ww The EXOTIC PET PROTECTION n Zoocheck fighting to keep Observer animals well cared-for. Page 3 Our 40th anniversary year.... Serving our community since 1972 Vol. 41, No. 3 www.torontoobserver.ca Friday, March 2, 2012 TEGH merger talks ‘ended’ By ZENAIRA ALI The Observer Merger talks between East General Hos- pital (TEGH) and The Scarborough Hospital (TSH) are over, according to TEGH’s chief executive. TEGH president and CEO Rob Devitt says that East General was approached by TSH in May 2011 about a merger that could help the two institutions save money. In November, they jointly paid $90,000 to Corpus Sanchez International (CSI) Consultancy to assess the potential risks and benefits. CSI’s report projected savings of up to $27.2 million in light of the administrative and operational changes that would result if the hospitals combined. But while the original merger proposal involved only administrative changes to the way the two hospitals would operate, it evolved into a proposal for a merger of some clinical operations as well. At that point, the Central East Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) — which the Scarborough Hospi- tal is a part of — asked TSH to also explore other Aldis Brennan /// Observer integration opportunities. Interim Liberal Leader Bob Rae speaks to the media outside Liberal candidate Grant Gordon’s “In a nutshell, Central East LHIN had a meeting Toronto-Danforth campaign office on Saturday. Rae was in the riding in anticipation of the March last Wednesday where they directed TSH to look at 19 byelection, and addressed the growing scandal around allegations of bogus phone calls made least four other options in detail,” Devitt told the to voters during the last federal election by call centres affiliated with the Conservative party. Observer. “We looked at that and said there are op- tions in there that we’re not interested in.” At a town hall meeting on Wednesday night at the East York Civic Centre, Devitt addressed the change in plans. “On Friday, we announced that we’ve decided to end those discussions — and I want to be clear about Riding in limelight the word ‘end,’” he said. “It doesn’t say ‘suspend.’ It says ‘end,’ and I really want to stress that.” the developing countries,” said access to medicines in the de- A similar public meeting was held earlier this Press conference Laverdiére. “It’s not compli- veloping world, there are very month in Scarborough at St. Paul’s L’Amoreaux cated to simplify it. This bill... clear market failures and this is Center, hosted by the Friends of The Scarborough discusses the tries to simplify the process one very good, clear example Hospital. More than 200 people showed up, and most and make it work.” of that,” Orbinski said. “The spoke out against the merger. NDP ‘Medicine She added: “We will need impact of this on children is Devitt said the decision to move on was made by for All’ bill to count on votes from vari- profound.... 250,000 children the TEGH board after “due diligence.” ous Parliamentarians both in die each year from HIV/AIDS “They looked at what was going on with LHIN. By CORIANDRE the House of Commons and when in fact that is completely They listened to the feedback they had heard from LAWRENCE the Senate and count deeply unnecessary. There is no vi- our medical staff and they looked at the report,” he The Observer on civil society and actors who able market mechanism at this said. “They looked at everything and decided to end have been so involved in the time that will allow for access the discussion and move on to other things.” The official Opposition in issue in the past. But person- to treatment…. The same is Devitt said a major reason behind TEGH’s deci- the House of Commons chose ally I am very confident that true for many adults and chil- sion to back out was how long the process would a venue in the hotly contested n Craig Scott Parliamentarians will get be- dren with other diseases.” take. riding of Toronto-Danforth for hind this bill acknowledging “When you look at how long that it’s taken us some high-level promotion of and Scott said the bill, if en- that it’s really the right thing to get to a prototype document from the original an international initiative last acted into law, will improve to do.” option, considering other options would take many, week. access to life-saving medicine Scott, a professor of interna- many months,” he said. “We thought the best thing So NDP byelection candi- in developing countries. They tional law at York University’s for us to do is to say, ‘Scarborough, you’ve got your date Craig Scott shared the said it would amend legisla- Osgoode Hall Law School, thing to do, go do it. We’ll go off and look at other platform with the Opposition’s tion affecting Canada’s Ac- gave the bill his full support options.’” foreign affairs critic, Hélène cess to Medicines Regime and spoke to its relevance and @ According to Central East LHIN spokesperson Laverdiére, and the former (CAMR). what it represents. Katie Cronin-Wood, the health network had no prob- president of Doctors Without Parliament unanimous- “A child dies every three lem with the merger. Borders, James Orbinski. ly implemented CAMR in seconds around the world “There’s nothing wrong with what TSH and The trio’s Feb. 24 press con- 2004, allowing exports of from lack of quality medi- TEGH were doing,” Cronin-Wood said. “We were ference at Eastminster United generic drugs to developing cine,” Scott said. “As Canadi- O THE CHOICE just cautioning them that as they move forward, they Church on Danforth Avenue countries to help battle HIV/ ans, we have a responsibility need to engage the community and look at other was to show support for an AIDS, tuberculosis and other to co-operate in this effort and options.” NDP private member’s bill, serious diseases. However, protect human health as a hu- According to Devitt, TEGH now plans to work C-398, dubbed the Medicine Laverdiére, Scott and Orbin- man right. This is exactly what 2012 with its stakeholders to explore other ways of im- for All Bill. ski say CAMR’s process is Bill C-398 seeks to do.” proving East York’s health care. Orbinski, who accepted the too intricate for countries and Orbinski provided insight n Pre-election “As we look at the long-term sustainability of the Nobel Peace Prize on behalf pharmaceutical companies to on health issues dependent coverage health-care system we all love, we need to lift our of Doctors Without Borders be successful. on the bill, stating that it is a eyes to the horizon and think of different ways of in 1999, is now the chair of “Before, it was a very con- serious opportunity to achieve continues: doing things for the good of patient care,” he said. Global Health at the Universi- voluted process and a burden improved results. pages 4-6 ty of Toronto. He, Laverdiére for all the parties, including “The fact is that in terms of 2 NEWS The East York Observer /// Friday, March 2, 2012 n AWARD Police Briefs Poverty speech captures contest Sexual assault By TEONA BAETU nervous and a little excited... talked about what he had for The Observer and early in the year of 1922 lunch. We (the judges) were charges laid was the first time Agnes impressed that he could jux- A man is facing And the winner is: Haris Macphail, as the first female tapose those two things,” Prue three charges Babar. member of Parliament, walked said. of aggravated Babar, a Grade 7 student into the Parliament Buildings. Prue sat on the judging panel sexual assault from Gordon A. Brown Mid- So I think she too was nervous alongside Michael Smith and after police were dle School, took home the Ag- and excited,” said Bob Lister, East York school board trustee called to the area nes Macphail public speaking co-ordinator of the contest and Gerri Gershon. of Broadview trophy on Feb. 22 after deliv- master of ceremonies, in his Babar said he prepared for and Cosburn av- ering his speech on poverty. opening remarks. the contest for a month, and enues. A woman “Today in my lunch I had Lister and his wife organized his teachers and mother were said a man met a delicious slice of pizza, a the contest, which celebrates very supportive. her downtown chilled Coke and tasty fries. its 15th anniversary this year. He also said the competing with promises But while I was having my Michael Prue, the MPP for contestants did really well too of a modeling lunch, I never thought about Beaches-East York and the — and he wished them luck job, but when the those 12,342 children who will lead judge for the contest, said next year. pair arrived at an die today because of hunger,” the judges were impressed by Babar will offer an encore apartment, the Babar said. Babar’s ability to talk about of his winning speech in three man prevented The annual speaking com- “something as mundane and weeks, at the annual Agnes her from leaving petition for students in grades ordinary” as a child having Macphail Award ceremony at and sexually as- 6-8 took place in the audito- lunch at school and compare the civic centre. saulted her. Er- rium of the East York Civic it to “what happens to 12,342 That occasion recognizes rol Spooner, 33, Centre. Topics ranged from other children who didn’t have an East Yorker for outstand- Teona Baetu/// Observer was arrested on violence in the NHL to inter- that opportunity.” ing volunteer work. It will be Haris Babar, winner of the Agnes Macphail Public Feb. 20. He’s also net privacy. “It was an absolutely excel- held on Saturday, March 24 at Speaking Contest, shows off his trophy with his been charged “The speakers are a little lent way to start a speech; he 7 p.m. mother, Uzam Babar. with forcible con- finement and car- rying a concealed weapon. East General receives $5-million donation Money will fund Thomson Patient Care Centre the Toronto East General Hos- been impressed with the doc- Man faces 10 is a focal point for this rede- pital Board Foundation, said he tors and the staff,” Thomson new centre for velopment. It’s going to bring feels the same way. said. “We’re very proud to be a charges to us a life-filled, multi-storey “Diana and Peter’s inspira- part of it going forward.” patient care building, built at the corner tional support will raise aware- His wife Diana agreed. WHAT A man faces 10 of Coxwell and Sammon av- ness of our hospital and send a “I think it’s going to be a fan- charges after men By ZENAIRA ALI enues,” Devitt said. “It will powerful message to Toronto’s tastic building,” she said. “It’ll IT MEANS came forward to The Observer be the cornerstone for an even philanthropic and corporate mean a lot to the families n Accommodation higher standard of service and communities about the impor- that are served by the complain that of advanced medical hospi- they had been A $5-million donation from excellence here at Toronto East tance of community hospitals, technology sexually assaulted Peter and Diana Thomson to General.” where 90 per cent of health care tal.” as boys between Toronto East General Hospital Devitt said the Thomsons’ issues are addressed.” n Better infection 1969 and 1987. (TEGH) will launch the Ken donation will serve two pur- Thomson spoke of his fam- control Ronald Lea, 61, and Marilyn Thomson Patient poses. ily’s previous experiences with was arrested on Care Centre, in honour of Pe- “It’s transformational both in TEGH as the motivation behind n Shorter lengths of Feb. 22. ter’s parents. terms of helping us achieve the the donation. stay for patients Police say that According to Rob Devitt, vision of that new building,” he “Our daughter was born here, n 280 medical CEO and president of TEGH, said. “But I think it’s also trans- and almost all of us have had Lea used the surgical beds name Alexander the care centre will have a formational in terms of the mes- some sort of treatment here Thow when he re- prominent role in the hospital’s sage it will send to other donors over the years. We’ve always n Greater privacy and sided around the upcoming $211-million renova- to step up and I think it will be comfort for patients area of O’Connor tion and expansion project. the catalyst for more giving.” n (L-R) Peter, Caroline and their families Drive and Don- “The Ken and Marilyn Michael Burns, chairman of and Diana Thomson lands Avenue.

Thieves break ‘Outstanding’ principal into two homes one of Canada’s top 40 Police are looking nomination, but humbled that Shanahan has brought leader- for suspects after By NICHOLAS PROSPERO he was selected among the top ship and tutoring programs separate burglar- The Observer 40 principals in the country. to the school, as well as new ies. A resident on An East York-area high “I got a call from the Learn- uniforms. Astor Avenue said school principal was honoured ing Partnership, and they said Shanahan said in life, it’s that on Feb. 25, on Tuesday night as one of you’ve been nominated, which about taking good situations entry was made “Canada’s Outstanding Princi- I was surprised about. Then and improving upon them. into a premises pals of 2012.” a day or two later they called “I think the job of an admin- by forcing a win- John Shanahan of St. Patrick back and said I’d won,” Sha- istrator is to look at the whole dow. Jewelry was Catholic Secondary School on nahan said. picture and say, ‘How do we stolen from the Felstead Avenue was one of “I just do my job. My make it better?’” he said. house. That same the honourees at a gala held at thought is all about making “I think everybody’s job in day, someone Toronto’s Sheraton Centre. a great community,” he said. life is to try and leave a situa- forced a door at a He received the award “It’s about relationships, about tion better than you came. So home on Donlea from The Learning Partner- working with the staff and if you come to a good school, Drive and took ship, an organization that working with the kids.” you try to make it even bet- cosmetics, jew- aims to improve learning Shanahan took the reins at ter.” elry, computer standards and acknowledge St. Patrick two years ago, after Shanahan was honoured by equipment and a Nicholas Prospero /// Observer outstanding leaders in Cana- spending nine years as prin- his students and faculty at an wallet. John Shanahan speaks to his students during dian schools. cipal at Neil McNeil Catholic assembly on Feb. 17, and re- ~ Joshua Spence an assembly at St. Patrick Catholic Secondary Shanahan, 54, was surprised Secondary School. cieved both a standing ovation School on Felstead Avenue. when he first heard about his In his time at St. Patrick, and a large cake. The East York Observer /// Friday, March 2, 2012 NEWS 3 n COMMUNITY Roaring out against exotic animal abuse

Zoocheck was estab- Woodyer indicated that East York-based lished in 1984 to promote when it comes to legisla- and protect the interests tion, is the worst Zoocheck seeks and well-being of wild province when it comes animals. That includes to the number of roadside legislation to working to regulate the zoos and the unregulated control pet trade wild animal pet trade in exotic pet trade. Canada. “Ontario is still the only Cortney Cook /// Observer Domestic breeding, im- province that lacks laws or By VALENTINA KRGOVIC Autism workshop participants (l-r) Shona Casola, Sarah Duhaime, Tiffany portation and illegal poach- policies aimed at control- The Observer MacDonald and Erin Roza are all from Autism Ontario. ing are some of the prob- ling the keeping of exotic lems with Canada’s wild- animals,” Woodyer said. In a nondescript build- life pet trade. “This is a serious pub- ing near O’Connor and St. According to July Wood- lic safety problem as there Parents, teachers benefit Clair — with the modest yer, campaign organizer have been a number of in- address of 788 ½ O’Connor at Zoocheck, most wild cidents of people being at- Drive — a high-profile animal pets end up in the tacked and even killed by animal rights organization hands of private individu- exotic pets.” from workshop on autism is working on a campaign als — where they suffer Zoocheck is also in- that has as much to do with from inappropriate housing volved in making changes By CORTNEY COOK decode and understand the people as it does with pets. and care. in the way animals are The Observer content. Zoocheck, an animal But Woodyer said there treated in circuses. workshop Special education teacher protection charity that reg- are significant obstacles to Woodyer explained that A workshop about autism Miriam O’Donnell said she ularly makes the news with getting legislation imple- most of these animals are held on East York’s border highlights can take a great deal from the concerns about the wel- mented regarding the ex- moved from city to city in February concentrated on workshop and use what she n Involve peers fare of animals in settings otic pet trade and roadside with no opportunity to live practical advice for parents, through “inclusion” learned with her students. She like zoos, aquariums and zoos. according to their natural teachers and self-diagnosed in- to spread autism also attended Doyle’s session circuses, has its national “There is no political biology and behaviour. dividuals. awareness, allowing on changing behaviours. headquarters in East York. will to deal with this huge Woodyer said that while The event, which ran Feb. people who have “It’s key to children I teach autism to feel And one of its current problem of not only animal a lot of people like to go 17-18, drew more than 130 at- comfortable with who have behavioural issues campaigns revolves around welfare but public safety,” to circuses with perform- tendees. It was From Diagno- those who do not and have autism,” O’Donnell what it says is the danger Woodyer said. ing animals, they are in fact sis to Daily Living: A Lifelong said. “I’m always looking for to the public because of “The government doesn’t supporting an industry that Approach to Working with n What you do ways to help them deal with the lack of regulations in- want to deal with the bur- abuses the performers. Individuals with an ASD and matters more than their behaviours.” what you know volved in the exotic pet den of investigating these “These animals endure was hosted by authors and sis- Scarborough resident Matt trade in Canada. facilities.” severe confinement, de- ters Barbara Doyle and Emily Green, 23, has been diagnosed privation and brutality,” Doyle Illand at the Japanese into Spanish. on the mild end of the autism Woodyer said. Canadian Cultural Centre, lo- Parents who have children spectrum. Not only did he learn Zoocheck is working cated at 6 Garamond Ct. with autism found what they more about how to cope with with the city of Toronto to “We had some last-minute learned opened up more op- his disability, he was also given reduce the use of tools such registrations, which brought tions for helping their children. more tools to follow through as bull hooks that are used our number up to over 130 “I just wanted to understand on his ambition to apply for to train elephants. people in total,” said Tiffany more and that I’ve covered all journalism at Centennial Col- “These are not tools, but MacDonald, the family sup- my basics so I can give my son lege’s East York campus, and weapons,” she said. port co-ordinator for Autism what he needs,” said Romina to add more content to his mo- Photo “The elephants are Ont “It’s fantastic because we Barbieri, the mother of a three- tivational speaking seminars. courtesy of abused by these weapons were aiming for between 100 year-old son with autism. “I started motivational Fotolia at a young age and are and 150.” Barbieri found Illand’s ses- speaking about five years frightened of them. It’s like Doyle and Illand co-wrote sion about reading comprehen- ago because I wanted to help someone holding a gun to the book Autism Spectrum Dis- sion to be very useful, because people the way other people your head and asking you orders from A-Z in 2004 and she is trying to teach her son helped me get to where I am to do something.” Illand personally translated it not only how to read, but to today,” he said. East Yorkers take a trip to the milky way

By JIYOON ELLIE KIM late family members and of another man with a long silver Then he combined that brought it in and put it on the a full-time salesman at an The Observer the neighbourhood. beard shared his mother’s story accumulated knowledge of the desks,” she said. “That had electrical company and a While Toronto was one of milk bottles. A University of dairies’ historical context with been so many years. Those leisure-time author of sev- “Who remembers the dair- of the first Canadian cities to Toronto alumnus from the 1960s the memories of East York little bottles reminded me of eral books on the history of ies in Toronto?” begin pasteurizing dairy prod- shared her complaint about the seniors, al- my childhood.” Toronto’s dairies. He said he After his first question, ucts — in 1903 — the discus- sociology department building lowing them Herb Kingston is a first- plans to keep learning about speaker Paul Huntley began sion was mainly about the at the time being full of a milky to become a generation immigrant from dairies and trying to help his throwing around the names of old Dentonia Farm (now the stench. Everyone laughed when part of local Scotland. He carried on his neighbours with his hobby by farmers. Dentonia park, near Victoria Huntley agreed — adding that history. father’s job as a milkman in reconnecting them with their The East Yorkers in his Park and Danforth avenues) he loved it when he visited there Lynne Canada. After half a century, roots. audience who were old and City Dairy, which Huntley decades later… and he could n Huntley Brown the occupation died out due to Huntley proudly told his enough to remember burst has written about in his new still smell the milk. looked at industrialization of dairies. He experience of finding a fam- out in laughter as they raised book. Huntley first developed his Huntley’s bottle collection and now collects old photos of the ily’s lost photo of their grand- their hands — and then turned In his talk at the S. Wal- interest in dairies and their recalled a glass bottle of milk dairies. father’s last milk delivery. to reminisce with other at- ter Stewart library branch, history 18 years ago, when that she once enjoyed with “I miss the old days,” “I know that people say tendees. Huntley blended his historical he was in university. He be- friends. Kingston said, “but someone they forget their family his- At the East York Historical information with personal gan buying old milk bottles “Back in the ’40s, they like Huntley revitalizes the tory,” he said. “So it’s good to Society’s discussion on Feb. memories from the audience. from his neighbours one after would bring a metal bas- history of our job and com- try to find any traces for them. 15, they vividly recalled An old milkman shared another, and delved into old ket and stick it outside of munity.” And you feel good when you memories of their childhood, tales of his younger days, while faded books at libraries. my classroom. My teacher Meanwhile, Huntley is know you help people out.” 4 ARTS&LIFE The East York Observer /// Friday, March 2, 2012 Principle, not power, guides candidates for fringe parties

By TRISHA LANCETA “simplify and streamline The Observer government through a series of new programs Like the other fringe ... such as a streamlined candidates running in the tax system that it is fair Toronto-Danforth byelec- and efficient and geared tion, it’s not the prospect of towards environmental power that counts for Liber- sustainability, a guaranteed tarian John Recker, it’s the annual income to replace Sunnie Huang /// The Observer principle. a series of income support The East Side Players opened their second show of the season, Rapture, on Feb. 23. Scripted by Recker, 31, wants to draw programs and the public Australian playwright Joanna Murray-Smith and directed by Heather Roberts, the production is a attention to the Libertarian funding of post-secondary Canadian premiere, and will run until March 10. platform of more freedom to develop the talents and through less government. skills of Canadians.” He’s one of four candidates For his and the Libertar- running in Toronto-Dan- ians’ part, Recker said, his ‘Rapture’ reflects middle class forth whose candidacies fellow party members “in had been confirmed by general have a lot in com- house burned down, instead Theatre student Marienne credit to the cast and crew Elections Canada earlier mon in terms of goals that Australian of travelling overseas as they Busion is radiant as Henny, who, like herself, contribute this week and who are run- are held by other parties. I playwright thought. a charming and compassion- to the play as volunteers. ning from outside the main- just think we differ in the This revelation turns the ate wife with a promising “They offered a lot and stream parties. means of achieving those recreates life’s homecoming celebration into career. Noteworthy is Chris they were open to sugges- “The purpose is to spread goals.” a night of confession and Coculuzzi, who commands tions,” she said. “It was a real the message of liberty and Some of the things moral tribulations contention. Everything they the stage with wide-eyed en- joy.” freedom,” Recker said in an Recker wants to do include know about friendship, mar- ergy and flair playing Tom, a Rapture opened on Feb. 23 interview. “Hopefully peo- improving health care and By SUNNIE HUANG riage, career and life are chal- cynical, unsympathetic writer at the Papermill Theatre, on ple will start exploring and aiding vulnerable people. The Observer lenged in this mixed tale of who fails to win the hearts of Pottery Road between Bay- wanting to learn more about He said there is a substan- emotional vulnerability and his wife and friends with his view and Broadview avenues. the different options that are tial problem with homeless- Following a successful powerful faith. literary awards. It concludes on March 10. available.” ness and poverty in East season opener with the Tony Murray-Smith, one of Aus- Although the characters are Performances run tonight In the previous two fed- York and he believes pov- Award-winning play Lettice tralia’s leading playwrights, all in their 40s, Roberts said and tomorrow (March 2 eral elections in Toronto- erty can be linked to large and Lovage, the East Side offers her best in this 2002 all audiences can relate to the and 3) and then Wednesday Danforth, fringe candidates corporations expanding and Players are ready to once play, recreating the intricacies universality of the play and its through Saturday — all at 8 garnered about 400 votes overshadowing small and again satiate the theatre ap- and moral quandaries of mid- themes. p.m. The only remaining Sun- in total. medium-sized businesses. petite of East Yorkers with a dle-class life. Director Heath- “If people are older, they’ll day matinee is sold out. After All 387 went to Marie “Big corporations are sleek adaptation of Rapture. er Roberts, with 25 years’ ex- identify having been there at this coming Wednesday’s per- Crawford of the Animal Al- funding — one way or an- The play, written by Aus- perience both backstage and some point in their life. For formance, theatre-goers are liance Environment Voters other — large parties and tralian playwright Joanna on stage, handles the nuances people who may not yet be invited to a discussion with Party of Canada in the May people with power in gov- Murray-Smith, provides a of the play with precision and there, it might make them the director and cast. 2011 election. But there ernment so they can have snapshot of the lives of six deftness. think how they are living their Tickets are $20, and $15 were four fringe candidates their way,” Recker said. close-knit friends. It unfolds The cast is filled with fa- life now,” she said. “It’s about for students. The box office who split 446 votes in the “I think addressing that as two couples find out their miliar faces from local the- the people, the choices you is at 416-425-0917. For more previous vote in October is a significant concern friends, Harry and Henny, atre, including Alyssa Quarts, make and what’s meaningful information or online ticket- 2008. for us.” stayed in the local Hyatt Sean Killackey, Stephanie to you as a person.” ing, go to www.eastsideplay- Those vote shares are Recker has studied psy- for seven months after their Morson and Paul Cotton. Roberts also gave ample ers.ca and follow the links. out of a total of more than chology and sociology 48,000 ballots cast last year, and is currently pursuing and 45,000 cast in 2008. a certificate in criminal This time around, the justice. He said running in East York inspires ‘Fauna’ trauma other candidates from out- Toronto-Danforth is dif- side the mainstream run- ficult because people are junkyard located in the Don “I was always crossing on and touches on Mormon po- ning alongside Recker are loyal to the brand of the Setting reflects Valley ravine. the subway and I would al- lygamy. However, York was independents Leslie Bory four major parties. York said the woods of the ways be looking down when- not familiar with Utah, like and Bahman Yazdanfar, But, he added, “This the author‘s love Don Valley inspired her to ever we would go over. I used she was when writing about as well as Brian Jedan, isn’t a race for leadership of nature, wildlife make the to always be thrilled in that her own community. who represents of the country. It’s a race main char- moment,” York said. “It’s terrifying to know that the “United to represent the people of acter of “When you come out of you’re going to write a novel Party of Toronto-Danforth. I think By CLARISA PESSOA the story a the dark tunnel, suddenly: set in mid 19th-century Utah,” Canada.” what I could bring to The Observer resident of Whoosh! There is a forest and she said. That the people is represent- The author of the novel Fau- the com- a river and I would always “I had never even been to party’s web- ing them and not a big na says that East York inspired munity as n Allisa York be looking down long before Utah in the present day. Re- site offers to party in Ottawa.” her in the writing of it. well. I ever knew that there was a search used to really annoy Allisa York is a six-year The setting of Fauna re- book there.” me. I would be like, ‘I got to community resident and writ- flects York’s love for wildlife. York also tackles dark and get this out of the way so I can n John er. The award-winner attended She lived in Winnipeg before controversial subject matter get to my writing,’ and now Recker the North Leaside Women’s moving to East York, but fre- in her other two books, Mercy it’s just such a huge part of Group at Leaside United quently stayed with friends in and Effigy. Effigy is set in Utah how I write.” Church on Feb. 21. Riverdale when she had work Her novel explores the life in Toronto. The forest area un- l For more East York stories, of six people who reveal their der the Bloor viaduct, where traumatic childhood experi- she once explored and found please visit us online at ences to each other. campsites, became the setting @ torontoobserver.ca The characters meet in a for her novel. O The East York Observer /// Friday, March 2, 2012 Election 2012 5 Editor’s NDP hoping to hold the fort Keyes says note By TATIANA HERMAN take a leadership role, it has to he wants On March 19, the The Observer become pretty non-partisan,” Toronto-Danforth he said. to help E.Y. byelection will With the Toronto-Danforth “We actually need to have be held to fill the federal byelection just over MPs and civil society working immigrants House of Commons two weeks away, the New together on a very transforma- seat vacated when Democrat vying to succeed tive agenda.” By TEONA BAETU MP Jack Layton Jack Layton is hoping his Scott says that so far, he’s The Observer died last August. background will put him in received positive feedback q Information good stead with East York while canvassing the area on Family Day could for voters can be voters. a daily basis. have been renamed accessed at www. NDP candidate Craig Scott, “People are extraordinarily Politics Day — as elections.ca. 49, has lived in the riding for open and friendly at the door Conservative candidate q An all-candi- more than 20 years and says and they want to learn a bit Andrew Keyes and his dates meeting is he will be a strong community more about me,” he said. son Daniel spent qual- scheduled for 7 voice in Parliament if elected. New Democrat Jack Lay- ity time canvassing in p.m. on March “We need to hold the gov- ton took the Toronto-Danforth East York. 15, at Don Mills ernment to account and I think seat from Liberal Dennis The pair took ad- United Church, 126 this riding has come to expect Tatiana Herman /// Observer Mills in 2004. vantage of last week’s O’Connor Dr. a very strong MP who not only NDP candidate Craig Scott runs into local resi- In the May 2 general elec- holiday Monday to q The Observer takes the riding seriously, but dent Laura Shantz as he canvasses for votes. tion, he won the last of his try to get residents to is published by makes a strong contribution re-elections easily — with 61 support him before the journalism students nationally,” he said. other parties as strong as the duty that this was my oppor- per cent of the vote in a five- March 19 byelection in at Centennial Col- “I’m hoping people see me NDP or who are in the right tunity to make a contribution, candidate field. Toronto-Danforth. lege, where March that way.” position to challenge the To- and I don’t think I could live But Layton succumbed to “We’ve knocked on break begins today In an interview, Scott said ries.” with myself if I didn’t take cancer just three months later, a lot of doors,” Keyes (March 2).So this is the current Conservative Scott is a professor at the this step,” he said. and the seat was then declared said. our last edition un- government is doing little to Osgoode Hall Law School of If elected, Scott has a num- vacant. The Conservatives til March 23, when convince Canadians that they York University, specializing ber of issues he would like “I meet people every day finished fourth and we’ll have a wrap- should remain in power, and in international human rights. to address, including govern- and I am building on the repu- third in Toronto-Dan- up of the voting. the New Democrats are the This is his first try at electoral ment accountability and the tation the NDP already has,” forth in 2008 and 2011 But on election alternative. politics, but he suggested that global environment. Scott said. “The NDP is high- respectively. night, you can “I want to be part of making it’s not far-removed from “I want to be one of the ly respected here.” But while he ac- access breaking sure Canadians understand what he’s been doing in his MPs that beats the drum Reflecting on the campaign knowledged the riding news coverage of that this government does not career to date. on these kinds of issues. It experience overall, Scott said “has been a challenge” the results at www. deserve to stay in power after “I felt a sense of urgency doesn’t need to be a partisan it’s been “inspirational” and this time too, Keyes torontoobserver.ca 2015,” he said. “There are no that emerged from a sense of issue. In fact, for Canada to “exhilarating.” said Toronto-Danforth residents have opened their doors to him with Green candidate gratitude, regardless of their political inclina- Grant’s got game tion. looks to future “A lot of people sim- crucial.” he said. ply appreciate the fact Liberal candidate By SCOTT BARBER “It’s a no-brainer. You that we are getting out The Observer hopes to make know, a lower tax rate isn’t there and stepping up going to do anything. We’ve Nearly a decade ago, To- for the sake of democ- some ‘big plays’ got to help these people. ronto-Danforth Green Party racy,” Keyes said. We’ve got to turn our brains candidate Adriana Mugnatto- “There are a lot in Ottawa on and be innovative.” Hamu moved to Riverdale of people who are As the founder of Key with her family. Shortly after undecided right now By ALDIS BRENNAN Gordon Communications settling into the community, and are grateful for The Observer Inc., an advertising agency Mugnatto-Hamu discovered the opportunity to ask focused solely on branding her son was ill. questions, read some After a game of hockey socially and environmen- “Just after we moved here, literature and make an with friends, Liberal candi- tally friendly companies, my son developed a cough and informed decision.” date Grant Gordon frequent- n Grant Gordon Gordon is an experienced we thought he had a touch of n Adriana Mugnatto- If elected, he wants ly finds himself accused of communicator. Because of asthma,” she said. “He’s fine, Hamu to improve communi- passing the puck too much. direction Canada is heading that, he isn’t worried that but I looked into it at the time cation and co-opera- He doesn’t see it as a flaw. under its current prime min- disarray in the Liberal party and realized that we have very loud and strong for the people tion between the three Instead, he wants to bring ister. will hurt his chances. serious air quality issues here of Toronto-Danforth.” levels of government. that playmaker attitude to “It doesn’t reflect who we “My feeling is that there is in Toronto-Danforth because But to join the Green party “That’s something Ottawa. But given his pro- are as Canadians,” Gordon a lot more to the role of the of the Don Valley Parkway.” leader in Parliament, Mugnat- that’s been lacking in pensity for passing, choos- said. opposition MP than going to The discovery gave Mugnat- to-Hamu must change voters’ the past,” he said. ing to run for office did not “Canadians are nice, de- the House of Commons and to-Hamu perspective on envi- perception that Green candi- A first-generation come easy. cent people. We are export- standing and reading half- ronmental politics. dates cannot win. Canadian, Keyes “What made becoming ing asbestos, something baked questions,” Gordon “It’s climate change, but it’s “You would not believe how relates to the many a candidate so difficult for that has been banned here said. also having tremendous health many people tell me that if new immigrants in the me is that I’m shooting the because it causes cancer. “You can be an activist, an impacts on us as we burn fos- they thought I could win, they riding who start with puck, that’s what this is,” That’s not the kind of people advocate in your own riding. sil fuels,” she said. would vote for me,” Mugnat- little. Gordon said. we are. That’s wrong, it’s You can make stuff happen. Mugnatto-Hamu received to-Hamu said. “If they all vot- His Polish father and “In this case, the Liberals morally wrong.” An MP can advocate for over 3,100 Toronto-Danforth ed for me, I would be the MP.” English mother moved really need to score in this Having lived in and anyone. They should advo- votes (six per cent) in the 2011 Mugnatto-Hamu’s strategy to Canada after the riding. Someone’s got to get around the community for cate for everyone.” federal election. She believes is to engage voters on Cana- Second World War. the job done for them. So I most of his life, Gordon is For Gordon, this includes the upcoming byelection of- da’s need for sustainable eco- He said he wants to have to shoot and I’m going certain he knows the issues. a closer connection between fers a unique opportunity for nomic policies. help recent immigrants to pick the corner.” “I’m a small businessper- the federal government and her party to improve its for- “It would be an extremely with professional qual- Gordon says he chose to son and I really care about the city. tunes. valuable experience for Can- ifications back home run in the March 19 byelec- the plight of small busi- “People outside of Toron- “Only one seat is in play ada to have a voice for our earn their Canadian tion in Toronto-Danforth for nesses in the riding, and a to don’t want to hear this, here, so the composition of the children and a voice for an credentials faster. two reasons: one, Stephen, lot of small businesses are but this is the most impor- government will not change economy that works for fu- Keyes bought his and the other, Harper. The hurting,” Gordon said. tant city in Canada. We need fundamentally,” she said. ture generations as well as this first home in East York advertising executive and “The first thing I would a partner in Ottawa, not a “While the other parties can’t generation,” she said. “The in 1988, and lived 20-year resident of Toronto- do is create a ‘buy-local’ hostile government,” Gor- do much with one seat, I would other parties miss how we can there with his family Danforth does not like the campaign. I think that’s don said. be side-by-side with Elizabeth make the economy work for for 11 years. May and encouraged to speak future generations.” 6 OPINION The East York Observer /// Friday, March 2, 2012 n editorials n Column TORONTO-DANFORTH’S One month not enough BYELECTION: TWO VIEWS fter taking in the Black know that the Domestic Workers the spoken word of black teachers A History Month event at the Scheme recruited women from and poets who truly can relate Pape-Danforth library branch the Caribbean to live in Canadian to what we’ve went through as a hosted by Antiguan-Canadian homes as domestics, and that people. NDP stays strong author Althea Prince, the lyric of a allowed Canadian women to enter I really hope that schools and popular song by reggae superstar the labour force. Teachers and other institutions and groups ome people are already calling him the NDP’s new Jack Layton. Of course, no one Ziggy Marley immediately came educators were awed by the stories across East York and the GTA Scan ever replace Toronto-Danforth’s late member of Parliament — who, as leader to mind. of various Caribbean descendants that are aimed at education will of the New Democrats, led the party to the Opposition benches in the general election “Not his-tory, black my story.” in the school system, literature and make history a more wholesome last year. But someone is going to succeed Layton as MP, and Craig Scott seems a I’ve always believed that the to the economy. Many were only topic by introducing lectures, worthy choice. most eloquent teachers of black vaguely familiar with Caribana, seminars and discussions explain- After Layton’s August death opened his seat to a byelection set for just over two history are those who have first- Toronto’s huge Caribbean street ing our origin. Given that 72 per weeks from now, Scott was nominated by the NDP riding association over two other hand knowledge of the struggle. festival — which generates cent of Canada’s black popula- contenders on Jan. 9. Since then, he’s been canvassing and otherwise getting to know After listening to such compelling over $400 million yearly. tion hails from the Caribbean, Toronto-Danforth residents on a personal level. conversation at the library, that It’s somewhat disheart- we’re entitled to know the full While addressing touchy issues such as the Harper government’s proposal to “re- sentiment was strongly reinforced. ening to me that young movement for freedom. Many form” (translation: reduce) Canada’s pensions, Scott displays a potent honesty that is Being a Jamaican who’s lived Canadians with Carib- centuries worth of material refreshing and relatable to constituents. in the multicultural GTA for two bean backgrounds cannot simply be contex- And Scott is also the beneficiary of about the most persuasive endorsement he could years now, I assumed that some are offered such a tualized in textbooks and garner: that of Layton’s widow and the MP for Trinity-Spadina, Olivia Chow. significant knowledge regarding diluted understand- condensed in the 28-day Human rights and environmental protection are near the top of his priority list. But African-Caribbean culture and ing of our heritage. (occasionally 29-day) Scott is also keenly interested in issues that are closer to home — like holding the of- settlement would be quite apparent I happen to agree celebration called ficial retirement age at 65 years, rather than the 67 that it seems the Conservatives are in a large community filled with with a teacher’s Black History Month. hinting at. Affordable housing within the riding is another top concern for the former Trinidadians, Barbadians and suggestion at It’s not right. Osgoode Hall law professor. “yardies” like myself. the event about The best way of Almost everyone expects this byelection race in Toronto-Danforth to resolve into a But my eyes bulged when a introducing verbal celebrating African- two-man contest: Scott for the NDP versus Grant Gordon for the Liberals. young woman of African-Caribbe- illustrations, similar to Caribbean culture and After yesterday’s scheduled all-candidates meeting at Duke of Connaught school an descent spoke out, saying, “The the one at the Toronto black culture in general (just as the Observer was going to press), East Yorkers will have at least one more op- reason I’m here today is because I Public Library, across would be to have our own portunity to compare these two frontrunners head-to-head: Thursday, March 15 at Don never learned any of this in school; our educational share stories pertinent to Mills United Church, 126 O’Connor Dr. this was never taught when I was institutions. The most our progress as a people. Hopefully voters will see that a thoughtful social democrat taking his place among in high school, public school, col- logical way to clarify Should this happen, future the ranks of the official Opposition is the appropriate choice for the southwestern third lege, nothing.” long-confused myths generations would gauge of East York. The right choice here is continuity, with a representative from a party that She and others who share my regarding immigra- an understanding of their has proven it has this community’s interests at heart. colour were unfamiliar with the tion and true identities, Maroons — the descendants of settlement is even when they’re ~ Clarisa Pessoa escaped Jamaican slaves who im- by hearing Jodee Brown thousands of miles migrated to Canada. They didn’t and reading away from home. Gordon’s good fit Not technology-driven ast Yorkers living in the riding of Toronto-Danforth have an important decision etting into a car with a Up until the start of the mil- infinite knowledge via cell- Eto make as the federal byelection closes in. Gstranger – like a tow truck lennium, society was taking phones. Everyone has the same And as you consider whom to cast your ballot for on March 19, Liberal Grant driver – is already awkward. baby steps toward the future. things because we’ve been Gordon merits serious consideration. When my car died, I called Then the Internet broke out and convinced they are necessary Gordon chose to stand for election because of how the Conservative government CAA. It was a standard proce- we’ve made leaps. The world for the world to operate. is running the country. Like many in Toronto-Danforth, he doesn’t like it. And as dure: hooking up the car, taking is privy to mp3 players that It scares me to know I am voters look Gordon over, it’s easy to see how qualified and passionate he is. And down my information, putting can hold thou- smarter than a computer mainly that passion extends beyond Canada’s national game (one of the first things that the dropoff address into the sands of songs, because it can’t tell itself what people notice about Gordon). He’s deeply interested in the environment, boosting GPS... and off we went. portable filing to do. For example, hand-co- local businesses, and other issues dear to Toronto-Danforth. The DVP is mere minutes cabinets called louring an image using Photo- But it’s one thing to be passionate about the job; it’s another to have the right away from Centennial College’s laptops and shop software is simple. Just se- background for it. Gordon does. East York campus, and I knew ac- lect the settings and the program He started the successful viral ad campaign, “Flick Off,” which was about global the parkway was the quickest cess figures out the rest. If there’s warming. Gordon points out that the current government pays lip service only to way to the Gardiner and home to a mistake, the “undo” button environmental protection (while it does things like promoting the oil sands and pro- in Mississauga. But the GPS had erases it. But hand-colouring 30 tecting the export of asbestos to other countries). other plans. It wanted us to take years ago was literally colour- His company, Key Gordon Communications, is an advertising firm where the pri- city streets to the Gardiner. The ing by hand. If the photographer mary focus is environmentally friendly causes and products. driver and I were puzzled every wasn’t precise enough, the A small business owner and Toronto-Danforth resident, Gordon also understands time it “recalculated” the route. picture was scrapped and the the concerns facing local enterprises, and how some are suffering. He wants to pro- Then, it hit us. The GPS was process restarted. It was more mote patronage of small business owners, and the boost that will give to our com- looking for the shortest route to intensive, but it brought the munity. (If we support our local businesses, we’re supporting our community.) the Gardiner, regardless of local satisfaction of a job well done. His business management and his hockey coaching have taught him about leading. traffic and the many stoplights We can’t let the growth of the And with his experience in advertising, Gordon certainly has the skills to commu- in between. Despite the compli- human race be dictated by tech- nicate. Isn’t that what we in East York need? A communicator who leads and cares cated technology involved, my nology. They’re tools to help us, about the community? driver called the little black box not do things for us. We must The Liberals have always stood for progressive policies around the environment “dumb.” understand the “why” and the and social and economic justice. Gordon’s values fit well with that — and they’ll fit “Whoever made this thing is “how” before technology can well with Toronto-Danforth. smart,” he said. “But we have to be used properly. We should be be smarter than this thing.” Trisha Lanceta smarter than these “things.” ~ Nikki Pulsone I agree with him. —Sent from my Smartphone

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 Braydon Keddie Sarah Dayal campus, 951 Carlaw Ave., Rm. 149. P.O. Box Stephen Cogan Assignment editor Trisha Lanceta 631, Stn. A, Scarborough, M1K 5E9. E-mail c/o Louie Piacentini Joshua Spence production editors Observer [email protected]. Telephone 416- Dave Johnny photo editor Clarisa Pessoa 289-5107, Fax 416-289-5111 Andrew Mair Rebecca Steckham Leigh Cavanaugh The East York Observer /// Friday, March 2, 2012 FEATURES 7 Patio hours debate heats up By SARAH DAYAL ing to comply with the new 12 a.m. The Observer curfew. Siuta thinks residential homes near Some patio hours have been ex- side-street patios have a right to com- tended on the Danforth, but one plain. However, being one business business owner says it means a dou- building away from houses with a ble-standard for neighbouring estab- small, seven-seater patio, Siuta says lishments. he has only ever received noise com- The owner of the Court Jester Pub plaints from tenants renting above the near Pape and Danforth, Steve Siuta, restaurant. says he would like to see uniform pa- “We have a good relationship with tio hours for business owners across the people upstairs, but they some- the city. times complain about the music be- “Having a patio on the busy Dan- ing too loud when they are trying to forth is essential during the summer, sleep on a busy Friday night,” he said. because it is like a big business of its “They are such good neighbours, de- own,” the 17-year owner said. But spite the times, I even had to tell my he added, “It would be unfair if we bartender to turn it down.” stayed opened until 2 a.m. and other Janet Davis, councillor for Ward places throughout the city had to 31/Beaches-East York, said council- close their patio at midnight.” lors work directly with businesses Sarah Dayal /// Observer A pilot project for businesses on and residents to ensure there is a bal- the Danforth to extend patio hours ance between the two. Court Jester Pub owner Steve Siuta says his front patio, which is an extension of the pub as a reflection of the street’s reputa- “Councillors work with both to itself, will re-open as soon as weather permits. The pub is located at 609 Danforth Ave. tion as an entertainment district was make sure everyone is being a good launched in 2011, but after inspec- neighbour,” she said. “We have to will help reduce the impact on adja- hours of operation,” Davis said. The city’s MLS office is recom- tions and numerous residential com- work together to create an economi- cent neighbours. Mary Fragedakis, councillor for mending that the Toronto and East plaints, some establishments were cally successful and vibrant area that She also defended the policy of al- Ward 29/Toronto-Danforth, said at York Community Council deny con- cited for violating municipal licens- local neighbourhoods support.” lowing specially extended hours in the February meeting of Toronto and tinuation of the pilot project for ex- ing standards. Davis said no music on patios, some entertainment districts of the East York Community Council that tended “flankage” patio hours — de- The city says that more than half hour restrictions, reduction on patio city. discussions on the pilot project will spite the inconsistency it may create Coun. Janet Davis of participating businesses were fail- seat numbers and “buffering” designs “There needs to be flexibility in resume sometime in March. between businesses. says there needs to be Photojournalist looks at both sides of lens

Salvadori said that for a Lecturer talks to photographer, new or old, mis- students about takes are common, but prac- titioners must move forward the power of and learn from them, while never forgetting what’s impor- visual documents tant. “You will make mistakes. Trisha Lanceta /// Observer By JESSICA VELLA It’s inevitable. That’s how you learn,” he said. “It is essential The cast and crew of The Odd Couple pose for the audience at their The Observer that you think and discuss your final performance. A photojournalist known work with others. And by oth- for his coverage of the Israe- ers, I don’t mean just other li-Palestinian conflict visited photographers, but with the Teachers get A+ for acting East York in February to tell public as well,” Salvadori said. n Ruben Salvadori students that photojournalism “We often tend to produce By TRISHA LANCETA a veteran of the staff arts show’s director, said the au- can be a powerful medium. material that would please The Observer program. dience reaction at St. Patrick Italian photographer Ruben superheroes.” other photographers and edi- The roles were reversed, “As a result of being was how she measured the Salvadori, 23, says he uses still But Salvadori said that his tors, but forget that our main in a number of ways when involved with Staff Arts, I production’s success. photography and video to give work isn’t just for the benefit target should be the public, Catholic school teachers learned all about putting on “Really, that’s it,” she said. viewers insight into what’s go- of professionals in the medium which isn’t familiar with the took the stage at St. Patrick a production,” she said. “So “It’s the audience laughing ing on both in front of the cam- — and those who aspire to join behind-the-scenes of many Catholic secondary School for many years I did produc- and how they’ve appreciated era and behind it. their ranks. situations.” in February to perform a tions for the school where I the show.” He presented some of his He said he wants the public When asked about his tour, female version of the classic taught.” Part of that success, she work and interpretations to to also consider his propo- Salvadori said he’s happy to comedy, The Odd Couple. The Odd Couple was just said, was because of the photography students at Cen- sition that photojournalists see that people are taking an It was part of the school the first of the program’s onstage chemistry that results tennial College’s East York sometimes “spin” reality a cer- interest in what he does. board’s “staff arts” program, usual three productions per from the offstage friendship campus, as part of a tour he’s tain way with the images they “The tour is going really which educates teachers in year. Participants will also between participants. making of colleges and univer- choose to capture and present. well,” Salvadori said. “The performance arts so they can perform in The Sound of “Off-set they were amaz- sities. “I’m glad that people are in- public seems interested and take those skills back to the Music later this year, and in ing. They get along really, “Photojournalists and pho- terested in my experience and the most important thing is classroom. The Odd Couple’s a choral concert to close their really well,” she said. “The tojournalist students need to the target audience of my proj- that people so far seem to un- cast consisted of teachers season. two main leads are very, very know what the implications ect is not just other photojour- derstand the anthropological coming from schools across Neil Simon’s The Odd good friends. It’s really a big of their work are,” Salvadori nalists,” Salvadori said. approach of the project with- the system, teaching kinder- Couple is an iconic Broad- love-fest backstage.” said. “Our society is extremely “It is mostly the general out entering the usual political garten to high school. way play from 1965 about Proceeds from ticket sales visual, and visual documents public, which needs to under- debate that often shadows any The show only ran one mismatched roommates. It are reinvested in the staff arts have a great power on people.” stand the importance of being other debate when the environ- weekend in mid-February, spawned a hit movie and program. “As a superhero once said, an active viewer of the photo- ment is the Israeli-Palestinian but its three performances television series… and a “We’re really a self- ‘With great power come great graphs that are shown.” conflict.” attracted 400-500 people, female version written by supporting organization,” responsibilities.’ We need to according to producer Mary Simon in 1985. McKeen said. “We don’t be aware of our power and l For more East York stories, visit us Jane McKeen — herself Nicole Toogood, the hold a big bank balance.” take responsibility for our ac- @ online at torontoobserver.ca tions, even though we are not O 8 FEATURES The East York Observer /// Friday, March 2, 2012 Africentric schools important, speaker says

By LILIAN ASANTE Toronto’s west end and this past author of Harriet Tubman: The Observer November the TDSB agreed to Freedom Seeker, Freedom work toward establishing an Leader, said she fought for the The president of the Ontario Africentric high school. East proclamation because she felt Black History Society (OBHS) York trustee Gerri Gershon the history of African slaves says Africentric schools are im- was among those opposing the and settlers was not being portant because they represent move, saying it’s a mistake to covered in Canadian literature. a philosophy that is vital to the separate children. Sadlier said Africentric African-Canadian community. But Sadlier disagrees. schools are an important option Rosemary Sadlier spoke “It is not about segregation. that should be available to those to students at the East What we consider to be normal wishing to learn more about York campus of Centennial is European. It does not include African-Canadian culture and College on Feb. 15 about her Asian ideology, it does not legacy. experiences as an author and include African ideology. It “Just like there are as the leader of Ontario’s only includes European ideology,” schools for gay, lesbian and organization devoted to black Sadlier said. “The Africentric transgendered and schools for history and heritage. School is an opportunity to First Nations; Africentricism Sadlier said she supports include and work from another is another ideology that is the Africentric alternative ideology.” expressed through a school,” schools because they provide a In 1995, under Sadlier’s Sadlier said. “The OBHS philosophy and curriculum that leadership, the OBHS helped supports it not because every many African-Canadian youth get February proclaimed as black kid should be going to can relate to. Black History Month across the Africentric school, but The Toronto District School Canada — following similar because if a black kid, or any Lilian Asante ///Observer Board opened an Africentric observances in the United kid, wants to go to this school, Rosemary Sadlier speaks to Centennial College students as part of Black elementary school in 2009 at States and United Kingdom. then it should be available to History Month observances at the East York campus last month. the Sheppard Public School in Sadlier, who is also the them.”

. East Yorker sets Canadian basketball scoring record Boris Bakovic game with 24 points, happy shape.” about his huge accomplish- With the record in the bag, overcame ment. Bakovic says his attention is “I knew about the record now on the playoffs. injury to get 24 beforehand. People told me “We’ve already made the points, win game about it when I was getting playoffs, so the goal now is close,” Bakovic said. “It’s to make it as far as possible. By JOSHUA SPENCE great to know I have the Now what we need to do The Observer record now. I like it. It is a is beat teams that we have really big accomplishment.” already beaten previously,” An East Yorker wound A knee injury kept Ba- he said. down his regular season kovic out of action earlier Bakovic is in his final year last month as the unofficial this season, and making his of university, and has already highest-scoring university record more remarkable. started planning his future. basketball player in Cana- “At first everything was up “After I’m done here I dian history. in the air. We took it day by plan to go play pro bas- Boris Bakovic, 23, broke day,” he said. “We weren’t ketball over in Europe for Rebecca Steckham ///Observer the record in a victory for sure if we could get my knee as long as I can,” he said. the University of Calgary back to how it was before, “Then I’ll come back and St. Nicholas Catholic School and St. Brigid Catholic School boys battle it Dinos over the Alberta Gold- but all the staff did a great see where it goes from out on the courts in the TCDSB Elementary School Basketball Tournament, en Bears. He finished the job to help get me back into there.” which ran all day Feb. 14 at St. Patrick Catholic Secondary School on Fel- stead Avenue. Transplanted artist displays African paintings in college gallery By JANE IGHARO settled in Toronto for a two- were exhibited in Nigeria. women dancing in the back- The Observer year period in order to study The program was called ground or carrying babies. animation at Centennial. “Play on Play.” Ifesieh said his apprecia- Although Black History As an artist in Nigeria, Ifesieh said he enjoys work- tion for the strong African Month is officially over, an Ifesieh said, he dedicated ing with children tremendous- females in his life is what in- East York art gallery is still his time to educating chil- ly and hopes to volunteer in spires his art. These include offering an observance with dren who did not have other community centres in Canada his mother, who passed away, art students expressing their means to learn art. to educate, assist and inspire. and the assertive females in visions through canvas and “I wanted to help the kids His contributions to the his past romantic relation- paint. bring out what was in them Corridor Gallery exhibition ships. The Corridor Gallery, at by showing them how to contain vivid drops of colours While Ifesieh’s artistic the north end of the second express themselves through in the form of leaves and dots creativity has driven him to floor of Centennial College’s art,” he said. “They were that lightly many places, he is content East York campus at 951 Car- good kids; they were sweet, cover the with — although exhausted law Ave., is keeping its Black smart and open to learning.” pictures by — his current pursuit of History Month exhibition Ifesieh eventually part- of Afri- a diploma in animation at open until March 10, and the nered with a friend in Aus- can Centennial. public is welcome. tralia who was also involved “Come, so I can show Seven student painters in art education for children. you some of the things we have contributed work to the The pair began an “art ex- do,” Ifesieh told a visitor show, called “Glow.” One change” program, where as he motioned toward his Jane Igharo ///Observer of them is 41-year-old Jude paintings by children in Ni- computer. Jude Ifesieh’s paintings are among those being Ifesieh who, after exploring geria were exhibited in a gal- “This assignment can take presented until March 10 as part of a Black places like Australia, New lery in Australia and paint- three weeks.It’s really hectic. History Month art gallery show. York, Boston and Texas, has ings by children in Australia n Jude Ifesieh It’s very stressful.”