ww The East York 24-HOUR SUBWAY? n Activist wants TTC OBSERVER to pull an all-nighter Page 2 Serving our community since 1972 www.torontoobserver.ca Friday, October 19, 2018 Housing heats up Ward 19 debate

By DANIELLE CLARKE and DOHA HANNO The Observer

From affordable housing to park toilets, this week’s Ward 19 all-candidates meeting covered an array of critical topics. Thirteen of the 16 candidates came togeth- er for the event Tuesday evening in a packed basement at Hope United Church. The meeting was hosted by the Danforth Village Communi- ty Association and moderated by minister Brian Stevens. Candidates were given two minutes to intro- duce their platforms, followed by one minute to answer each question. Hot topics included affordable housing, tran- sit, and the always-controversial bike lanes. One issue that all of the candidates agreed on is the lack of affordable housing in the Beach- es-East York community. Another was transit. Many commuters con- tinue to voice their frustrations. “Transit is what connects people to opportu- nity,” said. “Transit that goes all day in all directions.” Candidates and audience members disagreed over the organization and implementation of bike lanes in the community. Two audience members said they didn’t care about bike lanes and that the candidates should focus on other issues. Most of the candidates agreed that the bike lanes should be moved from Woodbine Avenue to Coxwell Avenue. “Cyclists need to take a more responsible at- Rushanthi Kesunathan/The Observer titude,” Donald Lamoreux said. Church service goes to the dogs Matthew Kellway offered up his solution. Rev. Ian LaFleur blesses Jan Goodman's 10-year-old English Springer Spaniel at St. Cuthbert's Church in East n See HOUSING, page 3 York. The church’s Blessing of the Animals ceremony took place Oct. 6. n COMMUNITY When neighbour disputes go too far: A story of two families when Carpenter shouted at her and kicked her Meaneys supposedly digging into the Carpen- on their own, Meaney said these disputes might Five years of fighting about dog, prompting a kick from her in return. Car- ters’ house foundation to build a garden. be easier to handle were it not for Drake Car- noise, dogs and fences has penter remembers the event differently, saying Now, the two neighbours are involved in an penter. Meaney’s dog peed on his shoe, so he stomped issue over arborists hired by the Carpenters us- “He comes on my property, he’s (hurt) my torn these neighbours apart his foot on the ground to startle him. ing the Meaneys’ backyard garage roof to trim dog … I don’t want this guy anywhere on my That was just one tense incident in a five-year surrounding trees without their permission. property.” By SERGIO ARANGIO battle between neighbours. It was trespassing, says Keiron Meaney, who Carpenter said the Meaneys can’t be reasoned The Observer The Meaneys, who have lived in their East had run home from his job as a chef to deal with with and seem to feel they have a constant right York home for almost 20 years, say their issues the situation. “If you have a right of way … the to meddle with property that’s not theirs. Long-standing animosity between the Meaneys began shortly after the Carpenters moved next right of way is over there, it isn’t on our roof.” Warren Morris, a mediator based in East and the Carpenters on Woodmount Avenue real- door five years ago. Meaney said while he and his wife Paula are York, has a technique he often uses with two ly boiled over when Drake Carpenter called the The fighting started with noise complaints, typically friendly with their neighbours, the parties in a dispute to help each side see the oth- police on neighbour Paula Meaney for allegedly then progressed to a dispute over a fence cov- Carpenters are an exception. Thousands of dol- er’s point of view. The exercise has each side kicking him in the shin. ering the right of way being ripped out by their lars have been spent between the two parties in Meaney says she was about to walk her dog neighbour, and then to an argument over the their disputes. While the issues are frustrating n See MEDIATOR, page 8 2 NEWS Friday,The October East York 19, Observer2018 The Friday, East YorkFebruary Observer 9, 2018

WHAT’S POLICE & UP IN E.Y. FIRE Healthy eating Local principal for seniors charged with Milka Milicevic, a assault after registered holistic nutritionist, will incident at give a free lecture Chester school on healthy eating for optimal health The principal for seniors. It will of Chester Ele- take place Oct. 25 mentary School from 2 to 3 p.m. in East York has at the S. Walter been charged with Stewart Library, assault follow- 170 Memorial ing an incident Park Ave. in the school’s playground. Ac- cording to police, Celebrating the the principal Bobby Hristova/The Observer allegedly kicked Day of the Dead Justin Van Dette, a community activist in East York, wants the TTC to try a pilot 24-hour-service and stomped on a Evergreen Brick program. He says almost 1,000 people have signed his petition. child while trying Works, 550 Bay- to intervene during view Ave., will host a fight in the play- its eighth annual ground. The child Day of the Dead Want 24-hour subway service? reportedly spat on celebration on Oct. him. The alleged 28 from 10 a.m. Then join the almost 1,000 be better,” he said. “School and jobs are minutes you could at least count on it,” incident happened to 3 p.m. Tradi- a necessity, and it’s reassuring advocating said Margaret White, a registered nurse. on Sept. 19. The tional Latin cele- people who have already for something that means a lot to people.” “Right now, there’s nothing.” principal turned brations, family This idea isn’t new. The TTC consid- White is no ordinary nurse. As an agen- himself in to 55 activities and food signed this man’s petition ered full-time subway service in 2006 but cy nurse, she works in every hospital Division two weeks and drink will be never committed. Stuart Green, a senior across the city and thinks any nurse who later on Oct. 3. featured. By BOBBY HRISTOVA communications specialist at the TTC, works in would want full-time Charged with The Observer confirmed the organization isn’t consider- subway service. assault is principal ing Van Dette’s dream. “We work 12-hour shifts, from 7 a.m. to Sean Hume, who Who was that Even though it was 2:15 in the morn- “It would severely impact our ability to 7 p.m.,” she said. “On Sunday night shifts, was released on a masked child? ing when Justin Van Dette found himself perform essential maintenance. It would you can’t get home and on day shifts, you promise to appear on the subway platform at Times Square, also be very expensive,” Green said in an can’t get in.” in court. That Families are it was only minutes before he was riding email response. White, who lives near Main Street sta- court date has not invited to Tod- a train back to his hotel in Manhattan. If Van Dette points to Nuit Blanche, an tion, said her “nightmare” commute has been set yet. morden Mills for only he could do the same in Toronto. annual city-wide art exhibition, which had led to multiple $30 cab rides and rides a spooky Hallow- “We need an overnight subway,” said all-night subway service. with “some really scary characters.” een mask-making Van Dette, a community organizer in East “They already do it once a year. Why She added that the lack of a late-night Police car crashes workshop. It will York. not try for 100 nights a year?” he said. “It subway could impact nurses in the criti- be held Oct. 20 He wrote a letter about his trip to Rick could be a pilot you only run on one line cal-care units waiting for co-workers to into bus shelter from 1 to 3 p.m. Leary, CEO of the Toronto Transit Com- or something that runs from Thursday to get to work, and could even impact pa- at 67 Pottery Rd. mission, describing the “incredible” abili- Sunday.” tients who need specialized care. at Woodbine and is suitable ty to hop on one of their trains at 2:15 a.m. Green says the TTC offers 24-hour “It’s one nurse to one patient,” she said. and O’Connor for children six and get home within minutes. service through its Blue Night network, “There are only so many hospitals that and up. Attendees Van Dette launched a petition in which has 27 bus routes running every 20 specialize in certain areas.” A Toronto police must be accompa- mid-July. He said it boasts close to 1,000 minutes. Despite this, she doesn’t think the TTC officer has mi- nied by an adult. signatures. But for at least one person, the over- will act. nor injuries after Reservations are “People from time to time write very night network isn’t enough. “There are not enough people who want crashing into an required and can real, sad stories to me about how it would “Even if a subway left once every 20 it to make it justifiable,” she said. East York bus be made online. shelter on the Tickets are $5 for morning of Sun- children and $10 day, Oct. 7. The for adults. Rare sports cards bring out local collectors crash happened around 9:15 a.m. By D.J. LLEWELLYN “One is a cup printing plate Graham MacKrell runs a A wide collection of sports at the intersection Pumpkins on The Observer and is the only one of its kind. small collectibles business as a cards, from hockey to football, of Woodbine and parade in E.Y. The other two cards are one of hobby. He’s been coming to the is available to buy and the price O’Connor avenues. John Gatsis collects sports only six and one of only 10.” show for years to buy and sell range is remarkable. Police say the bus The East York cards, some of which are so Started in 2006, the Toronto new cards. Some cards go for less than shelter was demol- Village Pumpkin rare that only a handful of cop- Card Show is a monthly event “I’ve been collecting things a dollar. Others are worth thou- ished completely Parade will be held ies were ever printed. that draws many of Ontario’s since I was a kid, whether it sands. in the crash. The Nov. 1, 6:30–9 “It’s pretty cool that I’ve high-end vendors. This one was posters, hockey cards, For the chance to score some officer, who is in p.m. at the East got three of the rarest Auston was hosted by Leaside’s Am- toys, you name it,” MacKrell cool sports cards and collect- his 30s, was taken York Civic Cen- Matthews rookie cards you sterdam Brewery, so traders, said. “A part of me refuses to ibles of your own, the Toron- to a local hospital tre, 850 Coxwell can get,” says Gatsis, who was buyers and sellers got the bo- grow up, and that’s OK be- to Card Show will be back on with minor inju- Ave. Bring your both buying and selling at the nus of grabbing a pint along cause this community is mostly Nov. 18. Details are at www. ries. The roads Jack-o’-lanterns Toronto Card Show on Oct. 14. with some rare sports cards. made up of grown-ups.” torontocardshow.com. remained open any time after 6 after the incident. p.m. to light up The bus stop has the pathways with Police seek woman in arson investigation been relocated your creations. For By TIARA CHUTKHAN Officers responded to a fire chute of the building. one pole west as more information, The Observer at an apartment building on Police have released a photo broken glass re- contact eypump- Sept. 25 at about 5:50 p.m. of Dianna Carroll, the woman mains around the kinparade@gmail. Toronto Police are seeking Firefighters were able to ex- they are seeking. bus shelter. com. a 50-year-old woman in con- tinguish the fire and no injuries Anyone with information is nection with a suspected arson were reported. asked to call police or crime ~ David Lynch and ~ Fleur Boomsma on Dawes Road near Victoria It was later discovered that stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS Tiara Chutkhan Park Avenue. the fire had started in the fire (8477). n DIANNA CARROLL Friday, October 19, 2018 The East York Observer NEWS 3 n BEACHES-EAST YORK ALL-CANDIDATES MEETING Housing, bikes and washrooms hot topics Ward 19 candidates agree on one thing: we need more toilets at Taylor Creek Park Cont’d. from page 1

“I would have a third party who has studied bike lanes look at traffic school zones and safety,” he said. Some of the questions were sub- mitted by audience members and drawn randomly from a ballot box. One addressed the addition of more toilets at Taylor Creek Park. All of the candidates were in favour. “When out in nature and nature calls, there should be toilets,” said candidate Paul Bura. The audience seemed shocked when the next question pulled from the box asked who the candidates are voting for as mayor and why. Danielle Clarke/The Observer Most were undecided. The Danforth Village Community Association hosted a Ward 19 all-candidates meeting Tuesday night at Hope United In addressing the issue of how to Church on Danforth Avenue. Thirteen of the 16 candidates were in attendance. implement affordable housing, all of the candidates appeared to have an work with developers,” he said. Joshua Makuch spoke about in- Another concern for some candi- affordable housing options and ac- action plan. Veronica Stephen spoke about her creasing the amount of subsidized dates, including Morley Rosenberg commodating jobs. David Del Grande stressed the plans to focus on inclusionary zon- housing available in the community. and Matthew Kellway, was senior The meeting ended with questions importance of diversifying housing ing, which would require a portion When asked about unity, Brad citizens. directed at specific candidates fol- options. of new developments to provide Bradford said he has included a They want to make sure seniors lowed by closing statements. “We need to allow different hous- affordable housing for people with neighbourhood association office in are able to afford rising living costs Voting day in Toronto is Monday, ing types in the neighbourhood and lower incomes. his plan. in Toronto by providing them with Oct. 22. Fresh faces compete for Ward 19 city council By TAYLOR BRIDGER Wards 31 and 32 have been com- dorsed a former Beaches-East York battle between fresh faces to munici- should be handled in Beaches–East and CHELSIE ORTIZ LUIS bined into the new Ward 19. MP, Matthew Kellway. pal politics, with infrastructure play- York. The Observer The incumbents of those wards Mary-Margaret McMahon, of ing a large role in the candidates’ Here are the views of seven of the have decided to retire and endorse Ward 32, has endorsed Brad Brad- platforms. 16 candidates running in the race for In light of the reduction to the new faces in their stead. ford. Each has a unique view of how Ward 19’s new representative on city number of Toronto wards, the old , of Ward 31, has en- That makes the Oct. 22 election a things such as public infrastructure council.

n BRAD n DIANE n MATTHEW n BRENDA n JOSH n FRANK n ADAM BRADFORD DYSON KELLWAY MACDONALD MAKUCH MARRA SMITH

“I really would like to “There’s no need for “My experience as a “I am a community advo- “Being a young person “Hi, my name is Frank “I have been involved see a more positive type political obligations. I community advocate and cate who offers non-par- who commissions as an Marra and I am running in community issues for of politics. Too many come at this election with elected representative tisan representation for officer in the military, it for council in Ward 19. years now, volunteering people and too many the obligation of finding makes me the best can- all the constituents in is a huge crash course in My election priorities are and advocating for many politicians are focused people and neighbours didate in Ward 19. I have Ward 19 and (at) City leadership. I was only to improve transportation causes and organizations. on what divides us who need help with any deep roots in the commu- Hall. I will work with any 24 years old and I was movement for all modes, My passion for communi- instead of what brings worries in general. That’s nity, having lived and vol- mayor and all councillors in charge of 40 soldiers. including TTC service, ty work and the resulting us together. I want to where my priorities are.” unteered here for over 20 elected. I can demonstrate Being in Afghanistan, social housing, espe- knowledge of this ward bring people together, years. Residents need to fiscal responsibility in these 40 soldiers would cially the TCHC, and are what drive me. My look at the concerning know that their councillor setting priorities, offering look at me as their the safety of our streets. platform centres around evidence (transportation, has a deep commitment an equitable plan of action leader during a real fight, In addition, develop- a community voice: for affordable housing, road to our neighbourhoods, for Ward 19 — to develop waiting for me to make a ment matters along the better public consulta- safety and the environ- and the understanding, a long-term approach to decision for them. That’s waterfront and Danforth tions, safe and efficient ment), speak to people, passion and experience changes to our infrastruc- a unique kind of leader- are a priority, too. I want transportation; using my and actually move that it takes to move ture planning, investment ship that I experienced. to increase recreation years of studying traffic forward.” things forward. I’m ready and shared development Leadership is one of the opportunities while and transit to devise safer to stand up for Toronto, of our great city.” things that’s missing in preserving our small solutions for our roads, and for you. Together, this city and with it, we community feel.” and ensuring develop- we can build the city and can tackle hard chal- ment that respects the community we want.” lenges to make this city character of our neigh- greater.” bourhoods.” 4 FEATURES Friday, October 19, 2018 The East York Observer

Fleur Boomsma/The Observer (Left) Amanda Munday relaxes in the children’s playroom at The Workaround, a unique space that offers parents a place to work while being close to their kids. (Right) Participants are invited to set up their laptops in the common area, which consists of high- and low-top tables, chairs and couches. Looking for balance? Here’s a solution The name of the east-end start-up, The or afternoon daycare program. more of that kind of thing.” New start-up The Workaround Workaround, comes from the idea of “working Munday said this location is important be- The Workaround offers an open workspace, offers parents a place to work around” your kids, other parents and your chal- cause the area east of Pape has “only enough meeting rooms, a podcast room, two early reg- lenges. spaces for 28 per cent of the families to access istered childhood education rooms and teachers, and their kids a place to play “You can work around your children with high-quality licensed care.” a silence room and a WiFi-free room (located in help, which (The Workaround) can (offer),” Brandie Weikle, who is an editor, writer and what was the bank’s vault). You also don’t have By FLEUR BOOMSMA The Observer Munday said. “You can work around other par- parent spokesperson, says there is a critical to be a parent in order to make use of this space. ents who can amplify your work to be stronger shortage of good childcare, so any time a new A membership to use the office space costs After going through two maternity leaves, and better.” type of daycare opens in Toronto it is a victory. $318 per month. There’s an option to add chil- Amanda Munday understands what it’s like to Munday said people often assume that be- “That’s awesome, because work is also dren’s programming for $10 an hour. work from home with children. That’s when cause parents have to take care of young chil- changing at this time,” she said. For most entrepreneurs and work-from-home she learned there was a demand for a par- dren, they’re less available for work, “which is “Some may have this romantic idea that you parents, the busiest time on email is after 8:30 ent-friendly workspace that also offers a full not true.” can still spend loads of time with your kid at p.m., Munday found. That’s when parents put play-based-curriculum daycare. The Workaround is located at 2080 Danforth home and then also still work. the kids to bed and get back online. She looked at ways that parents could be Ave., right outside the Woodbine subway sta- “With little children, that is extremely dif- “If we can reduce that and help them (finish an asset to the economy. On Oct. 1, Munday tion. It used to be a bank. Now it provides 8,200 ficult, so I think that’s great that (The Work- work) during the day and relax in the evening,” opened up an office space that offers entrepre- square feet of workspace and the opportunity around) has opened up — work for a few hours she said, “then that’s a better quality of life for neurs part-time childcare. for parents to bring their children to a morning and work nearby (your kids). We need way everybody.” Brother Neil shares musical message Singer-songwriter hopes community that took place Sept. 28-30. family moved many times between coun- While Parent played songs from his tries and cities. Now that he’s no longer new album will motivate latest album, Away Avenue Away, released living in the countryside, he longs to go last year, he also had a suggestion for East back. people to embrace nature Yorkers. Despite how peaceful East York is, By TIFFANY FUNG “I think everybody should spend some residents should still find a chance to go The Observer time in nature,” he said. “If you can get somewhere else for relaxation, Parent out there, experience time away from the said. It’s been a few months since S. Walter massive cluster of people.” He called his Culture Days invitation an Stewart Library has hosted a concert, and That sentiment comes up on the al- honour. “They wanted me to be a part of the return of music featured not just a bum’s title track, which includes a line something,” he said, describing his expe- soulful voice and guitar melodies, but also about “a wide-open sky where stars shine rience — the first time he has played in a heartfelt message. right above.” East York — as beautiful. Singer-songwriter Neil Parent, known Parent made the album hoping to mo- Asked if he will perform at East York by the stage name Brother Neil, performed tivate people to travel to the countryside again, he said, “Absolutely.” Tiffany Fung/The Observer as part of Culture Days, a celebration of and enjoy Mother Nature with loved ones. The next Brother Neil album is sched- Brother Neil proudly displays his new album. the province’s diverse arts and culture When he was young, he explained, his uled for January. Poet encourages people to have fun with poetry

By YONATHAN ENRIQUEZ ed Ontario’s Culture Days over the last Having interest in whatever you’re writ- the factual, and piecing it together with The Observer weekend of September. The program ing is one of the most important factors the use of senses. was launched in 2010. in creating poems, she added. “I thought that writing this poem re- The auditorium of the East York library Toronto poet-singer Honey Novick “While poetry can make us vulner- quired thought but was very engaging at may have been cold, but the sharing of hosted the “Have Fun with Poetry!” able, it allows us to communicate our the same time,” said local librarian Tara poems brought comfort and warmth workshop on Friday (Sept. 28). experiences with one another.” Stadius. to an event held as part of a program “Poetry is a tool that serves as a con- This was proven when participants Attendees were able to create their to promote arts and culture in diverse nection to another person,” Novick said. were asked to write their own “I am” own poems and read their work to one communities. She identified “sincerity” as the driv- poems. The process of writing a poem another, and take home with them a bet- The S. Walter Stewart Library host- ing force behind her work as a poet. involved using both the imaginative and ter understanding of the art of poetry. n HONEY NOVICK Friday, October 19, 2018 The East York Observer FEATURES 5 One reusable container n SPORTS sparks zero waste plan East York farmers market offers es properly according to the health standards of the city, which I do every week,” she said. alternative to single-use items The reusables project has, however, faced some challenges. By ANJELICA BALATBAT “There’s a shortage of inventory and there’s The Observer some items that we’ve been unable to find, but we make do with what we have,” McGuire When Katrina McGuire brought a reusable said. container to the Withrow Park Farmers Market “Another challenge is public awareness. to buy lunch, she didn’t realize it would spark a There’s still a bit of a stigma around reusables.” market-wide initiative to go zero waste. Yet with the support of food vendors and its After noticing the amount of garbage created success throughout the season, the Zero Waste by packaged foods, McGuire decided to make Station has remained a permanent service at the a change. Withrow Park Farmers Market. In July, the East York community member “I think it’s a wonderful idea,” said vendor launched the Zero Waste Station as a pilot David Ng of Feast of Fields. project. In place of single-use items, it offered So does Robert Mayer, owner of Gemaro attendees reusable cutlery, plates, napkins and Bakery. cups. “It’s amazing, because keeping things out None of the inventory used for her initiative of the landfill is important,” he said. “When- has been purchased new. Since starting, Mc- ever possible we only give out paper, and us- Guire has washed over 1,700 pieces. ing this is so much better. Lots of people come “I went to thrift stores and purchased sec- with their own shopping bags, especially at this D.J. Llewellyn/ The Observer ond-hand items that I could use at the market,” market.” David Shoalts discusses his new book, Hockey Fight in Canada, at the S. Walter McGuire said. “Also, in-kind donations. We For those looking to live waste-free in their Stewart Library in East York. put out calls to the public on social media, and own life, McGuire has a couple of suggestions. people were so kind to have donated unneeded “Start with items you already own. There’s items that they had around the house.” no need to go out and replace all the plastic To ensure cleanliness at her station, McGuire items you have in your house,” she said. Book looks at fight for enrolled in the Toronto Public Health’s Food McGuire’s future ventures include working Handler Certification Program. with the Centre for Social Innovation to launch “I learned the health codes that any restau- waste-reduction initiatives and pursuing a rant, café or food establishment would have to membership-based, reusable-take-out-contain- Hockey Night in Canada abide by and I learned how to sanitize the dish- er program in the city. Author David Shoalts uncovers Shoalts said. “One day I got a call from a book agent that details about bidding war said we should pitch a book on this to publish- ers, that it would do quite well.” between CBC, Bell and Rogers After a couple months of talking with the By D.J. LLEWELLYN book agent and lots of deliberation, Shoalts de- The Observer cided to write it. “It took a while, but looking back I’m glad I The gloves are off in David Shoalts’ latest did,” he said. book, Hockey Fight in Canada. Shoalts had spent several years previously S. Walter Stewart Library hosted a small covering the bidding wars for Hockey Night in crowd who came to hear the longtime hockey Canada, including the battles among CBC, Bell and sports writer talk last Friday night about the and Rogers; the effort to bring Ron MacLean bidding war for Hockey Night in Canada be- back, and stories on NHL Commissioner Gary tween CBC, Bell and Rogers — and how Rog- Bettman himself. And of course, let’s not forget ers’ surprise win didn’t mean a big return (so the saga of Don Cherry. far) on its investment. “Viewers really like Don Cherry because Despite covering hockey for more than 30 that’s exactly how he is in real life.,” Shoalts years, Shoalts’ latest book was one he told the said. “A lot of guys try to put on an act but for Anjelica Balatbat/ The Observer audience he initially didn’t want to write. him, that’s how he is all the time.” Katrina McGuire’s Zero Waste Station at Withrow Park Farmers Market includes a “Even though I knew it was a very popular He might be hoping Cherry gives the book table of reusable plates, cups and cutlery. topic I wasn’t real keen to write a book on it,” a thumbs up — just in time for hockey season. ‘There Is No Word For Wilderness’, a play about the environment By ALEX GOUDGE edgment was made of the Indigenous The Observer land upon which Evergreen stands. The story centres on a woman who is lost in A play at the Evergreen Brick Works the forest but befriends animals along not only entertained an all-ages audi- the way in order to gain clarity. ence but also delivered a powerful re- Annie Vandenberg, program manag- minder about the land on which they er at Evergreen, thinks the play was a were enjoying it. success. Written by and starring Lisa “I’d like to see something like this in Hamalainen, the family-oriented There elementary schools,” she said. Is No Word For Wilderness, performed The most powerful part of the evening Oct. 3 and 4, delivered a potent mes- took place after the play ended, when sage: Do not take the environment for Shelba Deer, a friend of Hamalainen, led granted. an Anishinaabe teaching. “It’s about not seeing nature as a re- Held around a fire, it provided a source, but seeing it as energy and spir- lesson about the land and spirituality, it,” Hamalainen said. which included the audience participat- It also provided a lesson on Indige- ing in a traditional smudging ceremony Alex Goudge/ The Observer nous culture and heritage. and an offering to Shkagamik-Kwe, or Lisa Hamalainen stars in There Is No Word For Wilderness, a play held at the Evergreen Brick Prior to the play’s start, an acknowl- Mother Earth. Works on Oct. 3 and 4. 6 OPINION Friday, October 19, 2018 The East York Observer n COLUMNS n EDITORIALS Assisted dying for kids? In the May issue of Paedi- people may gain access to not want family members Get out and vote atrics and Child Health, pedi- MAID.” involved?” atricians raised the issue of a Medically assisted suicide Secret. In other words, what A lot of voters weren’t happy with with the outcome of the Ontario provincial election possible future where “mature for “capable” minors (some- if a “capable” child wanted in June. minors” may be eligible for one under 18, according to the medically assisted suicide but One reason: Premier Doug Ford cut the size of from 47 to 25 coun- MAID (medical assistance government) —children. The not to have his or her family cillors, a move with which 76 per cent of voters disagreed. in dying). For adults it’s a paper, in the Journal for Med- notified? This summer, only 58 per cent of registered voters went to the polls. Though that was reality, but kids? ical Ethics, is “intended as Children aren’t legally the highest participation rate in an Ontario election in years, it’s clear that not enough It seemed like a a road map through the allowed to smoke, drink or people took the time to be informed and involved in Ontario’s politics. far-fetched idea at the still-emerging legal and vote. They can’t join the For the upcoming Toronto municipal election, it is important for everyone to cast their time. That was until ethical landscape of military or be tried as adults ballot as a way of expressing their opinion. this month, when a paediatric MAID.” in court because THEY’RE A recent Nanos Research survey found that 34 per cent of municipal voters across On- report came out The most CHILDREN. tario were unaware of the upcoming election. about SickKids alarming issue Their brains are still Even more importantly, some didn’t even know they are eligible to vote, or didn’t know Hospital, whose with this report, developing, no matter how enough about the candidates and their policies. draft policy whose contents “mature” they are. That is Here are two reasons why you should vote. on MAID also were reported precisely why parents must First, it’s easy. Any Canadian citizen over the age of 18 who is able to show proof of suggests this as a by Postmedia, always be part of the discus- residency in their riding can cast a ballot. You have the right to vote even if you don’t have possibility. is in the form of sion. a voting card. As the pa- a question: “Are It is truly heartbreaking Second, it’s a right. There are immigrants in the GTA that don’t hold Canadian citizen- per’s abstract says, there situations to see (or simply imagine) ship, meaning they don’t have the right to vote. In fact, immigrants and refugees might “While MAID is in which MAID children and youth suffering have come from non-democratic countries where they weren’t able to exercise their right currently available requests and ad- from illness and pain so ter- to vote (or didn’t have candidate options). In Canada, it’s considered a privilege and a to capable patients ministration would rible they wish to die. I can’t civic duty to take the opportunity to elect a candidate who demonstrates your values and in Canada who are be kept secret imagine how hard it would opinions. 18 years or older, we from parents and other be for a parent to have such a Citizens who aren’t casting their vote are letting others decide for them. Simply, if you write our policy with family members, for discussion with a doctor. believe you’re not informed enough, you are encouraged to go to your ward’s council an eye to the near example, if a capable Now think how terrible it meetings, listen to the candidates, and have them answer your questions. future when patient were would be if such a talk took Even if none of the candidate’s policies and promises satisfies you, it’s still important to capable D.J. Llewellyn to indicate place without the parents’ choose. young that they do presence being required. Democracy is an opportunity, and votes should not be wasted. The power and future are in your hands. Election day is Oct. 22, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. ~ Fleur Boomsma The cost of scalping With the recent backlash the expense of consumers.” a lot of mid-sized clubs and Ticketmaster has faced after The catch is that Ticket- theatres. Those smaller acts being caught up in a new master allegedly collects fees would feel the blow from Helmet law unfair scalping scandal, the question twice: once from the initial scalpers significantly more inevitably arises: “Is scalping purchase and again when a than the superstar artist, since Premier Doug Ford has done it again. Ontario will join Alberta, British Columbia and really that bad?” fan purchases the ticket at the pool of tickets is smaller to Manitoba in exempting helmets for turban-wearing Sikh motorcyclists. The answer is yes. resale price. This is why this begin with. The issue is so controversial that Ford held the news event in Brampton for Punjab Scalping is the resale of particular scandal is different. Bands that play at these media and ignored the Queen’s Park press corps. tickets, primarily for con- Ticketmaster appears to be types of places aren’t the In 2014, then-premier Kathleen Wynne faced a political and religious backlash for certs or sports events, on a helping the “bad guys.” millionaire Jay-Z or Beyonce opposing the no-helmet exemption. secondary market, usually at a For example, the well- type but rather more modest So, what’s the issue? Turbans are a vital part of the Sikh faith and identity, but helmets skyrocketing rate. known punk band Alexison- touring bands. do not fit over the turbans, which take about 10 to 15 minutes to tie. Nobody wins when fire played a four-night stint One hundred scalped tickets Two things. First, those extra minutes will be well worth if it means preventing some- it comes to scalping at the Danforth Music Hall does a lot more damage at one’s brains from splattering across the street. except, perhaps, last December. To no one’s Danforth Music Hall, with “The safety of our roads will always remain a priority,” Ford said in a statement Oct. Ticketmaster. An surprise, tickets sold out a capacity of 1,500, than it 10. “But our government also believes that individuals have personal accountability and undercover almost instantly. Howev- would at Rogers Centre, which responsibility with respect to their own well-being.” investigation er, a simple check on can hold more than 50,000. Which leads to the second point: Why not apply the exemption to all motorcyclists and by CBC News secondary ticket sites Having some of those tickets not just those wearing turbans? and the Toronto showed tickets for the go unsold because fans found Consider other religious accommodations. In the early 1990s, Mounties were permitted Star concluded shows at a significantly them too expensive on resale by the federal government to wear turbans instead of police caps. In 2016, RCMP Com- that Ticketmaster higher price. sites would have more impact missioner Bob Paulson approved the decision to allow Muslim women Mounties to wear is essentially Those shows aren’t at these smaller venues. the hijab. There is no safety concern in the aforementioned. However, to exempt helmets allowing scalp- anything out of the The Ontario Liberals had for motorcyclists in turbans is a question of safety. ers to purchase ordinary, either. A quick anti-scalping legislation set Likewise, wearing a hijab to a citizenship oath is OK. These are sound and reasonable tickets in bulk check of one of these to take effect on July 1, 2018. religious accommodations. at face value and secondary sites for mul- The bill would have capped The helmet exemption exploded on Twitter last week, with most asking who would then resell them on tiple shows at Scotia- the price at which tickets could cover insurance and medicare bills. Others questioned common sense and safety, and some their own platform bank Arena yields several be resold at 50 per cent above wondered about riders signing donor cards. at whatever price tickets way over face value face value. However, Ontario’s The Sikh Motorcycle Club of Ontario, in a Facebook post, announced an event on Oct. point they see fit. for shows claiming to have Conservative government 18 to thank the Ford government for the move. Ticketmaster low ticket availability or be shelved the bill, crushing the The Facebook page has about 2,200 likes and followers. A pretty small population, give says, “It is cate- sold out. dream of finding a fairer way or take. So, does the government assume accidents won’t be likely and Sikh riders will, in gorically untrue that This practice can also to buy tickets. fact, wear helmets despite the exemption? Ticketmaster has any hurt the bands. Having Not having to get tickets If Ford really believes the people of Ontario are accountable for their own safety and program in place to a chunk of tickets taken months in advance, or getting well-being, a helmet exemption should apply to all riders. enable resellers to ac- away from legitimate a second chance at those hard- That would have been a more inclusive move. quire large fans is never to-acquire tickets, seems pretty ~ Rushanthi Kesunathan volumes of Alex Goudge good. Toronto nice. But is the price really tickets at is a city with worth it?

The East York The East York Observer is published by Centennial College journalism students at the East York campus, 951 Carlaw FACULTY EDITORS MANAGING EDITOR Ave., Rm. 149. Mailing address: P.O. Box 631, Stn. A, Eric McMillan Michael Gezahegn Toronto, M1K 5E9. E-mail c/o [email protected]. Lindy Oughtred PHOTO EDITOR Telephone 416-289-5107, fax 416-289-5111. We welcome John Sakamoto Jessica Lam OBSERVER your input, including letters to the editor. Friday,Friday, OctoberDecember 19, 15, 2018 2017 The The East East York York Observer Observer NEWS 7 Danforth streetcars a thing of the past

City of Toronto Archives Taylor Bridger/The Observer Remember when streetcars patrolled Danforth Avenue? Probably not, unless you lived in the area about six decades ago. Then you might have seen something like in the October 1960 photo, above left, with tracks running east and west. The picture was taken on Danforth looking east from near Westlake Avenue, past wooden hydro poles and car dealerships. The October 2018 photo, above right, is missing the tracks and auto dealerships, features modern light standards, and looks eastward toward the Main Square highrises. Which do you like better?

n THE ENVIRONMENT Helping the planet stay green, one item at a time By TYRONE HENRY members of the company were pres- The Observer ent, collecting electronics and e-waste alike. The Evergreen Brick Works was bus- Free Geek gathers donated elec- tling with shoppers from all over Can- tronics to refurbish, and disposes of ada on Sunday, drawn by an assortment e-waste responsibly. Their goal is to of gently used items at an event that promote social and economic justice, works to keep things green. working toward giving everyone ac- Drop, Swap & Shop is held twice a cess to a computer and internet. year. It allows shoppers to reduce their “Free Geek’s a non-profit that takes waste and breathe new life into donat- unwanted electronics and uses them to Photo courtesy of Tim Leyes ed items. From children’s clothes and help people who face barriers,” Fukun- Hannah Levinson (left) plays Iris, while David Storch is Sims/Papa. Shows will run every week, sports equipment to shoes and even aga said. Tuesdays to Saturdays, at 7:30 p.m. up until Nov. 7. instruments, there was no shortage of “Everyone’s got a drawer of wires choices. and stuff they don’t want. They should Attendees could donate up to 15 consider donating it to Free Geek in- Coal Mine Theatre brings dark items in return for swap tickets to be stead of it going into the garbage.” used as currency at the event. Alan Ching and his daughter had “It’s an opportunity for members of come to the Evergreen Brick Works the public to get involved in the shar- from London, Ont., to find clothing for play ‘The Nether’ into the light ing economy,” said Cameron Dale, his granddaughter. project manager for the public markets “She has a new baby, so she’s ex- By JESSICA LAM Studio 180 Theatre, and Pasyk was feet. team. “We invite the public down to changing some baby stuff,” he said. The Observer hired to work on it. He has had ex- “I had a dream team,” Pasyk says. drop off pre-loved items and they can “It’s my first time here, and I find it perience directing at the Coal Mine “They are all fantastic. The cast is be swapped with other members of the interesting. There’s a restaurant and a Director Peter Pasyk is aware The Theatre — his first time was four top-notch Canadian talent. Every- public so that we’re giving thousands lot of different stuff. If Toronto devel- Nether is one of the darker produc- years ago. body got along really well.” of items new homes within the city, oped this into a tourist spot, that would tions the Coal Mine Theatre has put Directing a play with this kind of Meanwhile, stage manager Han- stopping them from becoming landfill. be great.” on. material is a challenge, but Pasyk is nah Thompson focused on what “What we want to do is show people Drop, Swap & Shop has been going “You have to have a good sense up for it. was happening on stage during re- that there’s an alternative to just throw- on for five years. It was also held this of humour about these things so it “It’s definitely the most ambitious hearsals, including blocking, props, ing things into the trash, that we can year on April 22. doesn’t stay with you,” he says. production technically because of all costumes and any director’s notes. treat all of these items as a resource, Those keeping an eye out for Free That’s why the cast and produc- the design elements and video de- She also made sure everyone was on give them a new home, and let other Geek can find them at the Eco Fair at tion staff kept things light during re- sign,” he says. schedule. During the actual shows, people love them and use them.” the Barns or at their location at 180 Sud- hearsals by laughing and being posi- Since the script had very little Thompson works behind the scenes, Ryan Fukunaga, the business direc- bury St. in the Queen and Dufferin area, tive and supportive. stage direction, most of the decisions making sure all the actors are in their tor for Free Geek Toronto, and other or online at www.freegeektoronto.org. Originally written by American were left to Pasyk and the design places and all the lights and sound playwright Jennifer Haley, The Neth- team. Pasyk was able to add his own are on point. er is about a virtual world where peo- interpretation to the script. This is Thompson’s first produc- ple can divulge their deepest desires A problem he and the design team tion with the Coal Mine Theatre and without consequences. focused on was how to make the dif- Studio 180 Theatre. She joined the When entering the Coal Mine ferent worlds presented in the play production after Pasyk called and Theatre on Danforth Avenue near contrast with one another. asked if she was available. Monarch Park Avenue, the audience The play is not written in chrono- “I had heard a lot of great things is warned by a sign of violent and logical sequence, as it goes back and about the Coal Mine shows,” Thomp- sexually explicit content in the show forth in time a lot. The entire team son says. “Peter sent me the script including rape, murder, suicide, and worked with the actors to put scenes and I devoured it. I couldn’t stop pedophilia that may be disturbing in chronological order for rehearsals reading it. It’s been a great pleasure to some, though nothing graphic is to make it easier to wrap their heads to bring this story onto the stage.” shown onstage. around what is happening. A lot of Opening night was Oct. 11. There The play is a co-production be- planning and work took place before will be shows every week, Tuesdays Tyrone Henry/The Observer tween the Coal Mine Theatre and they even started rehearsing on their to Saturdays, until Nov. 7. Shoppers browse at Evergreen Brick Works’ market on Oct. 14. 8 FEATURES Friday, October 19, 2018 The East York Observer Pole dancing: More than just a dance

using pole dancing as a form of exercise. Many Instructor Pierrette Wiseman people look down on the form of the dance when women are performing in clubs but are willing to discovers her happy place participate in it when it is presented in the form while hanging upside down of a trendy bodybuilding technique. “I think there’s enough space in the pole world By DANIELLE CLARKE for both,” Wiseman says. The Observer Pole dancing didn’t originate in the West. It was created as an activity and exercise through This month is a special time for Pierrette Wise- a traditional Indian sport called mallakhamba, man. The 40-year-old mom is celebrating which can be traced back at least 800 years. her new life as an instructor at Redefine Fit, a “It wasn’t originally a sport for strip- pole-dancing studio on Danforth Avenue that just ping,” Wiseman says. “It was originally done in marked its third anniversary. India by men. Somebody at some point saw that When she first decided to begin pole dancing, and brought it to North America and put it in strip Wiseman wanted a new way to stay fit but also clubs.” express herself. Cynics still have negative attitudes towardpole “I was getting lost in the mom life,” she says. dancing, both as exotic dancing and as a form of “My son was about five years old and ready to exercise. go back to school, and I decided to take some “I think those people have never tried it or daytime classes at a studio.” walked into a pole studio,” Wiseman says. Six years later, she’s fallen in love with the art “Everyone that I know who works as an exotic form. dancer has chosen the profession. I believe you “Originally for me it was a moment where I can work in the sex industry and be a feminist. I could be myself and sexy. Now it’s more for ath- know many of them.” leticism and a form of modern dance. Recently, discussions have been held about “I absolutely adore teaching,” she adds. “I adding pole dancing to the Olympics. The Global think I like it more than learning new tricks.” Association of International Sports Federations Wiseman has been teaching at Redefine Fit for has officially granted pole dancing “observer sta- two years. tus,” which gives it provisional recognition. “Redefine Fit is more than just a place to have Gaining observer status is the first phase that a good workout. It’s a really close family,” she international federations must attain before be- says. “Most of the pole dancers choose to train coming official GAISF members, which could here because we have social events and you are then put pole dancing in a position where it could able to make friends.” one day land in the Olympics. Wiseman wasn’t always so confident about However, Wiseman has mixed feelings about pole dancing. that. “I used to weigh close to 300 pounds,” she “There’s positive and negative aspects of it. It says. “I didn’t build the courage to try it until will bring pole to a higher platform as a sport. Danielle Clarke/The Observer I lost the weight, and I regret that. I’ve met so But I also think it will bring a lot of challenges Pierrette Wiseman hangs out upside down in the ‘layback’ pose at Redefine Fit many phenomenal plus-size pole dancers.” within the pole industry, because once it goes up Studio on Danforth Avenue. She’s been a pole dancing teacher for two years. Pole dancing has become an escape for Wise- to the Olympics, it needs to be regulated, which man. first time.” A student of Wiseman’s, Roxanne Muir, says means the studios will have to pay a lot more “It keeps me happy. If I’m having a horrible Now, going upside-down — the formal term she has been inspired by her classes. fees.” day and I train for an hour, I leave on cloud nine,” is inversion — is her favourite routine to teach “Pierrette is an amazing instructor and a tal- Pole dancing may seem risqué to some in she says. pole participants. ented pole and circus expert. I love the way she the beginning, but Wiseman has seen many stu- Wiseman wasn’t a big fan of athleticism be- “Inversions 101 is all about conditioning challenges me and explains the moves. I always dio-goers overcome their fears. fore she began pole dancing. your body and getting over the fear of going up- feel very successful after her classes.” “The amount of people I see come in here who “I never liked exercising,” she says. “When I side-down,” she says. “I like to see the progress As entertaining as pole dancing is, it is not are shy and reserved and after a couple months found the pole, I fell in love with it. It took me in my students and also how proud they are of without controversy. The question of appropria- of doing pole dancing, they flourish and they are about a year and a half to go upside-down the themselves.” tion has come up in reference to fitness studios outgoing.” Mediator helps feuding parties find common ground knowledging a neighbour’s existence when an It’s important to develop a issue arises. The majority of the issues, the Meaneys ad- friendly relationship from mit, stem from a lack of knowledge on their the beginning, expert says part of the rules surrounding a right of way. Keiron Meaney says the sometimes meticu- lous laws around shared space between neigh- Cont’d. from page 1 bours can be confusing to navigate. Toronto-based litigation lawyer Jared try to articulate the other’s feelings about the Brown defines a right of way as a registered issue. legal agreement between neighbours to use a “Once each party feels heard, it de-escalates property owner’s land for a certain purpose the emotional vigour,” Morris said. that the two parties agree to. “The other side doesn’t seem as evil when The most typical use of a right of way is as a you hear them actually articulating your side means to travel behind the properties (to a de- of the story.” tached garage, for example), but the particular The problem in the case of neighbours like terms of any easement must be agreed to and the Meaneys and the Carpenters, however, is registered with the land through a lawyer. the fact that neither side wants anything to If a legal agreement is already in place from Sergio Arangio/The Observer do with the other in terms of finding common a previous property owner, current neighbours Keiron Meaney and his wife Paula have had numerous battles with their ground. can renegotiate the terms if they so choose. neighbours, the Carpenters, since the latter couple moved in five years ago. Often times, Morris said, it can be extremely What the two neighbours can’t do, how- difficult to come back from such a history of ever, is anything that negatively impacts the property line. name is apparently not on the deed to his resi- neighbourly dysfunction. other neighbour’s enjoyment or use of their The one point the Meaneys and Carpenters dence, stays off his property. That’s why it’s important to develop a property. can agree on is that there’s no longer any po- “We’ve never done a single thing (to them),” friendly relationship from the beginning, he That includes everything from shovelling tential for a relationship. Meaney said. said, so that any disagreements can be handled snow onto a neighbour’s property without Keiron Meaney said he will tolerate Drake “We’re good people. They couldn’t ask for from a place of familiarity rather than only ac- permission to erecting a fence that crosses the Carpenter as long as he, as someone whose better neighbours.”