Donlands Exit Reprieve Brings Tentative Relief

Home , Centennial College, Donlands station, East York Civic Centre

THE EAST TORONTO BengaliBengali INSIDEINSIDE pridepride Bye-bye, PAGE 5 Bad Dog OBSERVER PAGE 5 Friday • March 4 • 2011 PUBLISHEDPUBLISHED FOR THE BY COMMUNITY CENTENNIAL OF COLLEGE EAST YORK JOURNALISM BY THE JOURNALISM STUDENTS STUDENTSAND SERVING OF CENTENNIALEAST YORK COLLEGE Volume 41 • No. 3 Donlands exit reprieve brings tentative relief

By NATASHA JAFERI Almost like a last-minute It gives phone call from the governor to the deathhouse, a dozen Strath- ‘time for more Boulevard families have a sober suddenly received reprieves from home expropriation by the second TTC. thought’ Just last month, it seemed — Lisa certain that the homes would ei- ther be demolished or dramati- Dymond cally infringed on for the construction of a second exit at the TTC’s Donlands station. voted 42-2 to indefinitely defer But last week, Toronto city the project from the TTC capital council voted overwhelmingly budget. to defer the second exit project Pat Chastang, the executive indefinitely — as well as second assistant to Ward 29/Toronto- exit projects at the Greenwood Danforth councillor Mary Frage- and Woodbine TTC stations. The dakis, said the plan was shelved councillors say that the transit because there isn’t enough fund- commission can’t afford it. ing available. The houses at 1 and 3 Strath- “It was budget — the lack of more faced the wrecker’s ball. money,” Chastang said. “How Observer, Britney Brady-Maginley Others at 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11 can we go ahead with the project WINTER WONDERLAND: (Left to right) Roisin Keane, Karina Pronski and Felicia Naccarato and 12 faced adjustments — like when the money isn’t there?” from Holy Cross Catholic School take a break from the snowshoe relay at the Northern Spirit the large hole that was going to She also listed other second Games, held on Feb. 22 in East York. For more photos, see page 4. be dug in the yard of Brian and exit projects deferred by council, Lisa Dymond’s home and the including those at the Woodbine wall that would have been con- and Greenwood TTC stations. structed a few metres from their But whether these reprieves front door. are, in effect, permanent is still Sewer grates on nerves The neighbourhood is just unclear. northeast of Pape and Danforth “We just have to wait for the By JESSE MIRSKY the pipe. Drive. avenues. It’s been in the TTC’s next budget,” Chastang said. East York residents affected After realizing the damage, “I was nearly hit there last sights since July, when plans for She explained that whether by repairs to a huge, cracked Toronto’s water department week and my daughter was the Donlands station’s second the second exit projects ever go trunk sewer buried under their recommended that city council nearly hit a few days before exit were spelled out. through will depend on wheth- community attended a town hall take emergency measures to fix that,” Cook said. The community proposed al- er the currently cash-strapped meeting on Tuesday night to the sewer. The project will be “I don’t think (construction ternatives — like the consen- transit commission can ever find discuss rebuilding the landscape completed later this year. workers) should be coming onto sual expropriation of a church the money for them. affected by construction. Residents such as David O’Connor at all.” on adjacent Dewhurst Boule- For now, the residents along The Coxwell Sanitary Trunk Cook expressed concern at the Cook has lived in the vard — but in January, the TTC Strathmore are relieved. Sewer lies 60 metres beneath proposal to have construction community for about 40 years announced that it was moving “The deferral gives time for a the intersection of Coxwell workers at the notoriously and has a long history with the forward with the original plan sober second thought,” said Lisa Avenue and O’Connor Drive. In dangerous intersection of intersection. instead. Dymond, who also leads the 2008, a crack was discovered in Coxwell Avenue and O’Connor See BAD, page 4 Then, on Feb. 23, city council See RESIDENTS, page 8 Hands-on healing for East York’s furry friends By MICHELLE GRACE a tangible effect. Moreover, its East York could be dubbed devotees say, animals are very “Far East York” in March — at intuitive, and reflect the feelings least around the corner of Pape of the people around them. And and Mortimer avenues, where so, the theory goes, reiki can the ancient Japanese art of have positive effects on animals reiki will be applied to some of suffering from acute and chronic our four-legged friends for their pain, and even conditions like health’s sake. anxiety. An alternative pet store on So an East York pet store Pape is offering the alternative is bringing in Leisa Peacock, approach to pet wellness in free a certified natural health workshops this month. practitioner and aromatherapy Reiki, which the International health therapist who has been Centre for Reiki Training practicing reiki for three years. translates from the Japanese Peacock is holding free pet reiki as “spiritually guided life force sessions at the store, which is energy,” is a technique of hands- called For the Love of Animals. on healing that some people It’s a good fit for a store that already attest to. But in recent has already carved out a unique years, it’s also been applied to niche with its philosophical ap- pets — and its practitioners proach to retailing: indepen- and some pet owners say dently owned and family-run, successfully. it refuses to sell live animals on The concept behind reiki ethical grounds, and promotes is that energy flows through a holistic approach to pet care Observer, Michelle Grace every living being, and loving with its product line. RELISHING REIKI: Leisa Peacock performs reiki at For The Love of Animals, located at 930 Pape intentions and touch can have See GENTLE, page 7 Ave. CC the cat and Timmy the guinea pig receive the benefits of energy healing. Page 2 — East York’s Observer, March 4, 2011 School hopes focus on arts will boost student enrolment By MIKE BEAUVAIS plines such as drama, visual The basement of St. Patrick arts and music, will be phased in Catholic Secondary School feels starting in the new school year, cavernous. The area, filled with with Grade 9. computer labs, studios and “The program won’t exist workspaces, seems vast com- in its entirety until 2014,” Pe- pared to the relatively small russe said. “That will be the number of students who occupy first group (of students) in their it. But starting this September, fourth year.” these impressive facilities will Perusse believes the breadth see a surge in inhabitants — and of the program will expand with the St. Pat’s community couldn’t each successive year. be happier. “As we get more students, As of this coming September, it will allow us to broaden our St. Patrick will become a Centre teaching staff,” Perusse said, Observer, Shannon Keller for Arts, Media and Technology “and that will allow us to in- FACELIFT FOR HOSPITAL: Toronto East General Hospital is working on community liaison — a designation bestowed by the crease the number of courses around its $210-million redesign. The plans include new wings and underground parking. Toronto Catholic District School that we can offer.” Board this past June. The de- To enter the program this fall, cision comes after a govern- prospective student face an au- Hospital plans move forward mental review determined that dition process. the school — currently sitting “For example, for visual arts, patients can be required to of the cost to be funded by the below student capacity while students will have to submit a East General to travel throughout the hospital province and $60 million to other area schools are oversub- sketchbook. They will have a add three wings, for necessary services. The new be covered by fundraising. scribed— could better serve the panel interview and they’ll an- plan involves a well-organized TEGH and the Neighbourhood community with increased en- swer specific questions and then parking garage “racetrack” design with the Advisory Committee are conven- rolment. we’ll run a group activity to see nurses’ stations in centralized ing several community meetings Accompanying the designa- how the students respond to By SHANNON KELLER locations. This will enable faster throughout the year. This has tion, neighbouring Catholic and how they operate in a class- Toronto East General Hospital response times for patients. opened a dialogue with the pub- schools will now impose hard room,” Perusse said. is encouraging the community to City councillor Mary- lic to discuss the redevelopment, caps on student enrolment, and While the St. Patrick’s com- get even more involved with its Margaret McMahon of neigh- hospital updates and concerns St. Patrick will be able to accept munity has exerted much effort redevelopment plans. bouring Ward 32 was part of a they may have. students from all over the city. already, there remains a palpa- The hospital has budgeted Tuesday tour offered by the hos- “Great tour. They’ve gone St. Patrick’s arts department ble sense of something special in $210 million toward the con- pital to educate the community above and beyond community head Vaughn Perusse says the the air at the school. struction of an eight-storey about the redevelopment and consultation,” McMahon said. development has taken nearly “It’s pretty exciting,” said building that will make caring why it’s necessary. She acknowledged that a com- two years. drama and Spanish teacher Ros- for patients easier and more “The plans look dynamite,” mon concern for the community “In an effort to strike a bal- sana Cossaro. “I think the whole cost-effective. she said. “Something needs to be is disruption because of con- ance in terms of school popula- process is going to reenergize One of the components of the done.” struction. But she said that the tions, through the entire process the school and the staff.” plan is a two-level underground The redevelopment has yet to general consensus is that chang- we determined in committee For Perusse, the daunting parking garage. This will in- be approved by the provincial es to the hospital are necessary. with (area TCDSB schools), the challenge ahead is welcome. crease the amount of parking government. And the design will “Most of the community is best idea that was tabled was “The prospect of what lies spaces and reduce traffic conges- also need official plan and zon- happy, as I am,” McMahon said. to set up a new program here at ahead is so exciting that it’s tion in the area. ing bylaw permissions followed She added that this is her St. Patrick to attract more stu- worth every ounce of energy that Inside the hospital, the cur- by city council’s approval. community hospital and it’s a dents,” Perusse explained. you put into it. You can feel it. rent flow from one department In the budget, the hospi- big part of the betterment of the The new program at St. Pat- There’s a tangibility in the air,” to another is disorganized, and tal has allotted for 90 per cent neighbourhood. rick, which will cater to disci- he said. French-speaking college stays put By JESSE MIRSKY we need to put these students Collège Boréal has seven cam- The proposed move of Collège somewhere.” puses across mainly northern Boréal from its East York cam- Clément says that in response Ontario. pus is off for now, but the col- to the growing student popula- Some 32 different nationali- lege’s administration says a new tion, the school is planning a ties are represented in the col- location is only a matter of time. space that will include a school lege’s student population. At For nearly a decade, the daycare centre — and new pro- the Carlaw Avenue campus, for French-language college head- grams in health services, social instance, there are immigrants quartered in Sudbury has op- services and trades. from former French colonies in erated a Toronto branch at 951 “What we need is at least a Africa and elsewhere. Carlaw Ave. — a building it 30,000-square-foot facility,” he Last June, Collège Boréal’s shares with Centennial College. said. “We have some plans and Toronto-based student popula- But in December, Collège Boréal we are working on that right tion reached 400. announced that it is preparing now.” First-year nursing student to open a new, larger building in Nate Horowitz, dean of Koester Riviere said that the September 2012, to consolidate Centennial College’s Carlaw eventual move of her college students from its two Toronto- campus, said his school would campus has benefits to her and area campuses. like to take advantage of the her fellow students. It now appears that deadline extra space currently used by “If it does move, that means will not be met. Collège Boréal. that we will have more space But Benoît Clément, commu- “We would certainly like to so that we can have more class- nications manager for Boréal, have the space,” he said, “but if rooms and more programs,” says an increase in enrolment it’s not available, we’ll look at al- Riviere said. in the last year at the school’s ternatives.” For Clément and the rest of Toronto campuses means an Horowitz said Centennial is as- the college’s administration, the eventual move is even more nec- suming a shared space arrange- rush to find an appropriate new essary. ment, at least for the time-being. building continues. In the mean- “We have an enrolment in- “They wanted to consolidate time, 951 Carlaw Ave. is home. Observer file photo crease by 20 per cent for the their space into a downtown lo- “So far, we are still at THE WINNER IS… You’re reading one of the best student whole Collège Boréal,” Clément cation,” he said, “but it looks like Centennial,” Clément said. newspapers in the province, according to the Ontario Community said. “That means at some point that’s not going to happen now.” “We’re very happy to be there.” Newspapers Association. On Tuesday, the OCNA revealed its unranked list of first-, second- and third-prize winners in the annual provincial Better Newspapers Competition. The final Daycare worker facing new charges rankings will be announced in Niagara Falls on May 13. At that gala, East York’s Observer — produced by Centennial College By COURTNEY KRAIK tation, sexual interference and the alleged offences. Police have laid additional sexual assault. He was initially charged in journalism students at their Carlaw Avenue campus — will be child sex charges against an The charges stem from a 2004 January, while he was working awarded for “general excellence.” In addition, reporter Aileen East York daycare worker. sexual assault investigation at as an early childhood educator Donnelly (inset) will be awarded for news reporting, for her April Following a Feb. 18 court the Selwyn Community Child at Jackman Community Day 23 story about the sentencing of convicted East York murderer date on the original charges Care Centre, at 1 Selwyn Ave. Care, 79 Jackman Ave. Donald Sneyd. It’s the third year in a row that East York’s against him, the suspect was The accused was an employee at James Mallais, 38, of Toronto Observer has won an OCNA award, and the first time it’s won also charged with sexual exploi- the daycare centre at the time of is charged. two of the competition’s prizes at once. East York’s Observer, March 4, 2011 — Page 3 Author explores secret world of animals Giller finalist immortalizes Don Valley in newest book

By BETH FORD Inside the Riverdale library, a captive audience is in suspense, as Giller Prize finalist Alissa York describes a recent telephone conversation with her father. INSPIRATION: This is the ‘wild lot’ that “My father phoned me up and said, sparked author York’s imagination. ‘I’m getting near the end of the book, and you need to tell me if you’re going to kill Billy off,’” she said during her ‘As I passed over the val- Sunday talk. ley, I looked down and Billy is an oversized, sloppy, part Lab- thought, What’s living rador retriever-part mystery breed character in York’s latest book, Fauna. Set in down there, who’s living the Don Valley, Fauna explores the mys- down there, what kind of tical animal life of the valley. lives do they lead? Then York brought a smile to many faces in the crowd as she rhymed off famil- Observer, Beth Ford certain wayward souls iar names of local streets and buildings. STORY HOUR: Giller Prize finalist Alissa York paints a vivid image of the way- popped into my head.’ She even mentioned the Riverdale li- ward souls in her latest book, Fauna. She read passages from the book to a small — Alissa York brary as the first place her teenage run- group of fans at the Riverdale library branch on Sunday. away character, Lily, stumbles upon early in the story. part of the city. She said she became ac- ed at the south end. The lot soon took signed. She said York’s portrayal of the “She’d found her way to the River- customed to frequent encounters with shape as the setting for Guy Howell’s connection between humans and ani- dale library on her third day in town,” city wildlife as a child. Auto-Wrecker. This is the spot where mals is as close as it gets. she said. “I did a lot of walking through “What struck me about the book is the characters spend most of their time. “I like the way she dealt with the the streets and alleyways around here, York’s depiction of animals and how It quickly becomes their sanctuary. relationship between people and ani- writing down names of every store and identical to my experiences with them “The story kind of revolves around mals,” she said. “Her depiction of ani- building I set eyes on.” here in the city it is,” she said. Guy and the auto-wrecking yard,” she mals is not at all sentimental. It’s very Fauna is the Alberta native’s third Riding the subway over the valley said. “This character grew from the sympathetic and realistic.” novel. Her other two, Mercy (2003) and first set York’s mind in motion. Staring auto-wrecking yard; he has the gift of York said her love of animals and na- Effigy (2007) explore similar themes down at the brush piqued her curiosity empathy.” ture runs deep. of nature, animals and isolation. In enough to venture in on her bicycle. Guy has a rare talent for understand- “Growing up in Alberta left a very Fauna, both humans and animals “As I passed over the valley, I looked ing the fragility of damaged creatures. deep imprint on me,” she said. “I grew struggle with loneliness and painful down and thought, ‘What’s living down He encourages them to take refuge in up thinking about wilderness and wild- memories of the past. there, who’s living down there, what his wrecking yard. life, it’s natural for me.” They seek refuge in the valley as well kind of lives do they lead?’ Then certain York’s compassion for animals is Though York’s message of co-exist- as in each other’s company. The human wayward souls popped into my head,” woven into his character as well as in ence is quite clear, she said she fears drive to conquer one’s environment is she said. the fiery spirit of young Lily, who res- there are many who share the mental- dealt with through antagonist Darius Among these souls is 29-year-old cues migratory birds with her guard ity of her Darius character. (Coyote Cop) who blogs about the nuis- proprietor Guy Howell. York says he dog Billy. “Darius lives in fear, thinking he can ances he perceives urban coyotes to be hatched from her imagination and is As for Billy, reading the book will de- exterminate other creatures to fill a and how he will go about ridding them connected to a specific part of the val- termine his fate. void within himself,” she said. “I think from the valley. ley. Marie Lynn Hammond travelled from Margaret Atwood said at one point, ‘We Roxanne Miller lives in the northwest She describes it as a “wild” lot locat- Stouffville to have her copy of Fauna write about the things we worry about.’” Toronto Card Show may become monthly event

By NICHOLAS M. PESCOD “I started collecting when During the 1980s, Leaside I was eight,” Tyson said. “I Memorial Community Gardens started with Curtis Joseph and was a popular place for sports I went from there.” card enthusiasts who gathered This is only the second time once a month to buy, sell or that Tyson has attended the trade memorabilia. Toronto Card Show as a dealer. When the recession of the However, he doesn’t really feel 1990s hit, the sports card in- he is one. dustry began drying up and in “I am not a dealer. I am more 1994 the regular card show at of a collector,” he said. “I’ve re- the Gardens shut down. ally enjoyed it.” Leaside Gardens has since Tyson is currently collect- returned to its former glory af- ing Minnesota Wild player Cal ter the organizer of the Toronto Clutterbuck cards. Card Show, Frank Williamson, “He’s one of my favourite decided to bring a monthly card players,” he said. show back to the area in 2006. Besides collecting hockey “We brought it back,” Wil- cards, Tyson has another liamson said. “We brought FRANK WILLIAMSON sports hobby. He collects auto- back something that started Card show organizer graphs through the mail. many years ago.” “For anyone looking to get When the card shows at door prizes every hour and into hockey collecting, it’s a re- Leaside Gardens ended, that bring in autograph guests.” ally inexpensive way to start,” meant there was no longer a While the show is still small he said. “You can get a couple regular card show in Toronto. compared to other sports card autographed cards for two or At that point, Williamson and events, it’s managed to attract three bucks.” some other collectors got to- a number of big-name ath- Shane Yan has been collect- gether and started one. letes. ing hockey cards for over 20 “There wasn’t a regular Williamson explained that years and has been coming to monthly show in Toronto,” he when former Toronto Maple the Toronto Card Show for at said. “There was in Cambridge, Leaf Frank Mahovlich made an least 10. Kingston and Ottawa, but not autograph appearance at the “It’s fun,” Yan said. “You right here in Toronto.” show the lineup went around never know what you are going Williamson wanted to bring the building and out the door. to get.” something unique to the event Jeff Tyson, 22, has been col- The next show is on March and make it fun for everyone. lecting sports card for 14 years 20. Admission is $3 at the door, Observer, Nicholas M. Pescod “We started off as fans and and is a card dealer. and free for women and chil- CARDS, CARDS, CARDS: Jeff Tyson shows off his booth at collectors ourselves,” he said. He started dealing cards be- dren under the age of 12. the Toronto Card Show, held at Leaside Memorial Community “We wanted to put together a cause of his dad’s considerable For more information, visit Gardens on Feb. 20. Tyson has been collecting sports well-run and fun show with assortment of cards. www.torontocardshow.com memorabilia for more than 14 years. Page 4 — East York’s Observer, March 4, 2011 Inuit-inspired fun for kids A daughter’s film explores a father’s life Documentary shares life of first black judge born in Canada By SCOTT REID Although her name may not Observer, Britney Brady-Maginley be instantly recognizable to TOP: Rachel Reighber, Danielle Callahan, Ciara Heron and Sarah Gharibo gather after performing some, her family name has cer- an aboriginal ceremony in light of the Northern Spirit Games. BELOW: Dylan Siziba and John tainly made an impact on black Alves take instructions from teacher Adrian Olsthoorn. history in Canada. As part of Centennial Col- lege’s speaker series, actress, WINTER GAMES: filmmaker and model Linda Carter was on hand Feb. 22 to The Northern Spirit discuss her documentary film, Games were developed The Making of a Judge, in hon- our of Black History Month. The to celebrate the Observer, Scott Reid film details the life and accom- MAKING BLACK HISTORY: aboriginal and Metis plishments of her father, George spirit of northern E. Carter, the first black judge to Model, actress and filmmaker Canada. This year’s be born in Canada. Linda Carter explores the life of her father George Carter in celebration, held at Carter says part of her moti- vation for creating the documen- her filmThe Making of a Judge. St. Patrick Catholic tary, besides the significance Secondary School her father had on pioneering the educate her on matters pertain- on Felstead Avenue, achievements of black people ing to her black heritage and in Canada, was to show his ex- help her maintain her ties to the involved 300 Catholic tremely humble beginnings. black community. elementary students “One of the reasons I had to “My grandmother was the one from across Toronto who do this film was because of the that would give me cultural in- stories he would tell,” Carter sight,” she said. participated in indoor said. “He’d start talking about “She would take me to dif- and outdoor games. when he had to Simoniz cars on ferent functions and different Bathurst Street and having to places and you’d always see the cut the chamois himself.” same people there. That was the She says despite her father black community, and through being the first Canadian-born them I was able to learn the his- ‘Bad intersection’ sparks fears black judge, she felt there was tory of our people.” no negative pressure from the Despite its somewhat contro- Cont’d. from page 1 intersection,” Gironimo said. York,” Fragedakis said. “But, community. versial nature, Carter says the “I spent a year in front of the “We saw one lady almost get hit they realize they are working “Everyone was happy for him, Africentric school that opened in traffic department here and one time when we were there. in all sorts of conditions as city particularly in the law commu- Toronto in 2009 will ultimately the mayor getting the ‘yield And we aren’t there very often.” workers so they are prepared nity,” she said. “He was well- do more good than bad, and will to pedestrians’ signs put up,” In the East York Civic Centre, for that.” liked and well-respected in the be beneficial for those new to Cook said, “and I find that it’s seated in council chambers For Cook, preparation and community and they were very Canada. not enforced.” around three diagrams experience won’t be enough happy for his accomplishments.” Carter has worked in the en- Lou Di Gironimo, general depicting the landscaping plans, to combat bad drivers. He Linda Carter was born and tertainment industry for nearly manager of Toronto Water, the approximately 15 East York has seen too many hazardous raised in Toronto and attend- 30 years, starting in modeling hosted the meeting alongside residents in attendance took situations at the intersection to ed predominantly Caucasian and eventually finding her way Bob Dobbin, manager of turns talking. believe that anyone working on schools throughout her youth. to film. Some of her more recog- Landscape Architecture for Ward 29 Councillor Mary the street is completely safe. Carter was the only black stu- nized works include guest spots AECOM. Gironimo thought Fragedakis was also in “We’ve had two people dent at school and growing up in on Sue Thomas: F.B.Eye, De- that Cook’s concern was attendance. Although she was hit from our street,” Cook her community. grassi: The Next Generation and completely legitimate. quiet throughout the evening, said. “They may think it’s She said she lived in a neigh- more recently The Border. He explained that he has had Fragedakis spoke with many safer for themselves, but bourhood where the black com- Carter is currently working on a similar experience. residents after the meeting. that intersection… is a very munity was almost non-exis- a new documentary on the life “I’ve seen the concerns. A lot “It is one of the most dangerous bad intersection with many tent. and career of actor and musician of people do silly things at that intersections, certainly in East accidents.” It was her family that would Joey Hollingsworth. Bengali community celebrates native tongue By ALIMA HOTAKIE In 1952, Bangladesh was part of Paki- Later, Ward 31 Beaches-East York Language is an integral part of one’s stan. At the time, it was divided into West Councillor Janet Davis presented the identity. It’s not only a means of com- and East Pakistan (Bangladesh today). Bengali community with a greeting card munication and expression, but also a When Pakistan proclaimed Urdu as on behalf of Mayor Rob Ford, expressing marker of distinction. the state language, protests erupted in city council’s support and best wishes. According to the United Nations, 7,000 Bangladesh. “We want our future generations to languages will disappear within a few On Feb. 21, activists and students or- know what is their culture and heritage,” generations. ganized a massive protest demanding Sultana said. While most of East York enjoyed Fam- Bengali as an official language. “It’s the parents’ responsibility and not ily Day on Feb. 21, the Bengali commu- During the protest, Pakistani police that of the children to make sure at least nity celebrated International Mother fired at, and killed, unarmed students. one person at home talks in their mother Language Day at Harmony Hall Centre Nazly Sultana, the Bengali program tongue.” for Seniors on Gower Street. co-ordinator at Harmony Hall, acknowl- Today the Bengali language does not Khalilur Rahman, a former professor edged the sacrifices they made. face a serious risk of extinction, but there in Bangladesh, attended this year’s cel- “Today we can talk in Bengali because are still thousands of other languages ebration. Teary-eyed, he pointed to the of them,” she said. worldwide that do. monument erected against the hall’s wall Wrapped in traditional saris, many While most people rarely hear about and explained its symbolic meaning. women were dressed in the colours black the death of a language, the risk is preva- “The monument is a replica of the and white to symbolize sorrow, respect lent. original Shahid Minar monument in the and happiness. According to the UNESCO Atlas of the Observer, Alima Hotakie city of Dhaka,” he said. “It’s to remember The celebration kicked off with an art World’s Languages in Danger, nearly ev- SARI STORY: Shaheda Azami’s sari is those who sacrificed their lives to fight for contest for children, followed by singing ery country in the world is at risk of los- detailed with Bengali letters honouring their language.” and dancing. ing a language. those who died for their language. East York’s Observer, March 4, 2011 — Page 5 New liquor rules being considered By SIAN DAVIES Proposed changes to Ontario’s liquor laws could see the end of restrictive beer tents and drinking pens at this summer’s Taste of the Danforth. Attorney General Chris Bentley announced Feb. 23 that the government is considering relaxing a number of “out- dated” alcohol rules, including allow- ing people with drinks to walk freely at events. “The proposed changes will remove unnecessary barriers and restrictions,” he said in a release. “This will provide Ontarians with a more enjoyable experience and improve tourism and local economies.” Observer, Farhana Uddin Tony Pethakas, manager of Mezes A SCARY THOUGHT: Scarygirl is artist Nathan Jurevicius’s signature character. Originally a character in an online game, restaurant, a Taste of the Danforth par- Jurevicius quickly transitioned this unique little girl in various other media, including a graphic novel and a feature film. ticipant, welcomed the news that patrons could soon enjoy all the food and activities the festival offers with a pint in hand. Artist scares up quirky toys “I’m excited about the proposed changes,” he said. “I think it enhances the ex- By FARHANA UDDIN Subsequently, MTV in Latin America ad- perience for the visitor and benefits the Ten years ago, Nathan Jurevicius re- ‘I was a opted one of those characters and used it small businesses that are a part of Taste ceived a midnight phone call from Hong as a figurine for awards nights, handing of the Danforth.” Kong. The man on the other end of the starving them out to musicians like Snoop Dogg Bentley said that the government line asked Jurevicius if he would like to artist with a and Fall Out Boy. would “only proceed with changes that create adult toys with him. craving for Kidrobot, a designer toy company in would not compromise enforcement of Not that kind of adult toys, the man New York, recently sent Jurevicius on a the law” and plans to expand enforce- explained when Jurevicius hesitated. work.’ three-day triangle tour of the U.S. to pro- ment options against those who violate Instead, he was looking for vinyl toys —Nathan mote a toy he designed, the Dievas Dun- liquor laws, including the introduction of suggestive of children’s playthings… but Jurevicius ny — a “soul-escorting black owl.” fines. with a mature twist. “They sent me from Boston to San Other proposed changes include ex- He represented a design firm called Francisco to Miami to New York and now tending the period when alcohol can be Flying Cat and had spotted Jurevicius’s deformities,” he said. “It’s my way of say- I’m here,” Jurevicius said, referring to served at charitable events and wed- illustrations on his website. ing, ‘don’t judge based on appearances.’ his venue at the Carlaw Avenue college dings to 2 a.m. from 1 a.m. At the time, Jurevicius had finished a There’s an unexpected beauty and kind- campus. The move is part of the five-year Open bachelor’s degree in design at the Univer- ness you can find to things that might David McClyment, the co-ordinator of Ontario Plan to stimulate the economy. sity of South Australia and was working ordinarily seem scary.” the fine arts program at Centennial, said Michael Chan, Ontario’s minister of as a freelance illustrator for various mag- Scarygirl quickly branched out into de- Jurevicius is the quintessential embodi- tourism and culture, said the new rules azines in Australia, Asia and the United signer toys. The toys would later lead to ment of an artist. will better serve Ontarians and help gen- States. an explosion of artistic work tied to dif- “This is the kind of designer, artist, erate revenue for event organizers, vine- “I was a starving artist with a craving ferent companies from around the world. cross-disciplinary person that we wanted yards, spas, bars and restaurants. for work,” Jurevicius told a roomful of “With all my projects, I start off with a our students exposed to,” McClyment “Festivals and events are powerful eco- art students at Centennial College’s East seed of an idea. I then expand it into mul- said. “I know our students will feel both nomic drivers. They draw tourists to our York campus on Feb. 23. tiple avenues and explore different part- challenged and inspired in terms of what communities, create jobs and stimulate That late-night phone call from Hong ners to do it with,” Jurevicius told the art they think their life is going to be like as local economies,” he said. Kong turned out to be the kicker to his students. “Scarygirl started off as a toy an artist.” Each year, tourism contributes $22 bil- career as a working relationship soon and then went on to different things like Remembering his own start in the in- lion to Ontario’s economy and supports formed between him and Flying Cat. mini-robots, online flash games, a graph- dustry, Jurevicius easily relates to the approximately 300,000 direct and indi- They took up a character in one of Ju- ic novel and limited edition products.” students. rect jobs. revicius’s online games called Scarygirl, While Jurevicius’s career launched “I got started by bugging people to The government is currently conduct- who is by no means a conventional Barbie with Scarygirl, by no means did it end death. I formed relationships with other ing a one-month consultation period re- doll. with her. Companies like Medicom and people who did work I wanted to do,” garding its proposals. Over the years, Scarygirl’s look has Kidrobot have commissioned him for oth- Jurevicius said. “I wouldn’t hear from If reaction to liberalizing liquor laws evolved, but she’s best known for sport- er projects. them for a year. And then one day some- is positive, changes could be in place in ing an eye-patch, a tentacle topped with MTV Canada hired him to create char- one asks me to create images for a book. time for this year’s Taste of the Danforth. a hook for one arm and what appears to acters for their TV spots. The result was Those images go online and someone The province is accepting email submis- be a dog’s bone for another. Godzilla-like 3-D characters dancing to from Hong Kong just happens to see it sions at [email protected]. “All the characters in my work have hip-hop beats in the streets of Toronto. and calls me up.” The final curtain call for Danforth theatre By LESLIE MARCINIAK hit me that it’s closed for good,” Bartlett They laughed. They cried. They im- said. “It really is a cool job. I get paid to pregnated a lobster. watch comedy every night. How can you It was a festive night onstage at the go wrong with that?” Bad Dog Theatre Company as a cast of Bad Dog’s final night of comedy started veteran performers said goodbye to the at 8 p.m. with a Theatresports show, fol- Danforth Avenue location that served as lowed by “It Ain’t Over,” a sketch and im- home to the well-known improv comedy prov show hosted by Ron Tite at 9:30 p.m. theatre for the last eight years. The final show, “Hasta La Vista, Dan- Earlier this month, a decision regard- forth!” began at 11 p.m., hosted by Jan ing the theatre’s future on the Danforth Caruana and James Gangl, featuring an was finally made. High rent and the HST all-star cast. were among the many reasons for shut- Alastair Forbes, who began perform- ting down the east-end location. ing at the Bad Dog six years ago, said the “It was clear that staying here wasn’t theatre is where he and many others cut financially viable anymore,” said artistic their teeth. producer Julie Dumais. “I know everyone keeps saying it’s bit- “We’re saying goodbye to the Danforth, tersweet, but I think this is an exciting but we are still continuing with shows in opportunity right now for the theatre. the city,” she said. It’s a chance to find a new home, a better Technical director Rob “Bullets” home,” he said. “Maybe even one with a Bartlett (named for the amount of gun- liquor licence this time.” fire sound effects he often throws into Improv workshops are expected to be- scenes without warning) has supplied the gin in March at the Comedy Bar, where theatre’s sound and perfectly timed light- Theatresports shows will resume on April Observer, Leslie Marciniak ing five nights a week for the last seven 23. BYE-BYE BAD DOG: (Left to right) Carmine Lucarelli, Tom MacKay and James years. A new, permanent space for the com- Gangl perform an improvised scene in the Bad Dog Theatre Company’s final “In a few days or so it’s going to finally pany is expected by the fall. show, “Hasta La Vista, Danforth!” on Feb. 26. Page 6 — East York’s Observer, March 4, 2011

The East Toronto Serving ‘Air Red Rocket’ ride OBSERVER East York www.torontoobserver.ca Centennial College • East York campus makes commute fly by P.O. Box 631, Station A, Scarborough, ON M1K 5E9 “Ladies and gentlemen, he felt the need to put a smile THE EDITORIAL BOARD Managing Editor: Ross Johnston this is your captain speaking. on his passengers’ faces was a Assignment Editor: Nicole Pulsinelli Our departure time is 9:30 bonus. We don’t see this side of Copy Editors: Nicholas Pescod, Scott Reid p.m. Our approximate arrival Matilda the TTC often enough. Photo Editor: Cheronne Thurab time is 10:04 p.m… Our in- His enthusiasm got people Production Editors: Jilan Nasher, Michelle Grace Miranda Faculty Editors: Lindy Oughtred, Stephen Cogan, flight entertainment tonight excited and made them forget Louie Piacentini, Dave Johnny is Snakes on a Plane starring that they were on a bus. The Journalism Program Co-ordinator: Stephen Cogan Samuel L. Jackson… Please TTC should take a page out of enjoy your flight. Thank you for his book and try to make their COMMENT movie was Snakes on a Plane. flying Air Red Rocket.” In recent years, it seems that rides more interactive. I was The Observer is a member of the Ontario The bus route from Don Mills a lot of news regarding the TTC once on a bus where the driver Community Newspapers Association station to Pape station is a has been negative. sung out the stops. Although we long one. I had just enjoyed an We’ve heard about the bus might not see stories like these evening at a bar with friends driver texting while operating in the newspaper, people still and I was not looking forward his vehicle. We’ve heard talk about their experiences Vote vital for TTC to being on a bus without any about the other employee with their friends. company. If the TTC put a little With the provincial Liberal government on the move to designate being charged for allegedly But as I heard the “captain” effort into connecting with its the Toronto Transit Commission an essential service, let’s not forget assaulting a passenger aboard speak, I knew this wasn’t riders, maybe people’s positive that arbitration settlements will be on our dime. a bus. going to be an ordinary night to negative ratio would be Although many commuters are on-board with the idea of prohibiting And that’s just in the last few riding the TTC. The typical different. transit strikes, farepayers and taxpayers need to consider another weeks. It looks as if commuters ride includes apparently There is a lack of human side here: When wage agreements are renegotiated, arbitration and TTC employees are pitted disgruntled men and women contact between the TTC and is likely to wind up costing us more than negotiated settlements. against each other in a never- who look like they just can’t its ridership, and I think this Maybe tens of millions of dollars a year more. ending battle. wait to get home after a long hurts both parties. What everyone also needs to be aware of is that defining the TTC TTC personnel feel that the day at school or work. There will always be issues as an essential service and stripping transit workers of a tool that public is unfairly targeting After the driver made his pertaining to the TTC, but if its many of them consider important to their employment terms may them. Commuters, on the special announcement, I employees take a more positive well demoralize them. And considering the tension that’s already in other hand, feel that it’s the noticed a significant change approach when it comes to the work environment — with many TTC staff feeling like they’re public’s right to know what the in body language: people were dealing with riders, they might besieged by riders ready to whip out their cellphone cameras at the employees are up to. sitting straighter and paying not lash out in the hostile way slightest hint of misconduct — the removal of their right to strike This particular “flight” on the attention. They appeared to be they do now. Too often I’ve may incline them to feel more aggravated… Affecting their job Red Rocket helped me see the amused by what our driver had witnessed a “thank you” go performance. human side of TTC employees. to say. without a “you’re welcome.” Michael Prue, the MPP for Beaches-East York, says that although At the end of the day they When he started telling All the driver has to do is take he’s not inclined to vote for the essential service bill currently before are people, just like you and us the flight itinerary, a a second or two to think, “Hey, the provincial legislature, it’s important that the public’s opinion be I. They have a job to do. They smile came across some that could be my daughter, heard. What he and his fellow NDP caucus members want is not to have good days and they have faces, including mine. People wife, husband…” and make a stop the legislation necessarily, but to get one or two days of sessions bad days. This particular burst out laughing when he conscious effort in the way they for public input so that various constituencies get an opportunity to driver was clearly having a mentioned that the in-flight interact with commuters. be heard. That way, he says, if there are to be changes, they’re more really good day. The fact that likely to changes that at least have broad-based support. Prue says that if most Torononians are really ready to take away the workers’ right to strike, it’s going to happen whether he and the provincial New Democrats support it or not. But he wants East Express line to selfishness: Yorkers to know that this is going to cost them millions of dollars in higher wage settlements. Better to be informed than to simply march off blindly in the direction of “convenience.” The legislation calls for an automatic review after five years to see Attitude check in Aisle One whether it’s having the desired effect. So it seems that even the bill’s With most stores closed for which point people in line were Liberal sponsors realize that it could backfire. Family Day, there was a run actually abandoning their carts But for now, the Liberals and the Conservatives at Queen’s on the supermarkets over the and walking out. Park have both indicated their intention to vote for the legislation. preceding weekend. Everyone’s Janet So after this debacle, I Considering their overwhelming majority in the legislature, it seems shopping carts were full and Piercey resolved to try my grocery passage is a done-deal. But those who think that making the TTC the lineups at the cash registers shopping at night. I anticipated an essential service will put the public in the driver’s seat should were insane. the feeling of joy when I got to think again. As I approached the 15-minute the checkout and there would be —Britney Brady-Maginley mark in line, I noticed that some the sign above it clearly states no waiting, no one to hold up the people who were having their 1-10 items (or whatever). line. items scanned were running My problem on this occasion But to my surprise, another back to fetch more items from was that I exceeded the limit nighthawk who got to the Hungry for coverage the shelves. with my items, but I didn’t cashier just before me then Now it’s my understanding have nearly enough to warrant began running back and forth, In a matter of weeks, spring will be upon us. The changing of the that if you go to a grocery store, waiting behind all of my fellow checking the sale prices, and season boosts our overall mood and morale. But where is our spirit you go with some idea in mind of shoppers with mountains of grabbing more items for the of giving? It seems to be reserved for Thanksgiving and Christmas. what you will be purchasing. goods in their carts… especially cashier to scan and bag. People seem more inclined to give back to those in need when help- Normally, lists are made the one in front of me who kept Once again, the feeling of ing out is the theme of the season. for this. But apparently not running back to grab more frustration for me and other Or so it may seem; not all people forget the ones in need when the everyone cares about ‘grocery items off the shelves and add customers (who had the same temperature rises. line etiquette.’ them to her already huge pile of smart idea to come at night) Pastor Bob Patterson-Watt is the presiding minister at Woodbine It’s not hard to follow: Always groceries. began to surface. Heights Baptist Church, located at 1171 Woodbine Ave. The church be ready when you go through Not only did I and the other The kicker in this case was is one of the affiliated Daily Bread Food Banks in East York and the checkout. Have your coupons customers have to suffer but not only did she go back to get serves a large area. They’re open every Thursday, supplying 110 out for the cashier. Leave room the poor cashier was getting items but she actually enlisted households per week. in between your cart and the irritated too. The line was the poor cashier to help her…. Despite the fact that food banks aren’t featured in the news as person behind you. And never, getting bigger, more people Twenty minutes later, I finally much this time of year, Patterson-Watt says the amount of volun- ever, go back for more items. were getting aggravated by the was able to fit my items on the teering is consistent. Holding up a line only masses of added items, and a conveyor belt, cash out and go Sarah Anderson is the senior manager of communications and frustrates everyone else behind whispering campaign actually home. marketing for the Daily Bread Food Bank. She says that volunteers you. People begin getting started up. The customer apologized with are very important for running the charity. One of the reasons peo- antsy — and when they start The final straw was when we a weak smile and the red face ple assume there’s a decline in giving to those in need is the lack of tapping their foot and crossing thought the cashier had finally of embarrassment. But I’d have media coverage compared to during the holidays. However, it’s not their arms, you know you’ve finished ringing up the order… much rather she’d gone ahead just the media reminding you to do your part. Large companies do overstayed your welcome with and the customer proceeded to and just followed grocery line their part too. But once Christmas is over, you aren’t aware of their the cashier. pull out a stack of coupons for etiquette. donations. You stop hearing about it on the news. Another faux pas: taking 20 her purchases. That only took I wonder if things will be any Anderson says there’s an ebb and flow in news coverage. She says items to the express line, when another 10 minutes or so — at better at the self-checkout? there are three campaigns every spring, fall and winter and the one in April tends to be quieter than the others. Many people say they don’t watch or read the news because it’s depressing. If the news covered more of the charitable campaigns with as much emphasis surrounding the holidays, perhaps more We welcome your input people would pay attention. If more people were aware of the ongo- The Observer is published by Centennial College journalism students under faculty supervision. ing good in their communities, then the number of volunteers might Our offices are in Room 149 of the Centre for Creative Communications, 951 Carlaw Ave., East increase. Soon many of the people you know would be volunteering York. Please address correspondence to The Observer, Centennial College, East York campus, and donating regularly, and hunger in Toronto could be dramati- P.O. Box 631, Station A, Scarborough, ON, M1K 5E9. Telephone 416-289-5107, fax 416-289-5111, cally reduced. e-mail c/o [email protected]. Opinions in the Observer do not necessarily reflect the Maybe not, but it’s a nice thought. —Shannon Keller views of the college. Our companion website, the Toronto Observer, is at www.torontoobserver.ca. East York’s Observer, March 4, 2011 — Page 7 Locomotive shop to get a fresh look

By ANDRE WIDJAJA Ward 26 Don Valley West The Canadian Northern Rail- Councillor John Parker said way Eastern Lines Locomotive that no concerns have been ex- Shop has been a part of East pressed to his office. York for almost 100 years. He said that there were minor It was built in 1919 by the concerns with the first proposal Canadian Northern Railway to about traffic congestion and service its trains on the eastern parking spaces, but that these lines passing through the Lea- concerns have been addressed in side community. the revised version. The shop closed its bay doors Parker also said the commun- in the 1930s when the railway ity will benefit economically company began opening more from the redevelopment. servicing shops in the Toronto “The space has been there for area. The shop that is located in ten years and it supported zero Leaside has remained vacant for jobs,” he said. the last 10 years. “Leasiders are ready to take it Today, planks of wood cover in stride.” the tall windows, the interior But Brian Athey, president of walls are covered in graffiti and the Leaside Property Owner’s it is occasionally used as an il- Association, opposes the re- legal skate park. development plans. He said the On Feb. 16, North York Com- city has transformed the community Council adopted a pro- Courtesy of Olena Sullivan/Photolena munity into a commercial zone. posal to clean up the historic CHOO-CHOO: The walls of the abandoned Canadian Northern Railway Eastern Lines Locomotive “The city and developers are building and re-open its doors. Shop could soon house a Longo’s grocery store. progressively turning industrial But this time, there will be no The initial idea was brought North York Community Preser- keep its distinctive exterior, in- buildings into retail buildings,” trains passing through. to council back in 2006. Rec- vation Panel, is happy with the cluding the windows, masonry Athey said. Instead, council will allow a ommendations were made by final proposal. and doors. Although the final proposal 10,930-square-metre redevelop- council to make changes to the “We feel that it’s a reasonable “Conversion of a heritage addressed traffic concerns, he ment project, which could poten- proposal in order to preserve the way of preserving the property,” property the city wants to pre- said that people are still ap- tially turn the locomotive shop heritage building. he said. “It’s a major vestige of serve and finding another use proaching him about traffic and its surrounding buildings The new proposal was suffi- Leaside’s industrial past.” for that building is often very issues. into a commercial/office plaza. cient for community members He’s pleased to see that de- difficult,” Kettel said. “In this Athey also said in a letter to There is a proposal in place to that wanted to maintain the velopers made an effort to renew case it’s been successful.” The North York Community Coun- have the locomotive shop itself historic significance of the loco- the area, while maintaining its idea of a new retail zone in the cil members that there was not transformed into a Longo’s gro- motive shop. heritage. community has generally been enough “community consulta- cery store. Geoff Kettel, chair of the The large brick building will welcomed. tion regarding the proposal.” Gentle touch for all walks of life Cont’d. from page 1 Proprietor Marilyn Murray started the business at 930 Pape Ave. just over a year ago, after establishing herself as an expert in guinea pigs — running a local group that rescued the animals, and writing a book on their care. When it comes to pet reiki, Murray says, “It’s nice to see people are getting into something that is going to relax their pets, or help enhance the medical conditions that they have, rather than just relying on pharmaceutical medicine.” Peacock says reiki “is a gentle Observer, Michelle Grace healing that channels positive GUINEA PIG: Eight-year-old Timmy the guinea pig receives the energy as well as universal benefits of energy healing. energy. The energy comes through my hands, which feels showing me where they want to and water,” Peacock says. “So like a nice warm sensation.” feel the energy.” anything I can do to give back The process allows positive Peacock has partnered up to these animals I’m more than energy to break through and with Murray for sessions from 1 happy to.” heal in a natural, relaxing way. until 4 p.m. tomorrow, March 5, To arrange an appointment “This method is beneficial for and later this month, on March for your pet, call 416-522-0922 Observer, Farhana Uddin animals; it creates relaxation 19. The treatments are free, but or e-mail leisa.peacock@gmail. FOLK POWER: Indie musicians Aaron McGill, right, and Dan and better sleep,” Peacock says. are by appointment only. com. Shantz perform for familes as part of the ninth annual Winterfolk “My cats are always coming “Really, all animals want For more information, music festival held in the Danforth-Broadview neighbourhood to me and putting their body to give is unconditional love. visit her website at www. on Family Day weekend. right under my hands and They only ask for shelter, food escentialinspirations.com Apartment residents remain displaced two weeks after fire busy restoring the building’s escorted by security, is clean- own temporary shelter. Tenants still out damaged areas. ing each suite at no charge to “The city is helping a few A website for residents has residents. families with interim shelter, of homes due to been set up by Hanard Invest- The website also reports that but most residents have found ments Ltd. at www.80cosburn. renters will not be charged places to stay,” he said. electrical and com. According to the website, rent for the month of March At press time, it was unclear residents have been able to re- and will receive a cheque for when residents will be able to wiring problems turn to their suites at allotted half of what they paid in rent move back into their homes. times in order to retrieve pets, in February. Mail service has Restoration of electrical sys- By LESLIE MARCINIAK medication and any other be- also been redirected to 685 tems and common areas con- Residents who were forced longings they need. Danforth Ave. — with pickup tinue and individual units con- to evacuate from their apart- Since the electricity was shut from 8:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. on tinue to be cleaned. ments at 80 Cosburn Ave. on off, all contents have been re- weekdays only. Besides the website, resi- Feb. 15 are still unable to re- moved from each unit’s refrig- As for the whereabouts of the dents looking for more infor- turn home. erators. It was announced a displaced residents, the city of mation can follow develop- An electrical fire caused the week ago that all refrigerators Toronto’s senior communica- ments on Twitter at www.twit- Observer, Leslie Marciniak evacuation of the apartment will be replaced with new ones tion advisor, Rob Andrusevich, ter.com/80Cosburn or call the POST-BLAZE: Residents of building, and crews are still and that a cleaning company, said that most have found their hotline at 416-467-1889. 80 Cosburn are still not home. Page 8 — East York’s Observer, March 4, 2011 E-books boom spurs traffic to local libraries

By MIKE BEAUVAIS all ages, from young adults to The Toronto Public Library seniors,” stated Ng. (TPL) has a pretty good idea Ng said that patrons at Pape as to what gift people received have the opportunity to find out this past holiday season. The first hand from the staff about explosion in popularity of the the ins and outs of e-readers and e-reader continued to be felt at how to download e-books. the TPL, and the post-Christmas “At the information desk, boom in 2010 was a big one. we’re always able to offer Anne Marie Aikins, the information on availability and TPL’s manager of corporate where people can pick (e-books) communications, said that up,” Ng said. demand for downloadable “If people require further Observer, Sian Davies e-books saw a spike in the midst assistance, we offer training, SHORE SAFETY: Melting ice and snow are creating potentially dangerous conditions around of the holidays. Even after an sometimes one-on-one.” the Don River and other waterways. On Monday, the city advised local residents to exercise over 80 per cent increase in Still, even with the rise of caution around all bodies of water in the coming weeks, as warmer temperatures cause unstable popularity in 2009 and another the e-book, Aikins said that shorelines and rapidly rising water levels. jump of over 70 per cent in 2010, the death of the traditional the desire for e-books during the library book has been greatly holiday season was stunning. exaggerated. “We even saw, between “A lot of people have Rising water levels prompt Christmas and New Year’s, speculated that (the e-book) is there was a 30-to-50 per cent going to be the end of the book huge jump in the number of or you won’t need libraries downloads from the library,” anymore,” Aikins said. advisory from city officials Aikins said. “So you could “But what we have tell when people opened their experienced is that e-resources By SIAN DAVIES into our rivers and streams, the today,” Farrell said. e-readers.” and e-books have increased East York residents are urged water is extremely powerful,” The TRCA advises people While the e-book has risen to the popularity of libraries and to exercise caution near all she said. to stay at least three metres prominence over the past few hardcover books.” bodies of water over the coming Moreover, the water is “very from the edge of a waterway years thanks to devices like In fact, Aikins believes that weeks. cold, making it difficult to during rainy weather. It is Amazon’s Kindle and Chapters/ the rise of the e-reader is a main The city is warning the recover if you fall in.” also recommended that anyone Indigo’s Kobo, the TPL has catalyst in increased patron public of the dangers caused by Farrell said that anyone going for a walk near a river, been offering digital content for presence at library branches. changing weather conditions enjoying the outdoors this spring pond, lake or creek notify a almost 10 years now. “Even though our e-books have during the spring melt period, should pay particular attention friend or family member of their “People have been using increased at an amazing rate, so which could lead to unstable to children and pets venturing route and the time they expect e-books faithfully since 2002 has the interest in hardcover stream banks and rapidly rising close to shorelines, because to be home. as soon as we started to get books. Our visitors at libraries water levels. precipitation and freezing People should not attempt e-resources,” explained Aikins. have increased,” Aikins said. Laurian Farrell, chief flood overnight temperatures may to rescue a person or animal “When I say ‘e-resources,’ we “I think it’s just that the more duty officer at the Toronto and cause slippery and unstable who has fallen into a waterway have e-books, e-audiobooks. accessible we make literacy, the Region Conservation Authority surfaces along the water’s edge. as they too could be overcome We have research material more people will be interested (TRCA), said that despite Layers of thinning ice on many by powerful currents and available for download. We have in it. I think it’s perhaps a good lighter snowfall than usual this ponds can be deceptive, she extremely cold temperatures. all kinds of resources and not way to introduce (the library) to winter, earlier than normal ice said. The TRCA advises that, just e-books.” the non-reader.” breakup and above average “It’s important to not assume instead, people should call 911 The surge in popularity hasn’t Aikins said that the number flows within watersheds are that just because an area was immediately. gone unnoticed at East York’s of visitors at TPL branches rose causing hazardous conditions. covered in seemingly solid ice For more safety tips, visit Pape and Danforth branch of to an all-time high of 18 million “As melting ice and snow runs yesterday, it’s stable to walk on www.trca.on.ca the TPL. Branch head Suk Yin in 2010, up 500,000 from the Ng said that interest in the previous year. format is obvious. While e-readers may have “We’re seeing greatly played some part in the upturn, Residents looking for answers increased interest in e-books they haven’t won everybody and e-readers at Pape,” Ng over yet. Cont’d. from page 1 public meeting to take place last public meeting will be convened said. “We have two book clubs Library patron Agnes Keenan, Strathmore Donlands Action night at Danforth Collegiate with the community about this attended mostly by seniors and for one, doesn’t understand the Group. and Technical Institute to project.” they’re asking advice as to what fuss. “There were too many update residents on the second Dymond said she wishes kind of e-reader they should “I don’t even know what those constraints with the plan, so Donlands exit project, but the last night’s meeting had gone buy.” are,” the senior citizen said with essentially we want to meet meeting was cancelled. ahead. Ng noted that the curiosity a laugh. the TTC safety needs while According to a release from “We’re still looking for comes from across the board. “I’ve never even been on the mitigating the impact on the the transit commission, “once answers to questions and “There’s increased interest internet. I will stick to regular community,” she said. the TTC capital budget has clarity on the path forward,” not from just adults, but from old books, thank you very much.” The TTC had arranged for a sufficient funding in place, a she said. Roadblock for crosswalk, but council will vote on it anyway By ANDRE WIDJAJA School just down the street, Aldred said. Councillor Mary Fragedakis says that “Mothers have complained to me that a petition to install a crosswalk at the when I’m not there, they point their hand intersection of Carlaw and Mortimer out and no one stops,” Aldred said. avenues does not meet the requirements He added that the intersection used to of the city’s transportation department. have a crosswalk, but it was taken down Fragedakis, the councillor for Ward 29/ when the city installed a traffic light Toronto-Danforth, says that in order nearby. to merit a crosswalk, the city requires He submitted the petition to Fragedakis’ at least 200 pedestrians to be crossing office last week with 203 signatures. during busy periods, and 130 pedestrians But while it does not meet the technical waiting to cross for more than 10 seconds. requirements, Fragedakis says that she That could frustrate a petition drive run is still willing to advocate for a crosswalk, by Jack Aldred, who has been a crossing because residents have expressed the guard at the intersection for 22 years. need for one. He created the petition to express his “I have asked Transportation Services concern for the safety of pedestrians, to prepare a report for the next Toronto- especially when there’s no one to help East York Community Council so that Observer, Andre Widjaja people to cross the road. the item may be considered and voted on CROSSING GUARD: Jack Aldred helps a pedestrian cross the intersection of The intersection is heavily used by at that time,” she said. Carlaw and Mortimer avenues. Aldred created a petition for a crosswalk at the students at Centennial College’s adjacent The next council meeting is scheduled intersection, which is used heavily by students. campus and at Chester Elementary for March 22.