Back, Brick Works

THE EAST TORONTO INSIDEINSIDE Powerful Election Polaroids Preview PAGE 8 OBSERVER PAGES 3, 4, 5 Friday • October 1 • 2010 PUBLISHED BY CENTENNIAL COLLEGE JOURNALISM STUDENTS AND SERVING EAST YORK Volume 40 • No. 7 Mixed reviews as Kennedy rejoins school board fray

By CHRIS HIGGINS guilty of conflict of interest is The race to represent Ward not a small matter.... This is just 11 on Toronto’s Catholic school outrageous that she would think board has heated up with the that she deserves a vote and to last-minute entry of former say she’s not running and to run trustee Angela Kennedy. again and then to put in the ap- In a dramatic reversal of her peal.” previous decision not to run, One of Kennedy’s rivals for Kennedy filed her candidacy pa- the Ward 11 trustee seat agrees. pers on deadline day, Sept. 10. Kevin Morrison says this is a Kennedy had been a trustee critical election for the TCDSB with the Toronto Catholic Dis- and Kennedy’s decision to run trict School Board for 10 years, could further erode public per- but was found to be in violation ceptions of the board’s credibil- of conflict-of-interest rules and ity. was removed as trustee by a “People are so incredibly an- court order in August. gry,” he said. “I have been can- Kennedy has children work- vassing in parishes that have Observer, Reinisa MacLeod ing for the TCDSB and the judge traditionally been strongholds FLAMBOYANT FEATHERS: Miranda Allen, a performer with Clay & Paper Theatre, dances on found she voted on budget mat- of Angela’s.... The tide of pub- stilts during the grand opening of the Evergreen Brick Works. Members of the troupe danced their ters that could affect them. lic opinion has turned against way around the refurbished facility — the old Don Valley Brick Works site on Bayview Avenue near But Kennedy is appealing the us. The single school advocates Pottery Road. court’s decisions, including the don’t need any more ammuni- order to vacate her seat. And the tion, and that’s what she’s giv- judge didn’t prohibit Kennedy ing them.” from running again. Ryan Ward, another Ward 11 Welcome back, Brick Works “I had a couple of weeks to candidate, intends to make Ken- think about the judge’s deci- nedy’s candidacy a factor in the By REINISA MACLEOD and community events such as “That really wonderful pro- sion,” she said in an interview. campaign leading up to the Oct. The air buzzed with excite- yoga and a skating rink in the cess of exploration that a few “She said I wasn’t prohibited 25 election. ment as Toronto’s Brick Works winter. Innovation is the theme. people who are quite bold were from running.” “This will absolutely be an is- re-opened in a celebration last “That’s what it’s supposed to able to do, now anybody can do,” “I have nothing to be ashamed sue,” he said. “It is critical that weekend. be about... for people to come he said. “We have not touched, about so I’m going to let the vot- the person who serves Ward 11 The opening, featuring a rib- and innovate, no matter how literally, not touched the vast ers decide what my future will exhibits the conduct that stu- bon cutting Saturday and a mul- they think innovation should be majority of the inside, so you can be.” dents, parents, teachers, school ticultural festival Sunday, left a done,” Dark said. still see the brick kilns, still see The TCDSB has had a trou- workers and Catholics from the feeling of optimism and excite- Hilary Inwood has been com- all the bits and pieces.” bled last few years. It remains ward expect.” ment for those in attendance. ing to the site with her family for Although revitalization of the under provincial supervision Kennedy has a long record George Dark, chairman of the five years. Travelling from High buildings isn’t finished, Ever- because of budget mismanage- of service to the Catholic com- board for the Evergreen Brick Park, Inwood eagerly anticipat- green has moved in and started ment; trustees have been in- munity — a point the judge ac- Works for seven years, hopes to ed the opening. working on implementing a vari- volved in expense account scan- knowledged in her final report. showcase the age and history of “I think it’s a really excit- ety of different programs. dals and, most recently, conflict- In spite of the trust issues the buildings as well as newer ing event and I’m thrilled that Al Yoshiki has volunteered of-interest convictions against surrounding the board and her aspects of the project. Toronto is welcoming a new with the Evergreen Brick Works Kennedy and fellow trustee candidacy, Kennedy rejects the “We have new roofs, we have environmental community cen- for four years and is looking for- Barbara Poplawski. criticisms of her tenure and in- stabilized pieces of wall. We’re tre,” she said. “It’s a great way ward to the new programs. Kennedy’s choice to run disap- sists voters will appreciate her trying to get the juxtaposition of to maintain the heritage of the “I’m really excited for the win- points Murielle Boudreau of the past work as a trustee when old and new very apparent be- site, but also bring something ter because most times, the build- Greater Toronto Catholic Par- they go to the polls. cause we want people to see both new to it.” ings were pretty much hands off, ent Network. “I’ve always been there for my simultaneously,” he said. Dark hopes to make the build- but now there is just so much ac- “We are just appalled by this,” schools, my students, my princi- The project also includes en- ings accessible to all age groups tivity,” he said. Boudreau said. “Being found pals and my parents,” she said. vironmentally friendly aspects for exploration. See GREEN, page 2 Suitcase packed for Ootes: Ward 29 councillor retires

By LAURA GRANDE municipalities into the new City of Case Ootes can remember the exact Toronto in 1998 as the toughest moment moment when his career trajectory of his career. changed from business to politics. “There were problems... with the union “In 1988, I was sitting on the sidewalk, contracts, between pensions, between watching the Canada Day parade and all the other benefits that had to be then-mayor Dave Johnson drove by in harmonized,” he said, “and the end result his open convertible and yelled out that was that we were in constant conflict with he wanted to see me,” Ootes recalled. “He the province.” asked me to run for council because there Ootes’ personal career highlight, was a vacancy coming up.” however, was the six years he spent as With an MBA from York University, deputy mayor. Ootes was employed in a management “(When) we had the SARS crisis and the position with Imperial Oil, Canada’s blackout, I took a leading role in terms of largest petroleum company. That summer working with (then-mayor Mel Lastman),” day in 1988, however, set in motion a 22- he explained. “The mayor wasn’t very good year career in the political forum. at dealing with the media, so that role fell Ootes, 68, announced back in January to me which was... very satisfying to be Observer, Nastasha Alli that he would be retiring from politics. able to play a leading role in dealing with COMRADES-IN-ARMS: Former Ontario Conservative premier Mike Harris Like any politician, the former councillor it in a way that was positive.” (left) and former Toronto mayor Mel Lastman (centre) joined outgoing East for Ward 29/Toronto-Danforth admits Overall, Ootes felt he and Lastman York councillor Case Ootes at his retirement dinner on Monday night at the that he ran into difficulties time and balanced one another well in a delicate York Reception Centre on Millwood Road. The three worked together on the again. He cites the locally unpopular situation. implementation of the “megacity” — overcoming its unpopularity in East York. amalgamation of East York and other See RELATIONSHIP, page 7 Page 2 — East York’s Observer, October 1, 2010 Police briefs Houses burglarized A Toronto man was charged with 41 offences on Sept. 16, following a three- month investigation by Toronto police into a spate of break and enters in the East York area. Police at 54 Division think a persistent burglar specifically targeted single-family homes and entered the residences during daytime hours. The charges against Drew John Kerr, 40, include 17 counts of break and enter, causing mischief under $5,000, three counts of possession of stolen property and 17 counts of failing to comply with probation terms. Stained glass stolen Four large stained-glass windows have been stolen from a home that once belonged to a prominent 19th-century East York businessman. Toronto police Const. Dave Besco, the lead investigator, says the six-foot-tall Renaissance-style windows were in the front room of the John F. Taylor House, at the corner of Broadview Avenue and O’Connor Drive. Taylor, who built the house in 1890, also founded the Don Valley Brick Works with his brothers. —Laura Grande and Tamara Baluja

Observer, Leticia Rodriguez HISTORY IN GRAFFITI: Evergreen plans to keep graffiti done by ravers and merge it with new paintings of former employees of the Don Valley Brick Works. What’s On Green future for Brick Works Junior citizen award Nominations are open for the 2010 By LETICIA RODRIGUEZ her hand. an industrial icon for the future.” Ontario Junior Citizen of the Year It all started with a farmer, his shovel She says East York residents can find The site now focuses on encouraging Awards. Youth must be 6-17 years old to and a hole in the ground. Don Valley bricks in their own backyards. the community to embrace green culture. be eligible, and have documented proof The Don Valley Brick Works opened in “Bricks were used to build whole It currently features a farmers market of active community service. Nominees 1889 after that farmer, William Taylor, neighbourhoods. One of them, Leaside, is and a native plant nursery. may also have performed acts of bravery discovered clay while digging a fence post built with Don Valley brick and also some While some of the construction is still or heroism in the past year. Visit http:// hole. of the original buildings in the industrial underway, the site will eventually feature www.ocna.org/junior_citizen for details. According to Anthony Westenberg, area of Leaside,” Pitfield said. an indoor ice rink, restaurant and events Evergreen’s public relations manager, Don Valley bricks can also be found in hall, all run on sustainable energy. Breastfeeding frenzy the ‘Great Fire’ of 1904 was when a some of Toronto’s most iconic buildings, Although some residents want the new building code mandating the use of including Maple Leaf Gardens, Massey site restored to its original look, Pitfield Toronto Public Health invites mothers materials that wouldn’t burn gave the Hall, Queen’s Park and parts of Casa believes that Evergreen’s idea is the and babies to help Toronto repeat its win Brick Works a chance to save Toronto. Loma. only way to merge ancient history with a in the Annual Breastfeeding Challenge. With that, the Brick Works solidified In 1984, Brick Works shut down its greener future. Tomorrow, Oct. 2, mothers and babies its place in Toronto history. machines and sat abandoned until 1991, “The best way to protect heritage is will compete to set the record for the most On average, the factory made an when Evergreen helped the city plant to find a new use for it. Breathe new life children breastfeeding at one time. Moms estimated 40 million bricks a year. At its trees in areas prone to flooding. into it because people are not interested in East York can participate in one of two peak, it made over 60 million. In 2002, Evergreen created a vision for in just touring museums,” Pitfield said. ways: breastfeed wherever you are at “Chances are, if you’re living in a brick an environmental wonderland. “Now it’s just a beehive of activity.” about 11 a.m. tomorrow and register your house in Toronto and it’s a 100-year-old With a few private donations, Evergreen’s grand opening celebration participation by calling 416-338-7626 or house, it’s more in favour that it was built development of the new Brick Works was held on Sept. 25. by e-mailing [email protected]; or attend with bricks from Don Valley Brick Works began. Residents of the area can now head the official Toronto event from 10 a.m. to than not,” Westenberg said. “This was a site that built the bricks for to the Brick Works to enjoy various 1:30 p.m. (registration from 9:30 to 10:30 “So, it really did build the city.” the future of Toronto,” Westenberg said. environmental activities that benefit the a.m.) at Rosedale Heights School of the Local politician Jane Pitfield also “Now the Don Valley, Evergreen Brick community, from both a historical and Arts, 711 Bloor St. E. knows the Brick Works like the back of Works can take its place again as being progressive outlook. —Nastasha Alli Long-gun registry conflict continues

By CHRIS HIGGINS billboard campaign, the vote brought way.” A razor-thin reprieve saved the long- relief mixed with anxiety. Layton said the next stage for the NDP gun registry, but the battle over gun “We all feel incredibly relieved,” involves addressing amendments needed control laws continues. Rathjen said. “It’s scary to think that we to make the registry more palatable and In the days leading up to last week’s saved the registry by such a slim margin. convenient for Canadians. Changes, such dramatic vote in the House of Commons, But it’s saved and that’s great news. as decriminalizing the submission of an a billboard on the Danforth at Jackman We’re still in a situation where the NDP incorrect form, sit at the top of his list. Avenue urged NDP Leader and Toronto- are divided. If another vote comes up, “If someone files their form a bit late or Danforth MP Jack Layton to unite his we won’t know where the NDP stands. leaves information off by mistake, they’re caucus to defeat a Conservative bill to The most important thing for us now is immediately subject to a criminal charge eliminate the registry. to have the NDP finally establish a party and that’s something everybody agrees is Funding for the sign came from position on gun control and the registry.” not necessary,” Layton said. alumni and students of Montreal’s École Layton wouldn’t say if the sign Another major concern remains Polytechnique, where a gunman killed 14 influenced him, but he admitted seeing the amnesty granted by the federal women in 1989. it. East Yorkers did, however, make their government. Although MPs voted 153-151 in favour opinions known in other ways. “People aren’t registering… and of keeping the registry, there’s more to “We did get calls on both sides,” Layton gradually the registry is becoming out of do, according to Diane de Champlain, said. “I’ve called a number of them back date, making it less useful,” he said. executive director of the École and we’ve talked it through. Certainly, “What we want to do is find some Polytechnique Alumni Association. there’s significant support considering solutions so people can participate Observer, Chris Higgins “We are very happy,” she said. “But it’s we were able to get the vote. I think again and not feel like they’re being LETTER TO JACK: A billboard not finished yet.” people are willing to consider making criminalized. What we’ll be doing is urging Jack Layton to save the long- For Heidi Rathjen, an École some changes. Even the Liberals and the bringing forward a plan with legislation gun registry caught the attention of Polytechnique alumnus and survivor Bloc, who weren’t inclined to think that to fix the registry and I know that has the passersby on the Danforth. It has since of the massacre who spearheaded the way once upon a time, are thinking that full support of our caucus and party.” been removed. East York’s Observer, October 1, 2010 — Page 3 MEET THE CANDIDATES: PART 1

TORONTO MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS 2010 East Yorkers go to the polls on Oct. 25 to elect their representatives to city hall and the public and Catholic school boards.

In this issue, we profile the contenders for city council in Ward 26/Don Valley West. We also cover the candidates for the Toronto District School Board across all three TDSB wards in East York.

If in doubt, just refer to the map at the left to locate your ward.

Candidates for TDSB trustee Ward 13... page 5 Ward 15... page 3 Ward 16... page 3

Candidates for city council Ward 26... pages 4 and 5

Next issue (Oct. 15), we’ll profile candidates running for council in Ward 29/Toronto-Danforth and 31/Beaches East York — as KNOW YOUR WARD: This boundary map shows the municipal wards in East York. This issue well as those vying for East York seats on the Toronto Catholic and next, the Observer profiles all local candidates. On election night, Oct. 25, follow the District School Board. voting results at www.torontoobserver.ca. Candidates for Toronto District School Board trustee in Ward 15 By ANDREW ROBICHAUD By LETICIA RODRIGUEZ It shouldn’t come as a surprise that current Toronto As a father of two and a certified general accountant, District School Board Trustee Cathy Dandy is focusing on Nadeem Jilani says he knows what it takes to be the next the students in Ward 15/Toronto-Danforth as she aims for school board trustee for Ward 15/Toronto-Danforth. re-election. Her plan of attack is to incorporate the whole With the Toronto District School Board’s finances in a neighbourhood into her plans for educational growth. seemingly constant state of belt-tightening, Jilani thinks At a Sept. 24 Social Planning Toronto symposium deal- that the current board members are lacking experience in ing with schools as community hubs, Dandy spoke about proper money management. the challenges faced by not only the TDSB, but residents “I don’t get any indication that somebody who’s com- of the area as well. petent enough in a financial background is making these Dandy believes the issues most prevalent in the schools financial decisions,” Jilani said. “That is where my back- in Ward 15 are mental health, dealing with a culturally ground in accounting will help, by making not the sub-opti- diverse population and food security. Most important, mal decisions but the competent decisions which will help though, is having a public conversation to improve student CATHY DANDY the school board.” NADEEM JILANI success. Community matters He feels it’s time to be firm and to get the government to Balance the budget “We have to be having conversations… co-constructing work harder in giving schools a fair share. communities together, not just from an educational perspective but also from a per- “It’s just going down to the basics. Think about your own house budget; how would spective of ‘How do we hear and talk about these issues within community? How do we you do it?” Jilani said. “Rather than trying to say ‘Cut here… and give a little bit here,’ build solutions that are both system solutions but also local solutions?’” stop it and say ‘This is not enough money.’” Dandy, a mother of three, has been involved with youth work and the education If elected, Jilani wants all the school boards to meet with the government to revise system for over 15 years. She feels the local solution lies under the regular curriculum. money allocation. “We have to engage the children and youth themselves in terms of the reality of “Everybody has to be a cohesive force. All the school boards go back to the govern- their lived lives,” she said. “We have to deal with the hidden curriculum of their lives.” ment and say ‘Do this.’ Otherwise we’re not going (ahead),” he said. This ‘hidden curriculum’ is the obstacles students face outside of the classroom, Jilani also thinks that closing Toronto schools with low enrolment to save money is Dandy explained. She believes the community can play an important role in confront- a “short-sighted” idea. ing the major issues of mental and physical wellbeing before they get out of control. He explained that the plan for school closures ignores the inevitable: immigration. “One of the things that’s absolutely guaranteed is that prevention and early inter- “Toronto is going to get more immigrants.… Anybody coming to a new country, vention work,” she said. “Getting in, doing anti-stigma work, identifying children and they’re not going to go and live in a rural area,” he said. youth early, getting treatments, having supports, teaching to their strengths… all Jilani believes that speaking with parents on issues like budgeting and closures will those things will be the things that actually put children on a different path.” unite the community and bring about a better solution. Candidates for Toronto District School Board trustee in Ward 16* *At press time, the Observer had been unable to interview trustee candidate Matthew Kennedy

By VERONICA BLAKE By KERRY PRUNSKUS Her tenacity has made her a fixture at the Toronto Dis- As the father of a Grade 6 student in the gifted program at trict School Board. Bowmore Public School, Alan Burke has a vested interest Sheila Cary-Meagher is the feisty 75-year-old incum- in the education system. bent in TDSB Ward 16/Beaches-East York. She has lived Burke, who is running for school board trustee in Ward in the community for 44 years and has 24 years of experi- 16/Beaches-East York, believes Toronto’s school system ence as a trustee. And she is proud of the results. would benefit from a fresh perspective. “I haven’t any faith whatsoever that the province gives a “I don’t like some of what I’m seeing the school board damn... and as a board, I’m not prepared to stand around doing,” he said. “I think they also need people with business and whine about inadequate funding when I’m not totally backgrounds.” comfortable with our managing what we already have,” In addition to a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Cary-Meagher said. “I have no illusions about this govern- Concordia University, Burke runs his own Interconnect ment or any other provincial government... and I believe SHEILA telephone system company. ALAN BURKE He has been living in the Beaches community for 15 that the boards have to get clever and creative.” CARY-MEAGHER Fresh perspective She says her My School Review program has helped let years, along with his wife, Janet Krulewitz, who is a family neighbourhoods determine the vision for their schools. This Creative solutions physician at Flemingdon Health Centre, and their 11-year-old daughter, Katherine. produced extensive wishlists and one of the cheapest and easiest accommodations As president of the East Beach Community Association, Burke says his proactive was giving junior schools access to swimming programs. Environmental sustainabil- attitude has helped him develop strong relationships and proven his ability to get ity, the conversion to K-8 schools and community focus have been other items high things done. The week of Canada Day 2009, when washrooms along the beach were on the agenda. closed down, Burke used his own money and arranged to operate a large washroom “I wanted to begin to repair that damage that amalgamation did,” Cary-Meagher trailer on Woodbine Beach. said, referring to then-Ontario Premier Mike Harris’s forced merger of independent “I’m kind of like a MacGyver,” he said. “When I want to make something happen, I Toronto school boards and then independent municipal governments. can make it happen.” “The use of the schools became expensive, difficult. It was like there was a wall When it comes to issues such as whether or not to have police officers in schools, as a around them after 3:30,” she said. “I wanted to revivify the belief that the school be- member of the 41 Division Community Police Liaison Committee, Burke supports the longed to the community.” idea where he feels there is need. Ward 16 is one of the few wards not in danger of school closures. In fact, many of “I’m a realist,” he said. “I think it’s a responsible thing for the trustee, if the principal its schools are at capacity. Cary-Meagher believes that the innovative programs and and the school council and the teachers are making a request, that you would support community spirit keep enrolment numbers high. Despite the challenges of bureau- it.” cracy, she tries to look at custom solutions for each of her schools. As for Ontario’s modernized sex education curriculum, Burke feels it requires further “I still have my “No Megacity” sign…. It’s a little the worse for wear, but I don’t consultation. He acknowledged that people with different religious and cultural beliefs give it up, because I still think the megacity was an insane decision,” Cary-Meagher should have the right to exempt their child. said. “The whole amalgamation thing has done nothing but damage. And no way are “You also want them to understand what it is you’re trying to achieve,” he said. “So the... six boards better off than they were before.” that if they make that decision (to exempt their child), it’s an informed decision.” Page 4 — East York’s Observer, October 1, 2010 BATTLE FOR DON VALLEY WEST Investment required for public transit: Dhanani By ROGER TRAN lieve it’s the best solution,” Dhanani said. He finished second in 2006, just 214 “Let’s just go ahead and get it built; it’s votes behind the winner. Now, with an- been over two decades since we’ve had a other municipal election looming, Mo- significant investment in public transit.” hamed Dhanani is aiming again for coun- He argues that recreation facilities are cil in Ward 26. also an issue for Don Valley West. Dha- Dhanani, 39, has lived in Don Val- nani wants a swimming pool built for the ley West for most of his life. His family 30,000 Thorncliffe Park residents that moved to Flemingdon Park when he was live there. He also wants to ensure new a teenager. Dhanani graduated from Ry- ice pads get built for Leaside. In addition, erson University before studying public Dhanani wants to build a playground for health at Yale University. Since then, residents who live near the intersection he’s moved back to the community and of Wynford Drive and Concorde Place. has served as chair of Toronto’s Central “There’s 17 highrise towers, and in- Observer, Jennifer Romano Local Health Integration Network. He creasingly there’s families with young MEET AND GREET: Jon Burnside hands out candy-floss at the Leaside Rotary stepped down this year to focus on his children living in those buildings, and Club’s 70th Corn Roast on Sept. 19. election campaign. there’s not one playground in their neigh- Dhanani says the distinct neighbour- bourhood,” Dhanani said. “(I want to) fig- hoods of Don Valley West make it chal- ure out how we put in a playground, so Burnside boosts youth lenging to identify one large problem people can take their kids and just walk with the area. However, he believes pub- to their local playground.” By JENNIFER ROMANO years,” he said. lic transit affects all the communities in Dhanani says that he’s not affiliated From playing street hockey on Airdrie He believes a big part of the answer lies Ward 26. with any political party, but he has sup- Road as a child to serving the community in youth and sports programs. He spear- “The whole issue of traffic and conges- port from across the spectrum, from Con- as a police officer in recent years, Jon headed a free hockey league in Fleming- tion affects the entire ward and the entire servatives to Greens. And that, he says, Burnside is a lifelong member of the East don Park, which brings Toronto police of- city,” he said. “I’m a really big proponent gives him an advantage. York community. ficers and community members together of the Transit City plan. I think that’s the “It shows I have the ability to work Now he wants to put his knowledge of as volunteers. best solution on the table right now.” across the different levels of government, the community to good use and become “When I first got involved, no one want- Two light rail lines, the Don Mills and regardless of which party is in power,” the next Toronto city councillor forWard ed to help me,” he said. Eglinton LRT, would serve Ward 26 if Dhanani said. 26/Don Valley West. He believes the league not only brings the rapid transit plan was completed. He “I think that’s the kind of effective “What separates me is my perspective people together but it keeps kids out of says it’s practical because some funding leadership we need at city hall… some- and the knowledge of the community that trouble, ultimately making the commu- is already in place. body who could work across party lines to no one else will have,” he said. nity a safer place to live. “It’s not the ideal solution, but I be- get things done.” Born and raised in Leaside, Burnside, “There was a boy shot in Flemingdon 44, spent almost 10 years as a Toronto po- this summer and there were two can- lice officer in the area. During that time, didates, including myself, who showed he says, he helped mend the gap between up to the community meeting,” he said. Pandor wants E.Y. to be heard different communities — an issue he feels “First thing everyone was asking for was By ALEKSEJS NESTERINS that there is a fair allotment of subsid- strongly about. more programs for the kids.” A 61-year-old bachelor of science ized housing for people who are in dire “What I noticed as a police officer after He said that this year he’s expanding graduate from Bombay University and a need, and try and find ways to have more working in some successful communities the program to include volunteers from family man with seven children, Yunus subsidized housing.” like Leaside, and then some challenged Leaside to coach teams. Pandor has lived in Ward 26 for more He also wants to see more accountabil- communities, is that the big difference “It takes a community to build a com- than 30 years. ity and transparency at city is that sense of community. That’s what munity. That’s something I’m trying to Aside from his main job hall, and to create a body I’ve been working on building for over 25 get across,” he said. as a service technician at that will overlook the coun- ADT Security Systems for cillors’ expenses. the past 36 years, Pandor “I don’t say month-to- says he has been actively month, but periodically they Rents too high, Malik says involved in the life of the should submit the expense By NASTASHA ALLI “My agenda is not something I’ve made community he wants to and that should be approved Throughout his years as a legal prac- up. It’s what people have been bringing to represent at city council. by a body,” Pandor said. titioner, journalist, businessman and im- me abundantly,” Malik said. “I worked to establish the “The councillors can them- migration and traffic court consultant, Statistics kept by the city indicate that mosque on the Danforth. selves decide who should be Shaukat Malik says he’s kept his roots in 77 per cent of Don Valley West residents I’ve done support work for overseeing that, and if I put the Don Valley West community where are renters, with a majority of them liv- the Thorncliffe Food Bank,” in an expense for a thousand he lives. ing in neighbourhoods like Flemingdon Pandor said. “I’m also a dollars, they should be able Malik’s run for city councillor has been — which the city and the United Way founding member on one YUNUS PANDOR to ask, ‘Why did you have to a long time coming. He came to Canada have identified as a “priority” community. of the community-based or- Willing to listen spend this?’” 18 years ago, and has made Ward 26 “There’s no compatibility between the ganizations where we do a lot of commun- At this point, Pandor isn’t backing any home with his wife and children for the average cost of living and earning of an ity work for the youths and the seniors. particular candidate in the mayoral race, last eight years. average person (whether) they’re highly We are developing a mentoring program and he says he’ll work with anyone the “I know what the community needs,” or moderately skilled,” Malik said. “The where we get the senior students to men- people of Toronto choose to elect mayor. Malik said. “Those issues can be tackled ratio doesn’t match, and people ultimate- tor the junior students.” “There are a lot of things I learned within the framework of what the city ally choose (to take) a line of credit.” One of his campaign priorities is to while canvassing so far: concerns of the ready has, without increasing the budget He also plans to tackle the issue of sub- generate affordable housing in Ward 26. people, things that the people think we allocated to Ward 26.” sidized housing, with a specific focus on “We need to have a proper landlord- should have in this ward to make it bet- His top priorities include generating the long waiting period that many appli- tenant agreement, make sure that rent ter. So regardless of whether I am a coun- revenue for small businesses and sup- cants face. increases are justifiable and not a bu- cillor or a resident, I will make sure that porting community initiatives such as “This is a big, big problem that cannot rden,” he said. I’ll be with them to try and address the the Gang Busters Prevention Program. be tackled by small organizations,” Malik “At the same time,” he added, attention problems and try and go after whoever is One prominent theme that he says has said. “Only the government can take ini- must be paid to “the people who are look- there to make the decisions to make sure arisen is that rents are too high. tiatives and steps to address this.” ing for subsidized housing, to make sure that they listen to the people.” Ahmed plans to revitalize Don Valley West By AILEEN DONNELLY Park and currently serves as treasurer going to be the decision,” Ahmed said. First-time candidate Tanvir Ahmed on the Thorncliffe Park Public School “My main focus would be to just get their decided to run for council in Don Valley Council. feedback. If they elect me, I’m their prop- West because of his commitment to Ward Ahmed said his law degree and bank- erty. I’m public property.” 26 and his belief that the area lacks leading diploma would provide an advantage Ahmed believes the area has become ership. as a city councillor. stagnant and hopes to revitalize it. He “My involvement with the community “Finance and law are a very good combi- said that during his 10 years as a resi- made me passionate about working for nation for a city councillor, because right dent of Don Valley West, he has not seen this community, because I believe that now in the city we have a deficit, so we much development beyond the Thorn- we are short of good, sincere leaders,” have to balance the budget,” Ahmed said. cliffe Park Library. Ahmed said. “If we have good, sincere “We (also) have to be part of the commit- Ultimately, Ahmed wants to improve leaders, we can live a better life.” tees which are in the process of amending the overall quality of life for residents of Ahmed, 45, immigrated to Canada or bringing bylaws and policies.” Don Valley West, and he believes that he from Pakistan in 1999. He has lived in Ahmed does not claim to have all the can make this happen. Don Valley West for the past decade with answers for Ward 26. But he says he he “I want to bring more cleanliness, Observer, Aileen Donnelly his wife and three children. During this does plan to explore all options and take safety, security, responsibility, prosper- THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL: Tanvir Ahmed time, he has been involved in his com- suggestions from residents. ity and (create) a healthier community,” discusses his platform with Umaimah munity. He coaches soccer in Thorncliffe “I cannot just unilaterally say this is Ahmed said. Khan, 4, at a family event on Sunday. East York’s Observer, October 1, 2010 — Page 5 COUNTDOWN TO OCT. 25 TDSB trustee candidates Ward 13/Don Valley West Twenty-five years in power By TAMARA BALUJA As a grandparent with three children in elementary schools in her ward, trustee Gerri Ger- shon says she has a real stake in Don Valley West. The incumbent is running for re-election in Ward 13 as the Toronto District School Board trustee. “The issues are very real for me,” Gershon said, “and it’s really about the kids.” On a promise to continue to deliver those learning opportunities, she has tossed her name GERRI GERSHON into the election hat once again. No student left behind Observer, Meri Perra Gershon said her record of 25 Among the various plans for HOME-TURF ADVANTAGE: John Parker calls his home on Cameron Crescent his Leaside years as a school trustee speaks Don Valley West, Gershon hopes headquarters. The lawyer and father of five has served one term at city council for Ward 26 and for itself. A former psychiatric to continue to oversee the development of a new state-of-the-art has the incumbent’s advantage this election. nurse, she was first elected as a public school trustee to the kindergarten school to ease the North York Board of Education space crunch at Thorncliffe Park Incumbent Parker pushes for in 1985 and became the chair of Public School. the North York Board of Educa- “I’m also working to put a tion in 1996. After board amal- cricket pitch at Valley Park gamation, she started repre- (Middle School),” Gershon said. ‘main street’, new ice surface senting TDSB Ward 13. Cricket is a popular sport in the “It’s a very interesting riding. South Asian community. By MERI PERRA Laird as properties are devel- er said. I represent the very wealthy While she did not speak to the In the race to represent Ward oped.” Some of the other candidates and the very poor, from Leaside platform of her lone rival Mu- 26, councillor John Parker has Parker is also a long-time ad- point to Parker’s record on en- to Flemingdon Park and Thorn- hammad Shahid, Gershon said the incumbent’s advantage. vocate for an additional arena vironmental issues as a reason she hopes voters recognize her But even with his head start, at Leaside Gardens. It’s an is- for tuning out the incumbent. cliffe,” she said, “and we have to years of dedication and commit- the Leaside lawyer and former sue he worked on before joining The Toronto Environmental Al- make sure that we have a good ment to education. Conservative MPP says he’s not city council. But the city hasn’t liance gave him an “F” grade in staff so all students have access “The challenges we have are taking anything for granted this opened a new arena in the area 2007-2008 based on his votes on to equal opportunities.” sometimes really aggravating,” election. for decades and the process to council. But Parker defends his As technology becomes more she said with a laugh. “But I “My ward has very distinct expand is slow and bureaucratic. position, claiming bias. prevalent in schools, Gershon love being in schools and overall, communities,” Parker said. “Toronto is the centre of the “The Toronto Environmental said she would work to ensure it’s a great job that I feel I can “Each neighbourhood is aware hockey universe,” Parker said, Alliance survey demands yes-or- that students in the economi- continue to contribute to for the of the different things I’ve done “and Leaside is probably the ep- no answers... answering yes to cally poorer parts of her ward do locally.” icentre of Toronto’s enthusiasm any of their questions traps the not get left behind. next four years.” The local accomplishments for recreational hockey.” respondent into the TEA policy he points to include improve- Hockey is an important issue agenda, without flexibility to re- ments to Laird Avenue, which in Ward 26. Another council spond to evolving information, Parents deserve a voice has been a long-time sore spot candidate, Jon Burnside, has technologies, or circumstances.” in the Leaside area. Parker has organized free house league Ward 26 includes the East in their child’s education the ambitious goal of transform- hockey in both Flemingdon Park York communities of Leaside, ing the strip into an attractive and Thorncliffe Park. It’s an im- Bennington Heights and Flem- By ALICIA BAIRD ‘main street.’ Improvements to portant part of his campaign ingdon-Thorncliffe. Don Valley West trustee can- date include a boulevard, side- message — and Parker’s com- “The fact that it’s diverse re- didate Muhammad Shahid be- walk and irrigated medium. petition doesn’t end there. He ally only matters to me from lieves fresh ideas, a new vision And, Parker says, all of this has has six rivals in total, including the standpoint that I encounter and the acceptance of change is been done without the use of city Mohamed Dhanani, who lost different issues and different the winning formula for Ward funds. Besides the beautifica- to Parker by only 214 votes in concerns from place to place,” 13. tion factor, he says, there’s the 2006. Parker said. “In Thorncliffe, Shahid promises to deliver added advantage of increased This time around, Dhanani there are certain centres where all of this and more, starting safety along the street. has been campaigning practi- people gather. In Leaside you with a survey initiative that “(There’s) the subliminal ef- cally full-time since February. pretty much just walk around compares students’ experien- fect of slowing down traffic,” Parker isn’t concerned. the streets…. I’m always at ces in different schools. Parker said. “My intention is to “We’ll find out (what happens) work because I live in the mid- “When a student enrols into continue that theme right down on the evening of Oct. 25,” Park- dle of people I represent.” any school, we’ll send a survey MUHAMMAD SHAHID and ask them what the differ- Giving parents a voice ence is between their current More accountability needed for school and previous schools al activities and provide them they’ve attended within On- with support systems.” tario,” he said. As a parent in the Don Val- public recreation agencies: Khan A six-year Thorncliffe resi- ley West area, Shahid wants to dent, Shahid is actively in- give parents a voice. By Natalie Samson Pakistan’s Ministry of Com- If elected, Khan intends to volved in the community, often “From what I know, there are Nawab Salim Khan has merce. Since moving to East address the issue of perceived mentoring local immigrants, many parents who think they called Don Valley West home York, Khan has worked wide- bias by working directly with coaching kids’ soccer games, are not a part of the process,” since immigrating to Canada ly in management with retail donors and staff at these orga- attending council meetings he said. from Pakistan in 2002. marketing outfits. nizations and by giving groups and participating in political “They feel they just send The 58-year-old father of four While Khan cited improved two weeks to end political alli- events. their kids to school without is running in Ward 26. Despite programming for seniors and ances. knowing who is teaching them tough competition, Khan be- additional recreational facili- “They have to be neutral. He holds an undergraduate or what they are being taught... lieves his experience as an im- ties for youth as local priorities, They have to work with the degree in economics, a master’s migrant in the area makes him his main concern by far is pub- community. They are here for degree and 15 years of experi- they have no say in the sys- most capable of appreciating lic accountability within com- the communities, not for (poli- ence as a project manager. tem.” and responding to the needs of munity agencies. ticians),” Khan added. Shahid believes commun- If elected, Shahid plans to a diverse population. Khan points to the Thorn- Accessibility plays an equally ities raise communities and the communicate with families “I’m proud that I know (the) cliffe Neighbourhood Office and important role in Khan’s cam- safety of children is not a one- through various forms of social issues people have and how the Islamic Society of Toronto paign. Khan says he spends man job. media such as Facebook. they’re trying to manage them as two organizations in Ward more than five hours a day cam- “An initiative should be “I would also communicate while coming to the main- 26 that he says have favoured paigning from his headquarters taken, starting with elemen- with parents by visiting dif- stream. I’m going through all Liberal politicians over others. at the Tim Hortons on the cor- tary schools in the Don Valley ferent communities and the these things,” he said. “They are not working ac- ner of Thorncliffe Park Drive West area, that will help build events within them. Before arriving in Canada, cording to their agendas, ac- and Overlea Boulevard engag- a healthy mindset and healthy “Everyone is busy, but we Khan studied economics and cording to their mandates. ing in one-on-one conversations relationships with our stu- need to find a way that they are went on to work in marketing The goal they want to achieve with potential constituents. dents, teachers and parents,” somehow engaged with us and and business development. He instead is promoting specific “People know where to find Shahid said. apart of the whole process,” he eventually found a place with political agendas,” he said. me,” he said. “We’d engage them in sever- said. Page 6 — East York’s Observer, October 1, 2010 The East Toronto Moving toward humanity Serving OBSERVER East York www.torontoobserver.ca

Centennial College • East York campus is living for a better future P.O. Box 631, Station A, Scarborough, ON M1K 5E9 Will a new mayor, some have personal education plans THE EDITORIAL BOARD Managing Editor: Jaclyn Desforges new city councillors and new wherein children can’t fail. If Assignment Editor: Jon Spratt school board members really Victoria you can’t fail, what motivates Copy Editors: Courtney Kraik, Michael Gibbons change the feel and flow of this you to try? Photo Editor: Victoria Gray Production Editors: Veronica Blake, Francois Biber metropolis? We can hope so, but Gray Maybe I am just being Faculty Editors: Lindy Oughtred, Stephen Cogan, Louie Piacen- real change will come when we pessimistic because the end tini, Dave Johnny all start to focus on what exactly of summer is here. The end of Journalism Program Co-ordinator: Stephen Cogan it is we are moving toward. something I had barely begun to

COMMENT We are beings moving toward capitalism requires that taste. It’s the start of something something. We fight time as if we continue to consume new, another chapter, unread The Observer is a member of the Ontario it is a current pushing us. As unnecessary things way past and possibly unwritten. Do Community Newspapers Association Heidegger put it, ‘being towards our means —means which I write the story of my life or death, we fight time because it are already as stretched as a merely edit it? leads us to our end.’ silkworm’s thread. How can I have attempted to garner Improved Brick Works’ Although right now, I feel like we do anything but continue to the interest of my peers in I am being toward life. live well beyond our means in international volunteerism, success depends on E.Y. I feel like I am just a few steps the hopes that it is bringing us many of whom dismiss the idea from gaining that coveted job, toward something? as something they don’t have Evergreen’s Brick Works project has garnered praise locally and house, and car. I felt like this Again I ask: What are we the time or the skills for. internationally for its innovative design and programming. With the the last time I was on the cusp going toward, life or death? We all have something to give grand opening having just passed, it’s important that East Yorkers of graduating as well. Do we, as Marx said, consume and as terrible as it seems, it can maintain a balanced public dialogue about the site, its development My future looked bleak, to stave off death, or have also be about getting something. and best use. We’ve put in too much time and money to forget about graduating in the midst of something to leave behind so I believe we should be moving our stake in the project now that the Brick Works is up and running. the recession when seasoned that our essence never dies? Will toward a more humanitarian After production stopped at the Toronto Brick Co. in 1984, the city veterans of the ‘culture industry’ people remember me? lifestyle, where we put more and province intended to purchase the land for $4 million. When the were out of work and searching Will I ever achieve something importance on people and deal fell through, a development company swooped in. Five years just as I was, but with much great enough that striving families than we do on the later, the city managed to expropriate the land with provincial back- more experience and expertise toward my life and death for a dollars that they give to or leech ing at a price of nearly $22 million. The purchase gobbled up almost than I had. great number of years will be from the system. half the funds earmarked for eight conservation areas. Now in the wake of the worth it? What do you believe? Since then, millions of dollars from all levels of government, in- recession, I search and wonder Are we moving toward things I will continue to move toward cluding up to $20 million from the feds, have gone toward the Brick what is out there. I wonder about that are of actual importance a more people-centric lifestyle, Works project to help the city (which maintains the parklands that and wait for that retirement or are we moving away from even if my laptop has to come cover about 75 per cent of the space) and Evergreen (which signed boom that was supposed to give humanity? The things that with me. on in 2004 to manage the heritage buildings) execute their plans. my generation a leg up. I consider to be important I will continue to try to make Clearly, acquiring the land came at a heavy price for taxpayers, as I suspect that when I was continue to be neglected; things some kind of difference in the well as at the expense of other conservation priorities. told this, things were good and like family, friends, fun and world while fighting for that As home to the site, East York and its residents must see to it that people had stacked retirement our minds. Food for thought human connection. I will be the Brick Works is worth the investment. We have a significant role funds. is something that may see its toward life. to play in sustaining the project’s timely development by making use Now funds are gone and death in my lifetime. Schools What about you? of the site, participating in and providing feedback to programming, and demanding increased accessibility and signage. As it stands, there are few options for getting there by public transit and there’s little-to-no signage for cyclists and pedestrians on the ravine paths or in adjoining residential neighbourhoods. The parking situation is When classic cash goes digital messy at best, with illegally parked cars on the shoulder of Bayview Avenue endangering cyclists who have to go onto the road to avoid Canada might abolish its had access to a wireless phone in them. Evergreen is aware of the problems and plans to improve ac- penny, as Bill C-252 suggests, 2006 compared to about 30 per cessibility but needs the city’s co-operation. Let’s make sure it does. and the Canadian Mint could cent in 1997. Evergreen has done its part to get the ball rolling, but if the Brick save $30 million annually as a Aleksejs That’s more than a doubling Works is to be the state-of-the art intersection between environ- result. But bigger changes await in nine years. Nesterins ment, community and culture that we hope it will be, then we have us in the near future. Four years have passed. Who to use it, we have to promote it and we have to engage Evergreen How long will it be before we knows how big that number is and the city to respond to East York’s diverse needs. abolish all bills and coins and now? —Natalie Samson switch to digital money that re- nology allows cellphone users to According to Moore’s Law, a flects our technological world? make contactless money trans- desktop computer should have Sound like a fantasy? I say actions through their pre-paid as much power as a human it’ll be another 10-15 years be- electronic accounts. brain by 2020, so yes, we’ll prob- Low voter turnout an fore we are ready to put our Basically, it means that you ably have the technology to keep wallets aside and simply rely on only need your cellphone to our new digital world running issue for East Yorkers convenient technologies that are pay for goods at stores, vending smoothly. already available today. machines and even for public We could save a lot of money Calling out to the registered voters in Ward 26/Don Valley West, I did a little case study on my- transit as long as there are chip- since we wouldn’t have to print 29/Toronto-Danforth and 31/Beaches-East York: It’s time to make self to find out how often I really reading devices around. or produce any more... well, an appearance at the polls this Oct. 25. use old-school cash. So imagine that instead of money. Some $30 million saved According to the election pages on the City of Toronto’s official My salary is transferred dir- carrying a wallet full of change, on abolishing the penny is noth- website, the last time Torontonians went to the polls in a municipal ectly to my bank account and I credit, debit, business and other ing compared to these possible election, in 2006, voter turnout was a lacklustre 39.3 per cent. Now, don’t see the cash equivalent un- cards, all you would need is a savings. although East York produced numbers above the city average — less I withdraw money from it. couple of iPhone apps. Digital money could play a Don Valley West posted 53 per cent and both Toronto-Danforth and I use my debit or credit cards One to manage your accounts big role in decreasing the crime Beaches-East York saw 43 per cent — we’re still not fully flexing the to make my purchases both in and make purchases, another to rate in our country if our cell- democratic muscles we possess the right to flex. stores and online. I pay my bills serve you as a Metropass, and phone apps will be able to block As a point of comparison, the last provincial election in 2007 saw and manage my accounts using of course the piggy bank appli- unauthorized access by random almost 53 per cent turnout across the city… and the federal election Internet banking. cation in case you decide to put street robbers. in 2008 posted even better numbers: almost 59 per cent. This isn’t And how many of those bank aside a digital penny or two. But we’d have to prepare for to say that we’re proud of those turnout rates, but when it comes to transactions are actually being All we need is to wait for the a different kind of criminal: not municipal voting, shouldn’t we as a community arrive in large num- done in cash anyway? appropriate technology to be in the armed-bank-robbery kind, bers to support the grass-roots issues directly affecting our lives on For the big companies out place – a gadget in everyone’s but the MIT-graduate-with- a daily basis? there, most of the money has al- hand and a bunch of smart de- a-laptop kind. The number of The schools our children attend, the recreational facilities we ready become electronic. vices that will make sure the tech-savvy people who want to have access to (or don’t have access to for that matter), the roads we But that’s still not the kind of whole thing actually works. test the system for loopholes is drive on and even the off-leash dogs parks we love to frolic in with change that I have in mind. To That doesn’t seem like a very always growing. our pets are all matters dealt with at the municipal level. The al- better understand the possibil- distant future, if you ask me. And the last question – who location of money into our own neighbourhoods is something people ities, let’s take a look at Japan. According to Industry Canada, will be in charge of all this should exert power to influence, but in East York, on average, only a Sony Corporation’s FeliCa tech- about 70 per cent of households money that never really existed? minority are — and the situation is worse across the rest of the city. No one expects the regular citizen to be completely attuned to every issue on every candidates’ platform, but that doesn’t mean, as a citizen, you don’t vote because you’re not a political science major. Vote because one thing matters. Vote because all things matter. We welcome your input Vote because you have a ballot, an opinion and a voice that you want to be heard. The Observer is published by Centennial College journalism students under faculty supervision. The numbers say more than half of the population just isn’t con- Our offices are in Room 149 of the Centre for Creative Communications, 951 Carlaw Ave., East cerned with what transpires in their own backyard. York. Please address correspondence to The Observer, Centennial College, East York campus, East York has a proud heritage of community and political spirit. P.O. Box 631, Station A, Scarborough, ON M1K 5E9. Telephone 416-289-5107, fax 416-289-5111, There’s no reason we can’t continue to nurture that spirit. All we e-mail c/o [email protected]. Opinions in the Observer do not necessarily reflect the have to do is show up. views of the college. Our companion website, the Toronto Observer, is at www.torontoobserver.ca. —Andrew Robichaud East York’s Observer, October 1, 2010 — Page 7 St. Patrick adds arts curriculum By JENNIFER ROMANO (program) will be acting sort of Next year, students at St. like a school within a school.” Patrick Catholic Secondary The focus will be different School on Felstead Avenue can than other arts schools in the add music books and hard hats area, like Cardinal Carter Acad- to their back-to-school shopping emy for the Arts. lists. “We’re not trying to duplicate The Toronto Catholic Dis- what they’re doing,” he said. trict School Board (TCDSB) has “Cardinal Carter is very much given St. Patrick a green light to about performance, we’re going create a media, arts and design to be very much about produc- technology department. tion.” After the accommodation Although performance will be committee reviewed five high part of St. Patrick’s new man- schools, St. Patrick was granted date, students will also be able the program extension. to take classes such as construc- Angela Gauthier, TCDSB’s tion technology, where they will associate director of academic learn plumbing, home instal- affairs, believes it’s because of lation and carpentry. It will be St. Patrick’s facility and en- offered as one of the high-skills Observer, Aleksejs Nesterins thusiasm for the arts. majors to help prepare students STILL RUNNING: Hundreds of East Yorkers got together for the 30th annual Terry Fox run on “St. Patrick is very much for future careers in the field. Sept. 19 in Wilket Creek Park, near Eglinton Avenue and Leslie Street. Warm and sunny weather under-populated for the cap- “At the end of high school, (it) plus a good tradition made it a perfect family event. acity of the school…and it’s a gives them a certificate in a par- huge building,” she said. “It’s ticular area,” he said. “Be it the also a natural solution to build technology, the hospitality, the upon something that’s already performance art like dance, vis- Dreamliner soars onscreen started at the grassroots level.” ual or music…. It shows they’ve St. Patrick is proud of its few majored in that area.” By LAURA GRANDE tions after the screening was on hand to field questions from media, arts and design courses In order to make the transi- The sight of an animated al- Capt. Heather Ross, the Montre- the audience. When asked how and next year it wants to expand tion a smooth one, St. Patrick batross soaring across the IMAX al-born, U.S.-based engineering long it took to make the film, he its repertoire. It will offer more will create a committee of par- screen at the Ontario Science project pilot for Boeing. freely admitted to the numerous in-depth classes in music pro- ents and community members, Centre drew excited gasps from “I’m obviously prejudiced,” she obstacles they experienced along duction, set design and drama. to discuss the curriculum and its young audience. laughed when asked what she the way. It’s a concept that vice-principal other administrative details. They were attending the thought about the Dreamliner. “It was almost as difficult a Paul Adams wants to get across Gauthier encourages people to Sept. 21 Canadian premiere of “But this is a great airplane. I film to make as it was for Boeing to parents and students. get involved. Legends of Flight. It’s the lat- don’t get paid for marketing, but to make the plane,” Serapiglia “It’s going to be a composite “The school itself will include est IMAX film presented at the I can say from a pilot’s perspec- said, citing the fact that, as of school, so there’s still going to them in the planning process Shoppers Drug Mart OMNIMAX tive that this really is a nice air- early 2009, the Dreamliner was be the regular stream,” he said. and what the revitalized focus Theatre, a domed screen approx- plane.” already two and a half years be- “The media, arts and technology will look like,” she said. imately 4,500 times larger than The Dreamliner uses 20-per- hind schedule. As a result, the the average television screen. cent less fuel than similarly film was four years in the mak- The animated albatross that sized airplanes, while Boeing ing. Relationship was good caught the schoolchildren’s at- also announced that 50 per Despite the setbacks, the Boe- tention was meant to draw the cent of the jetliner’s structure is ing 787 Dreamliner is on track comparison between the large made up of composite materials. to become a great success. birds, which can soar over great With its promise of comfortable “We’ve already sold over 800 with Lastman: Ootes distances with very little exer- seating and larger windows that airplanes,” Ross said. “It’s pretty Cont’d. from page 1 vote margin over his runner-up. tion, and the radical new air- would allow the passenger to ad- graceful and very dramatic and I “We had a very good relation- “Others start to view you in craft unveiled last year by the just the tint, the Dreamliner is hope it’s an experience which you ship because he trusted me and a different way because you’ve Boeing Company. expected to reach its official cer- will all get to see sometime soon.” I never violated that trust,” he been around so long and I think Directed by Canadian film- tification by early 2011. When asked what her favou- said. “I always kept in mind... it’s time for younger people to maker Stephen Low, Legends of However, everything didn’t rite part of the job was, Ross I never did anything to under- move in,” he laughed. Flight chronicles the December always run so smoothly for both didn’t pause to think about her mine him.” But Ootes remains upbeat as 2009 maiden voyage of Boeing’s the creation of Boeing’s 787 response. Ootes cites his creation of the he looks back on his constitu- new jet airliner, the 787 Dream- Dreamliner and the documen- “(As a project pilot), I make Responsible Government Group, ency and career. liner. tary film. Although it’s not un- decisions on how the plane will an unofficial opposition to May- “It’s a terrific ward,” he said. The film, an amalgamation common for such a large under- ultimately fly,” she explained or David Miller, as another ca- “I think it’s probably, from my of captivating scenery and in- taking to fall behind schedule, about flying the Dreamliner. “It reer highlight and said he had perspective, the best ward in To- depth lessons in the techniques it brought with it a lot of added doesn’t get any better than this “no major (career) regrets at all.” ronto.... I’m not talking about it and technologies behind the pressure to everyone involved in for a test pilot.” That assured confidence in being the best because of me. It’s making of the 500,000-pound the project, both in front of and Legends of Flight runs until his ability is what kept Ootes in been a great honour... actually, 787, drew enthusiastic applause behind the camera. Saturday, Oct. 23. Check the politics for 22 years. In the 2006 and a privilege to have served from the audience. Legends of Flight producer Ontario Science Centre website election, however, he squeaked this ward.” In attendance to answer ques- Pietro L. Serapiglia was also for details. back into office with only a 20- Case closed. Grass alternative gardens garner awards of merit By MERI PERRA gardeners have a lawn sign with Davidson says she put in the For a complete list of this The neighbours call the front a Parks and Recreation logo to identification tags by her plants year’s winners, please see the yard at 23 Fairside Dr. “the prove it. to help jog her own memory East York Garden Society’s teaching garden.” The East York Garden Soci- about what’s growing where. Be- website: http://www.eygc.ca/ey- Charming perennial shade ety held its annual East York cause of its proximity to Toronto blooming.html plants, each labeled with iden- Blooming Contest on Sept. 22. East General Hospital, her gar- tification tags, surround the Thirteen local gardeners, includ- den gets a lot of foot traffic and flagstone walkway in front of ing Davidson, received awards curiosity. the house. There’s a pool where for traditional gardens, environ- “East York is very garden- local frogs find refreshment, and mental and alternative gardens friendly,” she said. “(People) occasionally a lemonade stand and gardens of merit. stop and look and say, ‘What’s staffed by 11-year-old resident The selection process involved that called?’” Laura Davidson. some work on behalf of the con- Another notable winner this June Davidson, Laura’s moth- test judges, who had 140 nomi- year is the garden at 162 Wood- er, says she’s gardened her front nations to sort through. mount Ave. Formerly a vacant yard the way she has for envi- Davidson’s neighbour and lot, its residents have slowly ronmental reasons as well as fellow garden society member replaced pavement with a front convenience. Suzanne Bond says alternative garden complete with irises and “I think we spend far too much gardens tend to be nominated smoke bush. Past garden soci- time fussing over grass. It’s ex- more frequently than traditional ety president Malcolm Geast pensive,” Davidson said. “(My front lawns. praised the Woodmount garden- garden) is a no-chemical garden, “About two-thirds of the nomi- ers for their hard work and said plain and simple. You can get nations are for alternative gar- the judges considered giving the great colour and it’s really no dens,” she said, adding that the garden a special title. fuss.” no-grass option is popular in “(We thought about naming Observer, Meri Perra And now, “the teaching gar- East York. “Our front yards are the prize) best rehabilitation of BEST GARDEN REHAB: Karen Stolte and her husband den” on Fairside can also be small. So they are manageable concrete into a garden, but that jackhammered their way through roughly 300-square-feet of called “a garden of merit.” Its and a good size.” got too wordy,” he joked. pavement to create their front garden on Woodmount Avenue. Page 8 — East York’s Observer, October 1, 2010 Dominican photos provide insight to audiences By KERRY PRUNSKUS it was all worth it.” For East York college stu- Gray also made a significant dents Aleksejs Nesterins and connection with one of the chil- Victoria Gray, communicating dren. in a foreign country proved to be She took numerous photos of a challenge. Geraldo, a young boy who she But the images they captured said had mutism, a disorder throughout their international characterized by an inability or service and learning trip to the unwillingness to speak. Dominican Republic in March As she described two of the 2010 speak a universal lan- photos of Geraldo on display at guage. the exhibit, she gave an animat- Currently available for public ed retelling of their bond. viewing in the second-floor “Cor- “He’d come running over and ridor Gallery” of Centennial Col- he’d jump on me and we’d play lege’s East York campus, Nest- and hug,” Gray said. “It was so erins and Gray’s photo exhibit, wonderful.” entitled Universal Humandate, Kristi Harrison, the college’s tells the powerful story of their associate vice-president for aca- experience. demic excellence, accompanied Over the course of the two- the students on the trip. week expedition, Nesterins so- She said the intent of the lidified his desire to pursue a DREAM Project is to give stu- career in photojournalism. dents an international expe- “I took thousands of pictures rience to not only share their while I was there,” he said. “It Observer, Aleks Nesterins learning, but to also learn them- really showed me that this is ON LIFE-SUPPORT: These illegal migrants from Haiti went to the Dominican Republic to work in selves. what I really want to do.” the now-collapsed sugar cane industry. Now, without having any papers or government support, Both Nesterins and Gray will Along with six other students appear at “Creative Fusion,” a they survive by selling handmade jewelry to tourists. from Centennial’s other east To- campus speakers’ series, this ronto campuses, journalism stu- lic Education And Mentoring on a specific topic — including “One kid walked up to me, he coming Wednesday, Oct. 6, from dents Nesterins and Gray volun- (DREAM) Project. photography, blogging and first shook my hand and said, ‘This 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. teered with youth and children Within their mandate and aid. was really great, I really learned Their talk will take place in in the impoverished community with the assistance of Spanish Nesterins reflected on what a lot; thank you,’” he said. room 106 of the East York cam- of Colonia Nueva in Cabarete, translators, each of the eight transpired after he gave his With a smile, he added, “As pus, 951 Carlaw Ave. at Mor- as part of the Dominican Repub- students led a workshop based blogging workshop. soon as I heard that, I knew that timer. Wait lists frustrating to East York residents who need supported housing By AILEEN DONNELLY The search for adequate housing often adds to the challenges associated with caring for a loved one with a mental illness. So the East York chapter of the Schizophrenia Society of Ontario held an information session regarding access to supported housing at Toronto East General Hospital (TEGH) on Sept. 14. Geoffrey Gold, 30, has spent the last eight years on a wait- ALYSSA HENNING ing list with the organization Streamlining applications Housing Connections. Housing has simplified the ap- He attended the meeting at plication process since its in- Observer, Tara Losinski TEGH with his parents, Peter ception last November. While 30 YEARS LATER: Greg Carducci will soon be handing over Bill’s Garden Centre to new owners and Kirsten Gold, because they applicants once had to fill out a after running the business on Pape Avenue for three decades. don’t know if he will ever get form for each of the 28 housing out of the boarding house he providers in Toronto, they can currently lives in. now use one application to ap- Garden centre passes the seed to “He wants a one-bedroom ply for as many as they want. apartment. I think he can be “Our mission for the project on his own. When is he going is to streamline and improve new owners after three decades to get it? What’s the likelihood access to supportive housing,” By TARA LOSINSKI “He got very ill. Virtually on and I’ll close it.’” of him getting it?” Peter Gold she said. “And get the data we From petunias to ornamental his deathbed, he said to me, ‘If But as Carducci told people said. “Maybe he never will get need for service planning so we peppers, the retiring owner of you don’t go and open the garden in the industry about his in- it. So I have to look for myself.” now know how many people are Bill’s Garden Centre is looking centre, it’s not going to open,’” tentions, offers started coming Two representatives from waiting…. We can now start back on 30 years in the business Carducci recalled. in for the business. He found a Progress Place discussed the pulling it all together and start of blooms. “So I left school, quit school buyer willing to continue “Bill’s” benefits of joining a “club- arguing for more funding.” Greg Carducci started mod- and I came here, knowing noth- vision and serve the loyal cus- house.” That kind of organiza- The organization has not estly, shovelling soil at his par- ing about what to do or how to tomer base that had grown with tion promotes psycho-social added units to the almost 4,500 ents’ seasonal garden centre as a begin.” him. rehabilitation and members that currently exist in Toronto. teenager. But as a young adult, That was 1981. Within two The new owners even asked make a meaningful contribu- However, with reliable data, he pursued a different passion years, Bill’s Garden Centre, as to retain the store’s name. That tion to the day-to-day opera- including another 2,000 ap- — that of a professional musi- residents and patrons know it gave Carducci pause. tions. plications since last year, the cian. He first studied music at today, evolved out of the super- “I gave it a great deal of Alyssa Henning represented organization can now provide a the University of Windsor and market Carducci’s parents and thought because I did want to Coordinated Access to Support- case for more support. then spent time performing grandparents had owned and retire it, but then I thought, ‘You ive Housing, a program funded Peter Gold feels disappoint- throughout Toronto. He even operated since the 1940s. know what? They’re right. Why by Leap of Faith Together ed with the system that has opened for James Brown. When Carducci decided to retire it? If I have complete faith (LOFT) Community Services. kept his son waiting, but he Still, his passion for plants retire earlier this year, the in these people, have complete She explained the new, stream- realizes that it takes time to eventually inspired him to enrol choice to carry on the tradition faith in what’s going to happen lined application process for create change within a govern- in the landscape architecture might have fallen to his eldest here, then I should be proud supportive housing in Toronto. ment agency. program at Ryerson University. son, William Carducci. But the that the name stays,’” he said. Henning estimates the cur- “I think funding, of course, is The Ryerson program and its younger Carducci anticipates At 61, Carducci appears ener- rent wait-time for supportive the number one issue. If they professors cultivated Carducci’s another career path — so the getic and optimistic, something housing at one month to eight don’t have any funding, they love of plants. And even before older Carducci initially planned he attributes to his work. years. This disparity depends won’t be able to do anything. finishing the program, he faced to just close down. “This business has been kind on a variety of factors, includ- But I think they’re on the right the prospect of continuing the “I didn’t even want to sell. I to me. I love this so much and I ing level of support required, track,” he said. vision of his father, Bill Carduc- didn’t even really have any in- think it’s been such a passion in current living conditions and “I would like to see this ex- ci, for a successful urban garden tention of selling,” he said. “I my life that I don’t feel that it’s the type of housing required. panded. I would like to really centre at a time when few such was going to close it. I thought, dragged me down,” he said. “It’s Henning explained that Co- see them communicate with businesses existed. ‘I’ll just liquidate everything been a real gift in my life.” ordinated Access to Supportive the people.”