Voice of the Community since 1949 Save the date! December 2018 Vol. 03, No 10 The next monthly meeting of the CCRA will be on January 8, 2019, 7:15 p.m., at Port Union C.C. All Centennial Centennial News residents are welcome. A publication of the Centennial Community and Recreation Association www.ccranews.com Merry Christmas Seasonal events you won’t want and Happy New Year! to miss

Community Carol Sing The annual Community Carol Sing, co-sponsored by St. Dunstan of Canter- bury Anglican Church and the Centennial Community Recreation Association, will be held at the church (56 Lawson Rd.) on Sunday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m. This is a joyful gathering filled with Christmas songs and carols and amusing stories and videos. It’s a popular event so come early to get a seat. Tree Lighting Party The Second Annual Community Tree Lighting Party, organized by Alan and Jodi Gear, takes place on Saturday, December 8 at the Port Union Community Centre (5450 Lawrence Ave. E). The fun gets underway at 5 p.m. with the tree lighting starting at 7:30. They’ve got 30 vendors, photos with Santa, face painting, games, hot chocolate Or maybe we should say Meowy Christmas and Yappy New Year! Many thanks to Ron Craig, Ashley and Don Paul, Heather Courneya, and a Christmas movie. This year the event Margot Russell, Stephanie Lake, Zinta Erdmanis, Lucie and Al Megahy, and Linda and Tom Carlton for contributing their festive pet photos. will take place in the gym as well as in the hallway so there will be more room to move around. Vendor fees and money raised from Community supports family affected by illness the draw and the raffle will be going to a By Kathy McGrath staphylococcus infection that, despite local safe house for women and children. treatment with antibiotics, worked There will be lots of food to buy because ess than a year ago, the its way into his heart and brain. it all gets underway around dinnertime. Theodorou family lived like The illness, which produced flu-like Please bring a non-perishable food item many others in our community, symptoms, caused a stroke, a brain or a new unwrapped gift, especially for Lbusy with work and focused on raising aneurysm and required two open- 12-16 year olds. The food will be donated a young daughter. Bill, the family’s heart surgeries to replace a heart valve. to the fire department and the toys to the main breadwinner, ran a heating and Needless to say, their family life has police for their food and toy drives. cooling business and his wife, Karen, changed dramatically. worked as an integration specialist, Bill, 49, is finally home after often commuting by GO train. spending many months in hospital, but Bill Theodorou, his wife Karen Firmeza All of that changed last spring a long scar running over his scalp is a Theordorou, left, and their daughter Kira. when Bill fell ill with a persistent » continued on page 8

The Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities is our nearest food bank and it served about 1,800 households last year. Learn more about this vital resource on page 11. 2 CCRA CENTENNIAL NEWS - DECEMBER 2018 Vol 03, No. 10 CCRA Centennial News CCRA Executive Team Publishing Policy Advertising Rates - * NEW sizes available April 2016

President – Kathy Rowe 416.283.9987 CCRA Centennial News invites submissions of articles, Size Per Issue Prepaid Vice President – Gerry Divaris 416.540.9569 signed letters, art and photography from Centennial 10 issues Treasurer – Zinta Erdmanis 416-724-6893 community members and all elected representatives. Business Card 50.00 475.00 We will consider all submissions for publication that are Distribution – Wanda Wierzbicki 416-282.2951 Eighth 75.00 712.50 information-based and relevant to the community. Not- Quarter 125.00 1,187.50 Advertising – Kelsey Dorval 416.724.8693 for-profit and community groups are also invited to sub- Three-eights 185.00 1,757.50 Community Events – Heather Lemieux 416.284.4751 mit event listings to be published free of charge, space Police Liaison – Marilyn Hodge 416.284.9984 permitting. CCRA Centennial News reserves the right to Half Page (horizontal only) 220.00 2,090.00 Planning – Rob Elbertsen 416-282.2951 decline material considered to be unpaid advertising, Half Page Inside Cover 250.00 2,375.00 Membership – Denise Bacon 416-282.3561 politically partisan or likely to offend. CCRA reserves Full Page 400.00 3,800.00 the right to edit all submitted material. The opinions Secretary – Elizabeth Todoroska Front Page Banner 200.00 N.A. expressed in CCRA Centennial News do not represent Inside Page Banner 100.00 950.00 Youth Representative – Lakshmi Anandaraj the views of the CCRA Executive. All submissions will be Members at Large – Jeff Forsyth 416.282.8346 considered for both print and online publication unless Notice to Advertisers – Jake Forsyth 416.282.8116 otherwise instructed by the author. CCRA will notify all authors prior to publication. Advertising copy must reach the CCRA no later than Newspaper and Web Team the 10th day of the preceding month for publication. Files should be in high resolution PDF, TIF, EPS or JPG To be published in CCRA Centennial News, articles must format for best results. Please e-mail your advertise- Editor – Kathryn Stocks 416.738-4848 reach the Communications team by the 15th day of the preceding month. To submit an article or suggest a ment to Kelsey Dorval at [email protected]. [email protected] story, please contact any member of the Executive by Cheques in the correct amount are to be addressed Contributing Editor – Kathy McGrath 647.523-1637 phone, or by e-mail to [email protected]. to “CCRA” and deposited in the CCRA mailbox at 5450 Design and Production – Don Lawrence Lawrence Ave. East, in the Port Union Recreation [email protected] Mailing address: Centre. lt is the advertiser’s responsibility to advise CCRA of any problems with an advertisement Advertising – Kelsey Dorval 416.724.8693 Centennial Community & Recreation Association 5450 Lawrence Ave. East, Scarborough ON M1C 3B2 before the 20th of the month in which the ad appears. For more about advertising, visit www.ccranews.com/advertising.html always joyful as I walk down the street Thanks, team! Not on the committee but equally Lights bring joy after dark and admire the twinkling important are Janice Bennink, Kelsey to darkest nights lights that keep the darkness at bay. As we bring you our last issue of the Dorval and Wanda Wierzbicki. Janice For those who suffer from seasonal year, I’d like to give a shout-out to writes the excellent e-blasts that go out By Kathryn Stocks affective disorder or depression, it’s our Communications Committee. to CCRA members between issues, It’s December, the darkest time of a tough time of year. So I encourage We have a solid team that works hard Kelsey does a superb job of selling the year in Canada. The only thing that everyone to try to put out some lights to come up with ideas, write stories ads that keep this publication going, brightens up those long nights is just for their cheering effect. And if and take photos for this paper and I’d and Wanda capably manages the dis- our seasonal tradition of decorating you can’t do that, at least try to keep like to thank them for their efforts. tribution side so the papers arrive at with lights. Thanks to all those who your outside lights coming on earlier The committee includes Kathy Rowe, your door. They’re a terrific group and put up lights this year! Those lights and staying on later. The triumph of Kathy McGrath, Denise Bacon, Don I love working with them all! are so important right now and I’m light over darkness goes a long way to Lawrence and Jey Dharmaraj. brighten the season. www.ccranews.com Voice of the Community since 1949 3 President’s Message Seasons greetings, Centennial!

By Kathy Rowe of Sir Oliver Mowat C.I. Countless hours have been spent he CCRA is approaching supporting area events such as Win- its 70th anniversary and terfest, Earth Day, Highland Creek my first year as president is Heritage Day, the Port Union Tcoming to a close. I have to say that Waterfront Festival, the Summer I am humbled to be a part of such Concerts and the Pumpkin Parade. an integral and vital organization. 2018 has been a very rewarding This role continues to be a year indeed. I’d like to give a big welcome challenge and I am thanks to the CCRA executive for learning all the time! their hard work and support over Our executive committee is the past year. comprised of bright and caring individuals who give their time to Annual General Meeting stand up tirelessly for a community On November 21, we held our they call home. Over the years, the annual general meeting. The CCRA has achieved many remark- turnout was great and I am pleased able accomplishments in the name to announce that six residents have Executive members present at the November 21 AGM. Seated from left: Denise Bacon, Heather of protecting and supporting this come forward to join our board Lemieux, Kathy Rowe, Gerry Divaris, Marilyn Hodge. Standing from left: Lakshmi Anandaraj, Elizabeth Todoroska, Kelsey Dorval, Jeff Forsyth, Jake Forsyth, Zinta Erdmanis beautiful pocket of southeast Scar- for 2019. Thank you to Jennifer borough. Too many to mention! McKelvie for speaking to our This year has proven to be audience. Jennifer’s new role as always an enjoyable event and all so please stay tuned to our publi- yet another year of great strides councillor of Ward 25 begins in residents are welcome to attend. cations in the New Year for details for our group. The purchase of a December and we look forward to about the occasion. state-of-the-art bed for the Tony working with her. Spring Social Stacey Centre is at the top of this Please mark this date on your list. The CCRA also supported a Community Carol Sing calendars! Saturday, March 30 is the resident this year with a property The Community Christmas Carol date for our CCRA dinner/dance dispute. We have donated to the Sing at St. Dunstan of Canterbury event. We will likely be incorporat- In closing, I’d like to 2nd Highland Creek Scouts, and to Church will be held on Sunday, ing a 70th anniversary theme to the wish you all a safe and an award for a graduating student December 9 at 7:30 pm. This is evening. Planning has just begun, festive holiday season! 4 CCRA CENTENNIAL NEWS - DECEMBER 2018 Vol 03, No. 10 Port Union Library Robot Soccer combines coding, science and fun on PA Day

internal forces act on everyday objects and get creative to build clever additions to their robot. Coding, science and fun Holiday Closures: The library is closed on collide in this epic match-up! Game Dec. 25, Dec. 26 and Jan. 1, 2019. On Dec. on! For children ages 9-12 years. There 24 and Dec. 31 the library is open from 9:00 is a limit of 20 participants. Presented a.m.-1:00 p.m. by Logics Academy.

Upcoming Programs Toddler Time will be offered on Wednes- days, from 10:30-11:00 a.m. The PA Day Program on Dec. 7 from weekly program will run from Jan. 2:00-4:00 p.m.: Robot Soccer with 23 to Feb. 27, 2019, and will include Logics Academy mBot Robot Soccer: songs, stories, rhymes and fingerplays He shoots, he scores! It’s Robot for toddlers from 19 months to 3 Soccer! Using a powerful learn-to- years, with their parent or caregiver. code program (mBlock) and a versatile Register in person on Jan. 23 at 10:00 robot (mBot), students discover how a.m. There is a limit of 15 toddlers. computers think and use fundamental coding concepts to create a winning Monday Night at the Movies is a weekly computer program. Equal parts coding program for adults and it is held from and science, students also discover how 6:00-8:00 p.m. Come to enjoy some great films and meet new people. The movies are free and you are welcome to bring your own refreshments. The last movie night of 2018 is Dec. 17 and the program resumes on Jan. 7.

Knitting and Crocheting Drop-In is held on Saturday mornings, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Now is the time to complete your holiday projects and there are volunteers available to help you learn new skills and untangle difficult stitches. A variety of pattern books and magazines are available to borrow. The last meeting of 2018 is on Dec. 15 and the program resumes on Jan. 5.

9th Annual Bingo Marathon will be held on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2019 from 1:30-3:00 p.m. This multi-generation- al program is held to celebrate Family Literacy Month and is great fun for the whole family! Bring your friends to play Bingo, win book prizes and enjoy some time together at the library.

The Sun Life Museum and Arts Pass (MAP) allows your family to explore some of ’s cultural and arts treasures for free. Passes are available to adult library card holders beginning on Saturdays at 9:00 a.m. At the Port Union Library, passes are distributed for the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Toronto History Museums and the Textile Museum of Canada.

For more program information, consult our “What’s On” publi- cation, visit the Library website at www.torontopubliclibrary.ca or phone Answerline at 416-393-7131.

Submitted by Seema Datta, Senior Library Assistant, Port Union Library www.ccranews.com Voice of the Community since 1949 5 Port Union Library Profile Former Mowat grad is shaping the future By Kathy McGrath In 2011, he was selected one of flexibility to follow his passion.” with it at the school. She says Mowat The Next 36 entrepreneurial leaders Stephanie remembers her son also encouraged him to show lead- former Centennial resident in Canada, which gave him the ordering a welding kit and working ership in the community by helping has developed a new wearable opportunity to study entrepreneur- others. technology product that ship under the direction of established After Mowat, Stephen studied Acould change the way we interact with Canadian business experts. mechatronics on a Loran scholar- the world. In developing North, Stephen and ship at the University of Waterloo. Stephen Lake, who attended Sir his team were able to attract $140 To balance out his heavy academic Oliver Mowat Collegiate, is the CEO million in investment funding from schedule, he coached the university of a Kitchener-based corporation companies like Intel Capital and dragon boat team, an interest that called North, which makes custom- Amazon. They have filed 300 patents stemmed from Mowat’s strong dragon made smart glasses. and plan to invest $500 million in boat culture. The high-tech glasses, named research and development by 2030. After university, Stephen made his Focals, allow people to check the time Last month the Canadian government first venture into wearable technol- and date, view calendar reminders, pledged $24 million to help North ogy by launching the Myo armband, and check the weather, all in their field hire 185 employees (in addition to a product that allows users to control of vision. They also provide intuitive 450 current staff), increase research technology wirelessly with hand or navigation and work with Alexa, and development and expand its wrist movements. The company is Amazon’s popular voice assistant. manufacturing capabilities. now putting all its efforts into their Apart from their technical function, Stephen’s technological savvy and new optical product. the glasses could eliminate the hazards visionary thinking have afforded him Stephen Lake, who grew up in Centennial, is the The stakes are fairly high with this that ensue when people look down at the opportunity to host people like CEO of North, a Kitchener-based company that venture, since smart glasses have been their devices. astronaut Chris Hadfield and former has attracted millions in research funding for its tried before--and then abandoned--by Prime Minister Stephen Harper at his custom-made smart glasses called Focals, below. tech giants like Google. Fortunately Stephen, 28, along with partners Photo credit: Calyssa Pickles for North Matthew Bailey and Aaron Grant, company headquarters. Stephen is not afraid to tackle new spent four years developing the Stephen’s parents, Mike and challenges that may, intricate technology required to make Stephanie Lake, who still live in the one day, change human the product. neighbourhood, recognize the role development. He is While news of Stephen’s venture Mowat played in shaping their son. hopeful the product’s has been in the headlines of late, “I give Mowat credit for encour- stylish design catches on his talents have been evident for a aging both my children to do what with customers. while. In 2007, he was named one of they love and for challenging them to Focals, which cost Canada’s Top 20 Under 20, an award do it well,” says Stephanie. “Mowat’s $999 U.S. a pair, recognizing young people who have robotics and tech programs were are available in retail achieved high levels of innovation, stepping stones to where Stephen is stores in Toronto and leadership and achievement. now. The instructor gave him the Brooklyn, N.Y. 6 CCRA CENTENNIAL NEWS - DECEMBER 2018 Vol 03, No. 10 Community

Waterfront committee wins volunteer award Madison The Port Union Waterfront Johnstone Festival Committee won the volunteer group of the year wins CCRA award at the Scarborough District Annual Volunteer Rec- award ognition Night on November This year’s winner of the CCRA 15. Organized by Toronto William Dempsey award is Madison Parks, Forestry and Recre- Johnstone. The $250 prize goes to a ation, the event recognizes the student in Mowat’s graduating class vital role that volunteers play who displays strong community in building a healthier, more involvement and respect for the envi- welcoming city. More than 80 ronment. volunteers were presented with Madison was one of our writers on certificates of appreciation. the CCRA Centennial News last year. Here is the description She also wrote The Looking Glass, a of the waterfront festival play that won the BJ Castleman New committee from the program Play Award at the National Theatre pamphlet: “The Port Union In the photo from left to right: Ben Ryzebol (city parks supervisor ward 44 and the person who nominated the School Drama Festival in April. Waterfront Festival Committee group for the award), Karen Wright (committee treasurer), Kathy Rowe (CCRA ), Jada Pierre (committee volunteer The CCRA award was presented coordinator) and Ekron Malcom (committee chair). is a group of local citizens who during the school’s fall commence- meet on a regular basis to plan Committee members who were unable to attend the event: Paul Maguire, Gabriel Ng, Gary Dale, Angie Sheridan, Jon Hinz, Robert Hinz, Melanie Goldhar, Lance Smith, Blair Anderson and Jay Banerjei. ment ceremony on Nov. 2. this annual event, which is held in June. Attendance of up to 5,000 residents is expected each year!”

Smoke alarms will go to food bank users

Thousands of residents who use Toronto’s food banks are going to receive free smoke/carbon monoxide alarms in a new Project Zero initiative. The City of Toronto’s Fire Services, the Ontario Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council and Enbridge Gas Dis- tribution announced a partnership last month to improve home safety and bring fire-related and carbon-monox- ide-related deaths down to zero. Toronto Fire Services has received 1,026 combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms through Project Zero – a public education campaign that is providing more than 6,600 alarms to residents in 30 Ontario municipalities. Toronto Fire Services will be donating its allotment of alarms to the Daily Bread Food Bank for distribution to people in greatest need. www.ccranews.com Voice of the Community since 1949 7 Local politics Jennifer McKelvie excited about the next four years

By Kathryn Stocks her father was 20 when she was born 40 years ago. “We were very fortunate As of December 1, Jennifer McKelvie because there was affordable rental will be this ward’s new councillor. In a housing at that time.” This allowed recent interview, she said she is feeling her mother to go to college to become “gratitude for all the support I received a nurse when Jennifer was in elemen- from the community” and “excitement tary school. “Their success story is about what the next four years will very hard to replicate today,” she said. hold.” “The middle is being squeezed out of She will be ceremonially sworn in Toronto.” That’s why she’s excited that with all the other councillors at City Ward 25 Councillor-elect Jennifer McKelvie spoke at the CCRA’s annual general meeting on Nov. 21. Photo credit: Don Lawrence Mayor intends to focus on Hall on Dec. 4. One of the first things affordable housing as well as public on the agenda at the initial council those boards,” she said. Jennifer’s constituency office will be transit this term. meeting is how committees will be Jennifer will automatically be on located at Scarborough Civic Centre. She went to UTSC for her bach- restructured with the reduced number Scarborough Council because she is “Last I heard, five out of six council- elor’s degree in environmental science of councillors at city hall. With only a councillor in Scarborough, but she lors will have their offices there,” she and downtown to U of T’s St. George 25 councillors now, some committees won’t submit her choices for commit- said. This brings jobs to the civic centre campus for her masters and PhD. will have to be combined. They’ll also tees until after the restructuring has and it will enable her and her staff to Having her work based in the talk about the public appointment been decided. interact with community for the next four years process and ways to improve citizen Also to be other council- is a real plus for Jennifer. She and engagement with more residents on discussed early After travelling a lot in the lors and their her husband, Warren, moved to their boards. in December staff on Scarbor- their current house in Centennial Jennifer has been sitting on is staffing. last few years for her work, ough issues. In about 11 years ago and they have the Toronto Region Conservation More than the first month, two children, Colin, 14, who is in Authority as a citizen member and 50 resident she’s glad to be able to go there will be a Grade 9 at Mowat, and Caitlin, 11, hopes to be able to stay on as a coun- associations lot of training at who is in Grade 6 at Charlottetown. cillor. Right now there are five citizen are calling on home every night. city hall so the After travelling a lot in the last few members and eight councillors on the Toronto City office won’t be years for her work at Nuclear Waste TRCA, so they might switch that to Council to at up and running Management Organization and the have more citizens and fewer coun- least double the number of staff in regularly until the new year. Canadian Institute for Advanced cillors. “There’s a lot of possibility to councillors’ offices to help with the Jennifer grew up on the edge of Research, she’s glad to be able to go increase public engagement and have increased workload larger wards will Scarborough at Victoria Park and home every night and her family is a greater diversity of people sitting on bring. Lawrence. Her mother was 17 and looking forward to having her around. 8 CCRA CENTENNIAL NEWS - DECEMBER 2018 Vol 03, No. 10 Community

Community supports family affected by illness continued from page 1 reminder of the brain surgery he for him to regain his communica- underwent to contain the hemor- tion skills.” To that end, Bill recently rhage. started intensive speech therapy on While he has recovered from the top of cardiac therapy. Doctors say it paralysis that affected his right side, he could take him a year to recover. still suffers from aphasia, a condition Bill had many local customers and that makes speech extremely difficult. it has become evident how highly His cognitive functioning is still not they think of the affable contractor. what it used to be and, as might be When Bill’s friend posted the family’s expected, depression has set in. story on the Residents He has been unable to work for the Facebook page, accolades started past six months and the business is at pouring in from those who depended a standstill because his partner (his on Bill to fix their furnaces and air only sibling) died several years ago. conditioners. Right now, Bill’s wife Karen, a tiny “He really does care about his powerhouse of positivity and support, customers,” wrote Marie Nufer. “He speaks for him in telling his unusual is the most honest man I have ever story – one that has baffled the city’s dealt with.” Another resident describes top cardiologists and neurologists. how Bill often gave seniors a break on While Bill can’t speak, the frustration labour charges. is evident in his eyes. Karen Hill added, “I remember Bill “Bill’s a proud person and he wants coming to our house during Thanks- to work,” Karen explains. “He is a giving dinner because the furnace had people person so it’s really important conked out.” Penny Lee, a neighbour of Bill and Karen’s in the Lawrence and Port Union area, set up a GoFundMe account to help the family, which now relies solely on Karen’s income. Fortunately, she is able to work from home and schedules her work around Bill’s many appointments because he is still not able to drive. Comments on the GoFundMe page also attest to Bill’s work ethic. “Bill is a wonderful, giving person who came through for my family during the big ice storm a few years ago,” wrote Mike Thomas. “We had no power and our gas fireplace was also on the fritz. He was able to come by at a moment’s notice and get it working. He also resurrected my AC on several occasions and never let me spend more than I had to. When it came time to purchase a new AC and furnace, Bill was very fair and extremely fast. Our thoughts are with him and his family and we wish him a swift recovery.” So far, almost $4,000 has been raised for the family. The money will help them pay bills, fund medical expenses and help with vehicle repairs. Unfortunately, Bill cancelled his disability insurance several years ago when Karen was out of work and money was tight.

Readers who wish to help Bill and Karen can visit: https://www. gofundme.com/ manage/je6dp-support-for-bill-and- family. The GoFundMe account can also be reached through the West Rouge Residents Facebook page. www.ccranews.com Voice of the Community since 1949 9 Environment Community planting added native trees and shrubs to Wanita Park

By Wanda Wierzbicki

On October 24, several community groups and individuals gathered at Wanita Park to join Toronto Forestry personnel in planting 235 native shrubs and trees. Steven Parkes, a staff member from the Toronto Forestry Depart- ment, demonstrated the correct way to plant the trees and shrubs to ensure the best possible outcome. The city provided the volunteers with shovels, buckets and work gloves. A huge pile of mulch was delivered and under Steven’s guidance the volunteers An enthusiastic team from Beam Suntory started digging. Each new plant was Mills near Fairview Mall, encour- Carolyn Moss, who lives in Canada, left, joined others to help plant trees in removed from its starter pot, the roots ages students to take part in projects the Guildwood area, brought her Wanita Park on Oct. 24. were encouraged to branch out and that help the community. In past 6-year-old son Luke and four of her the plant was placed in a newly dug years, they have collected clothing employees to plant trees. Carolyn is Forestry Toronto staff also spent hole. Finally, two large buckets of donations, organized food bank a partner with Moss Sund Architects, some time removing an invasive mulch were placed around the newly donation drives and distributed sand- an architectural firm from Leslieville. species of common reed grass that planted shrub or tree to encourage wiches to the poor and homeless. This They all took the morning off from was growing in the area. Phragmites water retention. time they decided to take on a project work to give back to the community. is very aggressive and grows quickly The largest group of volunteer that would support the environment. There was also a group of volun- near water sources, choking out native planters was from North Toronto Fifteen employees from Beam teers from the Bob Rumball Canadian plants. Christian School. Twenty-five Suntory Canada, a premium spirits Centre of Excellence for the Deaf, Anyone interested in finding out Grade 9 students accompanied by company, came all the way from located near Bayview and Lawrence. more about environmental oppor- two teachers, Mrs. Crouse and Mr. Etobicoke to plant trees and shrubs The native species planted by these tunities in and around our area is Vant Erve, worked for several hours in Wanita Park. Beam Suntory has volunteers include black willow, bur encouraged to contact greentoronto@ digging holes and planting the trees long promoted giving back to the oak, meadowsweet, red dogwood, toronto.ca. and shrubs. North Toronto Christian community and protecting water grey dogwood, pussy willow, black School, which is located in Don resources, native species and habitats. raspberry and ninebark. 10 CCRA CENTENNIAL NEWS - DECEMBER 2018 Vol 03, No. 10

In the race for public school trustee, Dr. Anu Sriskandarajah was Results within victorious with 36 per cent of the vote in a crowded field to replace retiring Local food bank had 39,000 visits last year incumbent Jerry Chadwick. Sriskan- darajah won 42 of 53 polls on election The 2nd Highland Creek Scouts Ward 25 show a day and two of the three advance polls collected door-to-door in Cen- and had support across the ward. She garnered 42 per cent of the vote in tennial on December 1 for divided electorate the polls that make up nearly all of their annual Christmas food By Paul Lewkowicz Shan won every poll north of Centennial Scarborough. Sriskanda- drive. The items they receive Sheppard Ave. with more than 50 rajah, or “Dr. Anu” as she advertised are donated to the food bank per cent of the vote, resulting in 68 herself prominently on her signs, won he 2018 municipal election by 12 per cent over her nearest chal- at the Scarborough Centre for featured many close and per cent of the votes in the northern Healthy Communities. Have part of Ward 25 that made up most lengers, Roxanne Wright and Kirsten exciting races for voters Doyle. Sriskandarajah will now you ever wondered where that Tin Centennial Scarborough. The of the now-defunct ward that Shan was elected to represent in a 2017 sit on the Toronto District School is and who uses it? This story campaigns for city councillor, public Board alongside her husband, Parthi school trustee and Catholic school by-election. In the central part of takes a look at the SCHC. Ward 25, between Sheppard Ave. and Kandavel, besting her husband’s vote trustee all resulted in the winning total and percentage of the vote on candidate being elected with less than Kingston Road, Shan and McKelvie split the vote, with McKelvie winning her first campaign. (Kandavel was re- By Kathy Rowe 50 per cent of the vote. elected with 22 per cent of the vote in The vote for mayor was an exception 42 per cent of the vote compared to Scarborough Southwest.) “At SCHC our philosophy is holistic,” with nearly three-quarters (71.7 per 36 per cent for Shan. In the southern In the race for Catholic school states Debra McGonegal, Fund and cent) of voters in Scarborough Rouge- part of Ward 25, south of Kingston trustee, Garry Tanuan was re-elected Volunteer Development Manager at Park voting for incumbent John Tory Road, McKelvie dominated, winning 57 per cent of the vote and all but with 36 per cent of the vote. Tanuan, the Scarborough Centre for Healthy compared to 63 per cent of Toronto who was first elected in a 2012 by- as a whole. When looking at the seven one poll. Among polls that make up Communities. nearly all of Centennial Scarborough, election, has never been elected with “We look at the physical health, polls that make up nearly all of Cen- more than 50 per cent of the vote. tennial Scarborough, Tory received McKelvie won 66 per cent of the vote. mental health, emotional health, McKelvie also had a strong The four candidates for Catholic social health. All of these things are 75.1 per cent of the vote. school trustee generally received the The closest race of all city council- presence among advance voters, important to an individual. That’s winning 44 per cent of advance polls same support across wards 23 and 25, why we have so many programs. The lor wards in Toronto happened here. with Tanuan having slightly stronger Jennifer McKelvie, 2014 runner-up compared to 37 per cent for Shan. food bank is a way to connect people Overall, McKelvie won 30 polls on support in Ward 25 and Potenciano to all of the other services that we and former CCRA president, defeated having slightly stronger support in incumbent by 154 votes election day and the largest advance provide.” poll, while Shan won 23 polls on Ward 23. Tanuan won 33 per cent Approximately 1,800 households or 0.5 per cent. The results within the of the vote in the polls that make up ward show a divided electorate. election day and three advance polls. accessed the SCHC Food Bank last nearly all of Centennial Scarborough. year. Residents from all over Scar- borough can benefit from their resources, however, in the case of the food bank, the majority of residents tend to live in the KGO – Kingston Galloway Orton Park neighbour- hoods. The food bank operates out of a Toronto community housing building at 4100 Lawrence Ave. E. Although it is well used (39,000 visits last year), Debra does not see another food bank opening anytime soon. “Surprisingly, there were 1,470 children who used our food bank last year. Running a food bank is huge. It’s one of those labours of love,” she said. “It is heavily dependent on vol- unteers. The volunteers speak many languages as well as English. The idea is that families in need can visit the food bank once per week. In reality, most people don’t want to have to go to the food bank. In the colder months, many people have to choose between heat or food.” Debra went on to explain that the majority of food donations come via the Daily Bread Food Bank and Second Harvest. In addition, help from organizations such as Scouts, churches, businesses, schools and fire halls bring in thousands of pounds of food each year that is collected from generous citizens for the SCHC food bank. “Our food bank runs many food programs throughout the year. There are a total of three hot meals and two snack/coffee dishes served out of 4100 Lawrence Ave. E. each week. This is year round. There are also www.ccranews.com Voice of the Community since 1949 11 Local food bank had 39,000 visits last year

Evelyn and her son, Reynaldo, were first-time visitors to the food bank at the Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communi- ties in November. They were served by, from left, Danny, Sai and Heba, volunteers from TD. Faye, below, is a regular client.

specialty programs such as Wishes for Holidays are enrolled in one of the and gifts for the recipient(s). registration or choose not to partici- the Holidays, which just kicked off for programs in the Scarborough area and “The people who do this really love pate as recipients of the Wishes for the this holiday season.” are living at or below the poverty level. it because they get to deliver right to Holidays are helped by the CHUM During this time the food bank The packages the family if they Christmas Wish program. There are hopes to receive canned fish, canned include food, wish to,” Debra always local businesses, schools or meat, peanut butter, cereal, pancake personal hygiene “Surprisingly, there were said. “We have groups who establish toy drives this mix, syrup, holiday treats, coffee/tea, items, and gifts one sponsor who time of year and many families benefit canned vegetables and canned fruit. for children. 1,470 children who used started as a young from their collective generosity. For more than 20 years, the Wishes for Sponsors are adult sponsoring For more information about sup- the Holidays program has supported matched with our food bank last year...” one family. Then porting a family through SCHC this more than 23,400 households in a family or she decided to get holiday season, please email Christine the Scarborough area by providing families, a single or elderly couple or a group together who fundraise year- Hewitt, Manager of Community them with special holiday packages. someone ill and/disabled in need of round. Now they hope to sponsor 40 Engagement. [email protected] All families who apply for assistance extra support. A sponsor then creates families this year.” or call 416-847-4141. through the SCHC’s Wishes for the an age-appropriate hamper of goods Those families who either miss the

It rained on our Pumplin Parade but you still came out

By Denise Bacon adults and children proudly showcased their to home handing out treats on Halloween night. pumpkin masterpieces along the pathways of the Vijay Thanigasalam, our MPP for Scarborough- Residents in our neighbourhood are a very hardy park. Pumpkins were absolutely delightful, glowing Rouge Park, came directly from Queen’s Park to group! Despite the cold and rainy weather on by candlelight and ranging from Mickey Mouse enjoy the camaraderie. It was a great opportunity November 1, more than 60 people came out with ears and gemstones to intricately carved Halloween for people to chat with him as he stayed for a long their Halloween jack-o-lanterns for our first-ever landscapes. This was a great way to admire time on that wet evening, while wearing his business Pumpkin Parade in Port Union Common. pumpkin art from across neighbourhoods all in suit and dress shoes! Bundled up under umbrellas and raincoats, one place, especially since many of us stick close The night ended with volunteers depositing the pumpkins into a compost bin that had been brought to the park for the event. The things left from the Pumpkin Parade were footprints and wonderful memories. Much gratitude goes to the organizers and vol- unteers from the West Rouge, Highland Creek and Centennial community associations. This is another reminder of how lucky we are to live in this beautiful neighbourhood! We’re hoping the Pumpkin Parade becomes a yearly event. 12 CCRA CENTENNIAL NEWS - DECEMBER 2018 Vol 03, No. 10 Flashback Lessons learned from the ice storm of 2013

By Kathryn Stocks tea lights drown themselves and give off little light. Good ones give off This month marks five years since the more light but only burn for a few massive ice storm that hit on Dec. hours. The red tapers I’d bought at 21/22, 2013, and the subsequent loss IKEA were fabulous. They burned of power. The length of the power brightly without dripping for about outage varied across the city, but in four hours. The expensive snowball our house it first went out for an hour candle I’d bought at a candle party on the evening of Saturday, Dec. 21, years ago shone beautifully for hours came back on and then went out at and gave off a lovely bright light. The 5 a.m. on Dec. 22 and didn’t return cheap floating candles were totally It’s been five years since our trees were thickly coated with ice and the power was out for days. again until Christmas. useless while the more expensive ones lit up our table for Christmas. We The extended outage was a time of beautiful the world looks when all the doors to the hall and the dining used almost every candle we owned discovery for me. When it first went the trees are thickly coated in ice. I room, and the gas fireplace in our at that dinner! out I discovered we had four dead also saw how much damage Mother bedroom warmed up the upstairs. I discovered the value of decent flashlights and the only one that still Nature can do to our trees as we Our gas stove allowed us to cook our matches, which we didn’t have. On worked was a pocket-size one. Not a walked around the block and surveyed meals on the burners although we the second day my husband went out lot of light but it sure was handy. the destruction. couldn’t use the oven. We cooked our and bought a butane lighter that was I discovered the value of good- I discovered the value of gas appli- Christmas turkey on the gas barbecue great for lighting candles and the fire. quality candles. They were usually ances. The gas fireplace in our kitchen for more than three hours and it was I discovered how incredibly more expensive but not always. Cheap warmed up the room when we closed delicious. Without our gas appliances we couldn’t have stayed in the house. I discovered how terribly dark and cold it gets by 4:30 p.m. at this time of year. How did the pioneers cope? I discovered that having no power was exciting for the first little while as we played cards with two of our children and talked longer than we normally would. After the first 24 hours, though, everyone missed their electronic devices. I discovered that it was fun to have friends over for Christmas dinner, even though we had to prepare every- thing by candlelight. The trickiest part was stirring the gravy while holding a candle high enough to see in the roasting pan but not drip wax in it. And I discovered that it was a hal- lelujah moment when the power came back on again at 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 25, just in time to use the dishwasher for all those dirty dishes!

News from the CPLC The Community Police Liaison Committee at 43 Division thanks residents who report suspicious activity to the police. On many occasions these calls stop crimes before they are committed and help solve crimes that are committed. To report suspicious activity call 416-808-4300 or 416- 808-2222. Report anything strange or unusual, including things like a car or person who is not from your area or aggressive sales people who do not leave your door. Always lock your car, particularly now if you are warming it up during this season. Keep belongings out of sight with Christmas and the holidays coming up. Next year’s annual Police Community Picnic will be on June 1 at the 43 Division station office. www.ccranews.com Voice of the Community since 1949 13 Sustainability Best way to pursue a zero waste lifestyle is one step at a time

By Kathryn Stocks Since black plastic takeout contain- from sustainable materials like glass, The 5 Rs of zero waste include: ers are not recyclable in Toronto, she steel and wood. A zero waste lifestyle is not completely 1. Refuse what you don’t need suggested reusing them until they fall Christmas is one of the worst zero, but it does mean always striving 2. Reduce what you do need apart. You could even take them to a times of year for garbage. First we toward that goal. That’s what Sophi 3. Reuse with reusables restaurant to hold your leftovers. buy gifts that have an excessive Robertson, the Zero Waste Event 4. Recycle what you cannot A cloth napkin is really useful for amount of packaging that isn’t recy- Coordinator for the Toronto Tool reduce or reuse grabbing a sandwich on the go, drying clable, and then we wrap them in Library, told 15 residents who came 5. Rot (compost) the rest hands, protecting a jar or wiping faces. paper that is only used for one day out to the Port Union library for her If you carry one, you won’t need plastic and then discarded. You can recycle Plastic produces a significant amount talk on Nov. 22. or foil wrapping for your sandwich and the non-metallic wrapping paper in of waste and only about 10 percent of Sophi started pursuing a zero waste you won’t use paper towels or napkins the blue bin after removing the tape, it gets recycled. Plastic bags are used so lifestyle in 2016. “It’s not that I don’t when you’re out. At the dentist, she but the foil wrapping paper goes in briefly but they last a long time so she create any waste, it’s just that I’m more uses her cloth napkin for the bib and the garbage along with ribbons and always reuses them if she has them or mindful than I used to be,” she said. her water bottle for rinsing her mouth. bows. Try wrapping gifts this year in carries reusable bags. “It’s definitely possible to reduce a sig- If you need to purchase, try second- tea towels, scarves or a colourful cloth She finds glass jars with lids (such as nificant amount.” She then showed a hand first at places like thrift shops, napkin. Be creative this holiday season. the kind spaghetti sauce comes in) are photo of herself with a full grocery bag Kijiji, Facebook marketplace, and a Sophi suggests trying to cut down really handy for water, lunch, snacks, and said it was five months’ of landfill trading website called bunz.com. If one step at a time. Start with one leftovers and even coffee. Rubber bands waste for her family. you need to buy new, she suggests change and then try something else. or an old sock around the jar will protect buying local or Canadian goods made It could become a habit. your hands when the drink is hot.

14 CCRA CENTENNIAL NEWS - DECEMBER 2018 Vol 03, No. 10

MPP Vijay Thanigasalam Grateful to attend local Remembrance Day ceremonies

It is with excitement that I write of that month. In early who have fought to preserve our to you this December. The holiday November, there were values and freedoms. Along the same season is one full of friends, family, Remembrance Day theme of honouring our veterans, I joy and hope for the New Year for ceremonies across Scar- had the privilege to plant a few trees many of us. I wish you all a safe and borough. I was grateful as part of the Highway of Heroes healthy month and a very happy and to be able to attend cer- Tree Campaign, which aims to make prosperous year to come. I do hope emonies at the Scarbor- a living tribute to all who served by that during this holiday season we all ough Civic Centre, the planting 2 million trees along the take a minute to pause and remember , the Royal Highway of Heroes and the surround- those who may not have anyone to Canadian Legion, and ing communities. celebrate with or the means to do so the Tony Stacey Centre I also had the privilege of attending with their family. There are many for Veterans Care to many other significant and successful chances to help those who are less honour those men and events in our riding. I was delighted fortunate than us and I encourage women who have served to attend and award medals at the everyone to seek out such an oppor- in our Armed Forces as Ontario Open Judo Championships, tunity. The holiday season is a fitting well as meet many of which drew hundreds of competitors time to come together and remember the veterans who came from around the world, while Wheel- we are all one community and should to remember their fallen chair Basketball Canada’s signature support each other as such. comrades. Words simply fundraiser, Hoopfest, had a fun and November has certainly been a Listening to a veteran’s story at RCL Branch 258 on cannot express the debt inclusive 3-on-3 tournament. On a busy time but in particular I would Remembrance Day. of gratitude that we all rainy and cold Nov. 1, many from like to highlight an important part owe these brave soldiers our community braved the weather to attend the first Southeast Scarbor- ough Pumpkin Parade where carving skills were on display while enjoying good conversation with neighbours. I also want to give special mention to FIRST Robotics Canada, which held their Open House in the Malvern community attracting kids and parents from the neighbourhood. This past month we had a con- stituency week where I got to meet with many residents and stakehold- ers. I want to highlight just a few in particular. I had a wonderful tour of the Malvern Family Resource Centre; I had the opportunity to meet with some of the management team at Legal Aid Ontario; and, on more of a fun note, I got the chance to tour the Toronto Zoo. These are all important organizations in our riding and I look forward to working with them further. I also had the opportunity to be in touch with many of our healthcare partners, including the team from the Scarborough and Rouge Hospital, and had an insightful tour of Provi- dence Healthcare. Additionally, I met with some of the staff and volunteers from the Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Care Centre and learned more about the important work they do in Scarborough. Before I sign off until next month, I did want to thank all members of the community who came out to the official opening of my Constituency Office and helped make it a success. My office is here to help so please do get in touch to get assistance with any provincial matter or to set up an appointment to meet with me: 416-283-8448 or vijay.thanigasalam- [email protected]. www.ccranews.com Voice of the Community since 1949 15

MP Gary Anandasangaree

Open house an excellent opportunity to hear from residents

I would like to begin by thanking the of you who attained your citizenship members of the Centennial commu- this year! Canada is lucky to have you! nity who joined my team and me for our annual Fall Open House. Our Christmas Pancake Breakfast open house is an excellent opportu- and Toy Drive nity for us to hear from local resi- This Christmas I invite you and dents about government programs, your family to join Team Gary as policies and services. I look forward we help celebrate the Christmas to sharing the comments and sugges- season alongside our neighbours and tions made during our open house friends. Team Gary will be hosting a with my colleagues in Ottawa. free Pancake Breakfast for the Scar- borough-Rouge Park community on Citizenship Ceremony Saturday, December 8 at St. Mother On Saturday, November 17, my Teresa Catholic Academy, 40 Sewells team and I welcomed a number of Rd., from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. In Local Member of Parliament, Gary Anandasangaree, hosts a number of Canada’s newest citizens at his Scarborough- Rouge Park’s newest addition to pancakes, we will have constituency office on Saturday, November 17. citizens to my constituency office for holiday crafts and activities for all a special Canadian citizenship cel- those in attendance. Our Christmas unwrapped toy. assist you with various federal services ebration. During the celebration, my Pancake Breakfast will also feature For those of you who would like or answer any questions you may have! office was filled laughter, warmth and a Toy Drive to benefit children and to connect with my team, I encourage Please accept my best wishes for a the incredible stories of a number youth in our community. Those you to contact my office at 416 283 safe and happy holiday! of Canada’s newest citizens! Speaking interested in donating to our Toy 1414 or [email protected]. We with these proud Canadians reminded Drive are asked to please bring a new, are always happy to hear your ideas, of my own journey to Canada 35 years ago. I am honoured to be part of a government that has committed itself to ensuring that all Canadians feel safe, welcome, and have an opportunity to achieve their true potential. Congratulations to those

Photo quiz Where in Centennial?

Pictured above is this month’s mystery location in our Cen- tennial landmark quiz. It is located somewhere in the neigh- bourhood. Enjoy testing your knowledge of the community. To find out if you were right, the answer is on page 19. 16 CCRA CENTENNIAL NEWS - DECEMBER 2018 Vol 03, No. 10

Exercise of the Month Praying wrist stretch Helping the homeless this holiday season Torontonians who want to help people experiencing homelessness this holiday season can find gift By Lucie Sciberras together until you feel a little ideas and volunteer opportunities on the 11th annual 2018 Holiday Wish List. The City of Toronto stretch, not pain, and hold for surveyed not-for-profit agency partners that run shelters, 24-hour respite sites, drop-ins and other During this festive season, the increase approximately 10 to 20 seconds. services, and asked what gifts would help their clients during the holidays. More than 50 agencies are of baking, cooking and cleaning takes Repeat three to four times. on this year’s list, which details specific items that clients need, along with contacts and information a toll on our wrist and hands. Below about volunteer opportunities and holiday events. The most requested items on this year’s list are is a simple stretch that can be done Continue this exercise throughout winter coats and clothing, gift cards, toiletries, baby products and non-perishable food. The 2018 anytime and anywhere. the busy holiday season and keep it Holiday Wish List is available at toronto.ca/holiday-wish-list. up all year. Step 1 At face level, put your hands together, palm to palm. Before starting an exercise program, always check with your Step 2 Slowly press your hands physician or physiotherapist to together, like you are praying and ensure it’s safe for you to start. If you lower your hands until you reach have any questions before you start, your chest level. feel free to drop by the Port Union Fitness Centre. Step 3 Keep pressing your hands Lucie Sciberras is a CSEP Personal Trainer and www.ccranews.com Voice of the Community since 1949 17 Construction

Lawrence sewer project might be done by end of December

By Kathryn Stocks overall odour. If needed, another unit might be installed. While the odour is unpleasant, For those who drive along Lawrence Ave. E. and it poses no health risk, according to Toronto wonder what is happening with the sewer reha- Public Health. bilitation at Beechgrove Dr. that seems to have Currently, the contractor is replacing stalled, this story is for you. The project at that temporary bypass pumps in the sewer with site is the installation of new liners inside the higher capacity pumps so work crews will be existing sewer pipe that runs along Lawrence able to work longer hours overnight. The con- at that point and turns the corner down Beech- tractor is hoping that the sewer portion of the grove. No one ever appears to be working on work will be completed by Dec. 31, but makes it because they can only work at night when no promises as there are always unexpected the flow of issues that can sewage is low. affect progress. That’s part Then they have of the reason to figure out the work has the problem progressed at and cost it out a slower rate before it can than normal. be completed. Between Sewer rehabilitation work at Lawrence and Beechgrove is installing new pipe Work crews liner, right, into deteriorating sewer, left. The existing sewer was constructed are also at August and in the ‘50s. mid-Septem- the mercy of ber, work was paused when concrete irregu- the weather as snow and rain can add to the larities were found at the sewer bottom. amount of water coming into the sewer. Work resumed again in September with crews The following work remains to be done: removing those irregularities. install higher-capacity pumps; complete Odour at the construction site was a major installation of the new pipe liner inside the problem in the summer and the city has been sewer; backfill the access shafts/pits; remove working with the contractor to find a solution the temporary bypass system; rehabilitate the to help control it. A large new odour control existing maintenance hole; clean the area and unit has been installed at a maintenance hole at install temporary road restoration; and return Beechgrove and Flerimac Rd. that will reduce in 2019 to permanently restore the road and the gas released at the work site and reduce the sidewalk. 18 CCRA CENTENNIAL NEWS - DECEMBER 2018 Vol 03, No. 10

COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR

Organizer Event Date & Location Event Details Contact West Hill - Highland Creek Saturday, December 1, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Crafters & artists offering unique items including home and seasonal decor, Phone 416 282-7202 Craft & Gift Sale Lions Club Heron Park Community Centre, 292 Manse Rd.. fashion accessories, jewelry, jams & more. Email [email protected]

December 5, 6 and 7 at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for students and seniors, and can be purchased Mowat Collegiate Mamma Mia! Phone 416-396-6802 ext. 20101. Mowat Collegiate at Mowat’s main office . Musical numbers originally performed by ABBA.

Friday, December, 7 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm Robot Soccer with Logics Academy mBot Robot Soccer using a powerful Port Union Library PA Day Program Phone 416 396-8885 Port Union Library learn-to-code program. Children ages 9-12 years. Limit of 20 participants.

Scarborough Concert Friday, December 7, from 7:30 to 9:15 pm Christmastime Concert with favorites such as Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride Phone 416 265-7586 Scarborough Concert Band Band Christmas Concert Wilmar Heights Centre 963 Pharmacy Ave. and Christmas Festival. Admission $15 Email [email protected]

2nd annual community Saturday, December 8, from 7:30 to 9:00 pm Holiday Raffle Baskets and A Weekend Getaway! Cookie Decorating with Gear Realty Phone 416-282-9292 tree lighting party Port Union Community Centre 5450 Lawrence Ave FourSweets Cookies, Pictures with Santa, Christmas Movie, Colouring contest.

Saturday, December 8, from 9:30 am - 11:30 am Join Team Gary for a free pancake breakfast! Take a photo with Santa and Phone 416 283-1414 Email Gary. Gary Anandasangaree Pancakes with Santa St. Mother Teresa Catholic Academy participate in some fun holiday crafts. [email protected]

Annual Community Sunday, December 9, from 7:30 to 9:30 pm Seasonal songs & stories for the entire family. Phone 416-283-1844 St. Dunstan of Canterbury Carol Sing St. Dunstan of Canterbury Anglican Church Refreshments follow. Funds raised go to food bank. All welcome! Email [email protected]

Saturday, December 15, 9:00 to 11:00 am West Bring your camera. Celebrate this holiday season Pancakes, Juices, West Rouge Sports Association Breakfast with Santa Phone Louise 416-283-1938 Rouge Community Centre 270 Rouge Hills Drive Coffee and tea. $2 per person. Monday, December 31, Bar opens at 6:00 pm Branch 258 Highland Creek New Year’s Eve Dinner Featuring live entertainment with the ‘Soulmates’. Tickets - Members $50.00 Dinner at 7:00 pm. Branch 258 Highland Creek Phone 416 281-2992 Legion Guests/non-members $55.00 Come out and support your branch! and Dance Legion Guildwood Village Community Monday, December 31, starting at 7 pm at the Four-course dinner, open bar, lots of dancing with a live band, plus a mid- https://guildwood.on.ca/gvca- New Year’s Eve party Association Guild Inn Estate, 201 Guildwood Pkwy. night toast with lots of prizes and fun. Tickets now available for $130/person. 2018-new-year-party

Branch 258 Highland Creek Tuesday, January 1 from 1:00 - 6:00 pm New Years Levee Everyone is invited to stop in and meet the president, members and friends. Phone 416 281-2992 Legion Branch 258 Highland Creek Legion Tuesday, January 8 from 7:15 to 9:00 pm at Port Come out and learn what your CCRA is doing. Volunteer positions are CCRA Monthly Meeting Phone Kathy 416 283-9987 Union Community Center, 5450 Lawrence Avenue now open. Monday to Friday, 9 am - 4 pm, Port Union CRC, Port Union Seniors Port Union Seniors Centre Drop-in activities and classes for Seniors Phone 416-396-4034 5450 Lawrence Avenue East To submit your community event, email details to: [email protected]

The dealine for advertising submission is the 10th of the previous month Email Kelsey Dorval at [email protected] or ccranews.com/advertising.html. www.ccranews.com Voice of the Community since 1949 19 Distribution Seeking ‘retired’ distributors for our volunteer appreciation event As I sit down to invite all our CCRA volunteers, past write this report, the and present. weather forecast is Iain Bain, a retired long-time dis- calling for snow. It is tributor writes, “I enjoyed delivering Wanda beginning to feel like the newsletter. It was a useful form of Wierzbicki winter. Earlier today, exercise and gave me the opportunity I made an appoint- to chat with my neighbours. I started ment to put the winter tires on my in 1990 and passed the baton shortly car. Halloween is in the past. The first before the format changed a couple Pumpkin Parade, which was successful years ago.” That is more than 25 years despite cold and rainy weather, is also of distribution. Thank you Iain! behind us. Everywhere I look in the At this time I would like to neighborhood, I see people raking and THANK the entire distribution collecting leaves. Many people have team – PAST and PRESENT (120 already put up their Christmas lights individuals) – for your hard work and hoping to have it completed before dedication. Together we deliver the the cold and blustery weather arrives. monthly CCRA Centennial News to This winter season also brings with more than 4,600 homes and busi- it the “Snowbirds” – those lucky indi- nesses in our community. We couldn’t viduals who are fortunate enough to do it without you! be able to leave our cold, dark and I would like to wish all of you a dreary Scarborough weather for very Merry Christmas and all the best warmer climates. We all wish we were in the New Year! Happy Holidays! going with you. Email: [email protected] Next year is an important one for the CCRA. It is the 70th Anniver- sary of the community association! A number of celebrations will be held to commemorate this historic year. One of these will be a Volunteer Appre- ciation Evening, which will be held on Thursday, May 2, 2019, at 7.30 p.m. at the Port Union Community Centre. More details on this will be published in the new year but please save the date. In the October and November editions of the CCRA Centennial News, I focused on some long-serving members of the CCRA Centennial News distribution team. I want to expand this focus to include those individuals who distributed the CCRA News in the past and who are now “retired” from actively distributing. If you distributed the newspaper (or the newsletter as it was once called) in the past and do not distribute currently, please send me an email so I can add you to the list. If one of your neigh- bours is a retired distributor, please send me an email. I want to ensure we

Photo quiz Where in Centennial? answer from page 15

Sir Oliver Mowat Collegiate Institute on Lawrence Avenue 20 CCRA CENTENNIAL NEWS - DECEMBER 2018 Vol 03, No. 10 Thank you for Centennial is better together - become a member! joining CCRA in 2018! CCRA 2018/19 Membership Form It’s easy to join or renew your membership. Complete this form, then mail with your annual household fee of $15. By Denise Bacon To join online, go to www.ccranews.com to join with credit card or PayPal.

Name______Hundreds of resi- dent households Address______Postal Code______joined as members Phone______Email (for e-news only)______of CCRA this year giving CCRA the Check all applicable boxes: biggest member- I would like to join or renew my annual CCRA membership. I enclose payment for: o $15 (1 year) o $30 (2 years) ship numbers o I support the work of CCRA & have added my donation for $ ______. Total amount enclosed is $ ______we have had in quite a few years. o I am interested in distributing newsletters in the Centennial community (10 issues per year). Please contact me. THANK YOU! o I am interested in volunteering at CCRA events. Please contact me. Membership indicates a close-knit o I would like my business listed in the Business Directory on ccranews.com. Please contact me with more information. community where neighbours are engaged with each other. Your fees Mail with cheque payable to: OR Drop off at the main office in the OR Join right now online at support donations to the Scouts, the CCRA Port Union Community Centre. www.ccranews.com William Dempsey award for a Mowat Port Union Community Centre 5450 Lawrence Ave. East student, a bed at Tony Stacey Centre, Scarborough ON M1C 3B2 and the Community Carol Sing at St. Dunstan’s of Canterbury. CCRA hosted and/or supported many terrific events throughout the year where neighbours and friends had fun, including Winterfest, the Port Union Waterfront Festival and the summer concert series. The 2019 membership year starts in January and I invite you to join early. Let’s stay engaged with each other and with our community. The CCRA voice is strong and we are committed to preserving our beautiful neighbourhood!

Denise Bacon [email protected] 647-982-3561

Website: www.ccranews.ca Facebook.com/ccranews Twitter @ccranews Email: [email protected]

Centennial Community and Recreation Association 5450 Lawrence Avenue East, Scarborough ON M1C3B2