August 2010 Issue 7, Volume iii | Good News Toronto

Food and Culture: One Toronto Inside This Issue Restaurant Owner Gives back

page 4 Passionate about presenting a positive image for the Jane and Finch area

page 7 Creativity flourishes at New Bloor Festival through art and music

page 6 Generations live on due to the humble heroics of gentle Giants

page 8 Making children laugh gives meaning to a rebellious soul Please let me know if you need more Roberto Martella exuberantly joyful in front of his establishment that serves as a community hub Photo by Barry Shainbaum AISLING RIORDAN

s a journalist, I’ve interviewed many people over the years, but I have to say I’ve never met a restaurant owner quite like ARoberto Martella. Until now, that is. Roberto Martella and his wife Lucia own Grano restaurant — an Italian eatery at Yonge and Eglinton. Most restaurants that I go into do the usual, serve food and drink — but not Grano. Roberto makes sure of that. Since its opening in 1986, it has been a cultural piazza or “salon” where people are encouraged to share and discuss ideas while eating great Italian food. page 5 Roberto was born in Canada but it’s not surprising why he’s so passionate about Undeterred by disabilities, determined the Italian culture when he tells me about his father. “My father came to Canada from Continued on page 14 to climb Mount Everest 2 | Good News Toronto August 2010 Dear Good News Toronto Readers, hope you have been enjoying I your summer — one of the most spectacular ones we have Issue 7 Vol III experienced in Toronto in a long time. Publisher/Editor Eva Karpati I love summer. I love the sun Graphic Designer Kevin Quang and the heat. It allows me to do all Copy Editor Emmanuelle Hertel the things that give me so much Website Roslyn Patrick enjoyment. I can get around on my motor scooter (as does Roberto on our front cover), I can in-line skate on our many glorious park pathways, I can eat ice cream everywhere, and I can celebrate with Torontonians our abundant The Lunch Bunch at Palais Royale on July 14th street festivals, such as the New Another activity that has that let’s create a groundswell of posi- Bloor Festival (page 7), sharing has made my summer so much fun tive change! food, music, art, and good times. is doing random acts of kindness. Now, please make yourself the Emmanuelle Hertel Roslyn Patrick Kevin Quang One of my favourite activities I made lots of copies of the card Summer-Thyme Lime Refresher Copy Editor Website Graphic Designer this summer was the lunch the on page 3 so when I indulge in on page 10, go outside to your : Good News Toronto extended family my favourite summer treat — ice favourite spot, and enjoy this Contributors for this Issue had at Palais Royale. On that Alvin Abram, Zahra Bardai, Brian Baumal, cream — I can treat the next August issue of Good News Toronto. beautiful Wednesday afternoon person as well. Have you been As always, I appreciate hearing Kathleen Betts, Lesley Brewer, Winnie Czulinski, we gathered at this splendid one of my recipients? I hope so! which hero touched you the most, Stephen D’amico, Veronica Dimofski, Dennis vintage venue by the shores of Remember to send in your experi- which column resonated with you, Hanagan, Vera N. Held, Jennifer Hicks, Nuramina the lake and partook of Chef ence, as Barbara and Sharon have and which photo sparked your Ibrahim, Azraa Janmohamed, Etta Kaner, Dr. Martin Steffan Howard’s creations. With on page 3, and you could win a curiosity. After reading your issue Kijazi, Anthony Kissoon, Paul Kralik, Alixe Macrae, this breathtaking view, we ate, told Good News Toronto T-shirt! please pass it on to someone else. stories, laughed, and made new Alina Olshenitsky, Jason Prupas, Aisling Riordan, To encourage all of Toronto Let’s keep good news going and friends. And through everyone’s to participate in this profound kindness flowing. Ranger Ross, Barry Shainbaum, Tamara Shelly, Marlon generosity we raised funds to help endeavour, Stephen D’Amico, I look forward to seeing you Teekah, Jennifer Yim us publish this paper. our Kindness Campaign manager, on August 18th and 21st! We had such a wonderful along with his team at Global Board of Directors: time that we are doing it again! Awakening In Action has cre- Miriam Baichman, Kathleen Betts, Janet Gerry, We would like to invite you to ated a “Kindness Pays” Day Jay Llave, Romeo Marquez, Rachel Ornoy, join us on Wednesday, August on Saturday, August 21st at th Barry Shainbaum, Juli Smollan, Phil Taylor, 18 , at noon at Palais Royale. Nathan Philips Square from Please check out our website for Martin Winer 2:00–4:00pm. Lots of wonderful more details. Please call, email, or activities have been planned to write to get your ticket. Do not Mission Statement encourage us, inspire us, and to let the summer go by without collectively have fun as we embark Good News Toronto celebrates the multitude of Fondly, experiencing this wonderful day on a multitude of acts of kindness. Eva Karpati inspirational people who live in Toronto with the goal — and supporting Good News Please join us for this first event Publisher/Editor of motivating all of us to continue to make this city Toronto at the same time. of its kind in Toronto. Together [email protected] rich in everyday heroes. Good News Toronto is a not-for-profit newspaper distributed at the beginning of the month throughout the GTA. Good News Toronto had no political or religious affiliation. Reproduction of editorial or advertising content is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher

Subscription Form 12 issues $24.00 PayPal at www.goodnewstoronto.ca or Please mail with cheque to: Good News Toronto Read us at www.goodnewstoronto.ca 131 Hidden Trail, Toronto, ON, M2R 3S6 Email us at [email protected] Name:______Phone us at 416-661-2556 Address:______Join us on Facebook Phone:______Follow us on Twitter August 2010 Good News Toronto | 3 The Kindness Campaign STEPHEN D’AMICO The concept is simple but bara Fishbein, a social worker at we’ll send you a Good News Toronto local citizen” to the officers at powerful: Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation T-shirt as a commemorative to- your local police station. Using ast month we officially Each month we feature a Hospital, who writes about facili- ken of our appreciation for your the power of kindness, we can Llaunched the Kindness suggested act of kindness. Read- tating a random act of kindness participation. remind the officers on the police Campaign here at Good News ers are invited to perform the that was initiated by another force that the citizens of Toronto Toronto. Initially inspired by the suggested random act of kind- person, powerfully reminding us This month’s suggestion: appreciate the protection they desire to inject some kindness ness (or one of their choosing) that remaining anonymous never As always, each month we give and the risks they take doing into the city following the end and leave behind the “Kindness goes completely unnoticed. suggest a random act of kindness their jobs. of the tragic Bryant–Sheppard Card” provided below. Our second story is submit- to help get you started thinking case, we suggested placing flow- The card explains the ted by Sharon Smith, a school- about what you can do to bring a ers on someone’s car or bike as campaign and encourages the teacher in Toronto, whose story bit of kindness to an unsuspect- kindness recipient to “pay-it- relates a humorous incident that ing soul. Of course, our monthly a secret gift from the universe. forward” in the form of another arose when she decided to pay- suggestion is just that: a sugges- But it is important to point out act of kindness to a stranger. it-forward with a gift card given tion. We encourage you to let your that the goal of our campaign Do-gooders then submit the by some of her students. spirit soar with possibilities, and goes beyond increasing empathy story of their act for inclusion in Please enjoy reading these then put those inspiring ideas into The Kindness Campaign is coordi- between cyclists and drivers, and Good News Toronto and a chance to stories. And as a reminder, write action through your spontaneous nated by Stephen D’Amico, founder includes our desire to inspire as win a Good News Toronto T-shirt. in and let us know about a random good deeds. of Global Awakening In Action. many acts of kindness towards act of kindness you’ve either wit- This month, we suggest Please visit stephendamico.com and our fellow Torontonians as This month’s story: nessed or participated in recently. sending a Thank you card or globalawakeninginaction.org for more possible. Our first story is from Bar- If we end up printing your story, note of appreciation “from a information about our other work. Reader Submissions of Random Acts of Kindness From Barbara Fishbein in need, on welfare with a single parent raising not three but four sons on her own. I called the mother and she was totally awestruck that a stranger would care n anonymous person called me a while ago, as she had spotted a woman with enough to notice her and offer some assistance. I managed to connect them and Athree children, one with special needs, on a TTC bus. She had no name but she was given $300. thought the child may go to our centre (HOLLAND Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation A really special part of this story is that the client then took a portion of that Hospital). The centre serves thousands of clients, so as a social worker I certainly money and donated it back to Holland Bloorview kids rehab for other families in need. know many of them, but not all. That day was very moving and reinforced my belief that Toronto was a truly On the off chance that I could locate the family I asked the caller to give me a good place to live. I call that lady an angel. I often think of that moment when description of them. She told me that she saw a lady who was travelling with three I hesitate on deciding to give or not to give. When I tell the story I know others boys. She continued to say that the mother appeared very tired but dedicated and who are also inspired to put their thoughts into action. I applaud the donor for her hardworking and that one of the boys was in a wheelchair. She noticed the woman act of courage in reaching out demonstrating a true act of human kindness and and valued how she cared for her sons as they travelled all together that day. She generosity that day. explained that the bus was travelling up Bayview at the time and that they got off at the stop that leads to our centre. She went on to say that she wanted to help the From Sharon Smith family in some way and that if they would accept it she wanted to give the mother a monetary gift. She wanted to remain anonymous and truly wanted to help if she could was recently given a gift card from Starbucks and decided to treat a couple of At first I thought about all the many families that I work with and how difficult I friends while we were enjoying a brisk walk together. After placing our order, I it would be to find them. I listened further to the woman at the end of the line offered the gift card for payment. The young man serving us asked if I was a teacher, who sounded so genuine and sincere. I knew that if I did find them I would have to which I replied “Yes.” I had received the card as a gift from some of my students. to locate them and get their consent. I knew that there were many needy families Imagine my embarrassment when, after several tries, the card continued to show a and that this could potentially bring so much joy and hope to someone, as it was zero balance! He then jokingly inquired, “Are you a bad teacher?” Upon hearing our truly a random act of kindness. laughter, the manager came over to see what was happening. After explaining the After several hours and thinking about the time of day and the families I work situation, she pressed a few buttons and, lo and behold, there was enough money with who take that TTC route with three children I realized that it could be indeed to cover the cost of our drinks! one of the families I work directly with. I also realized it was a family who was truly Thank you, Jessica for your “random act of kindness.”

Come to Toronto’s First-Ever “Kindness Pays” Day KINDNESS CARD This Random Act of Kindness is sponsored by Good Join us on August 21st for Good News Toronto’s first official “Kindness Pays” Day, News Toronto! a social action movement organized by Global Awakening In Action. Please help us keep the kindness going... Learn how you can become a kindness activist, and start spreading kindness in our city! Give this Kindness Card to the next person you help. Become part of a growing group and movement dedicated to changing the world one random And, if you pay it forward, we would love to hear act of kindness at a time, starting right here in our city. from you. August 21, 2010 Just write a brief description of your act of kindness 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and email it to us at: [email protected]. Nathan Philips Square If your story is printed in our paper, you will receive a FREE Good News Toronto T-Shirt as a reminder of your good deed! Visit us on for more details www.facebook.com/kindness.pays Visit goodnewstoronto.ca for more info. 4 | Good News Toronto August 2010 Act with Courage There’s No Place Like Home In this Q and A column, Communications Coach Vera Held explores with Good News Toronto readers important aspects of Paul Nguyen is proud of his courage that surface in our personal and professional lives. childhood community, Jane and Finch, and hopes that Torontonians ness. Further, you amicably discover the beauty and inspiration it concluded the conversation holds, just as he experienced it when that you were in the middle of. he was a child. Bravo. You’ve got class and fi- nesse. And just to keep things in perspective, there are good ALINA OLSHENITSKY property managers out there — Priscilla’s just not one of them. wenty-nine-year-old film Tproducer and website Q: My colleague “George” developer Paul Nguyen grew Q: I recently attended a receives $25 an hour for an conference overseas where up in one of Toronto’s most 8-hour day. The problem is I ran into “Frida,” a former talked about neighbourhoods. that he consistently stretch- business associate. I said a No, it wasn’t in Forest Hills or es out his day. So really he friendly “hello” and looked anywhere in downtown Toron- only works 4 hours, but gets her straight in the eye, but to — not even in the suburbs paid for 8. Recently, a good Frida turned on her heel man in our department was of the GTA. Paul has lived and did not acknowledge fired, and I believe George within a five-minute walk from me. I was disgusted at her had something to do with the neighbourhood of Jane lack of business etiquette his being fired but I can’t and Finch all his life, and he and her treatment of a prove it. This situation couldn’t be more thankful for fellow Canadian on foreign really bugs me. I think the this experience. soil. Do you agree? wrong man got axed. Unlike the media’s por- trayal of Jane and Finch, Paul A: Frida’s got a few prob- A: I see why you are lems — thankfully none of says that his best memories bugged. And it is clearly de- Paul Nguyen is eager to draw positive which are yours. First, it’s un- took place in the areas sur- motivating for you to see attention to the Jane and Finch area professional to not acknow- rounding his community and George getting paid for work ledge someone who is simply the most inspiring people he’s tion where I meet a lot of peo- helped co-produce Lost in the that he could do in half the making a salutation and de- ever known have all lived close time. Here’s the rub: Will man- ple and I learn a lot,” says Paul. Struggle, a documentary for manding nothing more. What agement appreciate your feed- to home. “It showed me that chil- the prominent CBC series The does it cost to say “hello”? back? Or will you be seen as With the goal of sharing dren who grow up here must Fifth Estate. The film features Zilch. Yet Frida’s self-absorp- the office snitch if you come with Torontonians the realities be open to new experiences the stories of three young men tion took precedence. Second, forward to report on George? of the Jane and Finch Commu- and talk to people outside of living at Jane and Finch and Frida put her professional repu- Experience shows that even- nity, Paul has created a website their immediate surroundings. their everyday struggles as they tation in danger. Behaviours tually a person’s true colours called www.Jane-Finch.com, a When I used to hang out at the face social pressures and issues such as these spread like wild- surface and management gets non profit initiative run by stu- fire, especially at conferences. McDonald’s outside my house with the law as they turn from savvy. What’s important is that The inappropriate behaviour dents and volunteers. Togeth- as a kid, I never thought I’d teenagers to young adults. The you focus on you, and in do- then takes on a whole new er with Mark Simms, Paul’s meet people such as the Gover- film is available for viewing ing the very best job that you “status” once on terra firma childhood friend who is also nor General Michelle Jean, give in five parts on Youtube and can. When we put energy into and gossip will escalate. Moral the executive producer of the presentations to top marketing CBC.ca. situations and people that we of this story: Be nice. It’s the website, Paul decided to create firms downtown, or interview At the moment, Paul is have no control over, we take same price. a channel for people to voice away from our self-motivation influential figures like the fa- eager to continue fulfilling his and our ability to continually their ideas on matters related mous coach PinBall Clemons. dream of drawing positive at- : Q I was standing by the challenge ourselves and grow. to the Jane and Finch Com- Kids should really stay open tention to the Jane and Finch elevator casually chatting So target you as your number munity. minded if they want to discov- area and informing people with the son of the owner of one client, and give yourself As the first and only proj- er their life’s passions.” worldwide about the beauty our office building when all and your organization your ect to feature original content and talent this area has to of- of a sudden “Priscilla,” the absolute best. about the Jane and Finch Com- Paul decided to create a fer. He is excited about enrich- property manager, came up munity, the website has any- channel for people to voice ing his website by having peo- behind me and asked if I had Please forward queries on thing from historical maps of any questions. I responded, their ideas on matters ple contribute their thoughts tough personal and profes- the area, population statistics, related to the Jane and and opinions from all over the “No, I don’t have any ques- sional situations to Vera at tions,” and I carried my con- news and events, poetry sub- Finch Community world. Anyone wishing to con- [email protected] versation with the owner’s mitted by anybody who wants tribute and/or volunteer can son to a natural conclusion. to share his/her thoughts, and Paul, who has graduated contact Paul by going to www. Although Priscilla didn’t in- short videos of speakers who from the TV and Film Pro- jane-finch.com. terrupt again, she listened come to speak in the Jane and gram at Humber College, had intently to every word we Finch Community. his first experience with pro- said. Is it my imagination or Since the creation of the ducing a movie when his father was she beyond rude? online initiative in 2004, the brought a new video camera website has received wide- home when he was a kid. Both A: Belligerent even. Per- spread media coverage and Paul and Mark played with the haps Priscilla was concerned praise from Canadian politi- that you were talking about camera after school just for her. Or worse, that you were Vera Held, M.Ed. is a coach, cians and community leaders. fun, and before they knew it, trying to get a deal on your of- facilitator, speaker, writer, PR “The site has really their fun turned into passion. fice rent — behind her back consultant, and the author of changed my life. Normally I’m Their childhood passion Despite her interruption, you How Not to Take it Personally a really shy and quiet guy, but turned into reality when in Alina Olshenitsky is an ESL teach- chose to not return her rude- www.veraheld.com the site has put me in a situa- 2007, both Paul and Mark er and a freelance writer in Toronto August 2010 Good News Toronto | 5 If the Mountain Will Not Come to Lynn Manwar, then She Must Go to the Mountain Lynn Manwar uses her illness and retaining an “onward and its worst in Hiroshima. Strange proved serendipitous in that she climbing mountains thrown up as a teacher guiding her onward and upwards” mentality. irony that the radiation used to found passion in her new work, in front of her by her medical upwards After graduating university cure Lynn had also been used to which served as a potent analge- conditions. It only seems fitting in 1996, she was eager to start destroy a culture. sic for her arthritic pain. Again that she has chosen to climb MARTIN WINER her climb up the corporate lad- she regarded her condition as a Mount Everest, as a member of der. Regrettably, her first step Passion is needed in every- teacher rather than an adversary: the Arthritis Society’s Joints in ynn Manwar has experi- landed her in quicksand with her one’s work life. I had to get “Passion is needed in everyone’s Motion program. She hopes to enced a variety of medi- doctor delivering the devastating arthritis to realize that work life. I had to get arthritis to depart this winter or next spring, Lcal conditions that most diagnosis of thyroid cancer. She One morning, several years realize that.” depending on when she can would find debilitating. The only feared this would spell the end after, she woke to discover that Always looking to improve raise the funds. Lynn has never constant across all these condi- to her dream of teaching English she couldn’t get out of bed. All upon herself, Lynn became aware allowed her conditions to be im- tions has been her dedication to in Nagano, Japan, during the her joints were too stiff to move. that she had acquired some pediments, merely guides in her the human condition, viewing Olympics, but two surgeries later, At the age of 30, she was diag- surplus baggage in the way she personal journey. Undoubtedly illness as a teaching experience while undergoing radioactive io- nosed with Psoriatic Arthritis. looked and carried herself, and she will one day reach base camp dine treatment, she experienced She was now stymied; everyday so she set a goal to get a profes- on Mount Everest, but for now a revelation. She visualized her- tasks were proving difficult. sional makeover. She applied her indomitable spirit will guide self finishing her post in Japan Opening jars, turning doorknobs, to appear on Style by Jury and all of us in our ascension in life. and receiving laudation from washing dishes, and even using attended what she thought was To support Lynn, please her future employer. Just three the bathroom were all suddenly an interview, but was in fact the visit: http://arthritis.akaraisin. short weeks later she flew out out of reach. No stranger to show already in progress. The com/pledge/Participant/Home. to Japan on a plane fueled with adversity, she took each problem jurists’ comments were hard to equal measures of kerosene and in turn: “I bought a jar opener, a swallow, but ultimately helpful. her own determination. raised toilet seat, and asked others One juror noted, “She seems In Nagano she saw the pos- to open my bottled water when to be defining herself through sibility for peace at its finest, out in public.” Just the same, the her arthritis and using it as an with myriad people speaking in constant pain of arthritis made it excuse for the way she looks.” the common tongue of peaceful difficult to cope with her career in By the end of her makeover, cultural exchange. Shortly there- recruitment and she tepidly sub- her exterior better reflected her after, she visited Hiroshima and mitted her resignation in 2003. dynamic interior, and in a final witnessed firsthand the devasta- She transitioned into a vol- comeuppance to arthritis, she Martin C. Winer is a freelance writer in tion war can wreak on a civiliza- unteer coordinator for arts fes- swung from a trapeze at the Toronto. He enjoys writing articles about tion. Japan had seen humanity tivals with up to 600 volunteers. Toronto School of Circus Arts. social action. More details can be found Lynn Manwar at its finest in Nagano and at What had seemed misfortune Lynn Manwar has been on his blog: www.martincwiner.com Fitness Matters In this monthly column Marlon Teekah focuses on various aspects of fitness and answers questions you might have in order to encourage you to be your best in body, mind, and spirit.

The Truth about Nutrition * Note: All carbs are not Although “low fat” products improve your heart health and to exercise. To determine if exercise equal; reduce sugar intake, reduce the amount of fat, they body composition as well as is appropriate for you, please consult To expand on last month’s especially artificial and during often contain more sugar than improve your workout stamina. your physician before trying anything article about fitness myths, I will the night their counterpart, which may Remember, all fats are not offered in this column or exercise in discuss a few of the nutrition Myth 2: Crash dieting or turn into fat if you do not use created equal! Avoid trans and general. Marlon Teekah and Good myths that many people have. fasting makes you lose weight the additional sugar. saturated fats found in baked News Toronto are not liable for Fact: Crash diets may Diet sodas and low calorie goods and fried foods, which your safety. Myth 1: Low carbohydrate provide a quick 5lb fix but they drinks may have zero calories, have no health benefits. Instead, diets are the best and fastest way ultimately hinder weight loss. but they are high in sugar opt for mono (omega 3) and Marlon Teekah is a Certified to lose weight. Crash diets and fasting typically substitutes such as aspartame polyunsaturated fats (omega Personal Trainer, Certified Kinesiolo- gist, and Personal Fitness Coach at Fact: Reducing your car- lead to a lot of water loss as well that aren’t doing your diet any 3-6-9) found in fish, nuts and Marlon Teekah: Dynamic Fitness bohydrate intake to dangerous as fat and lean muscle. Decreasing favors. In fact, some studies have vegetable oils (such as olive oil). Training. If you have any questions levels leaves your body without lean muscle will decrease your indicated that sugar substitutes or comments, you can e-mail Marlon the vital energy it needs for daily metabolism, which means that have been found to increase fat Now that you have this at [email protected] or visit maintenance. Carbohydrates your body is burning fewer storage; the long-term effects of newfound knowledge, put it into him online at www.marlonteekah.com are your body’s primary source calories throughout the day and these sugars on health are still action! For more information on of fuel, so when levels get too therefore needs fewer calories to unknown. In addition, many Fitness, please visit me online low, your body will start to store sustain itself. This means that of these diet foods and mini- at www.goodnewstoronto.ca or carbs to use as energy. The once you inevitably stop the diet meals are highly processed and contact me directly at fitness@ drastic weight loss seen at the or the fast, you will gain more are lacking in many important goodnewstoronto.ca with any beginning of low-carb diets is weight back and faster! nutrients and minerals that you further questions. due to water loss as a result of can only get from real, natural your body burning up all of its Myth 3: All foods that have food products. Best of luck, remaining carbohydrate stores. reduced fats or are “diet” are Marlon Teekah In the end, cutting a particular okay for me to eat Myth 4: All fats are “bad food group from your diet will Fact: Just because a food fats” D I S C L A I M E R : T h e only lead to cravings and muscle product proclaims to be “non- Fact: The moderate intake information provided in this article breakdown, without any lasting fat” or “diet,” does not mean (35-45 ml/day) of healthy fats is recommended for the general results. that it is right for your diet. (such as omega 3-6-9) will population who are physically able Marlon Teekah 6 | Good News Toronto August 2010 Life’s Elixir Quiet Giants Among Us This is a monthly column by Dr. Zahra Bardai ALVIN ABRAM in which she guides our path to well-being everal years ago I wrote a Sstory about Martin Maxwell entitled One Person Does Make yourself, or someone else. If you A Difference. It had to do with need to release your frustrations events that Max had no control and fears on an inanimate over and weaved its way to a object, choose well. Everyone conclusion that emphasized the has a “punching the wall” story, title of the story. It was a story but a better alternative would of chance and circumstance. th be using a punching bag! Now, On May 6 , I attended a work on releasing the body’s Tribute Dinner at Beth Emeth t some point in our lives own emotion-anesthetizing Bais Yehuda Synagogue. The we’ve all experienced fear. A endorphins. Take the time Honouree was a 101-year-old It’s vivid and disturbingly real. to do some deep breathing, non-Jew. In 1938 he set into mo- The kind of fear that generates meditation, and exercise. They tion a series of events that af- pupil dilatation, shortness fected the lives of many people really help. of breath, incontinence, and in the years to come. He saved Next comes the analysis. nausea. While the situation the lives of 669 children just be- The process of identifying precipitating the emotion fore the war began; they grew why you feel fear and anxiety may be different for all, the up, married, had children and can be stressful. Be prepared underlying condition is not. grandchildren and now number for this and be honest with When catastrophe happens over 5,000. yourself. For many of us, these and life as you know it hangs Nicholas Winton was a emotions are rooted in our fear Honouree Sir Nicholas Winton in the balance, that fear can be stockbroker in England. Mar- about loss, lack of control, and paralyzing. tin Maxwell was a young man in Martin joined the air force to the children he had saved. He being alone or unsupported. in England and on D-Day flew It’s mind-boggling how Austria. Nicholas saw the refugee answered that he did not. The The last phase is probably camps that the Germans had in- a glider into Normandy. His newscaster asked those in the potent the power of the the most challenging. It’s terned Jews prior to their invading brother immigrated to the U.S. audience if any of them knew fear is. It can be so strong known as the reconstruction Czechoslovakia and realized their where he became a bombardier. where any of Nicholas’s chil- as to physically bind us in stage. This is where you rebuild plight. He returned to England His brother flew over Germany dren might be. Almost everyone place. It’s one of the most new connections in dealing with to find people to sponsor Czech and bombed strategic sites. With in the room stood up. primitive reflexive emotions your fears. Strategies such as children if he could arrange for England in the war, Nicholas and leads to our fight-or-flight Nicholas forged passports desensitization (incrementally their arrival. Martin Maxwell and joined the army. Martin was reaction. The gut response to in the children’s names, exposing yourself to the his brother were rounded up with wounded in Arnheim, captured a fear-inducing situation, be releasing them from the situation garnering fear) and all the Jews in Vienna on Kristall- by the Germans, and put in a it physical or emotional, is to camps. He then engaged consciously changing the nacht and brought to an assembly POW camp. His brother was escape or to stand and face eight trains over the next context and emotion associated building to be shipped to a con- shot down over enemy territory the problem. John F Kennedy several months filled with with the fear can help sweep centration camp. and with the help of the under- said, “The only thing to fear children destined for the mind of maladaptive Not getting any co-oper- ground made his way back to is fear itself.” What does that associations. ation from the British govern- safety. Whatever Nicholas had England mean exactly? With a little practice, it ment, Nicholas forged passports done, his records and photos Nicholas was knighted and Analyzing the fears and is possible to overcome all in the children’s names, releasing were locked in a trunk and his story was revealed to the anxiety-provoking events can them from the camps. He then placed in his attic. Even his wife world. When asked why he kept those things that go bump in lead to a better understanding engaged eight trains over the was not aware of what her hus- what he had done a secret, his the mind! of what holds us back. This next several months filled with band had accomplished. answer was, “I didn’t keep what in turn makes our coping children destined for England. When the war ended, Mar- I did a secret – I just didn’t talk strategies more effective. By He rescued 669 children before tin became an interpreter for about it.” th facing the meaning behind the On May 6 , Beth Emeth fear and tackling it head on, fear honoured Sir Nicholas Winton; can actually become a catalyst Martin Maxwell was in Holland for positive action and change. as part of the celebration of th The first step is the the 65 Anniversary of the lib- eration of Holland by Canadian deconstruction. Start by Zahra Bardai troops, selected to represent the releasing the emotion in a safe is a family physician Canadians who fought in Hol- and appropriate place. Cry. If you have any questions land. He gave testimonial as a Scream. Vent. Whatever it please e-mail her at survivor of the Holocaust, as a takes as long as it’s not hurting [email protected] Canadian, and as a person, like Sir Nicholas Winton, for making th Martin Maxwell in Holland as part of the celebration of the 65 a difference. Anniversary of the liberation of Holland by Canadian troops war was declared. Martin Max- the Allies in the war trials being Good News Toronto well and his brother were asked held in the U.S. His brother be- by a German officer where their came a U.S. citizen and lived in parents were. Martin replied, Detroit. In 1988, Nicholas’s wife next issue “They’re dead.” The officer, in- found the forgotten trunk in the stead of ordering them sent to attic. She questioned him until Alvin Abram is the author of many st a camp, shouted that they leave he confessed what he had done. books including Why, Zaida? Stories the building before he changed Nicholas Winton appeared on I Wrote, The Unlikely Victims, An August 31 his mind. Not long after, the two radio with an audience-filled stu- Eye For An Eye, The Minyan, and boys joined a train of children dio to tell his story. He was asked The Dead Don’t Weep. destined for England. if he knew what had happened www.alvinabram.ca August 2010 Good News Toronto | 7 The New Bloor Festival ANTHONY KISSOON the city still emblazoned with Jose-Gabriel Sandoval’s art. n Saturday, July 24th, the The weather was not as Ostreets of Bloordale Village favourable as many had hoped, (Bloor between Lansdowne but that dampened neither mi- Avenue and Dufferin Street) crophone nor spray can. Orga- closed to host one of Toronto’s nized by Anthony Kissoon and most amazing festivals — The Jose-Gabriel Sandoval, the event New Bloor Festival. One event in allowed the participating artists particular caught the interest of the opportunity to express the many. “Represent!” — as it was so beauty of the culture while of- aptly named — was a mixture of fering exposure to the supporting Anthony Kissoon and Jose - Gabriel Sandoval, organizers of “Represent” community organizations such local businesses. All involved in as AK, Studio 32, UforChange, the event were awarded certifi- The LOFT, Under The Radar, cates of congratulations from the and CONC coming together to Mayor’s office, acknowledging infuse the wonders of hip-hop their hard work and commu- culture into the day’s festivities. nity participation. Among other The main attractions supporters and sponsors of the included live performances by event were Long & McQuade, both independent local youth as I Respect Music of Canada well as tenured artists, alongside Entertainment, and yours truly, live graffiti and mural painting. Good News Toronto. If you One piece that received much missed the festival this year, you attention was the large mural will not want to miss it next! painted on a delivery truck owned by Furniture Emporium, a local Anthony Kissoon is a contracted business that had donated the creative director actively involved in “wall space” to the event. The community based programs all across Art by Javid truck can now be seen around the GTA Jose - Gabriel Sandoval painting the delivery truck from Under the Radar Summer in Toronto

Rosy getting a free ride on Sydney’s shoulder One of the Tall Ships sailing by the harbourfront

Keely Sherman happy to receive a hug during the Free Hugs Campaign in Kensington Market Stir Me The way you stir me with your smile fills me to the brim. Stay a little longer and let me drink you in.

© 2008, Veronica Dimofski

Veronica Dimofski is an emerging screenwriter who also enjoys expressing An abundance of produce in Kensington Market her creativity by writing coffee poems. [email protected] 8 | Good News Toronto August 2010 Beyond Book Smarts Literature for Life founder serves advocate for underprivileged to read and discuss novels with the underserved with words. youth and her understanding trained facilitators, including Jo: of the link between literacy, “The young mothers begin TAMARA SHELLY community, and good mental to see language as a tool to health is extensive. Over the last express themselves. They become osephine Altilia is affectionately nine years, their program has empowered through reading, Jcalled “Jo” by all that know worked with over 1,600 at-risk writing, and discussions, finding her, even if they don’t know her mothers and ten social services new ways to solve problems and very well. Before meeting her, agencies in Toronto’s thirteen learning to be proactive in their the moniker tells you that she is priority neighbourhoods, raising lives instead of reactive. They down-to-earth and approachable. literacy levels of both mother begin to understand that their Some might associate “Jo” with and child. voices and stories have value and the common phrase “The The young mothers begin meaning which leads to increased Average Joe,” but after meeting self-esteem, a renewed interest in Josephine Altilia, Rose Patton and spoken word artist her, it becomes obvious that she to see language as a tool literacy, and learning, as well as an Dahlia Eagle-Ellis is anything but. to express themselves. investment in their community. Jo Altilia is the founder of They become empowered They pass these values on to ognized and rewarded by the programming. This month she registered charitable organization through reading, writing, their children who are then better Mayor’s Community Safety will be balancing many of those Literature for Life; an organization and discussions, finding prepared to attend and do well Award, YWCA’s Woman of responsibilities as she raises committed to engaging at-risk new ways to solve problems in school, less likely to become Distinction, Canada Post’s Com- funds for the organization with young families in building a involved in counter-productive munity Leadership Award for the annual Literature for Life culture of literacy and learning and learning to be activity.” Literacy and, most recently, with a Summer $1 Book Sale, taking to overcome systemic barriers, proactive in their lives Since the initial pilot in 2000, Toronto Community Foundation place on her own front yard on thereby investing in their own instead of reactive the reading circles have grown Award and recognition as one of August 15th, 2010. Thousands of and their families’ future. Understanding that the key to eight, partnering with various Toronto’s “Vital People.” titles and hundreds of genres will Literature for life is a to literacy is not simply teaching community organizations across Jo’s dedication to young at- be available for readers of all ages testament to Jo’s dedication to people how to read, but in creating the city. risk families is tireless. In addition at the cost of only $1. marginalized women and youth. a love of reading and building a In addition to reading circles, to the necessary board meetings For more information about Jo founded the organization to culture of literacy and learning Literature for Life produces a and networking needed for the Jo Altillia, Literature for Life, and help engage young mothers in for at-risk families, Literature magazine called Yo’ Mama written growth of the organization and the Annual Summer $1 Book Sale, social change and leadership for Life held its firstWomen with by young mothers for young a Women with Words reading visit:www.literatureforlife.org through the power of the written Words reading circle at Jessie’s mothers with over 20,000 copies circle with Humewood House word to build better futures for Centre for Teenagers. Each week, distributed annually and 35 young each week, Jo also has a family Tamara Shelly is a freelance themselves, their children, and pregnant and parenting teenage mothers employed as writers, of five and serves as a mentor, all writer and PR specialist. Her passion their communities. girls meet at various shelters and editors, and other various roles. while continually trying to raise is revealing the cultural gems found Jo’s background as an youth centres throughout the city Jo’s vision has been rec- funds towards Literature for Life within the city of Toronto. Kids Boogie Too…with Melissa Donheim and Pepper LESLEY BREWER Melissa was a rebellious teen having ended, her journey to was born. And so the journey difficult at times. However, with and a high-school dropout who become the children’s entertainer continued. Melissa acknowledges her demonstrated effervescent hese are the thoughts bounced around for a time, un- she is today inched ever closer. that both women were very personality and word-of-mouth Tof Melissa Donheim, a certain of which direction to take. encouraging and influential in her endorsements, I am quite certain successful and dynamic children’s At 20, with the defiant teen in I have been blessed with life and both played significant she will continue to do very well. entertainer. the past, the young adult sought loving people and heroes roles in taking her to the place Just being with Melissa is an up- I think that everyone has to complete high school, which in my life; people who where she is today. lifting experience; she always has the potential to be someone’s she did at the City Adult Learning encouraged me, even when Through it all, Melissa’s mom a smile for those she knows and hero. I have been blessed with Centre. I showed indifference. I am remained steadfast in her support even those she doesn’t. loving people and heroes in my At 23, Melissa enrolled at a and encouragement, and her beau- Melissa has been in business life; people who encouraged me, college and completed training to forever grateful tiful, living hound Pepper provided in earnest since 2008 and is a even when I showed indifference. become an animal care worker, In the years immediately fol- motivation and unconditional love, testament to how someone open I am forever grateful. Now it’s my but soon realized she was unable lowing her completion of college, so much so that the puppet was to “hearing” and exploring a turn. I strongly believe that it’s not to separate her deep love for ani- Melissa was employed as a nanny. given her name. new path; following her heart one individual or family that raise mals from the realities of injury, While employed in this field, an There is no doubt that Me- and doing what she is passionate children, it is the community.” illness, and death. That phase amazing thing happened: one of lissa loves children! Her eyes seem about is a channel for the flow of the mothers, a well-established to twinkle all the time, but put a love everywhere she goes. producer, began sowing the child in front of her, and, well, If you would like to learn seeds of independence by help- those eyes of hers start to dance! more about “Kids Boogie Too” ing Melissa become aware of Imagine a party with a puppy or would like to book a party her own potential and opening puppet, singing and boogying, or event, please call Melissa at her mind to possibilities. This blowing bubbles, playing instru- 416-833-0942. woman allowed Melissa to plough ments along with the sounds of through her basement and take happy, giggling children. This is whatever she thought she could an environment where kids can use. It was here that the puppy explore new skills, build confi- puppet Pepper was unearthed, dence, get exercise in a fun way, along with many instruments that and make new friends. Melissa continues to employ in As with all entrepreneurs, her shows. one of her biggest challenges is Still another mother let staying motivated and keeping Lesley Brewer is a freelance writer Melissa hold music classes in to some kind of schedule. Mar- who is an active member of her housing the basement of her house. Not keting herself and her business co-op. She lives with her fabulous felines, Pepper and Melissa Donheim keeping kids happy long after, “Kids Boogie Too” is also something she can find and loves all animals and nature August 2010 Good News Toronto | 9 Cyber Saviours Buckling up isn’t In this series, Winnie Czulinski features diverse Torontonians using their tech expertise to help improve quality of life. just for Kids CONNECTIONS BY RANGER ROSS FOR ALL AGES ael Ross, my owner, has hanks to a very special team, Galways had animals’ best Tthe downtown neighbour- interests at heart. But now she hoods of Regent Park and St. has branched out beyond her James Town are reaping great own animals with a program tech benefits at the Yonge Street to help all pet owners and their Mission on Gerrard Street East. pets. I am proud to be the official Shirley Kim, Julian Williams, mascot for her new initiative. and their YSM colleagues help BARC (Buckle up Animal “connect” local residents, rang- Restraint Control) is an initiative ing from three-year-old daycare she has spearheaded under the denizens to seniors, through the auspices of the Toronto Police long-running faith-based Mis- Gael Ross sion’s TD Securities Computer Services’ 32 Division Community Police Liaison Committee belt whenever she takes me in Literacy Centre. the car. “It’s definitely filling a (CPLC). It is supported by the huge need, across the board,” St. John Ambulance Therapy Whenever your pet is in the says Shirley, YSM’s computer Julian Williams and Shirley Kim of the Yonge Street Mission Dog program, of which I am a vehicle there is a risk of the one education facilitator. “This is an Photo by Dennis Hanagan retired member. I served for five of us becoming a projectile. It amazing community. And you media and troubleshooting, and very rewarding. I get my greatest years, visiting Villa Columbo. is too late to restrain an animal can totally make technology seniors embrace games, puzzles, joy from seeing kids come back Did you know an unre- after an accident. relevant to any age group you’re and communicating with kin for the next class, and seeing strained pet can cause you to Animals should be re- working with.” far away. Accomplishments in that they’re hungry for more, lose control of your vehicle? Un- strained in the backseat or back Under the eyes of the YSM the 50-computer Centre are and are using the skills they’ve restrained animals can become compartment of your vehicle. team Computer Literacy Centre celebrated. developed.” projectiles during sudden stops Using the front seat can put us team, children joyfully interact Shirley, who has a background and accidents. This can cause at risk of being injured by the with colours, numbers, and let- One of the things I have found in Human Resources, economics, them to be injured or killed as airbag. Animals should never ters. Youth immerse themselves IT, and adult education, went that is most meaningful, and well as causing injury or death travel in the back of a pick-up in projects like designing maga- on an overseas tech-teaching what applies to children and to the human occupants of the truck. zine covers and movie-making. mission trip with her church adults as well, is just being told, motor vehicle. Pet stores provide a wide One recent engineering and several years ago. ‘Try it – you can do it ” technology design project for “It opened my eyes to how Young adults who took Animals should be variety of animal restraint sys- Grade 3 and 4 girls also exposed important computer education is, programs there as children return restrained in the backseat tems to protect me — and your them to careers in IT (Informa- in being able to function in this to help other youngsters. As well, or back compartment of best friends as well: tion Technology). “I see that as a Vest harnesses world. It can be very empowering some high school volunteers at your vehicle need in our community, to really and life-changing.” the YSM put in many times the Animal barriers empower and educate girls in The YSM offers projects hours required for community For example, you have to Tethers those areas.” like inter-generational digital credits. come to a sudden stop. You have Travel crates storytelling collaboration. Here, Shirley and Julian work control of your vehicle, thanks Animal booster seats I get my greatest joy from the partnering of seniors with with other community agencies, to safety features like ABS seeing kids come back for youths brings decades of life schools, and libraries, as well as brakes and Stability Control. You wouldn’t think of the next class, and seeing stories to life through multi- homes. That’s because the YSM, Unfortunately, an unrestrained driving with an improperly re- that they’re hungry for media, with a major showing at with users’ completion of some pet in your vehicle goes flying strained child. Why would you more, and are using the the end. of its courses, provides free re- and hits the back of your seat, drive with an unrestrained pet? skills they’ve developed In using existing plans furbished computers. To date, at causing you to lose control of It takes no longer than do- or creating her own lessons, least 1,600 families in the neigh- your vehicle and create an ac- ing up your own seat belt. After There’s a strong focus computer education facilitator bourhood have received them. cident situation slamming into a few times, we get used to it. on after-school programs, for Shirley “brings a bottomless pit The YSM’s computer pro- the car ahead of or beside you. I actually look forward to it, as Grades 1 to 12. Amongst the of energy and enthusiasm and grams and accessibility for all That’s why Gael always makes I know we are going for a ride basics and advanced subjects, creativity to work every day,” says ages are plugging local residents sure that I am wearing my seat- in the car! Shirley also helps teach internet Julian Williams, YSM’s computer into a world of connections, con- safety/security in creative ways, education coordinator. fidence, and competence. Julian with parents involved in the Julian, who has been at the says, “One of the things I have process. YSM four years now, supervises found that is most meaningful, “With adults, there’s a huge a staff of 3 and a volunteer team and what applies to children and need [for computer education], of 25 to 30. He has many years adults as well, is just being told, because they’re the leaders of of experience working with ‘Try it — you can do it.’” www. the families of the kids we’ve children, camps, city youth, and ysm.ca/ worked with in the last ten neighbourhood groups. years,” she says. At the YSM, “For me, as a program Winnie Czulinski is a Toronto- adults learn skills from MS coordinator, just being able to based freelance writer and radio Word and PowerPoint to digital watch the regular improvement is personality If you are not sure what to do with your old computers please refer to our April 2010 issue of Good News Toronto in which Jon Alexander informs us of some meaning ways to recycle them so that others can use them. Ranger Ross is a retired therapy dog and has started a new career as the mascot http://www.goodnewstoronto.ca/pdf/April2010.pdf. of the BARC program. He can be reached at [email protected] 10 | Good News Toronto August 2010 Summer-Thyme Green and Lean In this monthly column Dr. Martin Kijazi discusses how we can be Lime Refresher active participants in creating a healthy environment. GREEN SPACES orests and trees are a cru- Fcial part of life on Earth: they maintain diversity of living things, clean the air and water, provide basic human needs, and contribute to culture and recre- ation. Almost half of Canada’s land is covered in forests, but, according to Statistics Canada, 80% of the population lives in urban regions, where tree cover can be sparse. Special care is therefore needed to maintain and enhance urban tree cover for urbanites to accrue the ben- efits of trees. Alongside lawns In the summer, many Torontonians flock to various parks to KATHLEEN BETTS AND the luscious limes and, once and gardens, trees within a city, enjoy great many festivals under the shade of trees NURAMINA IBRAHIM assured no seeds seeped in, pour often referred to as the urban vide shade in the summer sidized backyard tree planting. it along with the pulp and the forest, comprise one of the and serve as a shelter from The service includes on-site ad- or Good News Toronto readers cooled steeped thyme into the most important green spaces. the wind in the winter, vice on appropriate species and who sing out loud the tunes blender jug. F They contribute greatly to the which helps to reduce ener- planting location, a 1.2 to 1.8m of Summertime, or for those 4. Blend the mixture on high image, health, and quality of gy needed to heat and cool tall native tree, and the planting who prefer to hum in their for up to 90 seconds. You can do life of the cities. buildings. There are also less service. Native shrubs are also heads, this thymely refresher a little dance or some extended According to the East- obvious benefits to having available. And if you have a is just the juice to cool, calm, arm rolls or even lean in on the ern Ontario Urban Forest trees in the city. For instance, great green space idea for your delight, and quench you with counter and do 20 or so push- Network, Canada’s cities are many studies have shown community you may qualify for what you need to feel fabulous. ups to take full advantage of the about 19% forested. While that the presence of trees a grant! The Toronto Parks and This one’s as easy as a cool time passing. Add honey to taste this may seem significant, can improve the aesthetic Trees Foundation has a Com- summer breeze… and blend again for a few more the expert recommended image of an area and help munity Grants Program, an The Few Fine Ingredients seconds. amount of tree canopy (the build stronger, safer com- initiative to support charitable You’ll Need: 5. With tantalized taste- percentage of leaf coverage munities. Some studies have community organizations that • Fresh sprigs of thyme (ap- buds, and adoration for the of a city) for a healthy urban shown that green settings are actively involved in sustain- prox. 20 g) goodness in it, pour your limey forest is 35 to 40%. Urban have psychological benefits, ing and enhancing Toronto’s • 6 fresh limes libation through a strainer into air is often quite polluted be- including improving con- green spaces. The Foundation • 3 or 4 cups of water the perfect pitcher and prepare cause of emissions from mo- centration in children with makes small grants for a diver- • honey (to taste) to be refreshed. If foam from tor vehicles, factories, power attention-deficit hyperactiv- sity of park-based projects and the blending slipped through plants, and furnaces, so ex- ity disorder (ADHD) and community group undertakings Simple Steps: the sieve, skim it off the top tensive tree cover is needed improving recovery rates (visit http://www.torontopark- 1. Snip fresh sprigs of before indulging in or sharing to clean the air. In particular, and times for hospital pa- sandtrees.org/grants.htm). home-grown thyme from your your summer-thyme sensation. trees’ leaves absorb nitrous tients with window views of Consider all these options glorious garden or power walk 6. Quench your thirst. oxides, sulphur dioxide, car- trees. to maintain and enhance the down to your green grocer to Have one glass a day along bon monoxide, and ground- Given such benefits, we vitality of green spaces of your get a fantastic cardiovascular with any meal, or all on its level ozone, which are con- can all contribute to growing residence, your community, and workout for the day and pick own. It’s thyme to enjoy. As tributors to air pollution in urban trees. Is your residential your city. In doing so, you will up some thyme while you’re the summer weeks and the Toronto and other large cities. area deprived of trees? Urban also improve the image, health, choosing the freshest lovely summer fun continue, we like Cities are prone to large Forestry Services plants trees and quality of life of the city in limes they have in store. Be sure to think of how thankful we amounts of storm runoff on city-owned street allowances which you live. to drink plenty of water on your are to share with our friends (excess water that cannot be in front of residential proper- walk and sing “olé olé, olé olé the goodness of the Earth and absorbed by soil) because ties for free. To order your free … feeling hot hot hot” along the goodness of the people. For of the abundance of paved tree, download the residential your route to entertain yourself more fountain-of-youth tips roads and other imperme- street tree planting brochure at — and others too. and recipes, contact Nuramina able surfaces. Runoff carries http://www.toronto.ca/trees/ 2. Back home, invigorated at [email protected]. If pollutants into local water pdfs/FreeTree_Final.pdf, or from the exercise and ready to you have tips you would love to bodies and hastens soil ero- call 416-338-TREE (8733). concoct, rinse the fresh herbs share with GNT readers, that’s sion. Trees and their roots Also, Toronto’s local non- and change the tune in your even better. We’d love to hear help keep our water clean by profit group LEAF (Local En- Dr. Martin Kijazi is an head to think with a smile of your suggestions for loving life retaining large amounts of hancement and Appreciation Environment Researcher & Educator how thankful we are to have one smoothie at a time and one water and reducing erosion of Forests) is dedicated to im- currently working for the University of thyme on our side. Boil the act of kindness at a time. and runoff. proving Toronto’s urban forest, Toronto. He is also actively engaged in herbs whole on their stem in In addition, trees pro- offering Toronto residents sub- environmental activism and advocacy approximately 6 cups of water Kathleen Betts is a mother and allow to cool with the lid of four, freelance writer, and Toronto is extremely lucky at this time of year to be host to a plethora of farmer’s on the pot to lock in the essence entrepreneur markets. Be part of your community near your home or work as you mingle with friends, and the natural nourishment. Nuramina Ibrahim is a health neighbours, and colleagues, support our local farmers, and get the rich benefits of delicious 3. With careful attention and fitness guru who enjoys sharing local fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and meat, and other treats. What a wonderful way to enjoy to the toning benefits to the her fountain-of-youth secrets for our city in the summer. For locations nearest to you visit the community section of our biceps, squeeze the juice from energetic living website www.goodnewstoronto.ca August 2010 Good News Toronto | 11 Cuddle Up and Read In this monthly column, Etta Kaner shares some of her favourite children’s books written for a variety of ages.

Dear Readers, something different. So, instead previous columns, I’ve made 4. Find non-fiction books change your voices according Summer is often a time of reviewing books in this suggestions about how you can that match your child’s interests. to the character. There are lots when we get a chance to month’s column, I’d like to talk encourage your child to become Just be sure that the text is at a of plays on the internet under break from routine and do about the reluctant reader. In an avid reader. Perhaps you’ve level that your child can read and Reader’s Theatre. tried some or all of these and understand with relative ease. none of them seem to make a 12. Get your child a building, difference. Well, the first thing 5. Read chants, poems, and science, or sewing kit that requires I would say is, “Don’t give up.” limericks out loud with your child. the reading of instructions Keep trying. Be consistent and in order for the project to be persistent. It takes longer with 6. Do some cooking together. successful. some children to develop that Have your child read the recipe love of reading. You might also in order to gather the ingredients You may have noticed one as well as make the dish. factor that all of these ideas have want to try some of these ideas. in common — your involvement. 7. Read the sports page of the If you want your child to become 1. Give your child comics or newspaper to find out what your interested in reading, you have to graphic novels to read and read child’s favourite team is doing. demonstrate how pleasurable and them together. useful an activity daily reading is. 8. Read movie reviews Happy reading! 2. If you go on a trip, have together to determine what movie your child help you plan the trip you’re going to see. by reading information on the internet or in travel books. During 9. Read joke and riddle books the trip, assign your child the task together. of reading maps, street signs, and store signs. Give him/her lots of 10. Listen to books on tape praise for being so helpful. and afterwards give your child the book to read. 3. Take your child grocery Etta Kaner is a teacher and shopping and give him/her the 11. Find plays that you and children’s author. Her most recent book job of getting items that are your child can read. You can is Have You Ever Seen a Hippo with Illustration by Ashley Nitkin packaged and require reading. each take on several parts and Suncreen? Azraa’s Kids Column Each month Azraa Janmohamed discusses timely topics relevant to teens

ince childhood we have heard matter where they go, royalty are is having a queen necessary if This past July, the Queen proud to be called Canadian, and Sof queens, kings, princesses, treated with respect, and people the majority of the duties left visited Canada, and I happened proud to call her our Queen. and princes — whether it be travel from far and wide to catch to them are purely ceremonial? to be downtown with some Maybe the official roles from the fairy tales we loved a 30-second glimpse of them. In our lifetime, having friends that day. We ran down the of the Royal family are not as as kids or through the media. Once upon a time, the royal a queen has seemed to have street like crazy to get to Queen’s important in today’s world as They always seemed to have the family had much more say in the been more for tradition’s sake, Park to see her. As fate had it, compared to the past, but the perfect life, where everything lives of the people who lived in and I never understood her we missed her by mere minutes, bearing she has is just as strong, works out for them. Princess their territory. Today, however, importance. It was not until but the impact of her presence if not stronger. Many years ago, Aurora is awakened by her Prince countries that were once ruled recently that I understood that hit us with a bang. people looked up to the Queen Charming; Queen Elizabeth by the royal family now have although the Queen’s roles may Hundreds of people had to make day-to-day life decisions; holds some of the best and most prime ministers and democratic seem frivolous, it is the impact seen five teenagers running down today we look up to her with a priceless rocks in the world. No forms of government; so why she has that is worth the title. the street, cameras swinging sense of pride and patriotism. from their wrists, wide smiles The activities in which royal on their faces. Upon seeing us, family participates may appear they calmly informed us that we to be frivolous, but in fact they had just missed the Queen, and are powerful and wide-reaching, showed us the pictures they had bringing the people of nations of her. These absolute strangers together. shared their time and recounted their experience to us. Although we had not seen it firsthand, these people helped to make the Queen’s visit as tangible as possible for us. The Queen’s short trip to Canada may have been ceremonial, but the affect she had was not. She brought Azraa Janmohamed is a together people of different Grade 10 student attending ages, ethnicities, and from high school in Toronto. different parts of Canada. The To respond to Azraa please people who had gathered for e-mail her at hours outside Queen’s Park were [email protected] 12 | Good News Toronto August 2010 Rhyme and Reason Each month Jennifer Hicks and Paul Kralik regale us with a different perspective on current issues

“ aul, look.” His eyes fol- Paul gets a little thrill at the feeling sorry for the cyclist. Paul pulls out his cell that’s been around for the last Plow my finger. prospect of witnessing some- “Let’s go.” phone, “No, I need to make a few weeks was in action and the We’re enjoying the neigh- one being pulled over. He’s al- Putting his arm in front of call. Go ahead, I’ll wait outside cop was there and able to inter- bourhood goings-on as we be- ways had this fascination with me, Paul says “Okay, just wait a for you.” vene just at the right time. He’s gin our morning walk. police activity, and so I’m hu- minute. Look at all thosecyclists With stamps in hand and a hero if you ask me!” “Oh yeah, I noticed that mouring him by taking the time coming. I have to see what hap- the phone call completed, we Paul and I look at each oth- that house was for sale. I won- to gawk at someone’s potential pens!” wait for the light to change so er and then reflect on this little der what they’re asking for it. misfortune. As a line of about six cy- we can cross the street. I lean life lesson. Maybe I could show it to one “He doesn’t seem to be clists whizzes down the street down to pet a passing dog and I whisper to Paul, “Less of my new clients.” slowing down, that’s for sure. and straight through the stop hear Paul start laughing. judging and more compassion, “No, not that,” I say. “See There he goes!” Paul’s voice be- sign one by one, the officer lets “What’s so funny?” I ask as huh?” He squeezes my hand the cop sitting there by his bike comes more enthusiastic as we three bikes go by, then inexpli- I stand up to look at the source tightly in agreement. just past the stop sign?” watch what happens next. cably he pulls two over at once. of his amusement. Paul smiles and shakes his Sure enough, the cyclist, a Somewhat bored with this, “That bike cop was busting head. “Ohhhh … that’s tricky!” bike courier, whizzes through and not willing to be a spectator people down the street, but he The police officer is con- the stop sign without hesitation, of others’ misfortune, I begin didn’t stop before turning on a cealing himself strategically in and immediately the police offi- walking away. Paul catches up. red light! Unbelievable!” the foliage just far enough away cer jumps out from behind the “You know, I rarely stop at that “Did he use a right turn from the stop sign at the T-in- shrub and onto the road and stop sign when I’m cycling. I’ll hand signal at least?” tersection. It’s pretty clear that brings the surprised cyclist to a have be careful from now on.” “Nope! If that were you or he’s waiting to catch cyclists quick halt. We carry on walking to- I, we’d be fined $85 for failing who routinely ride through the “He’s gonna get a ticket. wards the next intersection. to stop AND $85 for failing to stop sign. We’ve both seen it Remember that email I sent “Oh, I just remembered, I need signal the turn.” Paul Kralik is a Secondary School happen hundreds of times. you last week with the fines for to buy some stamps.” Pointing A gentleman standing at Teacher at Northern Secondary and I laugh agreeably and turn cycling infractions in Toronto? to the convenience store, I say, the lights with us offers, “I guess Jennifer Hicks is a Speech-Lan- around. “Look, here comes a It’s an $85 ticket for failing to “Do you want to come in with you didn’t hear shouting down guage Pathologist and Brown Belt cyclist. Let’s see what happens.” stop at a stop sign.” I sigh, me?” the street. That purse snatcher Nia Instructor

The most effective and successful people recognize a simple fact: that in virtually every aspect of life, a successful situation is based upon a cooperative partnership of two or more people. People get things done by cooperating, not competing. When put to the test, there is always enough to go around from Living The Field Torontocentric Crosswords by Alixe MacRae

Alixe MacRae is a passionate puzzle fan and creator, who believes in more Canadian puzzle content

Answers on page 14 August 2010 Good News Toronto | 13 Summer Camp: Gaining Perspective Each month Brian Baumal offers us opportunities to Something beyond Fun look at ourselves in new ways. IDEAL OR AUTHENTIC — emotions and feelings to and Games? IT’S YOUR CHOICE determine what we really want. We are programmed at an early run a reading group for age to look to others more than I parents, and one book to look at ourselves in terms we were discussing — Alfie of how we should behave. As Kohn’s Unconditional Parenting such, accessing ourselves and — has as a central tenet that our true feelings becomes a parents should strongly avoid much more difficult process praising their children, and that for us. Authenticity requires if praise is given it should be that we take responsibility for short without being maudlin. our own actions — no one else As parents discussed their can influence how we really initial impressions of the are authentically, and that it is book, many said something a very tough burden for many like, “After reading this book people. I immediately noticed how Moreover, being authentic much I praise my child, so now requires much more from us I try to stop myself from doing in our contact with the outside it so much.” My question to world. If I authentically do not the group was, “So, this book like something, wish to make Diana (far left) leading 120 youth campers in Youth Leadership Camp 2009, Muskoka, Ontario changed how you praise your a complaint, or even dismiss children. However, I also hear someone or something out JENNIFER YIM Diana immigrated to Canada games in camp, mentors you saying that avoiding such of hand, I generally need to in Grade 6, making it difficult for challenged Diana and the rest of praise seems out of place for take responsibility for how ith summer in full her to make a connection as to campers to step outside of their Wswing, camps are on all how to become a future leader in comfort zone, both physically you. Which is better for our my authenticity impacts the throughout the GTA, offering a community like Toronto, with and mentally. Campers formed children: an ideal parent that environment around me (not different types of activities and such diverse backgrounds and trusting friendships, feeling follows advice from a book, or doing so gets into the realm skills that one can learn during perspectives on issues. Diana comfortable enough to share an authentic one that follows of anti-social behaviour and a period of three to four days. was in her first year of university their views on social issues and their own instincts, regardless is beyond the topic of this Camps have been a large part when her friend suggested that struggles in life. Encouraged of what others think?” article). That means I need to of our summer memories, but they attend Across-U-hub’s by the leadership and passion This, of course, has much “stick around” for the affects how many of us can say that we youth leadership training camp Diana observed in the camp’s broader implications beyond of my authentic behaviour. have organized camps that have targeted towards high school and volunteers, she soon joined parenting. It applies to most What is worthwhile to benefited thousands of teens? university students. She said yes Across U-hub as a committed any role we can think of — note, however, is that authentic Diana Lam can. with not much thought beyond volunteer. The rest is history. boss, employee, spouse, child behaviour is the best way to This summer marks Across “at least it’s something to do this When Diana was asked for host/hostess, etc. It’s not that inspire confident behaviour. U-hub’s 11th annual youth summer.” her vision of camp in the next being ideal or being authentic When people know that their leadership training camp (www. ten years, she said thoughtfully, acrossuhub.com). It also marks The everlasting vision has “The everlasting vision has been are diametrically opposed behaviour is grounded in Diana’s 11th year of volunteering been to let youth believe to let youth believe that they to each other, but as human who they truly are, they tend and her 5th year as its camp director. that they have the power to have the power to do anything beings, I think we struggle to become more empathetic with this idea of ideal roles and confident in the actions Throughout 11 years, Diana has do anything when given when given a platform. I myself transformed from a mentee experienced this empowerment at the expense of our own that they take. People begin to a mentor to many youths. a platform and was encouraged to start authenticity. to exercise what is truly During her transformation This leadership camp far searching and chasing after my Believe it or not, the ideal within them, and while what from a camper to the camp’s exceeded Diana’s expectation of dreams. I still haven’t found it yet, action is much less courageous is truly authentic may not director, she has learned how to “just something to do.” Across but having the courage to search and much less responsible be completely ideal, when be open-minded while exercising U-hub’s vision for youth leaders is something that I want others than the “authentic” action. behaviour is accompanied by discernment when exposed to is not defined by academic to experience.” As a volunteer By attempting to be the ideal the empathy, compassion, and different opinions, knowledge strengths but by tangible skills working with Diana, I can testify parent or boss, we are simply confidence that comes with that she continually passes on to such as interpersonal, team- to seeing Diana living out her taking on pre-existing attitudes authenticity, we end up making young volunteers. Despite her full building, and being a well- passion everyday by helping time job, she manages to spend rounded individual. The camp youths realize their dreams. and behaviours that are not the world a much more ideal countless hours throughout the always focuses on a current necessarily ours. We adopt a place anyhow. year preparing for the annual global topic, such as the Olympics way of being that is not ours leadership camp. Volunteers theme in the summer of 2008, in order to “smooth things describe Diana as “a natural for young campers to become over” or to influence or control leader, always challenging us to globally conscious citizens and others. This often leaves us not settle for anything less than make a positive impact on society. confused and disillusioned our full potential.” However, This year’s camp (Aug 29- Sept 1) when things do not work-out when asked if she ever imagined will focus on the G20 conference as we have expected them to. that she would become a camp that just occurred in Toronto and In our culture it is much director, Diana laughed and its global impact. Brian Baumal is a Gestalt easier to read a book or Psychotherapist practicing in replied, “Ten years ago I didn’t Diana’s own experience Jennifer Yim is a university internet site or watch TV to Leslieville. He can be contacted at even think I had leadership in camp also came with self- graduate in Biology from the University pick up ideal ways of being 416-907-6085 or through www. qualities, much less be capable revelation. Through high rope of Western Ontario and is currently than it is to access our own TorontoTherapySite.com of directing a leadership camp.” activities and team building volunteering at Across U-hub 14 | Good News Toronto August 2010 Food and Culture them. My father serenaded her his children to embrace the Italian what’s happening in the world. Next year the restaurant with his mandolin and flowers culture and language. The Grano speakers series is celebrates its 25th anniversary and Continued from page 1 until she relented”, says Roberto. So how did Grano come now in its 6th year where leaders you can see why it’s a success: Italy after the war. He met my How romantic! about? Well, Roberto’s first job in business, government, aca- from the moment I walked into mother thanks to Fr Ricardo at St His father owned a number was as an aftercare officer at a demia, and the media can meet their restaurant I felt welcome. As Francis Church who introduced of barber shops and encouraged catholic school and later as a to discuss world events. They are a successful owner of a popular corrections officer at the Vanier also embarking on a number of restaurant, he could have been Centre for Women. Then he discussion series for the autumn arrogant but he wasn’t. He cares became involved in food and of 2017 to celebrate Toronto’s about food , culture, Toronto, Toronto Tidbits wine importation. He married 150th anniversary. and, most importantly, people. Lucia in 1985 and opened Grano While I was chatting with So how is Grano going to the following year, starting off Roberto, I asked about the way celebrate its big birthday? Well, • Did you know that there are small and evolving into the the restaurant is decorated. The Roberto is already planning a Tree Tours of Toronto? http://www. restaurant that it is now. walls have wonderful paintings, big party. Roberto’s work has not Italian movie posters and “We’re going to have a treetours.to/self-guided-tree-tours gone unnoticed. In 2006 he colourful Italian plates. He tells smaller dinner discussion series me that his wife Lucia is an artist and then we are having an open won the Jane Jacobs Prize, • Did you know that Toronto is as well as the chef (very talented house in May where we will invite which celebrates Toronto’s in both) and they also encourage the city to come and say hello,” as far south as the French Riviera? “original, unsung heroes artists to put their work up free says Roberto with a smile. And so, like his father, Ro- of charge. Their payment is • Did you know that Toronto has berto feels it’s important to keep celebrating art and the art keeps the Italian culture fresh and alive their walls decorated. the only real castle in North America? in Toronto and runs Language There is a lovely fountain in and Linguine courses, wine the courtyard and there they have http://www.casaloma.org/Main/ maker dinners, and concerts. The a private room that community restaurant’s motto is “Non si vive di organizations and social and MainDyn.asp solo pane,” which means, “One does cultural groups can also book • Did you know that one quarter not live by bread alone.” Grano free of charge. itself means grain — they make Roberto’s work has not Aisling Riordan is an award-winning of Canada’s population lives within their bread there. gone unnoticed. In 2006 he won journalist from Ireland. Currently, she It’s not only the Italian the Jane Jacobs Prize, which works as Program and Marketing a 160 km radius of Toronto? culture he wants people to engage celebrates Toronto’s “original, Coordinator with Diaspora Dialogues, in, it’s culture in general and unsung heroes.” an arts organization in Toronto

Crossword answers August 2010 Good News Toronto | 15 Good News Toronto T-Shirts For Sale These 100% cotton t-shirts are now available to purchase by calling 416-661-2556 or going online at www.goodnewstoronto.ca They come in women’s sizes small, medium, and large and men’s sizes large and extra large. The cost is $15 plus shipping and handling. All proceeds go towards funding our not-for-profit newspaper.

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