates.

No one should litter. People who show disrespect for the public realm are

showing anti-social behaviours. Whether you are the smoker who is flicking your

butts all over or the java junkie leaving coffee cups everywhere and anywhere,

the chewing gum-spitter or the tosser of fast food wrappers and remains, you

need to understand that your disrespectful acts are littering and it negatively

impacts the enjoyment of shared outdoor spaces meant for everyone.

Do your part to help reduce litter

1) Try not to litter. Walk to the closest bin to dispose of waste or take it home.

2) From business entrance to street, keep your property free of litter.

3) When you see someone litter, ask the person to stop.

Many thanks to the hundreds of residents of our community who have become members, supporters and active participants in the Islington Ratepayers & Residents Association (IRRA).

The primary mission of IRRA is connect the community, keeping residents informed of issues at the municipal, provincial and federal level that have local impact. Our volunteer non-profit organization has been both a watchdog and champion of local matters since its inception in 1971, promoting and protecting the interests, rights and responsibilities of its community members. Currently, the top issues on the IRRA’s agenda are community safety/neighbourhood watch • major development proposals including Six Points project, Humbertown, and Cordova condos • residential variance applications and approval procedures. On these matters, we are working to stay involved - and to share news about - city planning consultations, Committee of Adjustment hearings, local crime and policing, plus the mounting of our own community meetings. On October 15, 2015, your IRRA will convene a COMMUNITY MEETING featuring the new councillors for wards 3, 4 and 5 as guest speakers. Focused on the theme of DEVELOPMENT, Councillors Stephen Holyday, John Campbell and Justin Di Ciano will address major development projects in our area including Six Points/Westwood and Humbertown lands, as well as overall development management issues including city planning, Committee of Adjustment and the Ontario Municipal Board. Brief presentations/updates from the councillors will be followed by a community Q & A. JOIN US! For a modest annual fee of $5 per household, IRRA will keep you in the loop about our immediate issues, and about all matters of local relevance as they arise. Email, website and facebook are our primary means of communicating, plus our annual printed newsletter delivered to every residence in our catchment area. New members, and new volunteers, are always welcome! MEET YOUR NEW COUNCILLOR! Community Meeting

with Stephen Holyday, John Campbell, Justin Di Ciano

Thursday, October 15, 2015, 7:00 pmStewart East Hall, Islington United Church, 25 Burnhamthorpe Road (location tentative) We are pleased to foster community engagement, and we look forward to a great turnout on October 15th to “MEET YOUR NEW COUNCILLOR”. Carolyn McGee, President, Islington Ratepayers & Residents AssociationWebsite: irra.ca Facebook: IRRA - Islington Ratepayers and Residents AssociationInquiries: 416-233-7468

News from your Islington Ratepayers& Residents AssociationMeet Your New Councillor October 15th

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Summer is here and it could be just the right time for you to become a polymath. No, it’s not a new a new form of math. Polymath means “having learned much”. More commonly known by the term Renaissance man/woman, it refers to someone who possesses skills and knowledge encompassing a wide range of fields of endeavour including the arts, sciences and athletics. This approach to living one’s life was born in Italy during the Renaissance period (c. 1450 - 1600) and is perhaps best summarized by the words of Leon Battista Alberti who was a great Renaissance man of the day. He wrote that, “A man can do all things if he will.” This quote reflected the new way of thinking that took hold during the Renaissance. People believed that they could take control of their lives and make changes to improve their situation by developing their abilities to the fullest.

If you wanted to become a polymath during the Renaissance, you may have read Baldassare Castiglione’s self-help book on the subject entitled, The Book of the Courtier. This guide listed the character traits that one should possess, as well as the skills and knowledge one needed to acquire, to become a polymath. These traits included having a detached, easy-going personality and the ability to perform tasks without showy or boastful behaviour. This was in addition to being able to speak well, sing, play an instrument, recite poetry, paint and draw. In addition, one should be well-read and proficient in athletics. Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo were two famous polymaths who epitomized these ideals. So with summer upon us and nature in full bloom, perhaps we should take a cue from the world around us and strive to become modern day polymaths. Let your interests’ blossom and your talents bloom as you spring forth and reach for the moon. It may not be Shakespeare, but it’s a start. Ed Lettner owns The Music Studio in Etobicoke which has offered music instruction since 1990. He is an honours graduate of the Humber College Institute of Technology music program. Ed hopes that one day he can check off most of the requirements for being a polymath. For information about summer lessons and camps at The Music Studio, please call 416-234-9268, email: ed@themusicstudio.ca or visit www.themusicstudio.ca

How about a summer renaissance?By Ed Lettner

Brick Oven Pizza is the New Standard for Gourmet Pizza in TorontoBy Napolitan Pizzeria

And it’s only available at Napolitan Pizzeria. Wood oven pizza is passe and cannot compare to brick oven.

Remember when your parents first took you out for gourmet pizza in a fancy restaurant? You were all excited because you heard so much about how great wood burning ovens were and you were looking forward to a nice bottle of red Italian wine. It was strange to see your parents using a knife and fork to eat their pizza but you quickly realized it was a sign of sophistication, so you followed along. Once you got to the middle of the pizza you realized the real reason they were using a knife and fork. The pizza was so soggy and uncooked that they couldn’t pick it up with their hands anyway. You thought, this is gourmet pizza? Napolitan Brick Oven Pizza has a treat for you, gourmet pizza you can eat with your hands. Brick oven pizza is the new standard for gourmet pizza in Italy and now in Toronto thanks to Napolitan’s authentic brick ovens made in Italy. Brick ovens reach much higher temperatures than wood burning ovens and have more consistent heat so our pizzas are crispy on the bottom and cooked evenly. It’s time to return the favour to your parents and introduce them to the new gourmet pizza in Toronto. Pick up one of our signature Italian brick oven pizzas and take it to them and forget about the utensils! Napolitan Pizzeria is open Tuesday to Fridays 11 am – 10 pm and Saturdays from 4-10 pm. Closed Sunday and Monday for Family Days. Please call ahead and let us know what time you would like to pick up your pizza. We’ll have it hot and ready. Napolitan Pizza is located at 5245 Dundas Street West. Call 416-239-2111 or visit www.napolitanpizza.com.

Yvan Baker, MPPEtobicoke Centre

Happy Canada Day!

Constituency Office4800 Dundas St. W., Suite 106 Toronto, Ontario M9A 1B1ybaker.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org 416-234-2800 | yvanbaker.onmpp.cawww.facebook.com/yvanbaker

Wishing you and your family a

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Ontario is introducing new legislation to increase protections for condominium owners, improve how condo corporations are run, and ensure that condo boards are governed professionally. As you may already know, Ontario’s condo sector has grown substantially since the Condominium Act was last updated in 2001. To give some perspective, the number of units has boomed from 270,000 units in 2001 to 700,000 today. It is estimated that approximately 1.3 million Ontarians live or work in 10,000 condominium properties today. Modernizing the Condominium Act, 1998: Protecting Condominium Owners Act, 2015 looks to address the following issues:• buyers misinformation at pre-purchase• surprise increase in condo fees• corporation refuses to provide financial records• costly disputes• unqualified condo managers• major financial decision without owners’ consent• underfunded reserve fund• building in crisis For the last three years, the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services has listened and reviewed the Condominium Act with Ontarians through an extensive public engagement process. In the fall of 2012, the public brought issues and ideas to the table through roundtables, public information sessions, and email and mail submissions. In Spring/Summer 2013, five working groups and an expert panel reviewed the findings report and the public comments and generated a solutions report. Lastly, in fall/winter 2013/14, condo residents and members of the public from across the province reviewed the solutions report which lead to the proposed new Condominium Act. The following is a brief summary of how some of the changes resolve the aforementioned issues:

Transparent board governance:• Minimum qualifications for condo directors including prescribed disclosures and an online orientation delivered by the condo authority at no charge;• Standardized forms and timelines to ensure consistency across condo corporations. Protecting owners’ investments:• Strengthening reserve funds and reducing the risk of unexpected and costly special assessments or loads by updating and standardizing requirements for an adequate reserve fund;• Preventing conflicts of interest by implementing sealed-bid processes for the procurement of goods and services;• Clarify rules and responsibilities governing how corporations spend money to make improvements, repairs, and maintenance. Clear rules for developers to protect owners during the purchase process:• Restrict developers practises that result in surprise cost increases, including prohibiting the sale or leaseback of common assets;• Improve disclosure to purchasers through: mandatory condo guide to buyers, summary of important disclosure materials, and standardized portions of the declaration, by-laws or rules. Extending new home warranty coverage to certain condo conversions Professionally licensed condo managers• Mandatory licensing for condo managers and management firms through self-funded, independent licensing authority;• The Association of Condominium Managers of Ontario, Canadian Condo Institute and Condo Owners Association have expressed strong support for this approach. A condo authority to provide modern, timely and cost-effective dispute resolution;• The Condo Authority’s Dispute Resolution Committee will have the ability to make binding decisions;• Would offer quick, accessible and less expensive online dispute resolution ;• Would offer free information to reduce unnecessary and costly disputes;• Potential savings to government by reducing the number of disputes clogging the courts;• Will have new accountability and transparency measures, such as: public salary disclosure, processes similar to freedom of information requests, and ability for the Auditor General to audit. The Islington Villages neighbourhood has evolved into one of the most vibrant communities in the city. I have seen this area grow and change over the years. However, the laws that govern condo living have not changed in a number of years. Our government has brought forward these changes to ensure that condominium residents will have, should the Bill be passed, much stronger protections for their homes. A new accessible and independent dispute resolution panel will make it easier to handle disputes, condo management will become even more professional and accountable, and condo purchasers will also benefit from greater protection. As a condo owner myself, I know how important these changes will be to making condo life more hassle free.

Ontario Increasing Protections for Condo OwnersProvince Proposing Changes to Support Stronger Condo CommunitiesSubmitted by Peter Milcyzn, MPP Etobicoke-Lakeshore

Laurel Broten, mppEtobicok

Working with you to ensure a better community to live, work and play!

Peter Milczyn, MPP

Etobicoke-Lakeshore

If you need help with

provincial matters,

please contact me.

Constituency Office:

933 The Queensway

Etobicoke, ON M8Z 1P3

T - 416-259-2249 • F - 416-259-3704pmilcyzn.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org

www.petermilczyn.onmpp.ca

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It’s Time to Get Agriculture EducatedBy Gary Hepworth

Food is a very personal choice for people. Here in Canada, we have access to a whole range of different foods, produced in various ways, grown both locally and imported from around the world.

There is, however, a growing lack of understanding about how the food gets from the farm to the store shelves. And this is not surprising, given that so few people have a direct connection to the farm anymore.

“Most people don’t know a lot about agriculture,” says Keith Kuhl, the president of the Canadian Horticultural Council and a Manitoba potato farmer. “I grew up on a farm in the 1950s. My parents had six children and everyone had to help out with work on the farm. By the age of seven, I was helping by weeding sugar beets. My generation grew up with most people having a direct connection to the farm,” says Kuhl. Kuhl adds that in generations past, most kids had grandparents or aunts and uncles who farmed and summer vacations were often spent on the farm, which gave kids a strong understanding of agriculture. He says he recognizes that the modern farming practices are much different from the ones he grew up with, but as a farmer today, he feels it is partly his responsibility to clear up misinformation and educate the public about how food is grown today.One of the major pieces of misinformation that he hears repeated is that farmers use pesticides that are unsafe. Kuhl says the reality is that the pest control products are safer today than they’ve ever been, and are highly regulated by Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency. Kuhl also acknowledges that he is fortunate to have two sons in business with him, as it allows him to spend most of his time advocating and talking about agriculture. He adds that programs such as Agriculture in the Classroom (AITC) are helpful, but more farmers need to get involved in educating the public and talk about their experiences on the farm. Johanne Ross, the executive director of AITC, says that since agriculture is going through a time of change and innovation, it’s more important than ever to educate people – especially youth – about modern day agriculture practices.

“Our youth are the future of this industry,” she points out. “We must continue to foster an interest in agriculture and the production of food. With experience comes understanding and AITC Canada develops and delivers accurate, balanced and current programs and resources on agriculture.” This summer Montgomery’s Inn is one of fourteen sites for the New Canadians-Go Greenbelt Project which teaches about world crops. The new learning gardens engage youth in planting and growing ethno-specific produce. Participants will have the opportunity to visit other Greenbelt sites just outside the greater Toronto area. Visitors to Montgomery’s Inn will see the results of the project in the containers located at the front of the building. The Project Manager, Peter Mitchell is excited about the opportunities for everyone to learn more about how crops grow and how our new types of vegetables can thrive in Toronto. Mitchell brings his extensive background in agriculture from the University of Guelph and Niagara’s Vineland which adds a level of expertise right here at home. For more information about world crops see http://www.greenbelt.ca/tags/world_crops or to find out more about the project at Montgomery’s Inn contact: Catherine Campbell ccambe4@toronto.ca (416) 394-6025. Learn more about Agriculture in the Classroom at http://www.aitc-canada.ca or visit their interactive website about food in Canada: http://allaboutfood.aitc.ca/. www.newscanada.com

Gary Hepworth EPC Managing Director & Cognitive CoachPremier Homecare Services, Etobicoke • 416-623-8229garyhepworth@homecarephs.com • www.homecareetobicoke.com

Market Days @ Montgomery’s Inn

FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE

Wednesdays 2PM - 6PM

4709 Dundas Street West Free parking onsite • 416-394-8113

Montgomerysinn @MontINNTO

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Summer Safety for Children

Now that everything in your garden is planted and growing, you need to pay special attention to those plants that might be toxic to young children. Plants are high on the list of accidental poisonings. By keeping plants out of children’s reach and teaching them at an early age not to nibble on any plant, lawn mushroom or berry not commonly used as food, you can reduce the chance of poisoning. In your vegetable garden, here are some plants that are toxic:• Tomato (leaves and vine). Can cause headache, abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea.• Potato (green tubers, vines, leaves, new sprouts). Eating may cause severe vomiting and diarrhea. Do not eat green or spoiled potatoes.• Rhubarb (leaves). Small, sharp crystals may cause intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lip. What should you do if your child has eaten what you think is a poisonous plant? Call a physician or Poison Control Centre immediately (most communities have an emergency number for poison information). You’ll be asked for:• The name of the plant• How much and what parts were eaten• How long ago it was eaten• The age of the individual• Symptoms observed—dizziness, drowsiness, etc.• Keep one ounce of syrup of ipecac (not fluid extract of ipecac) in your medicine chest, which can be bought at most pharmacies without a prescription. Use it to induce vomiting only on the advice of a doctor or poison control centre.• If advised, take the person to the nearest hospital emergency room. Be sure to take the plant along for identification. House plants should be labelled with their common names so that in the event of an emergency you can save time. Plants in the house and garden are not the only source of danger for your children. Here are some other ways children are injured, especially in the summer months.

• Every year children are treated for cuts to their feet from glass and other sharp objects—don’t let them go outdoors with bare feet!• Accidents with bicycles and tricycles are very common. Make sure your children wear helmets and shoes so that their feet are protected from spokes when riding in a “baby seat”.

• More than 10% of all injuries to children involve playground equipment, including private equipment installed in backyards. Falling from heights (e.g. slides) on non-protective surfaces is the most common of this type of injury. Don’t let your child use slides, swings or climbing bars on a cement base.• Children can drown by falling into a swimming pool, off a dock, or riding a tricycle into the pool. Never leave a small child alone on a beach, dock or near a pool. Private pools should be fenced in and locked, and your child should be taught to swim at the youngest possible age.• Teach your child not to poke into insect nests and use an insect repellent or give some protection with clothing while on a picnic or out in the country.• Don’t let your child pet any strange animals. Teach them never to tease an animal—even a friendly one may bite to protect itself. For more information on summer safety for children, go to:www.canadasafetycouncil.org Summer is here. It is time for backyard barbecues, pool parties and long weekends at the cottage. But play it safe this season. Lola Macanowicz Insurance & Financial Services – The Co-operators has provided insurance and financial planning advice in Etobicoke since 1985. For more information, please call 416-234-2777 lola_macanowicz@cooperators.ca, Visit us at 5048 Dundas St W., on Facebook at LolaMacanowiczInsuranceFinancialServices or on Twitter @LolaMacanowicz.

8. Trottier ¼

Doors Open Toronto