February 23, 2018 Police Scour Thorncliffe Apartment for Evidence

ww The East York HEARTS FOR HAILEY n School rallies to help OBSERVER student in need Page 4 Serving our community since 1972 www.torontoobserver.ca Friday, February 23, 2018 Police scour Thorncliffe apartment for evidence

By TAYLOR BRIDGER The Observer

A month after accused serial killer Bruce McAr- thur’s arrest, Toronto police continue to investigate his apartment at 95 Thorncliffe Park Dr., the site of the murder of at least some missing Toronto men, they say. Det.-Sgt. Hank Idsinga told CTV News’s W5 on Saturday that investigators be- lieve the apartment is a homicide scene. It is unclear how long investi- @ gations will continue in the 19th- floor unit of the Leaside Towers O apartment building, commonly l For more on known as the tallest in East York. the Bruce The twin towers of the complex McArthur dominate the Don River Valley investigation, go to that gives the surrounding area toronto its name. observer.ca Police vehicles were still parked in front of the building on Feb. 13, almost a month after McArthur was first arrested there on Jan. 18. “We are conducting a thorough forensic exam and, as I’m sure you can appreciate, these things take time,” police spokesperson Meaghan Gray replied to a query by email Wednesday, At least one resident was not happy about the media presence near the apartment building, shouting at photographers as she walked her dog around what is usually a strictly residential patch of grass. “You shouldn’t be filming this property,” the Trisha Sales/ The Observer woman yelled, before walking back inside the lobby to report what she had seen. A bird in the hand... Meanwhile, Toronto police have also excavat- It was a day of crafts — and fun — at the Todmorden Mills Heritage Site’s recent drop-in family event. Held Feb. 16 on a ed a section of drainpipe outside the 53 Mallory PA Day, the theme was Chinese New Year and participants created different birds and animals. Here, Koah Cowan-Ishihara n See INVESTIGATION, page 7 (right) helps his creation take flight while brother Kai and cousin Annabelle colour. n CRIME Serial killers and skeletons: Just another day at the office Forensic anthropologist detail of Bruce McArthur’s alleged crimes ing on cases like that in the United States,” (he has been charged with five counts of Nafte said. “That level of serial killing is offers an inside look at first-degree murder and human remains not unusual there.” were found in planters at a Leaside home If Canadians think this case is horri- murder investigations where he did landscaping), Nafte isn’t fying, they haven’t seen anything. In the By ELLEN SAMEK shocked. United States, “bodies are found all the The Observer The forensic anthropologist, who isn’t time,” Nafte said. involved in this particular investiga- Even the pattern of behaviour and vic- The thought of police combing through a tion, has come across many similar cases timology is common south of the border. neighbour’s garden and finding human re- throughout her career. Nafte recalls a case she assisted on in the mains in planters has Leasiders horrified, It’s Nafte’s job to examine old human 1990s. but for forensic professionals, it’s just an- remains and find out how the individu- “There was one in Indianapolis that was other day at the office. al died and who they were, just from the very long and involved over the course Dr. Myriam Nafte, a forensic anthropol- bones. She has examined bodies that have of several years. He was married with ogist and instructor at McMaster Universi- been dismembered and burned, dumped in children, very bright,” she said. “He was ty who lives in Leaside, is no stranger to the woods, found in backyards and even cruising the gay nightclub scene, picking this kind of investigation. discovered in water. up young men and taking them back to a Ellen Samek/The Observer While the press and the public have “In terms of the professional experience, Dr. Nafte holds an anatomical specimen of a spine. been hanging on to every disturbing new I am very used to that in terms of work- n See HOUSE, page 4

2 NEWS Friday,The February East York 23, Observer2018 The Friday, East YorkFebruary Observer 9, 2018

‘ POLICE & WHAT’S FIRE UP IN E.Y. Teen charged Strike up the after carjacking brass band at Danforth Looking for something to help fight and Woodbine those seasonal blues? Look no A 17-year-old further than Toron- teen is facing six to’s own Eighth charges, including Street Orchestra. robbery and pos- The brass band sessing a weap- will be perform- on, in a Danforth ing tunes from Avenue carjacking. the ’20s and ’30s Toronto Police at Hope United arrested the Church, 2550 accused on Feb. Aileen Zaraineh/Toronto Observer Danforth Ave., on 18. On Feb. 14, a Ted Barris talks to people at the Leaside Library about the Canadian experience at Vimy Ridge. Feb.24 from 4:30 29-year-old wom- to 5:15 p.m. an was allegedly threatened with a weapon at Wood- Author brings Vimy Ridge to life bine and Danforth Measure your avenues. Police By LOUISE ALLYN PALMA stories and retell them as if they were their with a different Canadian author each carbon footprint say the accused and AILEEN ZARAINEH own,” Barris said after his talk. week, describes them as “truly fascinating, The Observer pushed the woman Creating a vivid timeline for his spec- the best talks you’ve ever heard.” Fnd out how you to the ground be- tators to easily follow along, highlighting Martin especially appreciated Barris’s can care for the earth at Cre- fore driving away Grace MacPherson defied the norm by the stories of actual participants, including talk about Vimy Ridge. Her father was a ation Care 2018. with the car. An being one of the first Canadian women to MacPherson, he brought the battle to life soldier in the First World War, joining the Taking place at imitation gun was earn her driver’s licence. for young generations. British Expeditionary Force. St. Cuthbert’s seized during the She later battled misogynistic assump- “If you experience something that’s as Barris said he wants the public to under- Anglican Church arrest, police say. tions when she became an ambulance driv- close as Lyman Nicholls, Andrew Mc- stand the chemistry between each Canadi- on March 3, this The teen cannot er for soldiers in the Battle of Vimy Ridge. Naughton or any of the characters I sketch an that took part in the battle. This “con- event will feature be named under Hers was one of the stories told by Cana- out, if they’re real, if they’re tangible, if nection” between each individual at that exhibitors and the provisions of dian author and historian Ted Barris during they have a face — a young person’s going time still resonates for Martin and is part of speakers focused the Youth Criminal a visit to the Leaside branch of the public to connect,” he said afterwards. “Anybody the reason why she appreciates these talks. on environmental Justice Act. library on Feb. 13. Barris presented a co- will.” Writing this book was “an honour,” Bar- education. Don lourful and exciting commentary about the Natural Heritage Book representative ris said. He wants everyone who reads his Valley West MP Battle of Vimy Ridge. Barry Penhale was happy to have Barris book to take away “a little piece of Canada Rob Oliphant and Barris drew on the importance of the Ca- back at the library to speak about Vimy and a reason to be proud of who they are.” Road closed Ward 26 Council- nadian identity and the chemistry between Ridge and his book Victory at Vimy. Barris’s new book, The Dam Busters: lor Jon Burnside after package citizens across the nation during this battle. “If it was possible to do so, I would have Canadian Airmen and the Secret Raid will be making an His goal is to help this generation have a him come every week. I wouldn’t even Against Nazi Germany, is scheduled for discovered appearance. There deeper appreciation of the past so that they bother with other guests, he’s so good,” release in September 2018. History buffs will be children’s Toronto Police can better understand their future, he said. Penhale said. can expect an in-depth account of a raid programs and a shut down a sec- “Young people have to get a sense of Kin Martin, who has been attending inside Nazi Germany during the Second chance to measure tion of Danforth what happened there and then pick up the events at the library for over two years, World War. Avenue on Feb. your very own car- 17 after a sus- bon footprint. The picious package event is to start at was found. Police Teacher seeks PC nomination for Toronto-Danforth 11 a.m. at 1399 closed Danforth Bayview Ave. Avenue at Dawes By ELLEN SAMEK Sunday at Sophie’s “She spoke briefly at an event on Monday Road during the The Observer Sports Bar on Cos- and I liked what she was saying,” he said. investigation. It burn Avenue to con- While the event focused on the issues Strap on your was later deter- Despite the roller-coaster ride of turmoil nect with communi- important to Kalligofyris’ platform and her skates for some mined that the facing the provincial Tories in recent days, ty members. pride in representing a riding close to her package was not a Patricia Kalligosfyris couldn’t be prouder “There are a lot heart, the issue of Patrick Brown’s sexual family ice-time threat to the pub- to be a part of the party. of things within the misconduct allegations and entry into the Join Ward 31 lic and the road The high school business teacher from Toronto-Danforth I leadership race hung in the air. Councillor Janet was re-opened. York region is currently seeking the nom- want to focus on be- n KALLIGOSFYRIS Kalligofyris had reservations about Davis on Sunday, ination as Progressive Conservative can- cause this would be Brown running for the leadership again. March 4 for East didate for Toronto-Danforth, an area her my riding,” she said in an interview. “They “There would have been many oppor- York’s annual skat- Greek family first settled in when coming have issues with their downtown line; they tunities in the future for him to come for- Pedestrians hit ing party. Cookies, to Canada. want a relief line. It’s really busy during ward, to be a leader,” she said. “Maybe juice and face She is especially proud to be a young rush hour, so that’s something I want to re- when these allegations fully get resolved in Victoria Park, painting will be woman making strides in a party that hasn’t ally push for them.” and his name is fully cleared, then maybe featured, as well Dawes Road area always been known for its female presence. In addition to improving transit along he could run again.” as a special per- “I have always felt part of the team and line two, Kalligosfyris says she wants to Others at the event also voiced concerns A vehicle struck formance by the to see more women as a part of the PC par- focus on helping small businesses in the about Brown entering the leadership race two pedestrians East York Skating ty and becoming candidates is amazing. I riding. in an effort to regain his former position. in the Victoria Club’s Ice Dreams. think the PC party stands for both males and Stopping the construction of bike lanes “Him coming back isn’t what’s best for Park Avenue and Admission is free. females,” she said. “I think in this election along Danforth Avenue and slowing down the party because what it’s doing is creat- Dawes Road area. Skate rentals and we’re going to see some amazing females the increase of the minimum wage are is- ing a big distraction,” Viris said. Police were called sharpening will come forward and hopefully win and be- sues touched upon in her speech. Kalligofyris would not specify if she to investigate the be available. The come MPPs.” Her passion for supporting small busi- supported anyone in the current leader- Feb. 18 incident. event will run from She is running against another nominee nesses is important to Peter Viris, a finance ship race, but said this regarding a possible Police say the 11:30 a.m. to who has yet to be identified by the party. professional who attended the meet-and- Brown victory: “At the end of the day I’m pedestrians were 1:30 p.m. at East The selected candidate would represent the greet. running for Toronto-Danforth,” she said, not injured and no York Memorial Are- party in the provincial election to take place “I like the fact that she supports small “And if PC members in Ontario vote for charges have been na, 888 Cosburn in June 2018. The Toronto-Danforth riding businesses. Small businesses are key, es- Patrick Brown, I can’t say anything against laid. Ave. is currently represented by Peter Tabuns of pecially now with Canada,” Viris said. that.” ~ Jennifer Teixeira the NDP. Kalligosfyris made a good impression on The nomination vote is to take place ~ Claire Mcinroy Kalligosfyris held a meet-and-greet event attendee David Lasker. Feb. 28. Friday, February 23, 2018 The East York Observer NEWS 3 School of ‘jock’ an adventure in music By RYAN MACKENZIE real money and start a career. Without The Observer venturing too far from his passion for DJing, he decided to start his own DJ Much like Jack Black’s School of school. Rock, Erik Laar’s Off Centre DJ School Off Centre began with one-on-one is devoted strictly to music (except they lessons and grew organically. The staff don’t have to hide it from the princi- then created different courses for sep- pal). Its mandate is simple: Have fun arate lanes of the art (production and with records and electronics. standard DJ) and the business started to “It’s about building the art form,” really expand. said Laar when asked about his two-sto- After a year or two, the space was rey school at 201 Coxwell Ave., south of torn down by a developer and they had Gerrard Street East. to relocate. The school was forced to re- In a world where electronics seem to locate two or three times more but has be taking over, DJing (or disk jockey- stayed in business for 14 years. ing) seems to be following suit. Festi- “The first five years were definitely a vals all around the world celebrate the struggle,” Laar said. “There was never most renowned DJs, and EDM/house anything like this before us, so there was music is one of the most popular genres. never a business model to build off. We Nida Zafar/ The Observer A DJ himself, Laar knows both the were just trying to figure it all out.” Billy Dertilis (left), owner of Red Rocket Coffee, with baristas Sarah Ziegler (centre) and Zacha- industry and the music well. He has The goal of the school is to keep the ry Corindia (right) at his café located at 1364 Danforth Ave. worked in many down-tempo clubs in esthetic of intimacy in the classroom. Toronto, toured across Canada, and was Laar doesn’t strive for large class- also a part of the group called iNSiDE- rooms, but instead a very personal ex- aMiND. perience. Red Rocket takes on TTC Although the DJ life is fast and fun, it He wants to be within “arm’s reach” often leads to burnout. of his students, and wants to create a By NIDA ZAFAR location for Greenwood Station,” voices clamouring for attention and After travelling for music and doing connection with every student who en- The Observer Fragedakis wrote in an email. making a fuss at a public meeting,” side jobs here and there, Laar decided ters his doors. Dertilis’s business could be affect- he said. “I know we have many chan- it was time to settle down, make some Jack Black would be proud. A local coffee shop owner is fight- ed in two ways. If the property next nels for communications, and I’m ing expropriation with a petition. door to his coffee shop is selected just sitting tight waiting to see where Billy Dertilis has collected 700 for expropriation, the construction the process leads.” signatures to fight the expropriation would affect foot traffic for his busi- Dertilis has also received a lot of of his establishment, Red Rocket ness. The other, far worse, option is support from the community. Cus- Coffee, on Danforth Avenue, two that his shop will be torn down. Ei- tomers continue to frequent the cafe, minutes from the Greenwood sub- ther one is troublesome. a place he says people call “a home way station. The expropriation would “It would impact people’s access, away from home.” allow the TTC to add a new subway and additionally it would not be a The once-struggling stretch of entrance and exit in the space of cur- pleasant experience to come and businesses has now become a busy rent businesses or homes. have a coffee when you’re hear- one. “This strip of the Danforth had That process could impact up to ing the sounds of construction next trouble restarting for a long time, and 10 locations in the area, said Toron- door,” he said. we’re finally seeing some organic to-Danforth councillor Mary Frage- So far, Dertilis hasn’t presented business success along this strip,” he dakis. the petition to a higher body. He’s said. The selection of locations consid- been to public meetings and has But Dertilis now fears that busi- ered for expropriation is not made by spoken with TTC officials about the nesses in the area won’t be able to the TTC. matter, but he wants to make sure he survive the difficulties of the expro- “It is a working group made up of delivers the petition and his concerns priation process. Ryan Mackenzie/ The Observer local residents who are developing in the correct manner. A retail ecosystem “is fragile,” he Off Centre teacher Erik Laar prepares for a DJ class. recommendations for a second exit “I don’t want to be one of those said. Celebrating Black history with a story about perseverance By MOUHAMAD RACHINI “She tells me this story that sounded like a that eventually one got through and they were “You have to understand that Canada is a The Observer movie,” he said. “I was like, ‘Oh my God, I bet- able to be reconnected in Toronto. It was import- country of immigrants and everybody’s story ter write this down.’ So the next day I came with ant to emphasize that part in the novel.” makes up the mosaic of what we are,” Dwayne For 44-year-old Dwayne Genus, An African a camera, and she didn’t just tell me her story, she Uchenwa Iroaga Genus saw just how import- Genus said. “So to have a proper perspective of Story is not just a book about the Biafran War. told me her whole life.” ant that love story was to history and what makes this country run, you “For me, it’s more than just writing a story,” He couldn’t do it alone, though. While writing her mother following her have to have a proper understanding of each part he said. “It’s saying that I understand what the the story, his wife, 42-year-old Uchenwa Iroaga father’s death. of that whole.” situation is and I want to be a record that says that Genus, provided details about life in Nigeria and “He died in January “A lot of African history has been oral history, these people matter.” fact-checked her mother’s story. (2016) and (the book) was and that’s fantastic because that act brings peo- Speaking to a small group of readers at East “I added colour because I actually went to published in the summer,” ple together,” Uchenwa Iroaga Genus said. “But York’s S. Walter Stewart Library on Feb. 13, the boarding school in Nigeria when I was a teen- she said. “So it was almost there’s also something for writing it as well, be- Richmond Hill-based author, whose background ager,” she said. “What the boarding school was n UCHENWA like it was a gift to her. cause these days it needs to last much longer than is Jamaican, was presenting An African Story, his like, a lot of the language and the songs and Not that it could replace a generation.” family’s first published book. In it, he describes things like that.” GENUS my dad, but these are her Dwayne Genus has another story in the works. the experiences of his mother-in-law, Nkechi Iro- Unchenwa Iroaga Genus said although her fam- memories of her life from before, and it was like His next book, The Story of Lovers’ Leap, tells aga, during the Biafran War. ily often took the story for granted, they’re glad giving her a new gift.” the legend of two slaves in Jamaica who, in order “It was very emotional for the people she had that it has been published to a broader audience. The way her mother dealt with her father’s to prevent their plantation’s owner from separat- lost, never to be seen again,” he said. “Some- “It’s kind of like you’re rediscovering some passing was evidence of another theme of Nke- ing them, jumped off of a cliff to remain together. times I wonder how she even managed the trau- gift you had,” she said. “(Dwayne Genus) defi- chi Iroaga’s story: perseverance. Genus said he wants to use the tale to talk about ma of that.” nitely did a lot of research and a lot of work in “My mom is such a strong woman,” she said. Tacky’s Revolt in 1760. Genus first got the idea when he asked his putting it together for us. I was also really happy “She’s very practical, moving on to the next step “It was a big event that happened (in Jamaica) mother-in-law about a photo she had above their because it meant a lot to my mother.” and the next step, and each little step completes where the Africans of that time revolted over the fireplace. The picture showed a younger Nkechi One of the book’s major themes was love. To a picture for her.” British,” he said. “I think it’s a historical event Iroaga and her late husband dressed in traditional Dwayne Genus, that is what struck him most With Canada celebrating Black History that needs to be remembered and told, so that’s African attire. Iroaga explained to Genus that it from Nkechi Iroaga’s story. Month, the couple believes Nkechi Iroaga’s story my next work.” was the couple’s first picture before the Biafran “I love the love story,” he said. “The whole will also help Canadians better understand the An African Story is available in the Toronto War. idea that he was always writing letters to her and history of Africa from first-hand experience. Public Library system. 4 NEWS Friday, February 23, 2018 The East York Observer School comes together for girl battling cancer

By JESSICA LAM own,” she said. The Observer McAleese, with three teachers, delivered Val- entines to Hailey themselves. They each also Ten-year-old Hailey Conroy has always loved to brought a gift for Hailey for Valentine’s Day. sing. Despite being diagnosed in November with “It’s really so touching,” Baranyai said.“I find leukemia, the Grade 5 student is still singing. that I almost sometimes can’t think about it be- “I’ve been teaching her music for the last few cause it’s so much love that I’ve never known, years,” said Heather Bailey, a teacher at Gledhill so much love and support, it makes me want to Junior Public School. “I’ve been able to see that cry when I think about it.” artistic, creative, fun, musical side of her, and Gledhill teachers Emma Pace and Agnieszka it’s really nice to see that, despite what’s going Kopka helped out at the Light Up the Night for on right now, she’s still keeping such a positive, Hailey event on Feb. 15. While glow sticks and happy spirit.” glow necklaces were sold all week at school, After Hailey took a couple of falls in 2017, Pace and Kopka helped sell more to those who X-rays revealed she had compression fractures. participated in a walk around the school that She was put on a waiting list for the bone clinic. evening in support of Hailey. In total, more than Her mother Patricia Baranyai said that during 300 necklaces were sold. this time Hailey was not recovering properly That night also happened to be parent-teacher and had mobility problems that resulted in her interview night, and Andrea Nichols Egan, who having to stay in bed for a month and miss two is on the Parent Council, was helping out. months of school. Photo courtesy of Patricia Baranyai “I think the teachers have really done a lot After she went through physiotherapy ses- Hailey Conroy 10, and her mother Patricia Baranyai, at the Hospital for Sick Chil- to organize the Hearts for Hailey and the bake sions, Hailey’s walking improved. But then dren. Conroy was diagnosed with leukemia in Nov. 2017. sale that was attached to our movie night a few came spells of random fevers and a rash that ap- weeks ago,” she said. peared when she was in the sun. Me page (www.gofundme.com/healingforhai- Valentine’s Day. Students Zauraiz Khan, 12, and Jackson Gra- Eventually she was diagnosed and started ley). Eager students gathered on the second floor ham, 11, held their own little fundraiser during treatment right away. Through it all, Hailey has remained both to buy red hearts for their friends. Boxes filled Light Up the Night for Hailey. They sold origi- “We just finished three months of treatment,” brave and resilient. to the brim also included free pink hearts that nal artwork and decorated cups with apple juice Baranyai said. “The first month was not too bad, “She has a lot of fears that she has to face students used to send special Valentine’s Day and homemade butterbeer. but the next two months were more difficult be- a lot, but she’s facing them even though she’s messages to Hailey. The proceeds from all the events will go to cause sometimes it was four days a week. There scared,” her mother said. “She’s a really positive “This is something we thought would be Hailey’s family to help pay their bills. were a lot of spinal taps and chemo.” and joyous person.” a great initiative to support a member of our Baranyai is touched by the show of support. To be with Hailey through all her treatments, Hailey has so much love for singing and mu- school family, and we really want to help Hai- “This school year, I had on my mind that I Baranyai has had to shift her focus from her job sic, she was given the nickname Haileybird. ley and her family in this really difficult time,” wanted to do more for the school, to raise funds. where she runs her own jewellery-making busi- It’s because she’s a very musical girl, said Bailey said. Then this happened with Hailey and the tables ness and sells jewellery at shows to support Hai- Bailey, who has organized fundraisers includ- School principal Cathy McAleese spoke of have turned and they’re doing so much for us,” ley and older brother Oliver Conroy. ing Hearts for Hailey and Light Up the Night the support from teachers and students to Hai- she said. Hailey’s father Kevin Conroy had previously for Hailey. ley’s family. “So I feel guilty because I had intended to do assisted Baranyai during the shows, but he could During Hearts for Hailey, which took place “I think the school has a real sense of com- something for the school and instead it’s the oth- no longer help out after falling ill. To help pay Feb. 5, 7 and 9, handmade paper hearts were munity and they want to help. The students and er way around, but at the same time I’m incred- for family bills, Baranyai has set up a Go Fund sold at Gledhill Junior Public School as part of staff come together. They support one of their ibly appreciative.” Teeth could be the answer to solving the planter bodies mystery

Cont’d. from page 1 termine what happened to an man’s wife. After burying her in house on his property.” individual or individuals found. the backyard, the man panicked Herb Baumeister of Indiana “Teeth really are the ideal and changed his mind. was the prime suspect in the thing to find,” Nafte said. “They put [the wife] in the disappearances of several gay Dentists in Canada have a trunk of the car and he and men from the Indianapolis area. legal obligation to comply with the babysitter and the children The remains of 11 men were records requests made by coro- drove, went on a road trip,” found on his property. ners’ offices for criminal inves- Nafte said. “They stopped mid- Baumeister fled to Sarnia, tigations. way and dumped her body in Ont. in 1996, where he com- By narrowing down charac- the desert — it may have been mitted suicide before the case teristics like race, gender and in Utah.” could be taken to trial. age, forensic anthropologists The change in environment When it comes to excava- can comb through dental records mummified the body, so the fo- tions with multiple remains, and hopefully find a match. rensic team Nafte was working similar to what was going on Other medical records like with was able to use facial re- inside the green tent on Mallory X-rays and DNA samples that construction. Crescent in Leaside, Nafte has are either in databases or a The case took years to solve been through the complex pro- match from an immediate fami- because of the lack of central- cess firsthand. ly member can also be used. Ellen Samek / The Observer ized information in the U.S. “It’s got to be done very But what happens when a Dr. Myriam Nafte, a forensic anthropologist, sits with her dog Spartacus. Sparta- “She was in storage for quite methodically. You never exca- victim isn’t from this juris- cus, a Belgian Malinois, is a retired law enforcement canine. a bit of time before everybody vate with a big deep excavator; diction, perhaps from a coun- was communicating around the you’re going in the shovels and try from the other side of the could submit records.” state about it,” she said. picks and surface material and world? Two of McArthur’s In Canada, databases and the When she speaks about the brushes and things like that,” alleged victims, Selim Esen circulation of information that cases she has worked on in her she said. “You don’t want to and Majeed Kayhan, were im- can assist in criminal investiga- career, Nafte makes clear fo- be digging and breaking bones. migrants from Turkey and Af- tions tends to be more central- rensic anthropology is a team Some of our bones are very del- ghanistan respectively. ized. The RCMP has a database effort. This is where television icate and tiny: our wrist bones, “We can get medical and for tracking firearms and Cana- gets it wrong, she says. our ankle bones.” dental records from other coun- da has a national database list- “It’s never just that one rock A process called “chain of tries. Usually homicide inves- ing missing persons cases from Ellen Samek / The Observer star of a person that stands custody” tracks each bone tigators would be looking for across the country. Nafte uses anatomical specimens of a foot and spine above all and has this epiphany that’s found at a forensic scene. that sort of material. With the In the United States, solving for teaching purposes. of the discovery of who did it Keeping physical evidence internet, that’s not as lengthy cases involving missing per- and how,” she said. “People are safe is crucial. as it used to be,” Nafte said. “If sons can be more complicated. missing people, potential per- She recounts a case she specialists. We all come togeth- Once transported to the we suspect the remains belong “It’s state by state. Rarely do petrators, etc. It does happen, worked on in upstate New York, er. We have to work together morgue, forensic anthropolo- to an individual and we are they communicate what’s going but it requires a real co-ordinat- in which man and the family’s to put the pieces of the puzzle gists like Nafte can start to de- in touch with his family, they on in different states regarding ed effort,” Nafte said. babysitter conspired to kill the together.” By D.J.Llewellyn The Observer Friday, February 23, 2018 The East York Observer NEWS 5 Avid gardener immersed in plant paradise

By KASY PERTAB The Observer

There are over 22,000 species of plants in South Africa, and Anna Leggatt set out to see them all. Leggatt shared her recent journey with the East York Garden Club, as well as her encoun- ters with other life forms along the way. A member of the local club herself, she was more than happy to show several photos of each plant and flower she saw during her trip. The plants varied from orchids to lilies, and even to some aloe and succulents. Since she car- ries a degree in botany, Leggatt described each plant by its scientific name. Those names included Rhodohypoxis rubella, Disa porrecta, Gladiolus dalenii, and more. When asked how she remembers each name, Leggatt explained that she almost always had a plant expert accompany her on her travels. “Our group was provided with a list of different plants, and if you weren’t quite sure which Brandon Wong/Toronto Observer were which, you’d Google it and hope the right Toronto Tool Library co-founder Ryan Dyment relaxes at the branch’s East York location, which also offers board games and sporting gear. one would turn up,” she said. One of the world’s six floral kingdoms is en- tirely contained within South Africa. “There are more bulbous plants there than Tool Library still open for business anywhere else in the world,” Leggatt said of the Cape Floral Kingdom. Crowdfunding campaign comes there,” said co-founder Ryan Dyment. and partner Lawrence Alvarez first launched in Leggatt grew up in England near Stratford- Unexpected permits and audits added to the Parkdale in 2012, has helped numerous home- on-Avon, and built her own rock garden when to the rescue of library’s three struggle, which was when the store turned to owners with renovation projects over the years. she was only 12. crowdfunding as an alternative source of in- “There are people who have been able to fix She was recently awarded the 2017 Garden branches, including one in E.Y. come. up their homes that wouldn’t have been able Writers Association’s silver medal for her ar- By BRANDON WONG “We try to do the best we can for free, but to afford it otherwise or don’t have the space ticle “Dandelion — Is it a weed?” She has The Observer we can’t always do it, so that’s what we needed to store everything that they wanted,” Dyment written pieces for Toronto Botanical Garden, the money for,” Dyment said. “Fortunately, our said. Landscape Ontario and The Globe and Mail. Thanks to a successful crowdfunding campaign, supporters made that happen.” The Danforth Avenue branch, the largest of Fellow East York Garden Club member Mo- the Toronto Tool Library is still the go-place for As well as grants, the store also depends on the library’s three locations (the Hillcrest branch nique Gauthier mentioned that she, too, will East Yorkers looking to borrow a power drill or membership fees, which range from $50 to is on St. Clair Avenue West), has a wood shop soon be going to South Africa to visit the ex- belt sander. $100 a year. complete with 3D printers and a laser cutter. It travagant plants. The library, which has a branch on Danforth They’ve been increased slightly to help with offers community nights on Wednesdays where When asked about her experience at the Avenue in East York, is a non-profit organiza- expenses, the co-founder said, but it can be dif- the public can learn woodworking for free. event, Gauthier replied, “Anna’s really great. tion that provides members with access to tools ficult to find a fair balance. “It’s a really unique service in the city and I We haven’t seen a presentation like this in for construction projects. “If you’re not winning on new things and don’t know anybody else that does it,” Dyment a while.” It was facing closure after the grants it relies we’re not winning on convenience, which we said. This is the third time that Leggatt has visited on to operate fell through, but has been able to can never win, you have to win on something The crowdfunding campaign is still open for South Africa in hopes of finding as many of the raise $38,613 through an Indiegogo campaign. else,” Dyment said. “Price is the best thing that those interested in supporting the cause. Visit plants species as she can. “We missed all the grants we applied for this we can control to win on.” “Keep the Tool Library Alive!” for more infor- “It’s like a paradise,” she said. “It really is year. There’s not that many to apply for out The Toronto Tool Library, which Dyment mation. the most wonderful place.” Skateboarding making an impact in church basement

By D.J LLEWELLYN “I know quite a few tricks, but You get a real sense of that when The Observer skateboarding can be very much a talking to the older kids who volun- mental battle; what’s difficult for me teer and help out. One of them, Kalen Some of the students are practising might come easily to someone else,” Dennis-Cartasano, 15, says it’s about standing on their skateboards with- Presswalla says. “However, the most more than simply honing his skills in out falling. Others are doing ollies — basic trick, the ollie (jumping in the air the sport he loves. jumping with the board under their with the skateboard), is probably my “Coming here helped me be in- feet — and getting serious on the in- favourite.” spired to help others. I used to skate door ramp. Once kids can balance on their all the time for myself and on my own It’s another Saturday morning skateboards and push off comfortably, until my friends would show up,” he class with Yash Presswalla, who of- the ollie is the first trick they work on. says. “I started helping just to pass the fers skateboarding classes to young There is definitely a sense of order de- time and it made me feel real good.” people aged six to 16. spite all the falls, scrapes and botched In a place where the sounds of He’s been teaching the sport around tricks in the class. churchgoers fill the halls above, the Toronto for more than a decade, and Skateboarding is only one part of laughter of friends, the smacking of during the winter months, the lessons what participants learn here. Perse- boards on hardwood ramps and pings don’t stop. They’re simply moved verance, self-confidence and other life off metal rails echo below. There are from the local skate parks outside to skills mean just as much. plenty of falls and injuries in this sport, an unexpected place, the basement of “The most rewarding part of teach- even among experienced skaters, but Danforth Church. ing skateboarding is watching a child’s according to Dennis-Cartasano, it’s all Today, Presswalla is teaching kick confidence take form and grow,” worth it. flips and board slides. That’s for the Presswalla says. “We make it a point to “I’ve broken my hand, tore up both more experienced kids, though. Most address those feelings of accomplish- my ankles, but I love it,” he says. D.J. Llewellyn/Observer are still learning the basics before tack- ment and offer tools to build on them, Down here, it’s clear he’s not the Yash Presswalla teaches a few of his young students the basics of skate- ling the harder stuff. both on and off the skateboard.” only one. boarding at Danforth Church. 6 OPINION Friday, February 23, 2018 The East York Observer n COLUMNS n EDITORIALS Putting down the phone Are you addicted to your has said spending less time dom encourages you to be In praise of drivers phone? on Facebook is a good thing. creative. The absence of your You’ve asked yourself this But he also just launched a phone can force you to think Who wants to be stuck behind a car that isn’t moving? Or a too-timid driver who steadfastly question in one form or anoth- Facebook chat app designed deliberately. refuses to enter an intersection under any circumstances, blocking traffic? er. Your phone is undoubtedly for children. The first step is awareness. Yes, it sounds irritating. a productivity-enhancing, Discussions on cutting back There are apps that accurate- How about crossing the street in front of a moving car, in a snowstorm, unsure if the car communication-enabling, in- smartphone usage often take ly record just how much time will stop for the traffic light telling you it’s your turn to walk? formation-processing, knowl- the slant of “you have you spend on your phone, Now, imagine if those cars had no drivers. edge database of a machine. a problem, and so you and what apps you spend That driverless cars are coming down the pike is inevitable. We have been promised they It’s also a hub for platforms need to deny yourself that time on. The numbers won’t be a threat to other drivers, and all but guarantee safer roads for everyone else – pe- and all of their business mod- something you like.” will likely be surprising destrians, cyclists, commercial vehicles and first responders. We have been assured of how els centre on holding as much That’s not even if you brushed off the liberating this technology will be to seniors who cannot drive, as if they couldn’t be passen- of your time as possible. always results of the Smart- gers as things are. I recently came across the best phone Compulsion Toronto city council has climbed into Google’s passenger seat, it seems. From Uber’s something called the Smart- motivation. Test. aggressive approach to its transportation business it’s partly funded by Google to the “smart” phone Compulsion Test. Think of it Start with small neighbourhood planned by the tech behemoth for Toronto’s eastern central waterfront, to the By answering 15 yes-or-no this way: for steps. Keep your deployment of self–driving vehicles on Toronto streets last August, our city has become a questions, you’ll find out if all the time phone on silent veritable incubator for Google endeavours and data-gathering. your phone usage is in the you spend, mode. Turn off Kathleen Wynne’s Liberal government has proposed accelerating its 10-year plan to phase normal range or if you should non-produc- notifications for in driverless vehicles. Her government is even open to platooning, in which commercial vehi- consider seeing a mental tively, on your social media, cles form artificial-intelligence controlled convoys. health professional specializ- phone, you could or delete apps Nationally, a Senate subcommittee has expressed concerns about safety precautions and ing in behavioural addiction. be doing better and use browser cyber-security issues such as hacking the driverless cars which already communicate with Yes, that’s an actual survey things. Things versions. each other. Ultimately, these cars will be programmed either to stop for obstructions or to result, and I achieved it. you’ve been Reduce the number make life or death decisions on our roads. Granted, the survey was creat- putting off; things of downloaded games, There are related concerns. Will irate pedestrians, cyclists and road-raging drivers be able to ed by David Greenfield, who you haven’t had the and put remaining ones vandalize driverless cars, rendering them dangerous or immovable until the vehicles are taken runs the Center for Internet chance to try. Work. out of sight of the home somewhere for repairs? Will cars with AI designed for suburban America have trouble navi- and Technology Addiction. Or relax. Whatever. page. gating Toronto streets with its aggressive drivers and often scofflaw pedestrians and cyclists? Prominent figures partially Scrolling through If you can do that, While there may be drivers on stand-by in Toronto’s self-driving vehicles, the goal is to responsible for our smart- tweets or photos you can try something have AI take over all aspects of operation. As it stands, there are difficulties associated with phone dependence have also can keep your brain harder, like putting your the human-AI partnership behind the wheel. Ian Reagan, representing the Insurance Institute expressed concern. in a state of constant phone away when you for Highway Safety, an American organization, said there have been problems when “drivers Apple CEO Tim Cook. distraction. It’s hard meet friends, family and can fail to notice when systems reach their limits, and can have trouble retaking control of the Tristan Harris, former Google to stomach workmates. vehicle, especially in emergency situations.” executive. Even the head of sometimes, Fran Mbadiwe You get the Just because driverless cars are on their way, doesn’t mean we are obliged to rush them to Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg, but bore- drift. our streets. Following the brief Waymo–Uber civil trial last week, emails surfaced featuring ousted Uber CEO Travis Kalanick claiming “we need … to take all the shortcuts we can” and “I just see this as a race we need to win” with regard to getting Uber’s self-driving cars to market before the competition. No more Logan Paul, please Ontarians don’t owe Uber anything. Let’s not join the rush simply because Silicon Valley millionaires want us to hurry. YouTube finally demonetized of Communication at the our broader community’s ~ Erik Twight Logan Paul’s videos. University of Central Florida concerns.” Unfortunately, it’s only and psychiatrist Dr. David YouTube is aware of the temporary. And we’re partially Henderson point to biological concentration of contentious to blame. functions that explain why content on its channel, but it Logan Paul, a 22-year-old we cannot look away from still provides an excuse. Time to modernize YouTube star with over tragic or disgusting content in In the blogpost, Bardin 16 million subscrib- entertainment media. chalks up YouTube’s lack of a Under the helm of Mayor John Tory, Toronto has been swept up in streetscaping, the process ers, has been under Although there are evolu- better response to scandalous of upgrading infrastructure and the modernization of roadways and sidewalks for better use. fire for his Dec. 31 tionary and biological reasons videos to its belief “in the East York will reap the benefits of the overall project, as the community will receive mil- video of Japan’s for why we continue to watch freedom of expression,” and lions in funding to conduct key road and safety improvements over the next two years. Due “suicide forest” controversial content, “a responsibility to protect the to the devastating floods East York has endured in the past, the project will include the con- and, more they are no excuse for entire community of creators, struction of a rain garden, additional sewers and the realignment of water mains. recently, for how long YouTube took viewers and advertisers from These improvements will help ensure that local residents and business don’t again see the tasering a dead to remove advertising these rare but often damaging costly damage associated with flooding. rat. from Paul’s videos. situations.” The project will also see an additional increase to pedestrian safety efforts through the He has shown At the core, when That’s fine, but it’s too late. reconfiguration of the O’Connor Drive and Woodbine Avenue and O’Connor and St. Clair that, despite Paul gains viewers and YouTube continued to allow Avenue intersections, improvements geared towards creating a safer neighbourhood. revealing outra- subscribers, YouTube a creator to provide content The entire revitalization project, while pricey at an estimated $17 million, is necessary for geous content — ultimately benefits in despite a pattern of reckless the future of the East York community. It’s particularly important to the development of local including a dead revenue. behaviour. businesses, which in the past have been negatively affected by flooding. The project follows body — in his It’s a business. The choice to upload a in the footsteps of major metropolitan cities like New York City and fellow Toronto neigh- vlog, he is able Why would it want video of a dead body in Aoki- bourhoods such as Roncesvalles Village and the Annex. Streetscaping will see East York to make money to remove a source of gahara Forest in Japan should residents receive the necessary improvements needed for their community to thrive. through viewership money? have been enough to suspend Toronto has had a successful history with similar infrastructure modernization projects. and subscribers. Ariel Bardin, YouTube’s this creator indefinitely. In 2010, Roncesvalles Avenue underwent a streetscaping process that saw the elimination of But why? Though vice-president of product That didn’t happen. parking spaces and the expansion of pedestrian sidewalks, and last fall saw the permanent many purportedly hate management, admitted in We must take it upon our- addition of bike lanes on Bloor Street. what he does, a lot of us a blogpost that the selves to be aware of careless Both adjustments changed each neighbourhood for the better, allowing for safer and more still watch his content. site’s response to creators and simply ignore accessible means of moving around for pedestrians and cyclists alike. Researchers such controversial content their content, without thinking East York needs similar improvements in order to become one of the top neighbourhoods as Bridget Rubenking was sometimes “slow twice. in Toronto. at the and didn’t So, if you know a video was ~ Daniel Samuel Nicholson Louise Palma always created by Logan Paul, don’t School address press play.

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 PRODUCTION EDITORS Ave., Rm. 149. Mailing address: P.O. Box 631, Stn. A, Eric McMillan Mouhamad Rachini Louise Allyn Palma Toronto, M1K 5E9. E-mail c/o [email protected]. Lindy Oughtred PHOTO EDITOR Ellen Samek Jessica Lam Telephone 416-289-5107, fax 416-289-5111. We welcome John Sakamoto OBSERVER your input, including letters to the editor. Friday,Friday, FebruaryDecember 23, 15, 2018 2017 The The East East York York Observer Observer FEATURES 7 You’ve come a long way, Danforth

City of Toronto Archives Jennifer Teixeira / The Observer The view of Danforth Avenue looking east has changed substantially in the last 100 years. In the photo on the left, the road is unpaved and buildings are few and far between. Today (right), the area is much more built up and features a variety of stores and restaurants for the community’s use. TDSB helps ready students with disabilities for work By KASY PERTAB “It can be scary because there are The Observer stereotypes and stigmas associated with people who have disabili- The Toronto District School Board is ties,” Dorder said. “So the students have taking action to help youths with dis- that fear of judgment, fear of being un- abilities transition into the workforce able to perform.” after completing their education. When asked how schools could bet- In a recent story in the Toronto Star, ter prepare students for post-secondary high school graduates with disabilities life, Dorder said it helps if they know talked about not having confidence what they will be facing. or the proper skills when entering the “It’s important to help students be workplace. The TDSB says it has pro- aware of what’s out there,” she said. grams to make this transition easier for “What’s also good are programs them. that provide equitable studies that will Cheryl Darling/Leaside Curling Club Every student with a disability will help them to be aware of what exact- Team Epping poses with the Recharge With Milk Tankard it won Feb. 4 in Huntsville. have an individual education plan, said ly they’re walking into.” Lori Moore, centrally assigned principal Fortunately, the TDSB has programs for special education at the TDSB, in an to do just that, Moore said. Schools interview with The Observer. are equipped with pre-employment co- It’s about Epping time, team That includes transition planning, in op placements for the students to aid which the students are informed of their with the transition. By CLAIRE MCINROY “Curling is already tremendously popular in Leaside expectations prior to leaving secondary In these placements, students can The Observer and East York,” Liitela said. “This result, combined with school. discover what kind of work they want the additional coverage the sport will receive during the “The students would work with the to do and how to make the process go Team Ontario has found a home in East York. Olympics, will only bring more attention to the sport.” school staff to see what the exit will smoothly. Accommodations would be Leaside Curling Club’s own Team Epping hit, drew (Canada won a gold medal last week in mixed doubles look like from school, and the entry into made for each student, whether they and swept its way to the top earlier this month in Hunts- curling.) the next pathway,” Moore said. have a learning or physical disability. ville, winning the Ontario Recharge with Milk Tankard Along with skip Epping, the team comprises third Many young people with disabilities “Quite often, students who have been trophy over 17-time champion Glenn Howard, 5-1. Mat Camm, second Patrick Janssen and lead Tim March. can feel uneasy or discouraged when in a co-op placement will lead to em- This was skip John Epping’s 11th appearance at the Team Epping has become well known at the club, as well diving into work after school. ployment post-graduation,” Moore said. Tankard. The team will go on to represent team Ontario at as in the community. Susanne Dorder, disabilities counsel- The TDSB also features Centres of this year’s Brier. It will be its first appearance at a Brier, “Leaside’s response has been overwhelmingly posi- lor for the Centre for Students with Dis- Innovation for Skills and Technologies, and a first for Leaside. tive,” Liitela said. “John is well known at the club, having abilities (CSD) at Centennial College’s where all students, including those with “(It) was instant excitement and joy,” Epping said of been involved in numerous clinics run by our education East York campus, has come across a disabilities, develop skills to make it the team’s Feb. 4 victory. “I’ve been close many times committee, as well as doing private lessons.” number of students who feel this way. easier for their lives post-secondary. before, and it’s nice to finally get to the Brier.” Bringing the trophy back to Leaside is something Ep- Team Epping will have a chance to represent not only ping is looking forward to. Team Ontario, but the whole of Leaside. “It means everything, really,” he said. “The club has “Team Epping is not the only Ontario champion from been so good to our team and accommodating. Every time Investigation ongoing: Police the club, but it is the first Leaside team to win the Men’s I step in the club it’s a warm feeling from the members. Cont’d. from page 1 during the month-long investigation of Tankard and advance to the national Brier,” said Leaside We really appreciate their support and can’t wait to make the residential property that yielded six Curling Club general manager Paivi Liitela. “(It’s) great them proud at the Brier.” Cres. property in Leaside linked to sets of partial human remains. for Leaside.” That feeling is mutual. Bruce McArthur’s landscaping busi- Two weeks ago, police official- Members of the club are excited that one of their own “John is such an ambassador for the sport and for the ness, Artistic Design. ly identified the remains of Andrew has come so far. club,” Liitela said. “He and the entire team have the full A portion of the drain removed from Kinsman, a man who had been report- “When I heard John had won, I was absolutely ecstat- support of the membership.” in front of the property has been sent ed missing last spring, among those ic,” Liitela said. “(We’re) so proud of the team.” The team will be heading to Regina to represent Ontar- for testing, Gray said. found in planters that had been re- As one of two curling clubs in East York (the East York io at the 2018 Brier, March 3-11. The winner of the Brier Mallory Crescent has been the ob- moved from the residence for forensic Curling Club is the other), it’s no surprise that this is ex- will represent Canada at the 2018 World Curling Champi- ject of media and police attention examination. citing news for the community. onships in Las Vegas, March 31-April 8. 8 NEWS Friday, February 23, 2018 The East York Observer Lawsuit keeps pressure on for new French high school

By DAVID LYNCH court system,” he said. same at all,” he said. The Observer Conseil scolaire Viamonde, the With renovations and the time French public school board for south- needed to acquire the school, the A new French-language high school western Ontario, believes the neigh- opening could be some ways off. in the east end of Toronto is closer to bourhood definitely has a need. “As we see it right now, the soon- becoming a reality, but that doesn’t “All the students living in the east est could be 2021, and the soonest mean everyone is content. end of Toronto don’t have access to is if everything goes smoothly and Though the province has allocated a secondary school, so this is why fast,” Francoeur said. “If it’s not, it $16 million for the school, a coalition we want to open a secondary school could take even longer.” representing parents from the Beach- in the Danforth region,” said Claire While Viamonde isn’t directly in- es-East York area is keeping alive a Francoeur, Viamonde’s director of volved with the lawsuit, “We do be- lawsuit against the government. communications and marketing. lieve that the pressure the parents are The action is the result of parents The school is expected to have putting on the government is a good wanting a new French-language around 500 students, which for this thing,” L’Heureux said. school in their area that is equal to area would be quite large, she said. Even if the school becomes a re- their English-language counterparts. Right now, Viamonde’s preferred ality, however, it’s only part of the “We want to make sure the school option is the former Greenwood Sec- solution. is built, so we’ll keep the pressure on ondary School, at 24 Mountjoy Ave. “We want to ensure that a) the until the school is constructed,” said just south of the Danforth. The build- school is provided and b) when the lawyer Nicolas Rouleau, who is rep- ing is still owned by the Toronto Dis- school is provided, it’s equal to what resenting the parents coalition. trict School Board. the English language students have,” Rouleau doesn’t necessarily want Extensive renovations would be said parents-coalition lawyer Rou- Kasy Pertab/Toronto Observer it to go that far. needed to get the building up to the leau. “We’re giving the government standards of Viamonde and today’s “We’ve agreed to hold off on mov- Political hotcakes a chance to respond to it and we’re standards for schools, said the board’s ing forward with the lawsuit, for now. Mayor John Tory and Don Valley West councillor Jon Burnside help giving the government a chance to chair, Jean-François L’Heureux. We’re not dropping it altogether, but flip pancakes during a Mardi Gras/pancake supper held recently at provide us a school without using the “The building will not look the we’re not pushing it hard.” St. Cuthbert’s Anglican Church in East York. Founders of Bowery Project turning vacant lots into food By RASHIDA POWANKUMAR sembled and relocated within 24 hours,” which The Observer aligns with the mission to “create opportunities for urban agriculture through the temporary use Rachel Kimel and Deena DelZotto, co-founders of vacant lots.” of the Bowery Project, love working with plants. Environmental sustainability is important to They started the non-profit organization be- DelZotto, a mother of three, who explained the cause they were interested in growing food and importance of thinking twice before eating un- educating the public about healthy eating. The healthy meals. Evergreen Brick Works and greenhouse, which “I think that once you have a child, you re- specializes in “sustainable practices,” was one of alize that everything that goes into their mouths the spaces that inspired them. becomes a part of their body,” she said. “I think “‘Bowery’ actually means ‘farm’ in Dutch. you become more aware of the process because So we wanted to come up with a name not too you see how it grows. Maybe you will eat it and simplistic as ‘green in the city’ or ‘green spaces want to taste it.” downtown,” Kimel said at a meeting at the Lea- The Bowery Project has several sources of side Public Library in East York on Feb. 8. funding, The Ontario Trillium Foundation, fund- “In New York, the Bowery was the road that raising events and chefs among them. It benefits led from the settlements to the farms. (That’s) many diverse communities, including a Toronto why we named our project after the New York Community Housing neighbourhood for single City street.“ mothers for which Kimel and DelZotto’s orga- The Bowery Project would not be what it is nization helps provide three healthy meals a day. today without milk crates. All of its produce is The founders of the project are looking for grown in “re-purposed milk crates that sit above summer students and volunteers to continue ed- the land,” its website explains. ucating the public and turning more vacant lots Rashida Powankumar/Toronto Observer The crates are light and mobile, making it easy into farms. If you’re interested, you can find Deena DelZotto and Rachel Kimel speak about the Bowery Project at Leaside for anyone to lift. more information at www.boweryproject.ca/ Public Library in East York. “A farm of up to 5,000 crates can be disas- what-you-can-do. Michael Garron Hospital redevelopment now underway By JOSEPH RANNI new eight-storey patient care centre at the square feet of space to the hospital. Another cornerstones erected during the many build- The Observer corner of Coxwell and Sammon avenues. 100,000 square feet of existing space will be ing phases. Formerly known as Toronto East In 2021, the Ken and Marilyn Thomson renovated. General Hospital, the facility opened in 1929. After years of planning, work is finally be- Patient Care Centre and four underground “The contract is valued at $411 million,” “The design embraces our rich history, ginning on the redevelopment of East York’s levels of parking should be completed. said Hannah Ward, co-ordinator, Corpo- incorporates best practices and paves the Michael Garron Hospital. Also scheduled for that year: rate Communications, Redevelopment and way for our continued success delivering The preliminary step involves the relo- • the demolition of the A, B, C, F wings Accreditation at the hospital. It was awarded outstanding care,” said Sarah Downey, the cation of the public parking lot to Sammon and the D-wing podium this month to EllisDon Infrastructure MGH hospital’s president and CEO. Avenue, west of Coxwell Avenue, which is • renovation of the rest of the existing Inc. The work is expected to be completed in now underway. spaces Several of the hospital’s historic features 2023-2024. The project’s official start will happen in • construction of the front entrance; some will be preserved, including the stained-glass Michael Garron Hospital will stay fully the spring, when the E wing and the F wing landscaping memorial windows in the main Coxwell functional during the redevelopment pro- podium will be demolished to construct a The project will add around 550,000 lobby; memorial plaques in the lobby; and cess.