Mcarthur Faces 7Th Murder Charge Further Victims Identified from Remains at Leaside Property

ww The East York CREATURE CREATOR n Artist breathes life into OBSERVER Amphibian Man Page 4 Serving our community since 1972 www.torontoobserver.ca Friday, April 13, 2018

n BREAKING McArthur faces 7th murder charge Further victims identified from remains at Leaside property

By BOBBY HRISTOVA The Observer

Police charged alleged serial killer Bruce McAr- thur with a seventh count of first-degree murder on April 11. The latest charge relates to the death of 42-year-old Abdulbasir Faizi, who went missing in late 2010. In a news conference at police headquarters, Det.-Sgt. Hank Idsinga revealed that pathologists Bobby Hristova/The Observer identified Faizi, Dean Lisowick, 47, and Selim Essen, 44, in the human remains retrieved from Sticking up for Humboldt from planters at 53 Mallory Cres. (L-R) Jude Breen, Finlay Clarke and Maddie Jones from Holy Name Catholic School on Carlaw Avenue hold hockey sticks Previously police had identified three of the on Jersey Day. The day honours the 16 victims of the Humboldt Broncos bus crash, with one hockey stick for each victim. seven sets of human remains recovered from the Leaside property where McArthur, a landscaper, stored his supplies. There is still at least one set of remains to be identified. Until Wednesday, police were eyeing 30 prop- Awards pay tribute to special caregivers erties potentially linked to the case, but are now using their K-9 unit for up to 75 properties, some than Taylor, he has mental and physical chal- Forth, an event space located at Pape and Dan- of which are public, Idsinga said. VHA Home Healthcare CEO lenges that require a lot of extra support and care. forth avenues in East York. It was held on April Detectives are also revisiting 15 cold case files “Alex is 12, going on five,” his mother, Lisa 3, also National Carers Day, a day to acknowl- between 1975 and 1997 potentially connected to says everyone will either need Knechtel, explained with a laugh. edge caregivers across the country. McArthur, though the number of cases may “in- care or be a caregiver one day VHA Home Healthcare (VHA), a non-profit To start the event, president and CEO of VHA crease or decrease,” he said. charitable organization, selected Taylor as the re- Carol Annett talked about how vital caregivers “We’ve — quite frankly — never seen any- By CLAIRE FLOODY cipient of the Young Caregiver Award at its 13th are to our lives, explaining that every person in thing like it,” Idsinga said about the alleged serial The Observer annual Heart of Home Care Awards. The new the room would either be a caregiver or need a killer case. “We really don’t know how deep this Taylor Allen taught her younger brother Alex award was created to acknowledge the younger caregiver at some point. will go.” how to talk, walk and crawl. These are seeming- caregivers in the community. “They take on many roles: nurse, physical Forensic units have been searching McArthur’s ly normal-sounding duties for an older sister, but Every year, the Heart of Home Care Awards therapist, counsellor, chauffeur and advocate for apartment at 95 Thorncliffe Park Dr., and Idsin- if your brother has high-functioning autism like ceremony is held to honour the outstanding ef- their loved ones—and that is just scratching the ga says they may continue to do so for weeks. Alex, things can sometimes be more complicat- forts of friends or family members who’ve gone surface,” Annett said. ed. above and beyond to care for a loved one at n See POLICE, page 3 Although Alex is only three years younger home. This year’s ceremony took place at The n See HOME CARE, page 4

n CRIME Man killed in East York convenience store stabbing 30-year-old man charged Sobir, who was rushed to a trauma cen- The altercation escalated and Sobir tre, but later died from his injuries. was stabbed. with murder after death Toronto police received a call about a Police have not connected this event stabbing in the O’Connor and Donlands to the recent string of stabbings in East at O’Connor and Donlands Avenue area at 3 a.m. York. Ahilan Chandrasekaramoorthy, 30, of Over the past two months, there By JUSTIN CHAN Toronto surrendered to the police later have been four reported stabbing inci- and BREE-ANN GITTENS the same day and has been charged with dents in the East York area. The Observer first-degree murder. This latest stabbing marks the 16th A man is dead after a stabbing inside a He was to appear in court at College homicide in Toronto this year, according 7-Eleven in East York early on April Park on April 11. to police. Alex Goudge/The Observer 10. Sobir was reportedly involved in a A tribute, which included flowers and A tribute was organized at the 7-Eleven in memo- The victim has been identified as verbal dispute with Chandrasekara- stuffed animals, has been placed outside ry of the victim. 26-year-old Fesal Ahmed Mohammad moorthy inside the convenience store. the 7-Eleven in memory of Sobir. 2 NEWS TheFriday, East April York 13, Observer2018 The Friday, East YorkFebruary Observer 9, 2018 Local library ‘o WHAT’S UP holds STEM IN E.Y. workshops Double Threat author speaks for children at local legion Organizers’ hope is Best-selling author Ellin Bessner to spark ‘wonder, will be the guest creativity, discovery’ speaker at a lunch and learn event By CASSIDY JACOBS at Todmorden The Observer Branch 10 of the Royal Canadian Legion on Saturday, The thought of our youth be- April 21. She’ll be coming our future resource talking about her can be pretty worrisome, but new book, Double Toronto’s largest public li- Threat: Canadian brary doesn’t think so. Jews, the Military, Toronto Public Library has Rushanthi Kesunathan/The Observer The East York Hockey Association’s peewee division, Team Chicago, celebrates an overtime win against Team and World War II. decided to ignite the minds of Boston for the Little Stanley Cup. The event was held April 7 at East York Memorial Arena. The legion is locat- our youth while encouraging ed at 1083 Pape and guiding them to the right Ave. and the cost path by holding “Mini Mak- of the event, which ers,” a weekly workshop at Cup decided in overtime thriller includes a presen- S. Walter Stewart Library for tation, lunch and youth aged four to eight. division games are played by 11 to 12 year the volunteers who give so much to this Little Stanley Cup goes to meet and greet with It teaches and encourages olds. club, one of the most successful in the the author, is $15. topics in regards to the world Team Chicago in nail-biting “From the start, we’ve stressed with city.” Tickets are avail- of science, technology, engi- these guys to play as a team, through ad- The association gives hundreds of game at East York arena able at the door. neering and math. versity and to our fullest abilities,” said young people an opportunity to learn the The workshop is a com- Chicago head coach Shane Wilson. “Our skills and have a competitive experience, By RUSHANTHI KESUNATHAN pressed version of the annu- The Observer opponent was incredibly tough; we didn’t she added. al seminar in Toronto called take it for granted that we were going to EYHA is a volunteer-based organiza- Learn all about “Maker Festival,” a two-day As one hockey league begins the long jour- win.” tion. It has more than 800 registered play- how to grow event that has more than 100 ney to the Stanley Cup, another has already When asked how he planned to cele- ers and 200 volunteers, according to the local tech groups and makers handed one out. brate, he said the team will just have fun association’s president, Connie Mitchell. native plants showcasing their work while The East York Hockey Association together — possibly with a game of road Former Toronto Maple Leafs player Lou Lorraine Johnson, holding hands-on workshops (EYHA) closed its hockey season with the hockey, he added, laughing. Franceschetti was also present, signing au- author of 100 in relation to STEM. Little Stanley Cup game on April 7 at East For 12-year-old Emile Fontaine, this tographs and answering questions. Easy-to-Grow Native Each week, something new York Memorial Arena. was his second win. He has been playing The Little Stanley Cup is a replica of the Plants for Canadian will be taught so the partici- The Peewee final between Chicago and hockey for four years and said the win feels NHL trophy. Standing at three feet tall, it Gardens, will speak pants can learn a wide vari- Boston was a two-game affair. After each “great.” His father, Chris Fontaine, is Team is known to be the only authorized replica about how gar- ety of STEM-related materi- team had won one game, the outcome had Chicago’s assistant coach. to date. dening can bring al without feeling like their to be decided by a sudden-death overtime, The game drew a large crowd of parents, The East York Hockey Association was positive changes to Sunday afternoons are being with Chicago scoring the decisive goal. fans and politicians. allowed the honour of creating the replica the world. The talk spent in a classroom. Team Chicago celebrated by skating a “It’s exciting for the parents, kids and in 1954 by Clarence Campbell, who was will be held on April In a description on its web few laps around the rink, the Little Stanley observers,” said Councillor Janet Davis, then president of the NHL. 19 at 170 Memorial page, Toronto Public Library Cup in hand. The EYHA has played for the who has been attending the games for 15 The EYHA will be celebrating its 75th Park Ave. from 6:30 said it hopes to use the pro- cup since the 1954-1955 season. Peewee years. “It’s a lot of fun and a testament to anniversary next season. p.m. to 7:30 p.m. gram to, “spark wonder, cre- Admission is free. ativity and discovery.” During a workshop ses- sion, Leslie Paige, a mother Arson suspected in East York garage fire of two, praised the library for East York chain educating children on topics By SERGIO ARANGIO on Stephenson’s door and her of office exhibit that will be useful in the fu- The Observer next-door neighbours’ to make ture. sure they got to safety, he said. to be unveiled “When I was in school, Roslyn Stephenson was asleep “I was just con- The former borough what we learned was all in in the early hours of April 6 cerned about [Stephenson’s] of East York May- the books,” she said. when she heard a knock at her safety,” he said. “She’s a senior or’s Chain of Office “Having my kids learn door. As she went to check who and she has tenants, so I was Exhibit will be un- hands-on, I think it’s more it was, she looked out her win- more concerned about her.” veiled by the East informative. They’re learning dow and noticed her backyard Dowling said he tried to get York Foundation topics that will be useful in was engulfed in flames. to Stephenson’s car parked by on Friday, April 27. the future, but they’re having Stephenson, 71, immedi- the garage, but the flames were Former East York fun at the same time.” ately called the fire depart- too strong. mayors Michael The wide variety of learn- ment, while neighbours came In the nights since, Ste- Prue, Dave Johnson ing activities include having to make sure that she got to Sergio Arangio/The Observer phenson said she has and Alan Redway children use their imagina- safety. In her 10 years living A detached garage on Coleridge Avenue caught fire been nervous about the sup- have been invited, tions to build things with on Coleridge Avenue, near on April 6. Residents suspect it was arson. posed arsonist returning. as have past East skewers and marshmallows. Woodbine and Lumsden ave- She said she once woke up at York councillors “My son loves to build nues, nothing like this has hap- footsteps close to Stephenson’s deter suspicious behaviour in night thinking someone was and staff. The things and he loves space,” pened before, she said. home in the night and they sus- the area. lurking outside. unveiling will be said Parami Patel, a mother “We have a tight commu- pected arson. That’s how Mark Dowling, Stephenson is now dealing held in the lobby of of five. nity here,” Stephenson said. Toronto police have yet to 57, who lives across the street with insurance to cover the the East York Civic “This workshop allows “It doesn’t make sense.” confirm arson was involved. from Stephenson, was one of damage caused and plans to Centre, 850 Cox- him to be hands-on, but it The fire department arrived What’s shocking, Stephen- the first to notice the blaze. get a better security light for well Ave. The event also helps him realize that his shortly after 1:30 a.m. son said, is that it was gar- He recalled seeing flames her driveway. She said she had starts at 7 p.m. All passion could possibly be- No major valuables, other bage day that morning, with and hearing crackling in motion sensors outside on the East Yorkers are come a future career.” than gardening tools, were some residents taking out the direction of Stephen- night of the incident, but they welcome to attend. The workshop will run damaged in the fire, Stephen- their garbage early to avoid do- son’s house, thinking it was were tampered with. every Sunday (except May son said. ing it, come sunrise. It sur- coming from a building far- Police have canvassed 20) at 2:30 p.m. from now Neighbours told the East prised her that the presence ther away. Once he realized the neighbourhood for surveil- ~ Observer staff through June 24. York Observer they’d heard of neighbours outside didn’t where the fire was, he knocked lance footage. Friday, April 13, 2018 The East York Observer NEWS 3

Danielle Clarke/The Observer Above left: Tait Gamble, 17, of East York is a volunteer and a co-ordinator for The Period Purse. Above right: A stylish period purse, filled with pads, tampons and chocolates for homeless and marginalized women. Teen starts initiative for ‘menstrual equity’

collected an impressive 6,000 tam- could put into a purse,” Girdauskas spring blitz has just wrapped up, but East York student behind drive to collect hygiene pons and just under 6,000 pads in just said. those wanting to get involved outside over a year. She asked her friends on Facebook of the stockpiling period are encour- supplies for homeless, impoverished women “If you say you need product, most if they could donate any of their purs- aged to do so within their communi- people will bring it. People just need es and got a great response. ties. By DANIELLE CLARKE Clement’s School. She was scroll- the opportunity to give,” she said. Each Period Purse includes two “People can do mini-drives The Observer ing through her Facebook newsfeed The motive behind Gamble’s pas- to three months’ worth of menstrual throughout the year. They can collect when she discovered an initiative sion is relatable for many. supplies, a toothbrush, deodorant, lo- menstrual products, toiletries, other A children’s store is probably not the called The Period Purse. After read- “I menstruate. If I didn’t have ac- tion, other toiletries, chocolate and an items with their friends, colleagues, first place you’d associate with men- ing a CBC article about it, she decid- cess to these products, I know how inspirational card. book clubs, women’s groups, and do- strual products. ed to get involved by starting a drive uncomfortable I would feel,” she “In the winter time, people donate nate that way, ” said Girdauskas, who But that’s where you’ll find a drop- at her school. said. warm stuff, like hats or mittens. Un- is planning to educate the population off point for donations to The Peri- “We set up bins in the foyer and According to a Chatelaine study, derwear is always a great thing to put she serves on the more cost-efficient od Purse, a grassroots organization did school announcements to get the a Canadian woman spends an aver- in there,” Girdauskas said. menstrual cups. dedicated to delivering menstrual word out,” she said. age of $65.82 per year on menstrual Period Purse, which has collected Meanwhile, Silly Goose Kids has products and toiletries in fashionable Gamble is now a volunteer and products. For those who are homeless over 25,000 menstrual products in seen a great response from the East purses to menstruators across Cana- co-ordinator for The Period Purse. or impoverished, the cost of pads and Ontario since its launch, works with York community. da. She has set up three drives for the tampons can be further marginalizing. 12 shelters to ensure that residents get “The store has customers that see The store, Silly Goose Kids, is lo- initiative since its launch in February Jana Girdauskas, founder and di- a menstrual pack every month. they are collecting items and will cated at 2054 Danforth Ave. One of 2017. rector of The Period Purse, got the Girdauskas is devoted to reaching bring in what they have,” said Gir- its employees, East Yorker Tait Gam- “It was an issue that the students idea for the organization while driv- as many marginalized people as she dauskas, who is also focusing on get- ble, 17, is behind the drive for dona- hadn’t considered before, not having ing around Toronto for work. She can. ting period purses to Indigenous com- tions. tampons and pads when you need would regularly see homeless women “We’re at 530 people every month munities in Northern Ontario. Gamble, who is in Grade 12, be- them, so it was a good time to check on the street and wanted to get in- in the city that we serve, including the “Many teenage girls do not attend came interested in menstrual equity our privilege,” she said. volved. LGBTQ community,” she said. school on their period, because it’s when researching how to advocate The reaction from the students and “I was thinking of something tan- The Period Purse holds a blitz in very expensive and it’s not accessi- for pads and tampons in the wash- administration has been enthusiastic gible in my car that I could give. I the spring and fall, collecting items ble,” she said. “It’s $40 to $60, com- room at her all-girls high school, St. and consistent. Gamble’s school has thought about a care package that I at designated drop-off locations. The pared to our $20.” Police release enhanced photo of deceased man

Cont’d. from page 1 Though many things in the case have devel- oped, the target in the series of killings remains “It’s easily set the record for a forensic exam- the same: gay men and men who frequented the ination of an apartment. They are literally going gay village. through that apartment inch by inch,” he said. Idsinga says police believe Faizi knew McAr- “We have quite a few exhibits out of that apart- thur before his death. ment.” Faizi disappeared in the Church and Welles- But that isn’t the only thing on law enforce- ley area and police recovered his car at Moore ment’s radar. Avenue, north of the gay village. Investigators are also still trying to identify a Police believe Faizi died on or close to Dec. man who may be linked to the case. At the press 29, 2010. He lived in Brampton with his wife, conference they released an enhanced version of two daughters and his dog. the previously released photo and a composite Faizi and two others were the focus of Project sketch. They are combing through 22 potential Houston, a police task force created in 2012 to Bobby Hristova/Toronto Observer identities after police received more than 500 tips. investigate the missing men. Det.-Sgt. Hank Idsinga addressing media questions beside an image and sketch Idsinga says 20 people are dedicated to the in- McArthur is scheduled to appear in court next of the unidentified man. vestigation. on April 25. 4 NEWS Friday, April 13, 2018 The East York Observer Home care awards a way of saying thanks Cont’d. from page 1 extraordinary care of Joy, but also for her de- termined attitude at work. Sasa works for the “Many caregivers do this in the shadows with Extreme Clean program, a cleaning service that very little support. The Heart of Home Care helps people who are facing eviction due to un- Awards are VHA’s way of saying, “We see you cleanliness or sanitary issues. and we appreciate you.” Sasa’s supervisor witnesses the long hours She said when the event first started in 2005, Sasa devotes to the job, sometimes in tough sit- nobody was listening. Caregivers were rarely uations dealing with clients suffering from men- recognized for the crucial role they play in so- tal health issues, and then always going home to ciety. But as she addressed the full room almost take care of Joy afterwards with a smile on her 20 years later, she said, “I am more than happy to face. say that has drastically changed.” However, when asked about Joy, Sasa doesn’t Taylor, originally from Welland, Ont., Mado- talk about how long her days are or how exhaust- lina Sasa from Scarborough and Zulfikar Alladi- ed she is. Instead, she discusses what Joy has na from Toronto were all chosen as exceptional taught her. caregivers out of the 24 deserving nominees. “Taking care of Joy helps me be better with In addition to Taylor’s award, Sasa won the other people. It gives me patience and the more Caregiver to a Child Award for her support of her time I spend with Joy, the more I open up,” Sasa daughter Joy and Alladina won the Caregiver to an said. “She is so special.” Adult Award for his support of his father Sultan. All three award-winners had strong personal Taylor was nominated for the award by her messages to share with other caregivers. mother, Lisa Knechtel, who says her son Alex wouldn’t be the same if it wasn’t for Taylor. From Taylor: During the ceremony, a video of each award-winner’s story played for the audience. “You are not alone. There are many caregivers The videos were made in collaboration with out there in the same situation. Just remember VHA and video agency Big Red Oak. that your hard work and dedication is appreci- In Taylor’s video, a teary-eyed Knechtel ex- ated more than you realize. You help keep your plains the impact of Taylor’s constant help and family whole.” support on their lives, especially after Knechtel Submitted by Lusine Stepanian, VHA Taylor Allen receives the Young Caregiver Award from Don Hardy at the 2018 was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. From Zul: VHA Heart of Home Care Awards on April 3. “Sometimes she knows just by looking at me. And she’ll say, ‘Mom you look tired. Go lay “If you are blessed with the opportunity to down; I’ve got him,’” Knechtel said in the video. his mid-20s after his father lost both of his legs serve anyone (whether it be a loved one or not), Like the other award-winners, Taylor is much to diabetes. do the deed with genuine love and compassion. more than just a caregiver for her brother. She is Alladina’s unwavering support of his father To help someone in need is a true blessing and also an ‘A’ student, an artist, a competitive bowl- brought many audience members to tears, but for should be handled with utmost importance. Do er and a normal teenager, something she likes to him it wasn’t a burden. It was a duty to someone not expect anything in return. Believe me, the point out. he deeply loved and a reflection of the profound joy you bring to that individual who needs it is a “I don’t feel that I do anything out of the ordi- connection and relationship they shared. blessing from God.” nary,” Taylor said in an email. “I help my mom “I can call him my father, I can call him my and help her with Alex, which at times can be mother, I can call him my brother, I can call him From Madolina: difficult. Each day I learn new ways to help him my best friend,” Alladina said in the video. “We get through his day.” were all of those put together.” “My philosophy is that if you have a child But to her mother, Taylor’s help is invaluable. Even after Alladina suffered severe injuries Screenshot from VHA and Big Red Oak video with a disability, you don’t need to panic. You Alex Allen and his sister Taylor Allen at “She needs to realize that what she’s doing is from a car crash in 2010, injuries he is still re- don’t need to worry, you don’t need to stress or Jeff’s Bowl-O-Rama in Welland, Ont. special,” Knechtel said in the video. “She cares covering from today, he continued to care for his depress yourself. Even though they don’t talk, more about others than she does about herself. father. who took home the Caregiver for a Child Award, you have to listen.” She’s a remarkable kid.” “The joy I received from making sure that my acknowledging her ongoing support of her They all thanked VHA for their awards and father was all taken care of and comfortable was daughter Joy who lives with a disability. She for the continuous support VHA has provided for Zul Alladina extremely important to me,” Alladina said. “In- deserved to win best-dressed too, joked Stacey families in Ontario over the past 93 years. comparable to anything else.” Ryan, selection committee chair, as she present- Other highlights of the event were keynote Zulfikar Alladina, known to most as Zul, was ed the award. Sasa wore a gold-sequined evening speaker Manjusha Pawagi, author of Love and selected as 2018’s Caregiver to an Adult award Madolina Sasa gown accompanied by her husband in a match- Laughter in the Time of Chemotherapy, and a winner and his story is no less inspiring. Alla- ing suit with gold-sequined lapels. special musical performance by Ania Soul. dina first started caring for his father Sultan in The final award-winner was Madolina Sasa, Sasa was nominated by her employer for her Centennial College grad helped breathe life into The Shape of Water By BRANDON WONG details to make it as believable as possible. Lebedev’s favourite because of their amazing The Observer “Everything had to be perfect,” Lebedev said. design work. “Del Toro has ridiculous eyes and picked out the Books are also something he finds beneficial At the age of five, Nikita Lebedev was always costume’s minor details that still needed to be to his sculpting. drawing and designing creatures. worked on.” “When reading, I picture it like a movie in Not much has changed. He now works as a Anatomy is an important factor that Lebedev your head, since there are no pictures to refer to,” creature and character artist at the visual-effects felt should be fully understood before getting Lebedev said. company Mr. X Inc., which has been featured in started in the industry because, in terms of crea- Growing up, he was particularly fond of the productions from The Strain and Resident Evil: ture designs, it’s the first time anyone is seeing it. Resident Evil games and was able to work on the The Final Chapter to this year’s Best Picture By adding familiar details, the audience is able to latest film, but The Shape of Water is his favour- winner, The Shape of Water. believe that the creature would exist in real life. ite project because people were able to see more “I’m mostly bringing the creatures and char- “My knowledge of anatomy was a key com- of his work due to the multiple close-ups of the acters to life by adding a certain level of detail ponent when creating the creature’s facial ex- creature’s face. to them,” said Lebedev, a graduate of the Digital pressions,” Lebedev said. “It helped bring a more “It was great to see my work on screen and Animation program at Centennial College’s East realistic performance in the film.” know that I contributed to this film,” he said. York campus. “Most of the time I’m given rough Throughout his creative process, Lebedev gets Lebedev is also a part-time professor for the sketches and have to create sculptures that are inspiration from video games, movies, TV shows Digital Animation program at Centennial’s East anatomically correct.” and nature. York campus. He worked as a tutor during his Working on The Shape of Water for seven to “I recently went to Brazil and there were so time as a student until transitioning to teaching. eight months, he was responsible for creating the many animals, birds, insects and plants that can “I enjoy sharing my knowledge with others creature’s facial expressions and movement that just spark an idea,” he said. “My brain starts to and I’m planning on making some tutorials in Brandon Wong/ The Observer helped bring the sense of realism to Guillermo del process the images to mix and match those things the future as well,” he said. Nikita Lebedev works as a creature/ Toro’s film. Using 3-D scans of the actor, Doug together and create a ‘hell version’ of them.” “The most rewarding part of teaching is seeing character artist at the award-winning Jones, in costume as reference, Lebedev created Video games such as Dark Souls, Silent Hill, the students’ artistic growth and improvement in visual effects company, Mr. X Inc. a digital replica of the creature and sculpted the Resident Evil and The Evil Within are some of their work.” Friday, April 13, 2018 The East York Observer FEATURES 5 n DANCE AND FITNESS

Bobby Hristova/The Observer Above left, in the last five minutes of the full-body hula hoop workout, all ages class, students get to ‘free-for-all’ and try whatever technique they want. Above right, Amy MacCutchan teaches club member Caroline Vanderghem a new technique. East York club is healthy and hooping Hula hoops help HooperSonic “I brought hula hoops back to Egpyt and ev- dizzy.” One student, Amanda Stephens, highlights the eryone started hooping.” Four years later, she was leading her own key difference. dance and fitness club keep Star is just one of the East Yorkers who swings group and HooperSonic was born. “It’s about learning how to hoop versus trying her hips and grooves along the studio floors of On March 25, the club celebrated its third an- to keep it up,” she said. local participants in good shape HooperSonic. niversary with hoopla. Though most of MacCutchan’s classes focus Amy MacCutchan, owner and operator, start- Marilyn Scott, an East York resident who on experienced students, she also hosts a six- By BOBBY HRISTOVA ed the hula-hooping dance and fitness club after has been hooping for eight years, says she feels week beginner series for newer students like The Observer “walking into” the idea at Withrow Park. “higher than a kite” when she leaves the club. Caroline Vanderghem, who has been a member “A friend of mine was in the park and she was “Friends are surprised when they hear I’m for a few months. After visiting her granddaughter Yumi in Egypt carrying a hula hoop. She told me she was going a hooper,” she said. “It makes you think about “Everyone helps everyone,” Vanderghem said. three years ago, Martine Star knew she had to to a class and I said, ‘that sounds dumb,’” Mac- when you were younger.” “When you’re here you forget everything else,” become a hooper. Cutchan says. They also incorporate dance moves and cardio HooperSonic is held at the Redwood The- “My granddaughter wanted to teach me but, “I always thought it was so hard, but when I exercise into routines. atre near the corner of Gerrard Street East and I couldn’t do it,” Star said. “I promised I would got there I had the right teacher who gave me the MacCutchan says hula hoops seen in stores Greenwood Avenue and at St. David’s Anglican teach myself without telling her.” right hoop and I was hooked.” are kid-sized and much harder to use. Hoopers Church on Donlands Avenue. When Star returned, Yumi wasn’t the only one Seven years ago, when she started, Mac- use giant, adult-sized hoops and flex their core to In the summer, the club aims to host their surprised. Cutchan was admittedly “uncoordinated and swing the ring. hooping in the Beaches Area once a week. Women’s fight night squares off against Parkinson’s Boxing program at Undisputed boxing club, the event included a black-tie din- helps people ner. Fights were held throughout the evening. through drills The event served as an introduction to the world of live By ALEX GOUDGE boxing for audiences and fight- The Observer ers alike. Haley Brooks is one of An all-female amateur boxing the fighters who stepped into event served as an introduction the ring for the first time. She to the world of boxing while brought her mouthpiece and raising money to fight Parkin- 19 guests to watch her fight, son’s disease. about half of whom had never The first White Collar Wom- watched a live boxing match. en’s Boxing event, held March “They all loved it,” Brooks 29 at the Hungarian Canadian said in a phone interview after Cultural Centre near O’Connor the event. “They got the dinner, Drive and Bermondsey Road, too, with it, and it was a great hosted six fights featuring am- night.” ateur women boxers. The women trained for 12 Alex Goudge/The Observer The evening raised money weeks prior to the event, do- Saukyn Luque (in red) and Chaya Stebben punch it out at the inaugural White Collar Women’s Boxing event, for Rock Steady Boxing at Un- ing conditioning exercises and on March 29 at the Hungarian Canadian Cultural Centre. disputed, a non-contact-boxing sparring drills. program that specializes in The women Button trains ing,” she said. the sport often take a backseat Rock Steady member Wayne proud, and all for a good cause, helping people with Parkin- have different reasons for box- While organizing the event, and wanted to highlight the Hornsby ran through some too. son’s through movement-based ing. Button wanted people who had skill set of those participating. drills to show the audience “Lita really empowered boxing drills. “Some are doing it for fund- never seen a boxing match to The fundraiser also shone a what Rock Steady is all about. many of us to succeed and feel Organized by Lita Mae But- raising and others want to go leave the event wanting more. light on the work done by the The event left attendees, empowered as women boxers,” ton, head coach at Rock Steady further with what they’re do- She also feels that women in Rock Steady gym. Button and fighters and organizers feeling Brooks said. 6 OPINION Friday, April 13, 2018 The East York Observer n COLUMNS n EDITORIALS So close, yet so far Club’s come a long way On Tuesday, Toronto FC trav- Euros squad, citing the quality teams. Women’s empowerment is a double-edged sword. As a society, we encourage women to go elled to Mexico City to face (or lack thereof) of the MLS As for the quality of the to university, get a degree, get a masters, be a corporate powerhouse. At the same time, we off against Club América in as the main reason for the MLS inhibiting players’ chanc- tell them to get married and have a family if that’s what they want. But the moment a woman the Estadio Azteca, with a 3-1 omission. es of being picked for their chooses motherhood as well as a career, we make her life exceedingly difficult. lead from the first leg. Toronto That sentiment was shared national team, TSN soccer Premier Kathleen Wynne recently announced that the Liberals’ proposed budget would FC clinched a crucial 1-1 by his successor, Gi- analyst Terry Dunfield said, “I fund preschool for children from 2 1/2 years old until they start kindergarten at age 4. This draw to advance into the ampiero Ventura, who believe it’s much less of an election promise, if it comes to fruition, would take the weight off many shoulders feeling the finals of the CONCACAF noted that the MLS “is issue in recent years.” burden of having children in the 21st century. with a 4-2 aggregate win. a league that does not In the most recent trans- With more and more women choosing education and a full-time career, universal childcare Past one Mexican giant, count for much.” fer window, Toronto FC has is a necessity. There is simply no other way to fully empower women and achieve equality. and into another: The The label of brought in 24-year-old Ager In Canada, maternity leave benefits are pretty good. Parents can get up to 61 weeks of paid Reds are set to face “retirement Aketxe from Athletic Bilbao, leave — meaning a woman would be getting a fraction of her salary while she’s at home. Af- C.D. Guadalajara league” has a promising young player in ter those 61 weeks, or 14 months, everything is up in the air for a working mom. (Chivas) next week been associ- the prime of his career moving Experts know that the first five years of life are the most important from a developmental at BMO field. This ated with the from one of Spain’s more standpoint. It’s crucial for children to be cared for properly. will be the first time MLS since its competitive clubs. Child-care costs in Ontario are the highest in the country, and waiting lists for reputable, Toronto has made it creation, with With Jonathan Osorio’s goal licensed care are miles long. In 2012, the average monthly cost for full-time daycare for an to the CONCACAF the likes of against Club América Tuesday infant in Ontario was $1,152. That’s about the cost of a two-bedroom rental downtown or a finals, coming off David Beck- night, he has been the club’s mortgage payment in the suburbs. the back of their ham and Steven most consistent player at the Now imagine if a woman wanted to have more than one child, or even several. first domestic treble Gerrard arriving CONCACAF, scoring a goal Quebec has had a subsidized daycare system for a while, but France is where it’s at when in 2017. past their peaks to in each round of the Champi- it comes to childcare. The country has a three-element system: With Toronto FC the developing U.S. ons League. • There are daycare centres run by municipalities and overseen by the government. Chil- easing through the soccer scene. His teammate Tosaint Rick- dren as young as three months can be cared for, and people pay an hourly rate based on their CONCACAF Champi- Both Toronto etts is the joint fourth-top scorer salaries. These daycare centres are tightly regulated and staff must meet the government’s ons League, it’s easy to FC and the MLS for the Canadian Men’s nation- strict employment standards. forget how far the club have come a long al soccer team, with 16 goals • The national government gives tax breaks to families that choose to hire nannies. These and MLS competition way. The league for his country as of 2018. nannies must be licensed by the government and meet all the necessary qualifications. has come in recent years. has become much This Toronto FC is not the • Universal preschool is also available for children three to six years old. From a Canadian Former Italy Coach more competitive, same one that set the record standpoint, it’s like mixing preschool and kindergarten into one place. Antonio Conte attracted capable of attracting for most consecutive losses These options give women in France more flexibility and choice when it comes to balanc- much criticism in 2016 young players from back in 2012. ing a career and being a mom. Women in Ontario don’t have the same options, especially when he snubbed To- abroad, with many As the Reds host Chivas low-income women who would benefit from universal childcare the most. ronto FC and MLS making breakthroughs next week for the first leg of The reality is that we as a society are lying to the next generation of women in Ontario star Sebastian with their the CONCACAF final, they who dream of both career and motherhood. The exorbitant cost of childcare for women with Giovinco for Justin Chan respective are certainly not a team to be young children is the cold, hard evidence. the 2016 Italian national underestimated. It’s time for Ontario to live up to its rhetoric of feminism and equality. ~ Ellen Samek Put police back in Pride Will the real Pride Toronto were not part of the parade. rade, well, you’d be right. BLM please stand up? Uniformed police will started it, but it is not one Mind the children Toronto Police and Pride again not be a part of it of the co-signers of this Toronto have had a complicated when the 38th annual year’s request to exclude A local school introduced a new initiative in February to educate parents and caregivers on relationship since 2016. That’s Pride Parade takes uniformed police from healthy strategies for responding to challenging emotions in children. when Black Lives Matter place on June 25. participating in Roden Public School/Equinox Holistic Alternative School, located south of the Danforth, activists halted the parade for The letter the parade. hosted a much-needed workshop on mental wellness with guest speaker Christie Hoyos of about 30 minutes, calling out contends that One Muslim the SickKids Centre for Community Mental Health. Pride’s “anti-blackness” while the police terrorist should According to the Mental Health Foundation, mental health problems affect about one in 10 demanding police not partici- investigation not stereotype children and young people. These include depression, anxiety and conduct disorder, and are pate in future parades. into the all Muslims often a direct response to what is going on in their lives. Overlooking mental health issues Pride is about being inclu- deaths was as terror- in children has been linked to horrific events, including mass shootings, crime and alarming sive, accepting, and building handled ists, and suicide rates. community. To exclude one poorly. one black From an early age, children are exposed to situations such as bullying and parental neglect. group goes against everything it Even shooter About 70 per cent of adults who experience a mental health problem have not had appropri- stands for. after many does not ate interventions during their childhood. Without proper care, these children may grow into On April 2, in a Facebook LGBTQ represent the adults who are emotionally stunted and ill-equipped to handle difficult situations. post, Pride Toronto and several groups told black commu- Oftentimes, the same adults who are mentally ill disregard the same issues in their chil- other LGBTQ organizations co- police they sus- nity. dren. This creates a cycle. If parents and caregivers mend the cycle of emotional neglect from signed a letter asking Toronto pected a serial It’s unfair to a young age, they can help prevent mental health problems in all people. Police Chief Mark Saunders to killer was target- blame an entire Many mass school shootings that have taken place in North America have been committed end all efforts at rejoining the ing gay men in police force for by people aged 20 and under. For example, Dylan Klebold, 17, and Eric Harris, 18, students parade this year. the village, their the actions of a few. at Columbine High School in Colorado, killed 13 people in 1999 before committing suicide. Pride officials said talks concerns were Yes, they are imperfect. The Columbine shooting was, at the time, the worst high school shooting in U.S. history and between both groups were “dismissed” by Police services are meant sparked a national debate on gun control, school safety and mental health. Yet, we are still going well until alleged serial police, accord- to protect the public and seeing the same situations happening today, almost 20 years later. killer Bruce McArthur’s arrest ing to the letter. when they fail, we feel The all-too-familiar narrative goes like this: a crime is committed and the perpetrator is on Jan. 18 and the investigation If you’re cheated, threatened and labeled a lone wolf with extensive mental health issues (almost always due to the way he into the missing and murdered blaming BLM maybe worse. But exclud- or she was treated growing up). The sooner we start providing children with mental health gay men in the Church-Welles- for initiating ing police from the Pride support, as this local high school did, the more success we will have at preventing mental ley area (known as the Gay this exclu- Parade is a form of bigotry health-related crimes and suicides by young people. Village). sion and provides ~ Tianna Henry Last year for the first time, from Rushanthi Kesunathan a reason not Toronto police and their floats the pa- to go.

The East York The East York Observer is published by Centennial College journalism students at the East York campus, 951 Carlaw FACULTY EDITORS MANAGING EDITOR PRODUCTION EDITOR Ave., Rm. 149. Mailing address: P.O. Box 631, Stn. A, Eric McMillan Bobby Hristova Sergio Arangio Toronto, M1K 5E9. E-mail c/o [email protected]. Lindy Oughtred PHOTO EDITOR Telephone 416-289-5107, fax 416-289-5111. We welcome John Sakamoto Rushanthi Kesunathan OBSERVER your input, including letters to the editor. Friday,Friday, AprilDecember 13, 2018 15, 2017 The East The York East Observer York Observer NEWS 7 Landmark hospital has grown over 90 years

City of Toronto Archives Taylor Bridger/The Observer Michael Garron Hospital has had a somewhat modest expansion in the 90 years since the above left photo was taken. The hospital, formerly known as Toronto East General until its name change in 2015, has provided emergency health services to the East York area for nearly a century. In 2018, the distinctive chimney stack and the overall profile of the building are still present, while additonal expansion wings have been added. n PROVINCIAL ELECTION Hospital care a flashpoint in Beaches-East York

By TAYLOR BRIDGER Party in the riding. She has preventative care into a society Progressive Conservative named for the donors’ late son, and SHAYELLE SMITH been an environmental activist that is aging is the most effec- candidate Sarah Mallo did not Michael Garron. The Observer for the past 10 years. Her cam- tive way of eventually solving respond to a request for com- “Over the last four years as paign claims she has a strong the under-staffing of hospitals. ments. Her promotional liter- your representative at Queen’s Beaches-East York has been commitment to research and Instead of full-time people, we ature shows her together with Park, I have been a proud represented by Liberal par- development on sustainable in- have contracted many posi- new PC leader Doug Ford. champion for East York and ty MPP Arthur Potts since novation. She has the Science, tions, which means people are Potts bills himself as a priv- have worked with our commu- 2014. Two women are hoping The Green Party’s Debra Research and Innovation port- constantly being trained.” ileged member of Premier nity to get results that will ben- to cut his career at Queen’s Scott, left, is one chal- folio in the Green Party shadow The Green Party aims to in- Kathleen Wynne’s team. His efit people here,” he says. Park to four years with the pro- lenger to Liberal MPP cabinet. vest in front-line services, so tipping legislation recently “Together we secured $411 vincial election in June. Arthur Potts in Beach- “Under-staffing of the Mi- that we can have more home came into effect, protecting the million in funding for the re- At least one of the challeng- es-East York. chael Garron Hospital is not a care, Scott says. “Diverting incomes of Ontario servers and development of Michael Gar- ers is making an issue of prob- new issue,” she says. “The con- people away from critical care food service staff. ron Hospital, a true East York lems at Michael Garron Hos- major funding. tracting issue has been a situa- units like hospitals will ulti- He also helped facilitate a landmark and I look forward to pital — the same hospital that Debra Scott is running for tion that has been ongoing for mately help the under-staffing $50-million donation to Toron- continuing our work to build a Potts has helped support with the second time for the Green sometime. Putting the idea of in hospitals.” to East General Hospital, now stronger community.” First-time candidates challenge Tabuns in Toronto-Danforth

By TAYLOR BRIDGER who, “like so many residents of Toronto Dan- the non-profit, government, corporate and cul- and SHAYELLE SMITH forth, embodies the value and character traits that ture sectors,” she says. “I am passionate about The Observer Ontario’s foundations were built on.” improving education and helping seniors live She’s a second-generation Greek-Canadian with dignity and fulfilment. I’ve advocated for A pair of newcomers to provincial politics are who says she was raised with the principles of increased access to justice for vulnerable and gearing up to challenge Toronto-Danforth MPP inclusivity, hard work and determination. newcomer communities as a senior adviser at the Peter Tabuns, who has held office for nine years. As a high school teacher, she promotes a fun Government of Ontario and a director at Legal Two women of very different backgrounds and and challenging curriculum while pushing stu- Aid Ontario.” PC candidate Patricia Kalligosfyris, political affiliations are prepping campaigns that dents to their potential, according to her campaign NDP incumbent Tabuns bills himself as a “can- left, and Liberal hopeful Li Koo, centre, plan to beat the thrice-elected incumbent in the literature. “Education is of the utmost importance didate that sees in East York a unique set of chal- are running against NDP incumbent June election: Li Koo of the Liberal Party and and her campaign wants to bring positive change lenges.” He advocates putting provincial money Peter Tabuns in Toronto-Danforth. Patricia Kalligosfyris of the Progressive Conser- to Ontario Education.” back into the TTC, as well as addressing the lack vative Party. Liberal candidate Koo is no stranger to poli- of affordable childcare, which is causing huge dicts. “People see Ontario going back and forth PC candidate Kalligosfyris is a neophyte in tics, having advised various Liberal political ef- problems for families, and fixing soaring rents. between Liberal and Conservative governments, Ontario politics and neither challenger has ever forts in her recent past. In 2017, Tabuns proposed a rent control bill bad or worse, when there is a chance to break out been a candidate herself. “I am an educator, a community leader and a that would provide rent-hike protections. of that and elect an NDP government that will fo- Kalligosfyris identifies herself as somebody successful entrepreneur with experience from “This will be a tough election,” Tabuns pre- cus on people’s needs.” PC candidate faces ‘good campaigner’ Wynne in Don Valley West By TAYLOR BRIDGER “We do not take anything for West: constituents want a gov- with her partner, Jane, in North to slash spending just when and SHAYELLE SMITH granted. My plan is to be the ernment that actually listens,” Toronto for more than 25 years. families need it the most and The Observer hardest-working campaign in Kieran says. “When consulta- “I am running again to be our Ontario Liberal team that Ontario. I will listen and will tion on important matters like your MPP and Premier because sees government as a force for Progressive Conservative can- keep my promise to be a real a child’s education is promised, I know we can continue to build good and knows that now is the didate Jon Kieran knows he voice for Don Valley West.” voters expect that promise to a fairer, better Ontario where time to invest in care.” has an uphill battle trying to Wynne touts her government be kept. People are angry at we invest in seniors’ care, child She cites her initiatives to defeat Ontario Premier Kath- as a “force for good,” viewing government waste, they are fed PC candidate Jon Kieran care and health care,” she says. raise minimum wage to $15 leen Wynne in her own riding it as something to be invested up with the scandals, massive is challenging Premier She calls the election a clas- an hour, offer free tuition for of Don Valley West. in, while Kieran cites the public hikes in hydro rates, hallway Kathleen Wynne in her sic battle between liberal and 225,000 students, provide free “We all know that Kathleen anger associated with Wynne’s healthcare and soaring defi- own riding. conservative values. “When prescription medication for Wynne is a good campaigner government. cits.” voters cast their ballots this children and youth under 25 and will use her influence to try “I’ve received a consistent Wynne has been Don Valley seat in 2003. She grew up in spring, they will choose be- and establish 100,000 new, af- and win the riding,” he says. message across the Don Valley West’s MPP since winning the Richmond Hill and has lived tween Conservatives who want fordable childcare spaces. 8 NEWS Friday, April 13, 2018 The East York Observer Robotic team puts medal to the metal Local high school students explain the nuts and bolts of competing with robots By SERGIO ARANGIO The Observer

The East York Collegiate Institute “Cybernauts” walked into Ryerson University’s Mattamy Ath- letic Centre ready to throw their robot, Phoenix, into battle. They pitted her against the robots of 36 robotics teams across Ontario in the year’s opening FIRST Robotics competition. With six weeks to design, build and program her, the six-student team finally got to show off their aluminum friend’s skills on March 16. “We’re pretty confident in our robot’s abilities,” Grade 12 student Aliyyah Jackhan said. This year’s competition tasked the Cybernauts with playing a game involving a seesaw. Teams have to weigh down one side with blocks for a longer time than their opponents. The East York team didn’t make the finals, but they went home Courtesy of East York Cybernetics with the Quality Award for their robot’s design The East York Collegiate Institute robotics team walked away from FIRST Robotics competition at Ryerson University with and build. the Quality Award for their robot Phoenix. Phoenix is currently competing in the provincial championship at the Hershey Centre in Mis- in just a regular class.” giate’s robotics team for nine years. He loves kids. sissauga. The winner will move on to the world FIRST began in 1992 to celebrate engineers the hands-on aspect of the robotics program, he The Cybernauts are a small team, however. championship in Detroit. and scientists. The organization has programs said. They had to work extra hard to make a robot It’s Jackhan’s first year on the robotics team. for students from kindergarten to high school. “It’s about the process,” Perivolaris said. that could compete with the larger teams of up She worked with two computer science men- Younger tech whizzes have the LEGO League, “About learning what to do when confronted to 80 students. tors from the University of Toronto to program which has them solve real-world issues like re- with a problem.” They had to be efficient with their materials Phoenix. Jackhan said she was initially skeptical cycling and building robots out of LEGO pieces The moment they finally got Phoenix work- too, Perivolaris said, since they’re not as well about joining. to compete with other teams. ing was the moment everyone’s faces lit up, funded as other teams. They even have to scrap “I’m the only girl on the team,” she said. “I An important thing about the robotics Perivolaris said. They took her to Crescent old robots for parts. have to spend all this time outside of class with team, Jackhan said, is that it helped her think School, near the Bridle Path, to finish build- “There are technical and manufacturing all these boys and it kind of scared me.” about how to make her mark in the typically ing her and test her out. Students walking by (businesses) that could help,” he said. “It just Jackhan wants to be a computer engineer. male-dominated field of engineering. admired the robot as it zoomed around the means organizing and knocking on doors. I What swayed her towards joining the team was “It’s taught me how to deal with people who school’s practice space. just don’t have the energy as one teacher to do the advantage it will give her going into uni- may put you down because you’re a girl or be- It’s moments like this that inspire Perivolaris that.” versity. cause you may not know as much at the time,” to keep the program going. For Jackhan, she hopes future generations “Because of this (experience), I am kind of she said. “It’s definitely given me a thicker “It’s been a fabulous experience for these take advantage of the program, especially for like the ‘super coder,’” Jackhan said. “I was skin.” kids. That’s why I continue to do it,” he said. “I the strong bonds that form. “At the end of it, able to do and learn a lot more than I would’ve Chris Perivolaris has run East York Colle- feel like I’m building Canada when I help these your team is like your family.,” she said.

n COMMUNITY ART Wondering who’s behind that colourful mural? It’s Yannick Torres Arial isn’t random. He tries to incorporate bits of his life into his paintings. Bihan, who tries to “I painted my dad in the mural and my little sister and some other people incorporate bits of his that are close to me,” he said. “I like life into each painting to paint people I love because (the painting) stays there for a long time.” Bihan is a sculptor, tattoo artist, By DOHA HANNO still life-painter and more. The Observer His girlfriend, Laura Adams, is East York is dotted with mysterious also a sculptor, and together they artistic murals. We see them almost make much of their living through every day on our way to work or their art. school. But have you ever wondered: “I like doing art and murals be- Who paints them? cause I don’t have to follow many Yannick Torres Ariel Bihan is re- rules,” Bihan said. sponsible for several murals around “When I do tattoos, it’s always Toronto, including one on the side about what the customer wants, so of his dad’s East York art studio sometimes it’s nice to paint whatever LucSculpture at Greenwood and I feel like painting without anyone Danforth avenues. telling me what to do.” A 31-year-old painter who was He would paint more murals if born in the projects of France, Bihan more locations were available. has spent years honing his style. “I wish there were more spots for “I used to try to paint realism, but me to do paintings,” he said. “But the now I just paint what I see in my government says it’s illegal to graffi- Doha Hanno/The Observer head,” he said. ti in some places, so you have to be Yannick Torres Ariel Bihan poses in front of his murals on the side of LucSculpture, an art Bihan’s form of expressionism careful and get a permit.” school and studio in East York.