ww The East York Byelection coverage n More byelection coverage Observer and commentary on Pages 5, 6 Our 40th anniversary year.... Serving our community since 1972 Vol. 41, No. 4 www.torontoobserver.ca Friday, March 23, 2012

Angela Kennedy cleared of charges

By LILIAN ASANTE The Observer

Trustee Angela Ken- nedy, East York’s repre- sentative to the Catholic District School Board (TCDSB), has been cleared of conflict of interest charges almost two years after she was initially found guilty and Scott Barber /// Observer briefly removed from the board. Amid special-effects smoke, Toronto-Danforth’s new MP, Craig Scott, addresses supporters following his byelection win on The Divisional Monday. Scott was joined on stage at the Opera House by (front left) MP Olivia Chow — the widow of the riding’s former Court announced the MP, . At right, interim NDP Leader Nycole Turmel, city councillor for Ward 30 and Toronto-Dan- unanimous decision on forth’s New Democrat MPP Peter Tabuns (l-r) clap their approval. March 5. The original charge N ew MP carrying Layton’s legacy stemmed from By CORIANDRÉ New Democrat MPs represent- in 2008 to 6.5 per cent in 2011 Now, the hard part. New n Angela a May LAWRENCE ing every part of the nation. n Election analysis to 4.7 per cent on Monday. Democrats from across the Kennedy 2008 The Observer Layton became leader of the None of the seven fringe can- country are converging on the school Since Christmas, people in largest official Opposition in 31 didates could even crack the one Metro Toronto Convention board budget meeting, the southwestern corner of East years. And he walked away with his strongest competition. Gor- per cent barrier. Centre starting today, March where Kennedy voted York have listened to a growing his home riding of Toronto- don and the Liberals took com- Voter turnout was low: just 23, to select a leader. Scott will against staff layoffs. number of candidates ask for Danforth, garnering more than fort in their 28.5 per cent, an 43 per cent — compared to 65 have to find his place amid this In 2010, Justice Lois their votes. three times as many votes as his 11-point gain over last year. per cent last year. leadership transition. And he’ll Roberts ruled Kennedy Whatever their appeals, pun- nearest rival. But there was little solace for So Toronto-Danforth stays have to find his place in a House had a conflict of interest, dits still predicted an NDP win But this past Monday, Os- the Conservative candidate. An- left-of-centre on the political of Commons where the Op- on that occasion, because in the Toronto-Danforth byelec- goode Hall law professor Craig drew Keyes got 5.4 per cent of spectrum, with a liberal city position NDP faces a majority her son worked for the tion on Monday — but few pro- Scott won the Toronto-Danforth the vote, a sharp drop from last councillor and New Democrats government whose policies are board. She ordered Ken- jected a landslide reminiscent of byelection in true Jack Layton year, when Katrina von Koenig in Ottawa and at Queen’s Park. often anathema to them. nedy off the TCDSB, but Jack Layton himself. style — capturing 59.4 per cent got 14.3 per cent without active- The last non-New Democrat So while the optimism of did not forbid her from Layton, the MP and federal of the vote… compared to Lay- ly campaigning. to represent the riding either Toronto-Danforth New Demo- running for the position NDP leader who died of cancer ton’s 60.8 per cent last May. And Green candidate Adriana provincially or federally was crats was obvious at their Opera again in the looming in August, brought the party to The rookie candidate was Mugnatto-Hamu saw a further Dennis Mills, who won the fed- House celebration on Monday municipal election. new heights in last spring’s gen- way in front of 10 other candi- erosion in her party’s support eral riding in 1988, and was MP night, there is clearly work to Despite veiled opposi- eral election, when dates, including Liberal Grant in Toronto-Danforth — support for 16 years. Layton ended his do… and some space left in the tion from the Catholic elected a record-breaking 103 Gordon, who was considered that has gone from 13.2 per cent reign in 2004. boots of Layton. archdiocese and outright opposition from the teachers’ union, Kennedy ran that fall — and won. Inside services strike a risk in East York She vowed to clear her name, and has now won her appeal, after the CUPE Local 79 could go on strike as early as this weekend if an agreement with the city is not made judges ruled that if there ever was a conflict, it was By BRAYDON KEDDIE voted 85 per cent in favour of tion between the city and the books and materials borrowed “insignificant.” The Observer a strike mandate on Tuesday. n For one worker’s union appear to be senior- before the strike began. Kennedy was first “Clearly our members un- view, see page 3 ity scheduling rights, reduced In East York, resident elected as Ward 11 East Yorkers, along with derstand what is at stake,” hours at long-term care facili- Hawwii Gudeta said that two trustee for the TCDSB in the rest of the city, are again local president Tim Maguire run by the city. ties and unpaid sick days. children in her family miss 2000, and has served in facing the prospect of a mu- said in a news release, “and But Maguire also said he Meanwhile, Toronto librar- their access to the Thorncliffe a variety of ways since nicipal workers’ strike. the bargaining committee is wants to avoid a weekend ies are sitting vacant since a branch. — including chair. She’s Following last month’s grateful for their support.” walkout. strike began on Sunday. The “It makes their homework also a registered nurse re- last-minute settlement with If a strike goes ahead, any “We are not going to walk Toronto Public Library Work- and reading time a lot more cently recognized for her its “outside” workers, and services run by Local 79 off the job if there is no deal ers’ Union Local 4948 said difficult for them to do,” she 40 years of employment the walkout that began this members will be shut down come Saturday,” he said. “We they walked out over the allo- said. “They don’t have a place at Toronto East General week at Toronto libraries, the for the duration of the strike. are going to consider the op- cation of shifts between part- to go because the librarians Hospital. city and its “inside” workers The East York Civic tion this mandate gives us, if time and full-time workers. are on strike. They’re also be- Published reports are now at the brink. The em- Centre and its city services the employer starts to gut our During the strike, books ing deprived of using comput- quote her as “vindicated” ployees could legally strike would be among those closed collective agreement and strip and other materials borrowed ers because of the strike.” now that she’s won her at a minute after midnight during a strike, along with away basic rights and protec- from Toronto libraries will appeal. tomorrow, March 24, after welfare offices, child-care tions.” not be considered overdue. —With files from their union, CUPE Local 79, services and swimming pools The main points of conten- There will also be no fines for Clarisa Pessoa

@ 2 NEWS The East York Observer /// Friday, March 23, 2012 Police Whas t’ Briefs up in e.y. SIU clears Spring into officers in action for shooting diabetes

The provincial The seventh Special Inves- annual Leaside tigations Unit “Spring Into Ac- (SIU) announced tion” Fundraiser on Monday that for the Cana- it has found no dian Diabetes wrongdoing in Association will the police slay- take place on ing of a men- Saturday, April tally ill man near 21. Participants Toronto East Zenaira Ali /// Observer will walk, run General Hospital Tree of life bears fruit or cycle along a on Feb. 3. The two, five or 10 man, Michael Eli- City News anchor Roger Petersen, TEGH’s Justin Van Dette, Shoppers Drug Mart associate-owner km circuit. Regis- gon, apparently John Papastergiou and Toronto Marlie Mike Zigomanis (l-r) gathered at the Shoppers located at tration is $35 escaped from 1630 Danforth Ave. on March 2 to announce the result of the Tree of Life Campaign fundraiser per person or psychiatric care held for Toronto East General Hospital by 11 of the chain’s stores. $60 for a family at the hospital of four. Regis- and was wield- tration includes ing two pairs of An L BOUR event admission, scissors when breakfast, lunch police confronted and a donation him on Milverton to help fight Boulevard near diabetes. Call Coxwell Avenue. Takeover worries workers 416-849-4765 or Eligon allegedly visit www.inside- told them, “One American retail giant Target to take over two East York locations that will close this summer outstudio.ca/ of you is go- action for more information or to ing to die,” just By TICHAONA TAPAMBWA Nandal’s thoughts were be hired again once the stores as they think about what the register. before police The Observer echoed throughout the store turn over. They’ll have to re- future holds. shot and killed as other employees worried apply online for their old jobs. “They all have started to him. But while Zellers employees are about their future once the “All our years at Zellers do look for new jobs because it’s there will be no counting down the days. Start- stores are taken over. There are not get transferred over and almost closing time and they Vying for a charges, the SIU ing this Monday, March 26, currently two Zellers stores in we are pretty much starting are not sure if they will be re- acknowledged the two Zellers stores located East York: one in Thorncliffe over,” said Nandal. hired,” said Nandal. kid-sized that police may in East York will begin liqui- Park and the other at Shoppers Renovations for the coming All employees at the store need more stun dation sales in anticipation of World Danforth, near Victoria Target are slated to begin by will be given severance pay Stanley Cup guns and better their replacement by outlets of Park Avenue. summer — with an opening based on the number of years training in deal- the U.S. discount department These locations are among late in 2012. For Nandal and they have worked there. Saturday, March ing with mentally store, Target. the ones being converted, now her colleagues, however, it’s “There’s nothing you can 31, is the East ill people. “It’s heartbreaking because that Target is acquiring most about starting from scratch really do about it; just deal York Hockey As- we have given so much of Zellers outlets from Hudson’s and worrying about upcoming with the hand that you are sociation’s “Little our years at this store and this Bay Company. bills in the meantime. dealt,” said Ayesha Mus- Stanley Cup” day might be how it ends,” said Some consumers are ex- Luckily for her, Zellers was grave, a regular shopper at the at the East York Bibi Nandal, an employee at cited about the change, but for not Nandal’s only job. But the Zellers. Memorial Arena, Four males the East York Town Centre employees, the rebranding is same isn’t true of all of her June 2 is the date set for the 888 Cosburn Ave. Zellers, located on Overlea about their livelihoods. There co-workers, and she said it’s closure of the two East York Between 9 a.m. rob teen, 18, Boulevard in Thorncliffe Park. is no guarantee that they will especially stressful for them Zellers stores. and 6 p.m., the top-place teams of cellphone in all divisions will play for their Police are look- Running wild in the Sahara Desert year-end tro- ing for four phies. At noon, males after an By JANE IGHARO stop,” Simpson explained. On day four, she became Despite the long trek the peewee 18-year-old fe- The Observer “That’s part of the chal- extremely dehydrated and through the smothering heat division teams male was robbed lenge, forcing yourself to was uncertain of the out- while suffering from de- (ages 11 and 12) of her cellphone For Alison Simpson, walk- get past that point and to come of her journey. hydration and having num- will play their on March 17. ing on the wild side meant a keep going.” It was only through the erous blood blisters, Simp- final game and The incident six-day journey of determin- Simpson’s decision to run encouragement of her team- son wants to run another the winner will took place near ation and fortitude across across the desert was driven mates and a divine revela- race across the desert, say- be awarded the Danforth Avenue the Sahara Desert. by her desire to raise funds tion that Simpson was able ing that the experience has “Little Stanley and Linsmore On Oct. 2, 2011, Alison for the National Advertis- to continue. brought a lot of joy to her Cup.” The cup Crescent. Police Simpson, the executive ing Benevolent Society While suffering from de- life. is a three-foot say the victim vice-president of Maritz (NABS), a charity to help hydration, Simpson hallu- replica of the sustained minor Canada and 29-time mara- people in the advertising in- cinated about having a con- real Stanley Cup injuries after thoner, began her journey of dustry suffering from illness versation with her father, and it was actu- being pushed to endurance through the blaz- or struggling. who died of Alzheimer’s ally authorized the ground when ing heat of the Sahara. In spite of the health eight years ago. by NHL president the muggers This month, Simpson threats that might have “That was one of the best @ Clarence Camp- tried to take her trekked to East York to fazed most people, Simpson moments of the race – which bell during the purse. The four share the story with students was determined to finish the is odd,” she said, and added l ToO see pictures 1954-‘55 season. suspects then at Centennial College’s Car- race. that she remembers think- of Simpson’s desert For more infor- fled to a waiting law Avenue campus. The first four days was ing: “I might end up not fin- run, visit her Face- mation, contact vehicle on Lamb “I never regretted my deci- a 40-km race, the fifth day ishing the race. I might end book page at Connie Mitchell Avenue. sion because I know that go- was 80 km and the last day up in a hospital in Cairo.” http://www. at 416-918-9469. ing into something like this, was a 10-km race. Temper- At the end of Simpson’s facebook.com/al- ~ Sarah Dayal there would be times in the atures ranged between 40 trip, she had raised over isonkaysimpson ~ Michael Baghel six days where I wanted to and 50 C. $17,000 for NABS. The East York Observer /// Friday, March 23, 2012 FEATURES 3

Wage decrease riles worker

By KRISTOFER MORRISON The Observer

Toronto’s part-time park, forestry and recreation workers are among those “inside” municipal workers poised to strike in the coming days if their union and the city can’t settle their contract dif- ferences. “I wouldn’t be sur- prised if we all end up on strike,” says Norma Nicholas Prospero /// Observer Campbell, a fitness con- Tackling youthful dreams sultant at the East York Community Centre. Denver Bronco offensive tackle Orlando Franklin (third from right, back row) hangs out with a few students at St. Patrick Catholic But if and when her Secondary School on March 16. Franklin visited the school to speak with students about following their dreams. union and the Ford administration come to terms, Camp- bell @ says Meals on Wheels delivers there O may l For more well on this continue independence to East York story, see to be toronto observer.ca funda- worked with the agency for mental Agency serves up several years, they are able to unfairness in the way nutritious food, build a relationship with the the city treats some of clients. its workers — trac- social interaction “I think that it keeps people ing back to the 1998 better connected with their amalgamation of East community when they have By LILIAN ASANTE York and the other regular visits from the volun- The Observer former municipalities of teers,” she said. “Metro Toronto.” The East York Meals on “They get to know each Wage scales in depart- Wheels program does more other and it builds a better so- ments such as parks and than just provide warm meals cial fabric when there is that recreation differed from to clients. It also helps deliver kind of community connec- one former municipal- independence to hundreds of tion. ity to the next, and the seniors each day. Mervin Withey, 67, works amalgamated “megac- Founded in 1969, East as a self-employed general ity” and its workers have York Meals on Wheels is a contractor. He has volun- been trying to reach an not-for-profit community teered with the agency for agreed fair pay scale for service agency that provides four years. He said he en- workers. nutritious meals and social joys volunteering because it But the final harmo- support to residents. gives him a chance to help his nization agreement, Anne MacNeill is the exec- neighbours. known as the Kaplan utive director. She says that a “Most of the people are Award, has failed to common misconception peo- elderly or incapacitated, so satisfy many part-time ple have about the agency is I go and put a smile on their workers. that only low-income people face — I am a happy spirit,” Lilian Asante /// Observer For Campbell, a qualify. Withey said. “We need to fitness consultant for 33 “It is a service for anybody help each other, especially the Tegan Salonia (centre) and volunteers Norten Ozkilic (left) and her daugh- years, harmonization has who just needs a little bit of elderly, when they get there.” ter, Zeynep, package meals for lunch deliveries to East York residents. meant a drop in her pay help to stay comfortable in The volunteers also make from $35.02 per hour to their homes,” she said in an regular calls to the clients’ $24.12 per hour. interview. “We deliver meals homes to ensure they are do- Campbell says it’s to people who have trouble ing well. NEWS you can use “demoralizing” for cooking for themselves.” MacNeill said that if a vol- n Meals on Wheels is funded by client fees, donations, member- senior staff — but de- MacNeill said this includes unteer has a concern about a ships, grants and the Ontario Ministry of Health. spite the appeals of her seniors, people with disabili- client, then they inform the n Huntley union, CUPE Local 79, ties, or people coming home agency’s staff social worker, n The vast majority of clients pay for their meals, which generally the Kaplan Award takes from surgery. who follows up to see if they cost $5.25 each. Financial assistance is offered to those who are effect this month. The agency’s services are can help. unable to pay. Campbell, now near- co-ordinated by paid staff, but “If we see that someone ing retirement, insists food is delivered by volun- is having trouble shovelling n The agency also provides meals for those with special dietary that this is “something teers. They pick up the meals their snow, raking their leaves needs, such as diabetic or low-sodium food. the public should be and drop them off to the cli- or whatever they are dealing aware of,” despite what ents once a day, between 11 with at home,” she said, “then n Last year more than 700 residents were served by the East York she says is the risk to a.m. and 1 p.m. our social worker will connect Meals on Wheels agency. her job for speaking out. MacNeill said that because them with other services to many of their volunteers have look after those needs.” 4 ARTS&LIFE The East York Observer /// Friday, March 23, 2012 Learning how to level the playing field

By SARAH DAYAL when shame recedes. The Observer But Russell said it’s important for parents to not Constant partying, overreact when their teens failing grades and an start approaching things inability to wake up on more casually. time for school are just a “Kids don’t like failing few things some parents grades and they certainly have to tolerate with their aren’t missing that part teenagers. of their brain that allows St. Patrick Catholic them to be worried for Secondary School hosted themselves,” Russell said. a seminar featuring “You as a parent have to registered clinical put down the worry ball psychologist Dr. Alex for them to pick it up…. Russell last month to It won’t kick in if you’re address those issues and doing it for them.” others. Once children enter their The Feb. 21 meeting teen years, it’s only natural was designed to help for parents to worry about Evan De Souza /// Observer educate parents on how issues such as sex, drugs, to raise responsible and pregnancy and criminality. St. Anselm Catholic School students take a break from playing to pose with friends at the Northern independent teenagers. As But Russell said it takes Spirit Games at St. Patrick Secondary School. a public forum, attendees painful, non-catastrophic shared stories of their errors for children to learn stressful uphill battles with to avoid major pitfalls. their children’s habits. One If a child fails a math Kids spear healthy learning mother of three said her test, he suggested, parents 16-year-old stepdaughter should be sympathetic used to have good grades, instead of patronizing or Elementary school students experience native culture through fun physical activities but this year, things have scolding. Parents were been declining drastically. also advised to praise their By EVAN DE SOUZA tive studies to elementary “It is a way to promote dent volunteers, who helped “She always shows children in appropriate The Observer students,” said Nelli Trevi- physical activity while doing oversee younger children and me the respect enough to doses. sian Domingues, co-ordinator native activities,” she said. organize activities. listen to my opinion, but “Validating your St. Anselm Catholic School of the event and a health and The day began with an “The kids have a great ex- regardless, she doesn’t child’s success is different student Caryn Ramos had the physical education resource opening assembly, before perience working with the follow up with it right from praise, because it’s time of her life cheering on teacher at the Toronto Catho- students split up into groups. high school students,” Trev- now because her friends recognizing what they Grade 6 friends as they par- lic District School Board. Activities included the sea isan Domingues said. and partying are more of a are feeling,” Russell said. ticipated in a friendly spear- This is the eighth year the crawl, a kick-ball game and Grade 12 student Hazel priority to her,” the woman “When you constantly throwing competition at the games have been held. Be- the spear-throw — where Zulueta described the day as said. praise them, it loses its Northern Spirit Games at St. sides St. Patrick, there are students threw a foam spear “fun” and said she liked the Russell explained that value and cheapens the Patrick Catholic Secondary four high schools where the through a hoop. “free-spirited games.” there are stages when currency.” School on Feb. 27. Northern Spirit Games have Trevisan Domingues en- All of the volunteer it comes to youngsters’ Russell reiterated the Students from 10 local el- been taking place. Each has sured that activities were students’ and Trevisan reactions to failure. In importance of giving ementary schools gathered at 10 elementary schools par- based on aboriginal games Domingues’ hard work paid the first stage, from birth children time to figure St. Patrick to participate in ticipating. that were easy to reproduce off, as teachers told her that to age six, children feel things out for themselves. the games, which were de- Trevisan Domingues spent and explain to students. the kids all left feeling happy. shame and guilt if they “The number one thing signed to promote awareness months organizing the event The event’s success was Ramos agreed, saying the don’t perform, because you should be concerned of aboriginal culture. and hopes kids benefit from largely due to the time and spear-throw was her favou- they look to their parents about is that they develop “It’s a way to integrate na- the exercise. dedication of St. Patrick stu- rite event. for approval. a relationship with school It is only once children and achievement and feel pressure from external with their own source of figures such as police, motivation,” Russell said. Contra dancing their way right into your heart teachers and coaches that “However, burnt hands they enter the next stage, learn best.” By DYLAN C. ROBERTSON Church, on the Danforth at tine by following 10 or fewer The Observer Chester Avenue, where they call-outs from the stage. The meet every second, fourth and partners finish a sequence and A woman in a country dress fifth Saturday from 7:30 to rotate on to another couple in calls out dance moves next to 10:30 p.m. under a minute. a fiddler and a banjo player. “It’s pretty fun,” said first- “It’s not square dancing. Below the stage, three lines timer Kelsey Archambault, It’s a lot more flowing,” Cos- of couples dance on a thump- wiping sweat from her brow. burn said. ing wood floor, laughing and “It’s a little complicated, but While the steps, twirls and cheering. It’s just like a barn because it repeats so much, swings remain the same, the dance, but it’s happening two by the time you get to the groups rotate. By the end, it’s minutes from the subway. end you’ve done it a bunch of almost guaranteed everyone “I love contra dancing,” times, so you get used to it.” has danced with everyone said Kat Cosburn, a Toronto- Contra dancing is a form else in the room. nian in her 20s who discov- of folk dancing that originat- “It’s very human. You look ered the dance while studying ed in New England and was into each others’ eyes so you in North Carolina. popularized between the two don’t get dizzy,” said 71-year- “It’s really fun. It’s kinda World Wars. It’s a mix be- old Maryanne Ells. “Young hippy-ish,” she laughs. tween line and square danc- and old people get together. For 29 years, the Toronto ing, where partners start by You meet everyone.” Dylan Robertson /// Observer Sarah Dayal /// Observer Country Dancers have been facing each other in straight About 90 people show up Clinical psychologist Dr. Alex Russell talks Contra dancers meet meeting in church halls across lines and form a quartet with for dances, with newcomers about the issues behind parenting teens. at St. Barnabas every the city. Their current home another couple. arriving half an hour early for other Saturday. is St. Barnabas Anglican The couples dance a rou- training sessions. The East York Observer /// Friday, March 23, 2012 Election 2012 5 Wave of orange washes over riding By SCOTT BARBER Nycole Turmel joined an en- by Layton Canadians shortly before his Toronto Convention Centre, fresh blood and new ideas.” The Observer thusiastic crowd at the Opera in the 2011 death last August. he added: “The next step is… MP Thomas Mulcair echoed House on Queen Street East federal “Tonight Toronto-Danforth when we choose a new party Topp’s sentiment. Monday’s byelection in To- near Broadview Avenue. election. has spoken,” he said. “As a leader who will keep moving “These things you either ronto-Danforth held special Nash described the value of Liberal good friend of ours would this party and this country have naturally or you don’t, significance for the NDP. The the riding for the NDP. candidate say, we’ve chosen love, forward.” and this guy’s got them in importance of the race in the “People very badly want Grant Gor- n Craig Scott we’ve chosen hope, we’ve During the campaign, crit- spades,” he said. riding was illustrated by an to maintain this seat for the don polled chosen optimism.” ics argued that Scott’s lack “Craig is such a superlative impressive gathering at Craig NDP,” the MP said. “It’s part second with 29 per cent, fol- Scott also looked ahead to of political experience could candidate and he’s going to Scott’s election night victory of Jack Layton’s legacy and lowed by the Conservative the future of Canadian poli- hinder his ability to fill the bring a lot to Ottawa.” celebration — which included we want to build on our suc- and Green parties, which each tics. House of Commons seat of MP Olivia Chow — Lay- a who’s who of the party. cess here.” received about five per cent. “This is just one step in the charismatic Layton. ton’s widow — also voiced Just days before the federal Scott, a social justice advo- In his victory speech, Scott the longer campaign to build But Brian Topp challenged her support for Scott. leadership convention, can- cate and law professor at York evoked the memory of Lay- a better Canada,” he said. that assumption. “Voters know Craig Scott didates Brian Topp, Thomas University’s Osgoode Hall, ton, quoting the letter that Referring to the leadership “Nobody was born an MP,” will do a good job and that Mulcair, Paul Dewar, Peggy won nearly 60 per cent of the the Toronto-Danforth MP and convention, which starts to- he said. “This is what we need Jack will be proud of him,” Nash and interim party leader vote, just shy of the mark set NDP party leader wrote to day, March 23, at the Metro in the House of Commons – she said. Liberals gain support, despite losing byelection

By ALDIS BRENNAN So an attitude of a spirited The Observer first attempt, rather than failure, When New Democrat Craig prevailed at Whistler’s on Mon- Scott won a landslide victory in day night. Interim Liberal Lead- Toronto-Danforth’s byelection er Bob Rae alluded to it as well. on Monday, someone forgot to “When Grant Gordon came tell the Liberals. forward and said that he would In fact, the atmosphere bor- like to be a candidate in the bye- dered on jubilant inside Whis- lection, it was a statement on tler’s Grille at 995 Broadview his part about his feeling for the Ave., where the Liberals held a constituency, his feeling for the festive party, despite the loss. riding and a sense of what he Sarah Thomson, no stranger would like to see in the future,” herself to election night events Rae said. — having run in both the 2010 For his part, Gordon specu- mayoral election and the 2011 lated that the Liberals were provincial election — was ex- handicapped by a short cam- cited. paign. The party didn’t even “We really had people think have a candidate until Feb. 9, about what their vote was going a month after the New Demo- to be, rather than just say ‘Oh, crats selected Scott to carry I’m this colour or that colour,’” the orange banner in Toronto- Thomson said. “I’m hopeful for Danforth. tonight. I really think that there “We were very late out of might be a change.” the gate, so that made it hard,” Gordon increased the Liber- Gordon said. “But I think we als’ share of the Toronto-Dan- were gaining every single day, Rebecca Steckham /// Observer forth vote substantially com- according to our research. We Interim Liberal Leader Bob Rae (left) watches as candidate Grant Gordon delivers his concession pared to what they garnered just needed more time.” speech at Whistler’s Grille after falling short in Monday’s byelection. in the 2011 federal election, Time was not the only elusive when candidate Andrew Lang element in play during this bye- said. “I thought it was dissipat- I was wrong. It’s pretty tough to for 2015. And, in typical Gor- a hockey game,” Gordon said. took 17.6 per cent of the votes. lection; another was the memo- ing and I thought people were run against a legacy like that.” don fashion, he made the an- “We’re all going to be OK. We This time, under Gordon, the ry of Jack Layton. really looking to the future and But Gordon isn’t discour- nouncement couched in a played great. We held our heads Liberal vote came in at 28.5 “I guess there was a huge who was going to help them aged. He called this campaign hockey metaphor. up high. But this is just the first per cent. amount of nostalgia,” Gordon most in the riding. But evidently his apprenticeship, a test-run “It really is just like losing game of the series.” Enthusiasts party with the Greens By TRISHA LANCETA victory speech. try continue to show the Greens cent she garnered in last May’s The Observer “I am curious about what have between three and 10 per election, and it continues a kind of parliamentarian he will cent of the vote, their voter pool slide from the Greens’ peak The count may not have be,” Mugnatto-Hamu said. is closer to 35 per cent of all Ca- in 2008, when they won 13.2 gone their way, but the mood “Maybe his speech won’t give nadians. These are people, he per cent of votes in Toronto- among those gathered at the it away, but we’ll have to see explained, who are either think- Danforth. T&M Sidewalk Café on Dan- over time.” ing of voting Green or have To current party leader forth Avenue Monday night Mugnatto-Hamu admitted them as a second choice. Mike Schreiner, the obstacle was still one of celebration. that she was disappointed by “For the Green Party to lies in the electoral system. Party platters of fruits and her fourth-place finish on elec- have gone from very small While canvassing, he said vegetables waited at the bar. tion night, especially since, party that never ran in more people were very receptive to Glasses of sparkling wine dis- she said, so many people told than a third of the ridings to the platform. appeared quickly as conver- her they would vote for her if being on the agenda for a third “I think one of the biggest sations were drowned out by she had a chance to win. of all Canadians is a substan- challenges we face is that music and competing chatter. That’s not to say that the tial change,” he said. a lot of people who want to Off to the side, Green party Greens didn’t fight during the Harris added that one of the vote Green feel it is difficult candidate Adriana Mugnatto- byelection campaign. Accord- party’s key strategies has been for us to get elected. They’re Hamu separated herself from ing to , the former to run a candidate in every rid- concerned about voting stra- the festivities to watch elec- leader of the Green Party, ing so citizens can know the tegically,” Schreiner said. “I tion coverage on television. $25,000 was spent on the rid- Greens a little better. tell people, ‘Vote for your Trisha Lanceta /// Observer Specifically, she wanted to ing – the same amount spent Mugnatto-Hamu came out heart, vote for what you be- Green party candidate Adriana Mugnatto-Hamu is see the winner in Toronto- by the entire party in 2001. of Monday’s byelection with lieve in. Otherwise, you’re all smiles at her post-election gathering as she is Danforth’s byelection, New He also said that although 1,517 votes or 4.7 per cent. not going get the government congratulated by one of her supporters. Democrat Craig Scott, give his election results across the coun- That’s down from the 6.5 per that you want.’” 6 OPINION The East York Observer /// Friday, March 23, 2012 n editorials n ColumnS Believe in privacy, not porn MP Craig Scott error and disbelief fill my different than presenting identi- with the realities of the digital Tbody whenever I hear Public fication and a copy of your letter world, imagining a chaotic ethe- oronto-Danforth has a new MP, and you guessed it: he’s a New Democrat. Safety Minister Vic Toews speak. to the police before going to the real netherworld that must be TIn his debut in electoral politics, Craig Scott won the byelection on Monday. He says those trepidations are mailbox and having the recipi- controlled lest it doom us all. As a former professor at the Osgoode Hall Law School of York University, Scott signs that I’m a child molester. I ent followed by authorities until Vic, I just should have no problem with the workload. think the phrase he’s looking for convinced that they are not a want you to Much has been made of the fact that Scott got almost 60 per cent of the vote is “citizen concerned about pri- pederast. know that — more than twice as many votes as his nearest rival — and that’s very close to vacy issues,” but then again, isn’t Recently, hackers managed to the answer what Jack Layton got in Toronto-Danforth 11 months ago. But it should also be tap the phone system of the FBI to security is noted that voter turnout was a paltry 43 per cent this time, compared to 65 per that exactly what a child molester cent last May. would say? and record phone conversations not to open So while it’s certainly a mandate, it’s unclear just how much of a mandate. In Toews’ bill, C-30, better known between bureau agents and Scot- a back any case, the late Jack Layton’s shoes are big ones to fill. And although Scott has as the Protecting Children from land Yard. door for said he is committed to both pursuing and protecting Layton’s legacy, it will be Internet Predators Act, would How then can we expect a Ca- any- interesting to see how he handles the spotlight and whether he can come out from allow the government to collect nadian police agency to protect one the shadow of the charismatic MP he’s succeeded. all forms of private information what would be a gold mine of to If Scott makes a bold move, will people in Toronto-Danforth imagine Layton about the Internet identities and information from hackers world- snoop hovering over his shoulder? If he messes up, will they ask, ‘WWJD?’ (What online habits of innocent Canadi- wide? through. Would Jack Do?) Certainly there will be a honeymoon period in this left-of- ans; I use the term “innocent” to “We are proposing measures “1984” centre riding for the incoming member of Parliament, who even campaigned with emphasize the forgotten concept to bring our laws into the 21st was a Layton’s widow at his side. But by the time the next election rolls around, it’s century and to provide the police warning, going to be important for Scott to have made his own mark in the riding and in of due process. the House of Commons. What was originally called the with the lawful tools that they not an in- Scott ran a strong campaign, focusing on holding government accountable, Lawful Access Act, a name that need,” Toews says. struction protecting our environment and boosting social services. He put in the time failed to incite sufficient hysteria, The “tools” he speaks of is full manual. and effort necessary to sweep the polls — and the predictions are that he’ll be a C-30 would require Internet pro- removal of freedom to privacy. As for the strong voice in Parliament. But in order to accomplish all that he sets out to do, viders to collect and retain per- With no oversight committee, po- “tools” that he will have to work hard to establish relationships in Toronto-Danforth and in sonal information about their us- lice would be able to sift through are neces- Ottawa. This means becoming more than just Layton’s successor. ers, such as emails, IP addresses all of your personal online data sary for As a viable start, it may be time for residents to let Layton go. Not to forget the and essentially our surfing habits. without the pesky inconvenience our man or his legacy — but to stand behind Scott as he makes his own difference. With the online world quickly of getting a warrant. pro- ~ Tatiana Herman becoming the exclusive platform Before you start to question tection, the only for letter-writing, phone calls, the “wisdom” of our government, tool in this debate banking, entertainment and re- consider Toews’ statement in is you. search, are you comfortable with open debate: “Either stand with your cyber identity becoming us or with the child pornogra- Kristopher public record? phers.” Morrison Pick your fights In today’s digital age, it’s no Perhaps Toews is out of touch

hether it’s the Occupy campaign or the G20 summit protests, residents of WEast York and beyond have shown an undeniable passion for important is- sues that impact their community and the rest of the world. However, the latest YouTube pays the bills movement to sweep the pop culture landscape might be taking things a step too far. By now, everyone is conversant with the viral Kony 2012 campaign, which hen YouTube first rolled Princesstard, Babytard, Rocktard of Wal-Mart, using juice bottles as was made famous by Invisible Children in an effort to nab notorious Ugandan Waround, no one really and of course Shay Carl (also pins and frozen turkeys as the ball. war criminal Joseph Kony. Their YouTube video, unveiled on March 5, was an thought it could make money. known as Daddytard). But really, would they be doing that effort to outline Kony’s crimes against thousands of African children. Forget And that included Shay Carl But- At first, he was mostly vlogging if they weren’t trying to get views? director Jason Russell’s public meltdown last week; his video has still garnered ler — until he began uploading himself talking, but later he began One of the things I learned from close to 100 million YouTube views and motivated civilians worldwide to join videos. Just a regular 29 year-old to film more of his family. With watching their videos is that life efforts created towards finally bringing Kony to justice. guy, he uploaded a video saying four adorable kids and a hot wife, is what you make it and On April 20, East Yorkers and others from Toronto’s east end plan to join the he always thought he would be it’s no surprise that three years later, anything is possible movement in a concrete way by holding a cover night to raise awareness regard- successful by the age of 30. the Shaytards have nearly a million with today’s advanced ing the Kony movement. Participants look to blanket this end of the city with “I’m turning 29 on Thursday, subscribers and over 450 mil- technology and hundreds, perhaps thousands of Kony 2012 posters, in keeping with Invisible which gives me one year to lion views in total, just on the media. They didn’t Children’s mantra to make him “famous” in order to make him an example of become ‘successful’,” he said. “Shaytards” expect to make international justice. Then he posted a video to YouTube channel alone. money Though this does seem a noteworthy and commendable cause, the measures every day of the next year. Little Shay once this by which supporters of Kony 2012 are bringing attention to this sadistic fugitive did he know he would exceed his worked as a bus way. But could set a dangerous precedent. In the tradition of ‘there’s no such thing as bad own expectations. driver, countertop if they can make publicity,’ plastering posters of Kony’s face in an attempt to make him a house- Shay Carl (known as Shay for intsaller, and radio disc money doing what hold name could backfire. The worldwide attention suddenly focused on this man short) already had some followers jockey. Now, the family they love, who’s to could actually help him strengthen his Lord’s Resistance Army and continue his on his personal YouTube channel, makes their entire living say you can’t make 25-year-long reign of terror — by encouraging and emboldening its ranks in their “Shaycarl,” so when he decided to from making videos for money doing whatev- view of ‘you and me against the world.’ It might even prove to be a recruiting do the daily video blogs (vlogs), he YouTube. er it is you love? The tool. knew people would be watching. So, why do so many key is taking that risk, Recently, Ugandan human rights groups, such as Human Rights Watch, noted He created a new YouTube channel people watch their vid- doing what makes you that Kony hasn’t operated in their country for several years. Furthermore, Ca- called “Shaytards.” That name eos? All they really do is happy and not expecting nadian author Mark Kersten notes, Invisible Children’s 30-minute video never came from his early YouTube live their lives as usual any financial success in spoke of the fact that Uganda has been at peace for six years, or that there have days when he uploaded a video and share it with the rest return. You might make been no major LRA attacks during that timespan. of himself playing with his kids of the world. And they get money, you might not. With unemployment and rising transportation costs becoming fast-rising issues and dancing around in his wife’s paid for that! Sure, it seems And you might not do it in the GTA, fighting for a cause without being fully educated on its source proba- maternity unitard. like they have more of an forever. But in the end, bly should be lower on the agenda. While G20 and the Occupy protests addressed He combined that with his first exciting life than most of if it’s something you en- economic and political issues that alter the shape of Canadian society, Kony 2012 name, and it just stuck. Now, each us, but they make it that joyed before you got paid events such as these may truly amount to nothing —given this campaign’s some- of the family members has a “tard” way. Once, they had a for it, it’ll never what misguided aura. name: Mommytard (also known “turkey bowling tour- Elita Tsilo be something you ~ Jodee Brown as Katilette and Colette), Sontard, nament” in the aisles regret.

The East York The East York Observer is published by Centen- Faculty Editors Managing Editor copy Editors nial College journalism students at the East York Lindy Oughtred Nicholas Prospero Dylan Robertson campus, 951 Carlaw Ave., Rm. 149. P.O. Box Stephen Cogan Assignment editor Jessica Vella 631, Stn. A, Scarborough, M1K 5E9. E-mail c/o Louie Piacentini Sunnie Huang production editors Observer [email protected]. Telephone 416- Dave Johnny photo editor Teona Baetu 289-5107, Fax 416-289-5111 Andrew Mair Clarisa Pessoa Cortney Cook The East York Observer /// Friday, March 23, 2012 FEATURES 7 Curling a ‘second job’ for brothers By JIYOON ELLIE KIM ing career, returning often to East The Observer York for competition. The older son, Michael Shepherd, The East York Curling Club’s started curling at the age of eight, mixed team of men and women is and after a pause during high school, aiming high. resumed his competitive curling The team earned a ticket to the career as a skip in East York. He regional round of the 2012 Ontario now curls three nights a week and Curling Association Mixed tour- weekends, visiting clubs throughout nament, happening tomorrow and southern Ontario. Sunday, March 24 and 25, after they “It is definitely a big part of my won a consolation match in their life. I almost see it as my second job, Zone 7 on Feb. 5. as I have to put much time into it,” True, this latest success doesn’t he said. “I do have goals I want to necessarily compare to some of the achieve as a curler: to make it to the larger triumphs in the 52-year life of men’s provincial championships.” the club — like when it hosted the Curling also helps him take a World Junior Curling Championship break from regular life. in 1974. “Curling is a good, social game, But members say the mixed although it sometimes can get stress- team’s recent success has once again ful when preparing for competitive focused attention on the club, its games. You feel good, especially Jiyoon Ellie Kim /// Observer headquarters at 901 Cosburn Ave., as you socialize with whom you’ve and two of the team’s members: Mi- played with after the games,” he The East York Curling Club’s ‘Team Shepherd’ is off to the regional round of the 2012 OCA chael and Matthew Shepherd. added. “Not a rule, but it’s expected mixed tournament this weekend. The club is open for recreational play to all East Yorkers. Their parents established the that the winning team buys the los- brothers’ close ties with curling and ing team a round of drinks. Next home, good times with his parents gap between us, we didn’t get along we listen well and take each others’ East York. The avid curling couple round, the losing one does it back.” inspired him to return to East York when we were little. But we do a opinions.” began their marriage in East York, The people he’s met through and develop his curling career. lot better now,” he said. “On the ice Shepherd added that he’s confident and together enjoyed the club’s so- games are not curling’s only benefit. Three years of playing with his we have this comfort level, with my his team has a chance to go to the cial atmosphere. They later moved He also enjoyed the time he spent brother and teammate, Matthew brother and close friends Heather Canadian championships this time, to Newmarket, where the brothers curling with his family. Although Shepherd, have been a joy for him. and Laurie in my team. We’ve since they nearly made the provincial grew up and began their junior curl- it was quite a distance from their “Because there’s a seven-year played together for years so that championships two years ago. Thorncliffe residents welcome renewal plan Program aims to improve apartment buildings, inside and out

By SARAH DAYAL canvass their input for it. have led to improper use of the The Observer Ten-year Thorncliffe Park space. The City of Toronto’s Tow- resident Dave Sutherland says “When it is warm, people er Renewal Program continues the lack of open recreational have picnics, play soccer and its joint effort alongside the space is a major concern for ride their bikes — but there United Way to try to revitalize him because of his three chil- are also signs that say no The cast and crew of The Odd Couple pose for the audience at their Teona Baetu /// Observer one of the highest-density resi- dren. ball-playing, picnics or bike- final performance. Marcus Westbury, founder of Renew Newcastle, met East York-area dential neighbourhoods in the “I chose Thorncliffe Park in riding,” Sutherland said. “The residents to discuss a facelift for local vacant stores. East York area: the Thorncliffe 2003 because there were a lot building is not structuring the Park apartment buildings. of kids in the area,” he said. “I places accordingly, so people A forum was held last month thought my kids would have a are structuring it in non-ideal at the Thorncliffe Neighbour- great time growing up and in- places.” Reinventing the Danforth hood Office Youth Centre, teracting with other kids from Another tenant who has By TEONA BAETU of Renew Newcastle, a suc- problems are your oppor- with a representative from the around the world, but then re- lived at 43, 49 and 85 Thorn- The Observer cessful non-profit organiza- tunities,” he said. “No one Greater Toronto Apartments alized that despite the majority cliffe Park, Yousuf Syed, tion that mediates between ever walked down the main Rental Association in atten- being children, the building agreed that buildings should Some people interested in landlords of vacant buildings streets of Newcastle before, dance. wasn’t made for them.” focus more on children. the southeast corner of East and local residents who marvelling at the glorious Former mayor David Miller Sutherland said Thorncliffe “The kids have the right to York are hoping to revital- could fill them with a busi- amount of empty space launched the Toronto Tower Park green spaces are used play during the winter months, ize the eastern stretch of ness venture. that’s there and what a great Renewal program in 2008. against tenants’ wishes, mak- but they can’t play inside build- the Danforth and the area West- opportunity it was.” After researching potential ing them less kid-friendly. ing hallways,” he said. “Every around Gerrard Street and bury In Newcastle, Westbury pilot sites where decades-old “The green spaces are deco- building should have a rec- Coxwell Avenue. flew in @ got landowners of vacant concrete towers are show- rative with bushels and flow- reational facility like a small “We need to encourage from O stores to lease out their space ing their age and inefficiency, ers that you’re not supposed to swimming pool or an indoor people to rent their space Austra- to local artists for free. the program set out to com- step on,” he said, “and children play area.” because that’s what creates lia to l For Westbury said the land- bine green technology with go crazy stepping on them — Syed also a vibrant community,” said deliver a more on lords can reclaim their place neighbourhood revitalization which ruins the building’s vi- had concerns Mary Fragedakis, the coun- presenta- this story, at any time if they have projects — all to improve the sion of the green space and with the safe- visit us cillor for Ward 29/Toronto- tion on someone willing to rent the buildings and the areas sur- also takes away what the kids ty, security online at Danforth. “It doesn’t help how he torontoob- space. But in the meantime, rounding them. can have too because of the and cleanli- anybody on a commercial trans- server.ca the spaces are cleaned up, The program has success- restrictions.” ness of the street like Danforth if there formed maintained and used — fully worked at 175 Shaugh- There is a courtyard be- buildings. are pockets of empty build- the rather than sitting empty and nessy Blvd., an 18-floor build- tween 35, 43 and 47 Thorn- ings.” downtown core of New- abandoned. ing near Leslie Street and cliffe Park where hundreds of So earlier this month, castle, a town an hour north “It’s a very exciting Sheppard Avenue East, as well residents gather during local residents and their city of Sydney, from empty and project that they’ve done,” as other concrete buildings summer months, councillors got together to abandoned to vibrant. He Fragedakis said, “and around the city. but signs prohibit- listen to Marcus Westbury, discussed how areas of To- it’s something that we’re The Thorncliffe Park ini- ing many recre- who said he has a solution. ronto can be uplifted too. definitely very interested in tiative is a new one, and the ational activities Westbury is the founder “Sometimes your replicating here.” February meeting was held to inform residents about it, and n Yousuf Syed 8 FEATURES The East York Observer /// Friday, March 23, 2012 Hollywood blooms in Leaside

By DYLAN C. ROBERTSON (played by Channing Tatum) who has to win The Observer back the love of his wife (played by Rachel McAdams) after a car accident and subsequent A bit of Hollywood glamour gripped the coma erases all memory of their life together. streets of Leaside recently. A scene in this year’s It’s based on the true story of a New Mexico Valentine’s Day hit The Vow was filmed at Sa- couple who had a similar thing happen in 1993. vory Thymes, a florist and specialty store on Although the movie is set in Chicago, the To- Bayview Avenue just north of Millwood Road. ronto Film and Television Office says multiple The film fol- parts were filmed across Toronto, including at lows the the AGO and Liberty Village. story of A pivotal scene in the plot takes place at the a man Leaside florist, when an encounter with an old friend triggers traumatic memories for McAdams’ character. “It’s neat to be in a movie,” said Savory Thymes employee Annie Liu, “though you can’t really tell they filmed here.” The store closed for a day last fall to facili- tate filming.

Leigh Cavanaugh /// Observer Leigh Cavanaugh /// Observer Savory Thymes on Bayview Avenue features a variety of goods — and has Annie Liu, one of Savory Thymes’ employees, stands surrounded by fruits, doubled as a movie set. A scene filmed in the shop last fall is one of the vegetables and flowers in the room where a pivotal scene for the movieThe more vital moments in the current Hollywood release, The Vow. Vow was filmed.

Community ‘catalyst’ Sierra Club aims to restore wins Macphail award By NIKKI PULSONE Moorelands Community health to the environment The Observer Service and the East York Spelling Bee by Moguard mous naturalist and conserva- Horseshoe and northward to tion Act that they introduced The community’s highest Residential. She is also an Organization uses tionist, and founded the Sierra the tip of the Bruce Peninsula. during the last election was a award for volunteerism will avid gardener and wants to advocacy, action Club in California in 1892 to “This is of critical impor- good decision,” he said. be presented at the East further gardening projects protect communities, wild tance,” he said. “It’s good to see the gov- York Civic Centre tomor- in her neighbourhood. to spread the word places and the planet. “There are so few natural ernment focusing on the larg- row night, March 24. An- It is considered one of the areas left in southern On- est freshwater system in the And the winner is… other up- most influential environmen- tario.” world.” By VALENTINA KRGOVIC Alice Carriman. coming tal organizations in North McDermott explained that But McDermott’s praise for The Observer Carriman will collect project America. the Sierra Club has an ongo- the McGuinty Liberals’ en- the 20th annual Agnes for Car- One of the world’s old- Sierra Club Canada is the ing dialogue with the Ontario vironmental initiatives is not Macphail Award for spear- riman is est and largest environmen- national body that works on government and is encour- unqualified. heading a variety of public repairing tal protection organizations national and international en- aged by some of Queen’s For instance, he is critical n Alice initiatives in East York. stairs maintains its provincial head- vironmental issues. Its head- Park’s environmental protec- of the government’s electric- Carriman She’s a native of the linking quarters right here in East quarters is in Ottawa. The tion initiatives. ity subsidy program. Caribbean island nation of Thorncliffe Park, Fleming- York, at the Evergreen Brick provincial chapters focus on “It’s good to be working “If people don’t pay full Carriacou. Carriman now don Park and the Don Works campus on Bayview regional issues that are of a with a government that actu- price for the electricity they lives in Thorncliffe Park Valley. Avenue. high priority. ally cares about these issues,” use, they will use more,” he and is a trained nurse. Donations in honour The Sierra Club is a grass- The work of Sierra Club he said. said In a news release, her of Carriman’s chosen roots environmental protec- Ontario, based at Evergreen, McDermott added that the “This program does not nominator, Amy Suther- charity can be sent to the tion organization, with most mainly focuses on the Great Ontario government is on the promote conservation.” land said Carriman “has East York Foundation, 50 of its work accomplished by Lakes ecosystem, the Green- right track when it comes to McDermott added that he catalyzed programs that Merritt Road, East York, member-volunteers. belt and green energy. its commitment to protect the feels the province should fol- have become permanent M4B 3K6. A receipt will Their objective is to protect Dan McDermott, director Great Lakes. low up with a broader conser- institutions throughout East be issued for income tax and restore the health of the of Sierra Club Ontario, said “The Great Lakes Protec- vation initiative. York.” purposes. natural environment by em- they are working to protect The award ceremony Carriman helped create powering the public through the natural areas of southern l the Thorncliffe Neighbour- starts at 7 p.m. tomorrow, education, advocacy and ac- Ontario by adding more land For more East York stories, hood Office, an after- March 24, at the civic tion. to the protected Greenbelt @ please visit us online at school program used by centre, 850 Coxwell Ave. John Muir, who lived from area the province has estab- torontoobserver.ca 1838 until 1914, was a fa- lished around the Golden O