West Hill News

The Bridges of West Hill

2010-03-29T09:43:00.001-04:00

The West Hill Community can accurately be described as that area of Toronto surrounded by the Highland Creek Valley.

Because we are largely cut off from the rest of the City by that meandering waterway, we have bridges to connect us to the greater community.

Oh yes, we have bridges.

In all shapes and sizes.

From planks casually thrown across rivulets.

To small walking and biking bridges.

To medium sized bridges just large enough to accommodate one lane of traffic going in each direction.

To major bridges supporting three of the City's mighty thoroughfares.

And even bridges that used to be, but are never spoken of any longer.

If you have time and don't mind a bit of colour on a black and white themed day, here is a short video I shot back in May of 2008 of the new bridge that crosses Highland Creek just as it empties into Lake Ontario. Lindsay is along for the walk and will show us the way.

Sounds of West Hill

2010-01-22T19:34:00.000-05:00

The noise that first draws attention, is the sound of heavy machinery at work. Have I turned a wrong corner and ended up in Dubai? Multiple industrial cranes line the horizon..... but the sun coast of Dubai could never be this cold and dreary!

No, we are still in West Hill in January. Here, where the city's easternmost water filtration plant is being dramatically upgraded, the air is chill and the construction noise echoes.

A sudden familiar sound captures our attention! The distant ringing of bells at the gate, warn of the closing railway crossing behind us. The ringing is soon chorused by the clickity-clack of a train full of commuters, rushing into Toronto's bustling Union Station to their workday employment.

In the silent stillness, following the train's passing, the giant extractor fans at a huge chemical factory on Coronation Drive roar to life, sucking fumes out of the plant, while beside them huge power pumps, blow heat into the massively, large building.

Everywhere along the road, trucks can be spotted delivering raw materials to the sight of the filtration plant construction. Other trucks arrive to pick up the chemicals the various plants in the area are producing. Their job will be to deliver these chemicals where ever they are needed across North America. The roar of the great diesel engine inside these trucks can be heard as a distant whine, while their 18 wheel undercarriage reverberates the ripping sound of the tires riding over the frozen winter pavement.

Sometimes, in the heavily laden winter air it isn't the sounds you really hear, but those you imagine that captures your attention and your heart. Not far from the clatter of the Industrial Park is a small green space with a large and very shallow pond. In the winter the local children clean off the ice and set up their goalie nets here. After school, the slap of hockey sticks, the scratch of skate blades slicing the thick ice covering of the pond and the happy cheers of the young voices gathered, will create a new sound. As their hockey game comes to life, the noisy construction and plant workers will close up shop and call it a day.

At this moment, the happy hockey team silently study in local schools and the factory noises have faded away in the distance. The only sounds around me now, are the occasional bark from Lindsay, and the whirring click of my camera shutter.

Our First Winter Storm Of The Season

2009-12-11T09:43:00.001-05:00

It rose up out of the Pacific.

Joined forces with the waters of the Gulf of Mexico

Formed a massive storm covering half of the Unted States. And then took direct aim at West Hill.

Where we could see it coming from the top of the bluffs.

But weren't able to duck.

December 9, 2009. Our first snow storm of the winter.

TTC Driver Saves Buddhist Temple

2009-12-06T06:58:00.007-05:00

A passing TTC driver noticed smoke billowing from the porch of the Buddhist temple on Kingston Road at the Highland Creek Bridge and immediately notified authorities saving the wooden structure from serious damage.

When firefighters and police arrived they discovered arsonists had left 23 bottles of gasoline on the Temple's porch. This is the second time this year the Mahavihara has been the subject of an attack by arsonists. A previous attempt was made last May.

The last time the attempted arson was preceded by several telephone warnings. But not this time.

While smoke migration was minimal, the fire department estimates the damage from the current attack to be in excess of $10,000.

The fire was quickly put out and the Temple has announced plans to erect a fence around the property and install video cameras.

Humor or Great Marketing

2009-12-02T20:04:00.004-05:00

Was it a great marketing move that landed this Herbal Magic weight loss center a location immediately between two fast food restaurants at Morningside Crossing?

Or a terrific sense of humour?

New Royal Bank Location Now Open

2009-11-26T15:39:00.008-05:00

RBC has moved from its previous location in the West Hill Plaza to its new home in the extensively refurbished former Pizza Hut building at Kingston Road and Lawrence.

RBC joins Canada's other major banks in opening significantly larger locations in the West Hill area, making West Hill the centre for banking in south east Scarborough. The new RBC branch is now double its former size, offering state of the art banking services to West Hill residents.

Of Canada's major banks, only Scotia Bank has decided not to upgrade its branch in West Hill preferring its coveted location at Morningside and Kingston Rd. over enhanced facilities.

The loss of RBC presents a challenge to the small West Hill Plaza who have also recently lost The Doctors Office, a drug store and The Source, all of which have relocated to the new Morningside Crossing Shopping Centre which opened last year.

Adventures In Eating In West Hill

2009-11-18T11:31:00.001-05:00

Some things are incongruous.

As unbelievable and incongruous as it may seem, no one with the rank of Colonel is working at our local KFC and not one of the chickens came from Kentucky.

Not one employee at Taco Bell was from Mexico. And on the day we visited, not one employee had even vacationed there. Believe It Or Not!

Shoeless Joe's Restaurant has a policy requiring all customers to wear shoes. And shirts.

And when Licks finally got around to opening their latest store in West Hill, I wouldn't advise licking any of their employees. Boy do they get mad!

But most incongruous of them all, the Swiss Chalet Restaurant, not only has no Swiss employees, sells no Swiss Cheese, lamb or beer, but none of their clocks were made in Switzerland, instead they were all made by GE--in China.

Wind Anemometer Platform Now In Place

2009-11-15T10:59:00.000-05:00

It is ugly and it sits immediately off the shoreline of the Scarborough Bluffs.

Where it will reside for the next two years.

Despite strong opposition from a significant and vocal majority of Guildwood Residents.

It s a wind anemometer, and if the wind blows significantly, it is the forerunner of a line of Wind Turbines destined to run from the Leslie Street spit all along the Scarborough shoreline.

Toronto Hydro also claims that anemometers pose no health threats. Guildwood’s concerns were addressed in the studies done for the Ministry of Natural Resources. If there were any side effects the project would have been declined.

Opponents however, believe Toronto Hydro is pursuing a “vanity project.”

Guild opponents to the plan state they don’t want more money to be spent on the anemometer when they totally reject turbines in Lake Ontario,.

Toronto Hydro reminds Guildwood the device is only for wind energy research and there’s no current plan to propose a wind farm. Somewhat disingenuously claiming that they are not proposing to build windmills, simply collecting data.

The wind data will be collected for two years, then other factors will be studied, such as costs for construction and electricity grid connections, before a decision will be made concering the construction of the Wind Farm project.

The platform is located 1.2 kilometres off the bluffs and is visible all along the Guild shoreline. If wind results and other factors prove satisfactory, the 60-turbine wind farm could stretch from Ajax to the Leslie Street Spit.

Residents, however, will continue to oppose the project with more protests and educational campaigns.

The Oldest Home In West Hill Is The Oldest In Scarborough

2009-11-07T05:29:00.001-05:00

It lies on the grounds of the Guild, not far from the top of the Scarborough Bluffs.

It is the first European dwelling in the area and the oldest man made dwelling in all of Scarborough that still stands. When it was built George Washington was still President of the United States, Napoleon had just become engaged to Josephine and a 24 year old Beethoven was just debuting as pianist in Vienna.

Click on the picture above to learn more about this unique Ousterhout Log Cabin built in 1795. Then go visit it yourself to touch a genuine piece of history.

Slow News Day

2009-11-06T17:09:00.001-05:00

It's been quiet around here for several months.

Although there has been no let up in the News, events and activities in the West Hill area.

Sadly, there is a reason for this. The prime mover behind this site has been Barry Fraser, who was diagnosed with Esophageal Cancer in February of this year. As the year has progressed, so to has his treatment with all its related side effects. This has cut with increasing severity into the time and energy he has available to devote to this site.

At no time, however, has it cut into his enthusiasm for this work and this community.

Currently, Barry is feeling somewhat better and has some additional time at his disposal so you may see additional posts creeping onto this site.

Thanks for your understanding.

How To Deal With Contractors & Home Renovations

2009-06-23T07:29:00.000-04:00

Thinking of doing any home or property renovations this summer? You might be able to take advantage of the federal government’s renovation rebate, which is a part of their Canada-wide stimulus package. You must have receipts for any work and/or materials. Up to $1350 can be deducted from your 2009 income tax filing, which would mean you would have to spend close to $10,000 in renovations to receive the maximum benefit.

But how do you decide on one contractor over another? Obviously, your choice will be influenced by cost. Which contractor can provide you with the best quote. What goes into the ‘best’ quote includes much more than price alone. Like the saying goes no job’s done until the paperwork is completed. You can bank on the fact that if you’re not satisfied with the paperwork, then the finished job is likely to be disappointing too!

Here are some simple steps you can follow to help you choose a reliable and reputable
Contractor. My list includes crucial steps which should assist anyone wanting a quality finished product.

First step A). Check with friends for names of contractors they’ve used. Ask them how satisfied they were with the work? Was the job completed as scheduled or were unexpected delays? Did changes have to been made to the original job?

If you don’t find anyone through friends, then the next place to check would be a professional association in your area; they should give you a list of contractors who are members. Find out what criteria is used for membership i.e. knowledge and skills, including training in that field. Ask if the association has a quality control component. You’ll need to find a contractor that has good credentials.

Once you find a contractor, ask them how much experience and training they’ve received in a specific area. Always ask the contractor to provide you with at least three referrals with phone no.’s. Make the calls and find out how satisfied other customers have been.

Step Two B). Who will be doing the actual work? Is your contractor using subcontractors? For bigger jobs, if he’s not doing the work himself, then you will have to holdback 10% of the final payment, to prevent any liens being put on your house, in the event that a subcontractor is not fully paid.

Step Three C)
Find out if the contractor is fully licensed, insured or bonded? Do they have membership in the Better Business Bureau? Do they have any complaints lodged against them?

Step Four D).
Ask whether a written contract will be provided, along with a draft plan, including drawing and lists of grades, materials, colours that your contractor is planning to use?
How will the terms of payment be handled? Do they require a 50 % deposit and when are the interim payments due?

How much lead-time might they need? In what time frame can they realistically get the work done? What if the workmanship turns out to be poor and the materials come with defects? Does your contractor say in writing that he will be dealing with this if it happens? Does your contractor have any concerns with your putting a percentage of the final payment on holdback until a final inspection is done? This ensures that all the work has been properly completed. Also you’ll need to know if the contractor charges G.S.T. and/or P.S.T.?

Step Five D):
Permits. Ask if your contractor will be responsible for providing all the required municipal permits?

Step Six E):
Will your contractor provide you with a written warranty for the materials and workmanship?

Remember there is a big downfall to choosing a contractor strictly based upon prices. You want to be left with a quality job, as well as one that’s done at a reasonable price. Having three quotes would be best, so you can compare apples to apples. These are the things to look-out for when picking a contractor. Make sure you understand the agreement fully, & have all your questions answered before you sign the contract.

If you have any further questions, you can email me at howard.buchin@sympatico.ca.

Organic Farmer's Market Great Success

2009-06-19T04:23:00.001-04:00

The new Organic Farmer's Market has opened in the Guild to great success. Located at the corner of Livingston and Guildwood Pkw, the market operates between 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm every Thursday from June until September.

Public Art In And Around West Hill

2009-06-06T17:47:00.000-04:00

Getting Around West Hill Without A Car

2009-05-17T10:33:00.000-04:00

The truth is, being a suburb of a large city, we mostly drive. We haven't designed our suburbs well for getting around by any other means. Although there are other ways--

We can still ride horseback.

And get to fires on time.

Sometimes, it feels like we spend more time waiting than actually getting around.

Although, eventually the bus does get there.

If we want to get somewhere fast, both the local communiter GO trains and the trans Canada VIA train stop at our local Train Station

We make sure our kids get to school on time, even if we have to call a cab.

Of course, we could always take the boat.

Or just ride a bike; although that can get tiring.

Walking is fun too.

Although maybe our ancestors still had the best idea. West Hill has many murals on the sides of buildings depicting life in less frantic times.

Although this might just be our future:

Councilor Paul Ainslie is hosting an open house to discuss plans for a Kingston Road-Morningside Avenue Light Rail Transit line on Thursday May 21at at 6:30 pm at West Hill Public School.

West Hill's "Main Street"

2009-04-14T06:21:00.000-04:00

By a strange quirk of nomenclature, West Hill stands as the eastern most gateway to the City of Toronto. Most visitors entering the city via the Kingston Road exit from the 401 have their sights set on the massive towers of the downtown core.

Lets take a moment to see what they may be passing by in their haste.

Today, as always, West Hill has much to offer---

From the West, reaching out toward the very centre of the community is the "Main Street" of West Hill, the Kingston Road. The view here is from the railroad bridge at the Guildwood train station, looking toward where Kingston Road forms a triangular intersection with Lawrence and Morningside to form the Commercial Centre of the community. The City of Kingston was, for a time, the capital of Canada and West Hill was one small community along the long route there from the City of Toronto. The commercial backbone of the community, Kingston Road changes its personality several times as it moves through the heart of West Hill.

Where the major thoroughfares of Kingston Road, Lawrence and Morningside Avenues intersect, the commercial centre of West Hill has grown. Here banks and stores, supermarkets and hardwares, florists and department stores have all found a home. The West Hill Shopping Centre is situated on the north east corner of Lawrence and Kingston Road.

The heart of the triangle is inhabited by a major supermarket and its adjacent plaza. Now a No Frills, the supermarket was for most of its life, a Loblaws. It was here that I and many of my friends got our first jobs and worked our way through high school on Thursday & Friday nights and all day Saturday. The plaza is also home to a drugstore, Brewers retail, Chick'n' Joy, McDonalds and a Pizza Pizza among others

The new Morningside Crossing was completed on the site of the former Morningside Mall. The Mornigside Crossing proper was opened in the summer of 2008, anchored by Shoppers Drug Mart and a Food Basics Supermarket.

Then commerce gives way to trees and lawns, churches, restaurants and motels. This is near the traditional centre of the community where the first homes in the area were constructed and where the West Hill Hotel provided the only social life for miles around. The hotel was torn down many years ago and, after remaining a vacant lot for decades, was replaced by a modern housing development in 2001. West Hill is the first glimpse of the City of Toronto for travelers from the east. Its motels provide an opportunity to rest up from the drive, while its restaurants offer a wide selection from elegant dining to fast foods.

The Kingston Road bridge across Highland Creek is the most distinctive feature of the eastern most entrance to the City of Toronto from the 401 highway. And here our Main Street reaches its Easternmost end and we leave West Hill behind us, with a sad farewell.

But maybe you'd like to stay and party with us a bit longer? Here is a little video I shot of the opening ceremonies at Morningside Crossing last summer.

Tips For Joining Fitness Clubs

2009-04-05T09:23:00.000-04:00

Tips on Joining Fitness Clubs
By Howard Buchin

Spring is here and many of us think that it’s time to get into better shape. Have you thought about joining a fitness club? Every day we receive flyers promoting numerous kinds clubs, with different kinds of fees, facilities and classes to entice you. Most clubs will need you to sign some form of a membership agreement.

There are clubs tailored to adults only, or other clubs which allow children to attend.

All fitness clubs are governed by the Consumer Protection Act, which means they must disclose any “hidden charges” before you sign with them. As the name hidden charges implies, you need to look closely at any membership agreement. There is usually an extra charge for towels, access to saunas, or exercise mats, or other specialized equipment areas. Make sure you prepare a list of questions ready to ask, in order to find out what your membership fees will include.

Most Clubs have lots of fitness machines such as stationary bikes, rowers, treadmills, weight training nautilus-type machines designed to improve fitness. These machines also help with strengthening and conditioning. You’ll need to decide if you require a fitness evaluation, or the assistance of a personal trainer. There are usually costs involved with testing, as well as fees for personal training sessions, which are sold in packages.

Fitness clubs use various levels of personal trainers & instructors. Ideally the trainers are geared towards helping you to get to the fitness goals set for yourself. A personal trainer can get his/her qualifications from several places. Certification courses are offered by community colleges, and other training courses are offered via the Internet. Obviously, the Internet doesn’t compare to a college level of study. A question to ask might be: “How do your trainers/instructors get their qualifications”? If you’re involved with competitive level sports, you’ll want to work with a higher-level of trainers.

Clubs have varying hours of operation, depending on their clientele. Be certain to enquire about what hours your club is open. Take the opportunity to visit the club at various times of day before you sign up, when you expect to be working out there. Check out if there is sufficient space to allow for the number of people there. Are the change rooms big enough to allow you to be comfortable when you attend?

The Consumer Protection law gives you the right to:
*Change your mind about joining (within 10 days after signing a contract).
*To cancel your agreement within the first year, if you believe you’re a victim of
unfair business practices.
• The right to choose to sign a membership for one year, or renew on a monthly, or bi-monthly basis.

Remember there’s always a possibility of unforeseen scenarios developing. A club can slip down with maintenance and upkeep of the premises.
What if unsanitary conditions do not get addressed? What are the terms and conditions if you want to cancel your membership?

Clubs sales people will likely try to use pressure tactics with statements such as, “You can cancel at anytime for any reason” or “Don’t worry your not bound by the agreement should any unforeseen events such as injury or pregnancy occur.” Clubs generally do their best to protect the clubs own interests, and not yours. I asked to take the club agreements home to read, but the staff refused at both clubs I attended. Remember there are good reasons why the fine print is so difficult to read, quite simply, they acted as if, it would better appreciated if I didn’t read through the contract, or understand what it said. To me, this appears to be an unfair business practice, but it’s not necessarily ‘illegal.’ Remember that anything that requires you r signature, signifies that you have agreed to it.

Initially a club offered a four-month free membership. They wanted me to sign on for a complete one-year membership, which I would have had to pay bi-monthly (from my bank account). They didn’t seem very interested in my paying in advance for the year. One club policy said it would suspend the fees for the time a member was unable to attend, but then tacked the time back on once the member was healthy and attending again.

I noticed that the staff at the clubs I visited made many verbal claims about what would happen in the case of having to suspend my membership, but these weren’t backed up by their contract. Anything you agree to needs to be included in writing, within the membership agreement that your signing.

The agents at the clubs I spoke with inferred that I had no worries by telling me, “You can trust us. We’re your friends.” In fact, the agreement wasn’t too friendly. The terms included late-payment penalties. ‘Failure to pay within 3 days would result in late payment charges.’ Another club had terms included which stated a ‘member would be given a 10-day window in which to pay his fees.’ How the clubs deal with late payments is often left up to the discretion of the club.

If you do intend to join up with a fitness club, I advise the following,
- Do some serious research before hand, are there many complaints about the club.
- Read carefully any contract that you are expected to sign. If any verbal promises are made to you, then these need to be in writing, into the contract.
- Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions.

If you have any consumer issues you might need help with please email me at howard.buchin@sympatico.ca

Homes A Photo Essay

2009-03-25T06:37:00.001-04:00

The First Nations peoples originally settled this land and built their homes on the banks of the Highland Creek.

The name "Iroquois" was given to the peoples of the six nations by their enemies. The Algonquin called them the Iroqu (Irinakhoiw) "rattlesnakes." After the French added the Gallic suffix "-ois" to this insult, the name became Iroquois. The Iroquois call themselves Haudenosaunee meaning "people of the long house." Iroquois villages were generally fortified and large. The distinctive, communal longhouses of the different clans could be over 200' in length and were built about a framework covered with elm bark.

Evidence of two of their villages have been found long the banks of the Highland Creek. These villages were set well back from the creek, away from the flood plain and from the sight of their enemies. The village on the west hill is located near the Alda Motel, while the one on the east hill of the creek is on the Helliwell property. Descendants of the original peoples continue to reside on this land in the Gabriel Dumont community of West Hill. This reconstructed Longhouse is from the Crawford Lake reserve.

More Myth than Reality, more Dream than Truth, the original village of West Hill can no longer be seen but only glimpsed. Hidden from direct view behind apartment blocks, shopping malls, major thoroughfares and sprawling subdivisions, the village of West Hill lives on, in small oasis of beauty between the encroaching bricks and granite of Canada's largest metropolitan area. Swallowed first by the City of Scarborough which in turn was engulfed by the City of Toronto, West Hill no longer exists on any map, yet can still be found when the light is right and guide is sure. Come, we will seek this small village together and let her peace and charm renew our souls and delight our eyes.

Originally the home of Colonel Bickford, The Guild Inn was owned by my great uncle Msrg. John Fraser from September 1921 to October 1924. He renamed the property the St. Francis Xavier China Mission Seminary. During World War II it became an official naval base and was renamed, HMCS Bytown and, later still, was transformed into a military hospital and renamed Scarborough Hall. The property later became the Guild of all Arts and became an major Arts Center. Now owned by the City of Toronto, and its future the subject of considerable controversy, the stately building has been boarded up and left to rot.

Most recently Centennial College has expressed an interest in the property to house its International Relations Department.

CIBC Now Open On Sunday

2009-03-22T12:14:00.001-04:00

The unheard of has happened in West Hill.

The new CIBC bank at Morningside Crossing has announced that it will open on Sunday. West Hill joins a select few other branches in Canada offering Sunday hours.

The move is part of an expanded awareness of customer needs and a willingness to extend service to meet those needs. Not only are banks open later in the day, not only do they have more banking machines, but now CIBC has added Sunday service to its customers.

It wasn't long ago that banks closed at 3 pm with additional hours only on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings.

At one point it was thought that internet banking and bank machines would make branches obsolete. Instead they have been modernized and made more customer friendly.

West Hill Churches (Part 2 of 2)

2009-03-19T07:24:00.000-04:00

The Heron Park Baptist Church holds a hugely successful community picnic every summer. It is located at Lawrence and West Hill Drive. With a congregation of over 300 from a variety of Christian traditions, it is also active with a number of community partners including West Hill Community Services, the Toronto Children's Choir, and Philip Aziz hospice services.

The West Hill's Seventh Day Adventist Chruch was also renovated and enlarged in the 1990's and is located at Kingston Rd and Poplar.

West Hill Gospel Hall was newly renovated and expanded in the 1990's. It is located at Morningside and Coronation.

The Churches of West Hill (Part 1 of 2)

2009-03-08T10:17:00.000-04:00

We have been challenged by Photojournalist, and former Associated Press Photographer, Patty Hancock to post more photos of our Community. Patty has undertaken this project as a way for us all to get to know each other's community. Maybe you'd like to skip over to Patty's to see what the spiritual life in Crisfield Maryland looks like. There are links from her site to other communities joining in this weekly venture.

West Hill certainly has a rich spiritual life and here is part one of a tribute to the churches of West Hill.

A new feature on the West Hill landscape is taking shape among the evergreens on the banks of the Highland Creek at the Kingston Road bridge. A new Buddhist Temple of the Toronto Mahavihara Society, is evidence of the diversity of the spiritual life of the community.

The major Roman Catholic Church in the community is St. Martin de Porres. Erected in the 1960's and substantially enlarged in the 1980's, its dramatic architectural style and placement at the intersection of Morningside and Lawrence make it one of the most well known features of the West Hill landscape.

Another historic Church, St. Margaret's in the Pines, has been a West Hill landmark for decades. St. Margaret's was the first parish in which Tom Harper, author and religious editor of the Toronto Star, served after his ordination as an Anglican Priest. Today St. Margarets reaches out especially to the Tamil community and to the elderly, with recreation and social programs for senior citizens running on a daily basis. The programs are run by West Hill Community Services and include transportation to and from St.Margarets.

Among the oldest Churches in the area, the Melville Presbyterian Church stands on the very edge of the west hill of Highland Creek on picturesque Old Kingston Road. It is visually one of the most dramatic of the area's churches.

Opportunities for a rich spiritual life are offered by the many religious centres in the community. Of these, only one carries West Hill's name. And it is likely the most controversial church in the entire country.

The West Hill United Church stands at the intersection of Orchard Park Dr and Kingston Road and looks innocent enough at first glance. Reverend Gretta Vosper welcomes visitors to her 1960s church. With a 230-family congregation, an average Sunday service has about 150 worshipers of all ages. The church has a youth group, a community supper program, and an outreach program that assists many charities. The church is currently creating more groups and programs. On Tuesday nights it houses Boy Scouts, karate and Narcotics Anonymous. The controversy arises from its being the only Church in West Hill, and maybe in the entire country, that has banned God. All mention of God has been removed from all Hymns sung and sermons preached. This is a Church for those who like their religion, "With Or Without God".

Howard Johnson's Coming to West Hill

2009-03-03T08:59:00.000-05:00

By March 8th, Howard Johnson's Motel chain will establish an east end of Toronto presence in West Hill.

Taking over the Gateway Motel at the Highland creek bridge, the international hotel chain will take a significant step in reclaiming the tarnished image of motels in the West Hill area.

Once an important tourist destination for those on their way to the downtown core, the City's decision to use the motels in West Hill as Emergency accommodation began in the 1980s. It continues to the present day.

Of the motels along the Kingston Road strip, only the Grand maintained its reputation as a family owned business catering to the tourist trade.

Howard Johnson's is a chain of restaurants and hotels, located primarily throughout the United States and Canada. The name is derived from the founder of the original company, Howard Deering Johnson, who started the initial chain of restaurants and motels. Howard Johnson hotels are now part of Wyndham Worldwide, formerly a part of Cendant.

Wyndham operates the Howard Johnson brand under many "tiers," based on price, level of amenities, and services offered. Howard Johnson Express Inns, Howard Johnson Inns, Howard Johnson Hotels, and Howard Johnson Plaza Hotels range from limited-service motels to full-service properties with on-site concierges and business centers. Howard Johnson recently has begun offering its "Rise 'N' Dine" continental breakfast.

Howard Johnson's had a long history of providing service to the east end of the city having operated a motel at Markham and Progress for many years, until it was acquired as a student residence by Centennial College.

Newly renovated and upgraded, the latest addition to the Howard Johnson chain will be opening its doors to the public in West Hill on March 8th.

Let The Buyer Beware

2009-02-16T11:02:00.000-05:00

Caveat Emptor “Let the buyer beware”
By Howard Buchin

The term Caveat Emptor is Latin for “Let the buyer beware.” This maxim applies to just about every item that a consumer buys, and dictates that it is up to the consumer to be cautious prior to making their purchase. He must examine and investigate the merchandise being bought. If defects are found after the sale, it may be extremely difficult to hold the vendor responsible for any such defects or missing parts. Caveat Emptor began as part of Roman law, and was eventually adopted by British common law and tradition. In Canada, there have since been laws established (Consumer Protection Act, Sale of Goods Act) to counter this buyer beware mentality that exists

The bottom line is that consumers get that for which they bargain. Today the average consumer is faced with many considerations prior to the purchase of items small and large. But this is especially true for big-ticket items that you might be contemplating.

In the matter of a home sale, failure on the part of the buyer to have the home inspected prior to purchase can result in long-term costs and aggravation. To be safe, have a fully accredited home inspector carry out a full home inspection prior to such a large scale purchase.

Years ago, we shopped at a popular furniture and appliance outlet in order to purchase a new refrigerator. After spending twenty minutes wandering around the showroom floor we decided to take the low-priced clearance (close-out – end-of-the-line) model that was being promoted. We paid using our visa card and signed a purchase agreement without spending too much time reading the fine print. After having second thoughts I returned to the store. I wanted to have another look at what we purchased. It seemed that the fridge was too small for us and I asked about changing for a different model. I was told that we couldn’t switch models since we had already signed a purchase agreement for the one we had chosen. They were not going to allow us to cancel the deal. After the salesperson directed me to look at my receipt, I found that at the bottom it said ALL SALES FINAL. NO CANCELLATION ON DISCONTINUED ITEMS. NOT SUBJECT TO EXCHANGE OR REFUND.

Also we hadn’t thought about the how hard it could be in the future to find parts and or any technical support, since we were buying an end-of-the-line model. On closer inspection of the crisper drawers, it didn’t appear that they were built quite as well as other fridges.

In spite of the fact that I returned to the store just 8 hours after we made the deal, the manager there wasn’t willing to give in to what we wanted. I had to fax several letters using references from applicable Consumer Protection Act 2002 sections and eventually, that same manager relented, and allowed us to change for another model.

Under the law, a vendor is supposed to disclose to you anything that might affect any decisions whether to purchase. Unfortunately this is not what happens in many instances.
There are very few consumers with the time or resources to take these matters before a small claims judge. We hadn’t noticed that the fridge on display had not been plugged in. We were not able to view it running.

If you’re buying a high-tech gadget such as a removable memory stick, or external hard-drive, you need to know if the model being sold is up-to-date, and compatible with your PC or MAC. Sometimes it’s a good idea to do an on-line check to see if there are any known issues with a particular model, before you even attend the store. A good website is www.ripoffreport.com, which has lots of feedback from consumers regarding products and experiences they had dealing with the companies they purchased from.

When we purchased our digital camera I spent many days on-line investigating what was out there and what was the best camera for the money we wanted to spend. This can be a very time consuming action, but one in the end you’ll be glad that you completed prior to your purchase.

Once you have settled on a particular brand and model then it’s time to start considering what kind of warranty do you wish to have. The original manufacturer’s warranty or store bought extended warranty. I’ve found that in almost every case when buying a computer it’s a good idea to have some form of extended warranty. Although, one particular extended warranty that I paid close to $100, did not give me much more than a phone number to call a service shop that was located a hundred miles away. A good question to ask is where do you need to go in case you need service. Do you need to pay for shipping and handling? I always ask to read over the terms and conditions of any warranty that I will be purchasing. It makes sense to know what your coverage is all about.

Now whenever I am facing the purchase of a big-ticket item:
Research to find out which models are of interest prior to shopping,
take time to read the fine print before completing the transaction,
find out if and how protection is provided under the law,
just in case you wish to change your mind,
fully inspect and investigate the item(s) you’re purchasing,
& ensure everything is there and that it is working properly prior to buying it.

Have you a consumer related issue that you need help with? Please email me at howard.buchin@sympatico.ca.

East Scarborough Boys and Girls Club Announces Expansion Plans

2009-01-21T07:11:00.000-05:00

East Scarborough Boys and Girls Club has announced a major expansion plan.

Located at 100 Galloway Road in West Hill, the club has been part of the fabric of the community for over 50 years.

With the current building limiting its capacity to provide sufficient services to the community, the club is proceeding with an ambitious building expansion. The current club reflects the building designs of the early 1980's, characterized by a square block design with no natural light and few windows.

The proposed addition will allow in natural light to create a healthy atmosphere, including a walking course to encourage area seniors to utilize the club during inclement weather.

West Hill Site Considered for Telecommunications Tower

2009-01-15T04:53:00.000-05:00

Bell Mobility has made application to the Ministry of Industry to build a
telecommunication tower on the CNR property located near Galloway Road, behind the Boys and Girls Club. The tower will resemble a flag pole, 37 metres in height with a hut at the base.

The City of Toronto does not have any legislative authority over the placement of these towers but does mandate that a community meeting take place for community residents.

Bell Mobility are looking at the site as an alternative to the earlier proposed one at the Guildwood Presbyterian Church. Guildwood residents had raised objections to the Church agreeing to the placement of the tower on Church property, concerned about aesthetics and potential health concerns.

In the past, the City of Toronto Board of Health have noted concerns that existing guidelines may not be health protective for continuous lifetime exposure to radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic levels and that several jurisdictions have adopted stricter limits than those in Canada.

In 1999, the Board of Health recommended a prudent avoidance policy that RF waves from telecommunication towers and antennas be 100 times below Safety Code 6 in areas where people normally spend time. The Medical Officer of Health has recommended that the City collect data from cell phone carriers on predicted RF levels of proposed towers and antennas to allow the City to monitor the potential impact of proposed telecommunication facilities in Toronto.

Bell officials reassured residents that testing done at the base of other towers showed the electromagnetic radiation is "thousands of times" lower than acceptable levels.

How To Deal With A Run-Around

2009-01-12T12:05:00.001-05:00

Have you ever tried to contact a company that sold you something defective only to face the frustration and disappointment you feel when you realize you’re getting the
‘run-around’?

Nowadays, I’ve found companies utilize many methods to complicate rather than solve consumer complaints. Issues you want addressed involving various types of product defects or services get muddled. Possibly your complaint has to do with the quality control of a product or service. In a perfect world competent personable staff would quickly handle these concerns. The reality is the front line workers are usually low – paid and poorly trained. They lack the authority or ability to make a decision regarding your concerns.

In order to resolve a complaint decisions need to be made. You often find a lot of extraneous posturing and gamesmanship instead of reasonable approaches. You must remember the person you’re speaking to also reports to someone, and for any serious concerns they need clearance first.

You may find that staff appears more intent on sweeping problems off their desk instead of resolving them. And as customer complaints do have a tendency to get confrontational & uncomfortable, you’ll need a manager to make a decision in order to fix what’s wrong. The front-line service representatives at some point will dissolve into the fabric as your matter moves up the company ‘chain of command.’

For instance, Bell telephone created ‘Emily’, the all-automated customer service robotic voice service. My wife tried resolving our high long-distance phone bill, which resulted from an error on Bell’s part. She found, that after two months, Emily was totally useless. My wife explained the situation to me one morning, and seemed to want to rip the phone cord out of the wall. I decided to step in. I first wrote Bell a letter to outline what the problem was. In order to expedite this process, I called the Bell head office and asked for the head of the billing department.

Magically, on receipt of the letter, later that day, a Bell staffer called and the problem was resolved the following Monday.

How do you know that you are getting the run-around? The signs are clear if you know what to look for. Excuses being made for work not done, i.e. “Oh Sir, now with the holidays it’s our busiest time. Could you call back say in January?”
If you’re given one story on a Monday, which someone else refutes on Friday, then your issues are being ignored. The company many times tries to wear people down in order to make them go away.

Let’s face it, from the company’s standpoint, money can be saved and more profits earned by not replacing defective products under warranty, or fixing billing errors and mistakes that other company salesmen have made. In the long run, I personally don’t believe it’s a cost effective way to run a business, but many organizations are less concerned than they should be with goodwill!

If after numerous phone calls emails or letters you continue to feel that you are dancing around in circles, not moving any closer to an answer, the following guide may help you.

Here are the steps I use in the battle of the ‘run-around.’

1. Check your documentation, all warranties and other guarantees to see if anything is covered and what your options are. Check what exact rights you might have as a: new car owner, new homeowner, or purchaser of a service contract, etc. etc?

2. Whenever speaking to a company representative ask for their name or last initial. If you call back and ask for ‘John,’ he may be hard to locate if there are more than one.

3. Record the date, time and a brief description of what was discussed. This information may prove pivotal if the matter drags on. Why is it that you’re always told that everything you believe was just a big misunderstanding? You will need your notes of what statements were about that were previously made to you.

4. You must make your complaint in a timely fashion. As you become aware that your product or service is unacceptable, it’s time to issue a letter and a telephone call. In your letter or email be as specific as possible, so it’s harder for the company to wriggle out of their obligations, be it warranty or other responsibility.

5. As a rule, I find that things need to be put in writing. Lay out your concerns, and then explain what you expect to be done to resolve the issues. Be as reasonable as you can be. This way the issues are on the table and the company has a harder time denying any knowledge of your concerns. Most times you need to write out a letter after having a conversation with a company member. “Thank you Mr. Grubner for speaking with me this past Monday. It was my understanding that a multi-scrubber can only be replaced after three service calls have been made.”

6. Don’t be taken in by any of the old lines, like “We’ve never had any complaints before.” It’s very important to do some of your own troubleshooting with the problem(s) so that you come across as if you know what you’re talking about. It is a lot easier to talk about having a defective hose-clamp than explaining the kind of noise the your unit makes when you turn it on.

7. Always keep your cool, and aspire to be the reasonable party. Never show that you’re visibly upset, or risk the company saying they refuse to deal with a ‘hothead’.
Sometimes it might seem like the job of a front line worker is only meant to infuriate customers. Maybe this is a strategy designed to upset customer’s in order to get them to give up on the matter.

8. Always ask for the head of the department, or manager/supervisor. Try to keep your voice at a serious sounding pitch. Let them know you are not fooling around.
You need to come across as the ‘reasonable person,’ who just wants to resolve things.

9. It’s important to clearly state what the main problem is, and how you wish to have it corrected. Make sure the company realizes that you are not willing to spend an unlimited amount of time working on solving these issues. But on the other hand, if necessary, you’ll take things to the next level. This may mean the upper level of management or other consumer protection organizations such as the Better Business Bureau or the Ministry of Consumer Affairs. After making a submission always follow up by contacting the company to see if your letter was received and if there is anything being done.

Most importantly always stick to your guns. Once you’ve determined that your issue forms the basis for a complaint, or that something needs clarification, don’t allow yourself to be intimidated. At times the size of the organization may have you reconsidering whether to act. Sooner or later the company will start getting the message that you’re not going away until they deal with your concerns.

My next column will deal with things to think about prior to making your purchase. If you have any issues that you would like help with email me at howard.buchin@sympatico.ca

By Howard Buchin

Fire Guts Studio Building at Guild

2009-01-04T16:16:00.000-05:00

A tragic fire early Christmas morning destroyed one of West Hill's most historic buildings.

The Studio at the gates of the Guild was completely gutted by fire on Christmas day, taking fire fighters most of the day to contain the blaze.

Over 80 years old, the historic building was under gradual reconstruction as one of the most viable on the Guild property. The roof had already been completed and the washrooms were next in line.

Before it was boarded up and closed to the public almost a decade ago, the building was used as a meeting place or as a venue for family celebrations.

The Fire Marshal estimates the damage at over $200,000. Cause of the fire is undetermined.

The Studio building sits close to the entrance to the Guild grounds and the main building was never in danger.

Its future, however, remains very much in doubt.

SUGGESTIONS FOR A LESS STRESSFUL 2009

2008-12-30T17:43:00.000-05:00

For many people 2008 will go down as one of the most stressful in recent memory, and 2009 is promising more of the same.

Despite the major retail development going on in West Hill, it has been a tough year for many. The weather patterns in West Hill have been more dramatic than any in recent decades. We've lost two of our three new car dealers and the Newspapers are not filled with encouraging economic predictions for the near future.

Coping with it all can be a major challenge, but there is hope. There is a pathway that is well tested over time for managing the unavoidable stresses of life. Or so Zen Buddhism would have us believe.

The Zen Habits website assures us there is no need to renounce the world or become a monk in order to benefit from what they have learned.

According to the Zen Habits website ( http://www.zenhabits.net/2008/03/12-essential-rules-to-live-more-like-a-zen-monk/ ) there are twelve habits monks have practiced for millennia that can reduce our daily stress no matter what the future hold for us in 2009.

Here are their suggestions.

1. Do one thing at a time.
2. Do it slowly and deliberately.
3. Do it completely.
4. Do less.
5. Put space between things
6. Develop rituals .
7. Designate time for certain things.
8. Devote time to sitting.
9. Smile and serve others.
10. Make cleaning and cooking become meditation.
11. Think about what is necessary.
12. Live simply.

How you practice these in our internet world, filled with all the demands of multi-tasking, I'm not entirely sure. But maybe it gives some hope and some guidelines for a less stressful future.

However, you decided to tackle 2009, here's wishing You A Happy And More Peaceful New Year!

BMO Official Opening In West Hill

2008-12-18T19:37:00.000-05:00

To the sounds of Jingle Bell Rock, the huge Red Ribbon was cut, officially opening BMO Financial Services' newest branch office at Kingston Road and Lawrence Ave in West Hill.

City Councilor Paul Ainsley, Provincial MPP Margaret Best and Federal MP John MacKay joined BMO Officials and members of the public at the lavish opening of the new branch.

The cold evening did nothing to dampen the warmth of the reception inside. The large crowd enjoyed BMO the Bear, balloon artists, face painters for the children, great food and prizes.

And the BMO Staff Charitable Foundation generously presented the West Hill Food Bank with a cheque for $500.

West Hill is rapidly becoming the banking centre of South East Scarborough with BMO and new branches of CIBC and TD Bank joining the already established Scotia and Royal Banks in the area.

The crowd at the BMO opening enjoyed a generous buffet along with other events.

Getting The Best Deal On A New Vehicle

2008-12-16T18:38:00.000-05:00

By Howard S. Buchin
West Hill Consumer Advocate

You’ve decided your old car is ‘toast,’ & you’re considering investing in a brand new vehicle. How do you go about getting the best deal from a car dealership? Here are some vital points to consider when working out a deal with your dealer.

First off you’ll need to crunch the numbers and decide upon how much you can spend without blowing your budget. Shop around for a loan [if you need one] through your bank or other financial institution.

Shop at a minimum of three dealerships before signing, so you can compare their prices on exact models [including extras] you wish to buy. Investigate the various engine sizes your model is available in. Compare the difference in price a larger engine might cost. Compare the fuel efficiency for each.

Test drive models with the exact features and equipment that you wish to buy.
Get a written quote that’s good for at least one week, or long enough that you can take it home and read it over, not just for the day you attend the dealership.

Keep your trade-in and financing charges out of the price negotiations for a new-car. It’s best to first settle on the new-car price and then get a written trade-in value for your ‘old beater’. You can always sell your old car for more if you sell it yourself. Remember you may not wish to deal with the hassles of selling your used vehicle.

Focus on the bottom line, including any freight - delivery charges, taxes, extended warranties, fuel and registration fees. This is your final true cost and the dollar amount that you’ll need to use to compare, so that you can decide which dealer is giving you the best price.

Some of the things to you might want to avoid when buying a new car: It’s not a good idea to just add 3% on to the invoice price and bargain from there. Currently buyers have the advantage due to the state of the economy, & the dealer’s needing to clear out current stock to get ready for the 2009 models.

Avoid telling your salesperson the amount that you are looking to spend. This might result in you not getting your lowest rate. Don’t put down a deposit in order to get a quote of go for a test drive. Don’t shop for a monthly payment.

Don’t waste time haggling with the salesperson about all the various features and extras on your vehicle. The dealer’s salesperson have much more time for this than you do. Dealer’s rake in large amount of profit from extended warranties, and rust protection. Make sure the salesperson provides you with the written extended warranty so you can decide if you feel you need it. Rust protection is usually less expensive at the local shop that specializes in rust protection.

New LCBO Opens In West Hill

2008-12-04T19:48:00.000-05:00

The Greenest LCBO in Ontario opened its doors in West Hill on Wednesday December 3rd to the popping sound of bottles of Ontario Sparkling Wine being opened. Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO)President and CEO Bob Peter joined City Councilor Ron Moeser at the official opening in the new Morningside Crossing location.

The 11,000 square foot store, incorporates many energy conservation features and recycled materials in its construction earning it a LEED certification.

The store has a shopping area of almost 7,800 square feet – almost triple that of the store at 4543 Kingston Road which it replaces -- construction of this new store provided the equivalent of 14 new jobs.

Offering almost 1,800 products, 200 more than the former store, it features a large VINTAGES section with some 570 fine wine and premium spirits, compared to 20 at the previous location. The new store also has a large chilled section for beer and ready-to-drink cocktails and coolers

The store reflects LCBO’s latest layout and design, combining contemporary décor with innovative and informative product displays.

The new store also provides:

 an extensive selection of Ontario wines
 large chilled sections for beer and ready-to-drink cocktails and coolers
 a tasting counter
 gift section
 six checkouts, including a customer service counter offering product information and special order services
 good accessibility, visibility and parking

Wind Farm Controvercy Continues

2008-11-26T21:18:00.000-05:00

City Councillor Paul Ainslie has has called for another public meeting on a controversial wind turbine project, after environmental activists jammed the meeting at Sir Wilfred Laurier CI, Monday Night preventing local residents from getting to the microphones to ask the questions that concerned them.

Councillor Ainslie himself was forced to wait over two hours to ask a question.

Over 1000 people turned up for the Community meeting to discuss the proposed installation of a refrigerator sized wind anemometer two kilometers off the Scarborough Bluffs, the first step in the proposed installation of a massive wind farm.

The meeting was Toronto Hydro's second attempt to hold a public consultation after an earlier event in at Christ Church hall left hundreds stranded outside unable to get in.

Environmentalists, students and union members bussed in supporters who drowned out local residents and took control of the microphones until late in the meeting.

The event attracted media attention from across the country.

If the project gets approval it will see a wind farm constructed over a 26-kilometre area the length of the bluffs, 2 to 4 kilometres offshore.

Some residents complained the project would spoil the natural beauty of the area, harm fish and bird populations and lower property values.

Juried Art Show Opens At Framing Dames Gallery

2008-11-08T07:55:00.000-05:00

The smokers stood outside in the heavy drizzle, seeking what little shelter they could find. Indian Summer had come to an end and in its place, the cold rains of late Fall had drenched the earth. Cigarettes in hand, the women looked determined, but they didn't look happy.

The parking next to the Framing Dames Gallery on Manse Road in Highland Creek was full and we were forced to park the car at St. Joseph's church across the road and run through the puddles to the Gallery entrance. As we passed by them, the two smokers gave us looks of envy as we left the rain behind.

Opening night of the juried art show and the Gallery was full. Tables had been set with food and the conversation was flowing.

Many of the paintings have been done by professionals. A picture of a trout about to swallow a lure, had been done by a local artist whose illustrations often appear in Field and Stream.

Many of the artworks were photographs, some of stunning originality. The theme of the show was "motion" and a shot of a hummingbird caught in mid flight, caught my attention.

The variety of art on display, along with its quality, help make the show a unique experience and a feast for the senses.

We mingled with the crowd, many of whom seemed to know each other, listening to their conversations:

"Oh you entered a painting too, where is it?"

"Oh I had a couple of frames left over so I just grabbed a couple of things I'd done earlier, framed them, and brought them in to the show."

"Yes it's joy to look at. I can't believe how well he caught their mood. And the colours...."

At 7:30 the judge was introduced and the winners announced to loud applause.
Then it was back out into the rain and the night, the bright lights and colourful images left behind in the gallery.

Perhaps for you to visit later this week?

West Hill Warriors Logo Controversy

2008-10-31T06:46:00.001-04:00

A move to replace the West Hill Warrior name and logo has sparked a controversy that has spilled over into the pages of Canada's major Newspapers, radio and Television stations.

Following concerns raised by teachers at the school that the logo and name do not meet TDSB's non discrimination policy, school Trustee Nadia Bello has proposed a review of the team identifiers at West Hill C.I.

This has sparked a protest on the social networking site Facebook.

On the site, Tom Chatsworth, the group's creator defends the groups purpose this way:

"For over 50 years, West Hill C.I. has not only shaped the minds of its students, but has also instilled in them, in us, a strong work ethic, and a sense of pride. Pride for our community, pride for who we are and pride for where we came from … and that's we call Warriors Pride!

"We are, and always will be, West Hill Warriors!

"This is our school. This is your school. … and we are, the West Hill Warriors!

"Our new school Trustee, Nadia Bello, and a small number of politically correct activists, have taken it upon themselves to attack what is our history, your history; and our traditions, your traditions."

Not all of the over 900 members agree.

As Nafees Haider writes...

"I don't think a lot of people understand why Natives want to distance themselves from the term "Warrior". Native's were NOT warriors or fighters, they were very peaceful.

"Cowboy movies during the 20th century portrayed these people as living in tipis, wearing war bonnets or feathers in their hair, riding horses, brandishing war lances, and more. As a result of this, the common assumption is that all Native people were like those portrayed in films.

"The image of the Native Warrior was used as means of propaganda, the Native Warrior was usually shown as a fierce and formidable threat to civilized society, usually depicted bare-chested and brandishing a war lance or some primal weapon. Long before the First Nations Act, the Native "warrior" was not promoted as:

"a person who shows or has shown great vigor, courage, or aggressiveness, as in politics or athletics"

"They were seen as the epitome of the savagery that had to be courageously overcome by "progressive elements" of the West.

"Need a modern day comparison? If your still not sure why it's a big deal for them to dissassociate themselves from the "warrior" image? It's like saying all Muslims or anyone of middle eastern or Indian decent are terrorists. The Native Warrior is simply a bad STEREOTYPE. Just like the old Picaninny and black face caricatures and cartoons back in the 30's and 40's.

"The logo needs to go. The name should stay. That's just my two cents."

Movie Memorabilia on Display

2008-10-15T13:40:00.000-04:00

With a lifetime spent in the movie business, West Hill resident Bill Harman has seen it all. He has worked on over 250 movies from Cleopatra to Star Wars, from the Countess Of Hong Kong to X men, from Carry On Nurse to Superman.

He's worked with Christopher Reeve, Charlie Chaplin, Elizabeth Taylor, Peter Sellers, Sean Connery and hundreds of other stars. He's been kissed by Marilyn Monroe.

He shared a studio for many years with Terry Gilliam who did the animation for the Monty Python shows.

He built the murderous rabbit from Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

And now he has put together the memorabilia from his years in the movie business and has it on display at the Framing Dames Gallery 211 Morrish Rd in Highland Creek through October 25th.

Don't miss it.

Scarborough-Guildwood Candidates 2008

2008-10-08T09:06:00.000-04:00

The following video offers a brief glimpse at the candidates running for office in the 2008 Federal Election, to be held on October 14, as they discuss the backgrounds that helped prepare them for office.

The video was filmed at the Coronation Community Association of West Hill's All Candidates Night on October 7th.

The Candidates, in order of appearance, are Sania Khan, NDP; Chuck Konkel, Conservative Party; Alonzo Bartley, Green Party; and John McKay, Liberal Party.

CONGRATULATIONS TO JOHN MCKAY FOR HIS RE-ELECTION AS OUR MP FOR SCARBOROUGH GUILDWOOD IN THE OCTOBER 14TH GENERAL ELECTION

Morningside Crossing Grand Opening

2008-09-27T17:25:00.000-04:00

September 27, 2008 saw the end of 3 years of uncertainty, demolition and frantic construction on the site of the old Morningside Mall in the heart of West Hill.

Neglected and in severe decline for many years, the Mall was finally purchased by First Capital who announced plans for the complete demolition of the Mall and the construction of a modern shopping centre in its place.

Today the dream of a completely new and modern shopping experience was unveiled. As Dori Segal, President and CEO of First Capitol Reality declared the new Shopping Centre open steel drums were playing, kiddies were enjoying a carnival atmosphere and parents were heading for the new stores.

On hand to welcome the new facility to West Hill, on behalf of the City, were Councillor's Ron Moeser from Ward 44 and Paul Ainslie from nearby Ward 43.

The new Centre meets the stringent LEED environmental standard making it the Greater Toronto Area's first Green Shopping Centre. A milestone commemorated by a plaque unveiled on the site.

90% of the old Mall was reused on the site; the Centre uses 25% less energy and 30% less indoor water consumption. A 500 cubic metre storage tank is buried under the main parking lot to store captured rainwater from the roofs of the buildings to be used for on-site irrigation. Parking lot lighting is all focused down where its needed and not up into the night sky blocking the view of the stars.

But it wasn't the Centre's environmental friendliness, the rides, the free gifts, the food or the band that was exciting the thousands who came out to celebrate this newly reinvigorated centre of the West Hill area, it was the new shopping experience and the beautiful new stores.

West Hill's Family Fun Day 2008

2008-09-21T08:45:00.000-04:00

West Hill's Annual Family Fun Day at Heron Park was a rousing success with well over 1000 people attending.

With not stop concerts, displays by Metro Zoo, bouncing castles, bingo, food, drink free giveaways, face painting and numerous other events it was a feast for the mind and body.

The event was thanks to the tireless work of Toronto Parks Recreation and Forestry, The Manse Valley Community Association, The Coronation Community Association of West Hill and Resident's Rising.

Thanks go out to our numerous participants including Storefront, Toronto Police 43 Division, Toronto Public Library and every one who donated their time or just came out to have Fun.

See you all next year!

Adult Day Centre

2008-08-28T17:55:00.000-04:00

Nancy North is feeling emotionally conflicted. A young college student is completing her field placement at West Hill’s Adult Day Centre and will soon be leaving. Nancy is proud of the woman for completing her course but saddened to see her go.

“Students bring a wonderful energy with them,” Nancy explains. “The seniors in our program benefit from that and, I believe our students benefit from their interactions with our seniors as well.”

Nancy is the Manager of the West Hill Community Services Adult Day Centre, located in a small plaza at Manse and Kingston Rd. Funded by the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care through the Central East LHIN, along with user fees, the Centre presents safe, recreational and therapeutic programs for adults affected by Alzheimer’s or other dementias. The Centre’s clients range from 50 to 90 years of age.

The Centre provides its programs in a “club-like” setting. Along with lunch and snacks, the Centre involves the seniors in discussions, songs, dance, arts, crafts and a range of social outings. The Centre’s programs and services make available the additional supports necessary for people to age gracefully and with dignity in the comfort of their own homes.

The programs and services are as individual as the clients. For some, the Centre is a place to go one afternoon a week. Others attend every day, either picked up at their homes by the Centre’s van or brought to the centre by family members. The Centre can accommodate up to 20 adults at a time.

“We are especially proud of our new garden,” Nancy explains. With funding from the Junior League of Toronto, the Scarborough Garden and Horticultural society has created a therapeutic garden at the front of the building. With flower, herb and vegetable boxes tall enough for seniors to sit on the rim and help with the planting, the beautiful garden provides the Centre not only with fresh herbs and vegetables, but also involves the seniors in a range of sensory experiences appealing to touch and taste while providing a visual feast for the eyes.

“We just picked our first zucchini of the year,” Nancy tells me with a proud smile.

The Centre also offers Bereavement, Peer and Caregiver Supports along with Education sessions.

For more information about the Centre visit the West Hill Community Services website at www.westhill-cs.on.ca .

The Guild Alive With Culture

2008-08-26T13:06:00.000-04:00

In case you missed one of the area's great summer cultural events, Alive With Culture at the Guild Inn, here is a sampling of what you missed.

Picture the grounds of the Guild Inn alive with tents hosting paintings from portraits to abstract, sculptures, jewelry, pottery, clothing, arts and crafts, two stages featuring musicians and story tellers, a farmers market food, drinks and tours of the historic grounds. Over 2000 people strolling by enjoying one of the nicest days of the summer.

Or just watch this brief video--

City Councilor Paul Ainslie, one of the sponsors of the Event, was pleased with the success of the day and has announced plans to expand it to a two day event next year.

Shoppers Drug Mart Opens

2008-08-04T19:22:00.001-04:00

The first store in the final phase of the development of Morningside Crossing, Shoppers Drug Mart has now opened.

The large Shoppers is open until midnight every night.

Shoppers was one of the anchor stores in the old Morningside Mall, so this is really coming home for the store chain.

Food Basics next door to Shoppers is nearing completion and has posted a notice alerting local residents to submit job applications.

Morningside Crossing replaces Morningside Mall which was demolished last year to make way for this new development.

Festival Market Returns For Second Year

2008-07-03T19:44:00.000-04:00

West Hill's Festival Market has returned to the park at St. Margaret-In-The Pines for a second straight year.

Held every Thursday between 3 and 6 pm, the beautiful garden market features crafts, food, stilt walkers and entertainment.

Crowds flock around the organic vegetables, browse the craft tables, visit with friends or rest under the shade of the many trees. Children dance or play catch while their parents visit the many displays.

This is a unique event in the West Hill area and well worth a visit.

The Market can be found on Lawrence just East of Kingston Rd.

HAPPY CANADA DAY WEST HILL!

2008-07-01T17:12:00.001-04:00

Safety Audit Conducted at East View Park

2008-06-28T19:59:00.000-04:00

Over 30 West Hill residents attended the May Executive Meeting
of the Coronation Community Association of West Hill to express
concerns about plans to construct a Splash Pad at Eastview Park.

Residents were worried about increased noise levels, a decrease in
park cleanliness and personal safety issues should the splash pad be
constructed so close to their homes.

In response to their concerns City Councilor Paul Ainslie committed
to  the planting of mature trees to cut down on noise levels, increased
vigilance in maintaining Park cleanliness having a safety audit
conducted at the proposed  building site.

The Audit was held on Tuesday June 3, 2008 at Eastview Park.
Residents came out to express their safety concerns to Constable Bill
Campbell, Crime Prevention and Adult Program Coordinator Leslie
Chitra and City Parks Department staff.  Also present were Coronation
Community Association President Barry Fraser, Vice President Ron
Wooton, membership Chair Bess King and Neighbourhood
Representative Ed King.

The results of the audit are currently being addressed by city staff.

Councilor Ainslie asks if residents with any park safety concerns to
please share them with his office and they will be forwarded to City
staff to address.

The Eastview splash pad is one of two being built in West Hill.  The
other one will be in Morningside Park. A splash pad has been
operating behind the Morningside Library at Heron Park for
several years.

Both are being built by the same contractor and are scheduled to
be opened by August 1, 2008.  The Councilor feels both should
provide a welcome addition for neighbourhood children, who have
limited pool recreational services in the area.

Port Union Waterfront Trail Opens

2008-06-22T07:21:00.000-04:00

They came out in their thousands to celebrate the opening of the latest section of the Trans Canada Trail. Mothers carrying infants in pouches and pushing carriages, fathers dressed for African safaris, skate boarders, dog walkers, police, serious joggers and children everywhere.

This new section stretches from Port Union 5 km along the shores of Lake Ontario to East Points Park in West Hill.

One of the big fire boats from Toronto Harbour sat off shore blowing huge streams of water high in the air, a great ferris wheel lifted excited children above the roof tops, local bands gave back to back concerts, a tipi had been erected on the high point of the park and food was being consumed at a furious rate. A splash pad was filled with screaming children and booths of every kind advertised local activities.

Linda and I walked the Trail to Highland Creek and back. Once we left Port Union Common, the crowds dropped away and we were able to enjoy the beauty of the new waterfront pathway, being passed frequently by dedicated joggers, bikers and the rush of roller bladers.

The Port Union section of Toronto's Waterfront Trail now connect this community with the West Hill Community where I live. It winds its way along the waterfront to Highland Creek and then climbs above the beach at the foot of the Scarborough Bluffs where it connects to the extensive trails running through Col Danforth and Morningside Parks..

The creation of a Trans Canada Trail, of which the Toronto Waterfront Trail system forms a part, was announced as part of Canada's 125th anniversary celebrations in 1992. At 18,078-kilometres (11,233 mi), it is expected to become the longest recreational trail in the world.

It has its counterparts in other greenway routes like the 12 EuroVelo routes and the USA's East Coast Greenway.

To date it has been funded largely by Canadian Federal, Provincial and Municipal governments. However, there have also been corporate donors and individual donors.

Linda and I walk the path beside the waters of Lake Ontario, the ground beside us beginning its slow rise to become the Scarborough Bluffs as a stream of pretty girls on roller blades glide past us, laughing and excited and full of life.

The Trail is now 70% complete

Something very special is being born across this country. And today we are part of its celebration.

Our thanks to City Councilor Ron Moeser and the Port Union Waterfront Committee for a job well done.

Morningside Crossing Nears completion

2008-06-19T07:25:00.000-04:00

Sisters Restaurant Sold

2008-06-09T06:26:00.000-04:00

Following the sale of Millie's House to Habitat for Humanity, Millie Travener has confirmed that Sister Restaurant has also been sold.

Sisters Restaurant is facing a huge change but Millie has secured a promise from the new owners that the staff would remain.

Millie's mother purchased the restaurant, then a small truck stop, back in 1956 and named it Millies. When, Millie's sister Maria joined them in the business it was expanded and renamed Sisters.

With the passing of her mother and sister, Millie has been running the restaurant together with her son Jeff for many years.

Sisters legendary Jazz nights brought a taste of the downtown to the suburbs.

Millie is planning to travel, read and run a few more marathons!

She and Sisters will be missed.

A Walk Through Deekshill Park

2008-05-25T08:19:00.000-04:00

Deekshill Park is one of the more beautiful spots in West Hill, with one of the worst reputations. A woman was raped there two years ago and local residents were reluctant to walk through the quiet forest due to rowdy teens drinking on the bank of the small stream that ran through the woods.

Uncared for, the Park was strewn with refuse including discarded tires, supermarket buggies, lawn chairs, plastic bags and other garbage.

Concerned, the Coronation Community Association of West Hill approached City Councilor Ron Moeser who had a team from Toronto Parks in to clean it up. The CCA also approached Police Superintendent Gottschuck who has increased patrols in the Park area.

The result has been a transformation of this 6 acre jewel back to being one of the most lovely areas of natural woodland in the City.

Have a look at the following video and then take a walk through the park yourself. We need to start to use this area both more frequently and more responsibly or risk loosing it.

Deekshill is located south of Lawrence and east of Morningside off Link Road in West Hill.

Historic Millie's House Sold

2008-05-14T20:13:00.000-04:00

Historic Millie's House and Millie's Billiards have been sold to a developer. The deal includes the parking lot behind the House.

Originally purchased by a developer, it us now rumoured to have been quickly resold to Habitat for Humanity.

If so this will make this the fourth Habitat project in our community, The first Habitat development was built beside the new Library on Lawrence. The second was on Kingston Rd in a vacant lot across from Pazac where it is nearing completion. This development was the first brick development by habitat in Toronto. The third was the controversial development that saw one of West Hill's last wild places destroyed, 2000 trees cut down and the earth excavated down to a depth of 3 feet, on Manse Road at Lawrence. Construction is soon slated to begin on this site.

Millie's would be the fourth.

43 Division 3rd Annual BBQ and Open House

2008-05-11T07:42:00.000-04:00

On Saturday May 10th the 43 Division Toronto Police Station held their 3rd annual open house, sponsored by the Community Police Liaison Committee. The day featured a free barbecue, four different bands in concert, an antique fire truck, antique ambulance from the days when the Toronto ambulance service was operated by funeral parlors, face painting, a tour of the new station and many other events.

Other community groups such as the Toronto Zoo, the Coronation Commuity Association of West Hill, Residents Rising Community Association, Manse Valley Community Association and Storefront featured displays. The Chief of Police for the city also attended.

If you missed the day here is a short view of what you missed. If you attended, perhaps the following video will bring back some memories--

Remembering the Alexandria

2008-04-25T09:24:00.000-04:00

It's an unusual day. A fairly strong wind is blowing off the Lake onto the shore lifting large waves that crash into the beach at the foot of the Scarborough Bluffs.

I'm taking my dog to Sylvan Park for her morning run because these conditions are too special to waste. Sylvan is located mid way along the ten kilometer length of the Bluffs at the end of Sylvan Drive deep in the heart of Guildwood Village.

If you don't know the park is there, you'll never find it in the maze of suburban streets. The bluffs are much taller here, close to their 90 meter maximum. And from the top of the bluffs on days when a strong wind blows onto the shore you can still see her in the troughs of the waves.

Her great boiler and some of her decking are all that's left of the Alexandra. And those are usually hidden just below the surface of the Lake.

On Tuesday August 3rd, 1915, the 49 year old Alexandria was bound for Toronto when she ran into a massive storm. Capt. Bloomfield was steaming for the safety of the Toronto harbour hoping that the old wooden side wheeler would hold together long enough to survive. With only 300 tons of cargo aboard, she was riding high in the water and was easy prey for the raging wind and the heavy seas.

Her 50 horsepower was simply not enough to hold her on her course and she was pushed further and further towards the lee shore with each battering wave. Although the light of Toronto's Eastern Gap was in sight, she finally lost her battle and the old ship rammed onto the sands at the base of the Scarborough Bluffs.

Alerted by the forlorne peal of the ship's horn, the top of the bluffs was soon lined with spectators leaning into the savage wind and rain to watch the 173-foot, 863-ton Alexandria's fight to the death. They didn't have long to wait.The crushing seas soon began to dismantle the vessel and her end wasn't long in coming.

The hull began to break up about 8:00 p.m. when about 50 feet of the bow broke off. The terrified crew then took to the boats but the waves were vicious and all twenty-two of her crew were tossed into the churning waters. Clinging to lifelines rigged from the beach, and with the help of those on shore, all the men reached safety by midnight. No sooner had the last man reached shore, than the stern section of the ship tore away from the wreck and broke up.

The following morning winds had died down and the lake quieted. The wreckage lay scattered along the shoreline. I still find pieces of it even today. What was left of the Alexandria had been pushed very close inshore during the night and now she lay facing in a westerly direction and listing over on her port side. The cabin had been badly smashed by the waves and the top section of the funnel had disappeared over the side.

Her cargo of pickles, canned vegetables, potatoes and sugar had been washed away and residents along the shore as far west as Ward's Island stocked their shelves for the winter with supplies from the stricken steamer. Quite a few sheds were also built that year from her planking.

Succeeding storms soon broke up what was left of Alexandria's woodwork and all that remained above water was the walking beam and the upper portion of the boiler, these being quite visible, especially at times of low water. For over twenty years these relics were a feature of the eastern shoreline. For many years the local children used the walking beam as a diving platform.

But in due course, with the high water and the erosion of the shoreline, the last visible remains of Alexandria disappeared from sight and local residents were left with their memories of the stormy night that "Alex" came ashore. And a few jars of pickles.

It is only on days like today that she still comes alive again, fleetingly glimpsed between the waves. The ghost of another time and another era.

Natural Garden Care

2008-04-13T09:33:00.000-04:00

by Katie

Spring has arrived, the snow is gone and the flowers have started to poke their heads through the earth so now is the time to start to think of ways to protect them and yourself from insects and rodents. You don't need to grow vegetables in order to use natural means of pest control, in fact you don't need a garden at all.

During the summer months do you see mosquitoes, ants moths or mice around your yard? Plants and herbs will keep these pests away from your garden or home. You don't need to spend a fortune either and if you look at the cost, natural means of controlling pests is cheaper and much less dangerous than using any commercial bug killers. And they help[ you to stay clear of Toronto's $5000 fine for those breaking the new pesticide bylaw. The good thing about using these natural and proven methods of insect control is that you can have just a few flower pots of these things that you can move around to where they are needed or you could do as I do and scatter them throughout the garden but I also have some of these plants by my front and back doors to repel insects and to keep them out of my house.

I plant marigolds at the front and back end of my vegetable rows. I put Marigold there because the scent from Marigold confuses flying insects. They can't ruin your plants or vegetables if they can't get to them and Marigolds do an outstanding job at keeping flying insects away. They try to get near the garden, hit the Marigold scent and they get dizzy and fly off. Garlic is another good herb to use as a means of keeping flying insects away too and it also keeps a number of beetles and grubs away as well.

Do you have problems with ants in your garden or in your house? Ants will be repelled by Sage. Plant some sage around your property and around your garden and you will be ant free all year, it will drive the ants out of their underground homes and will chase them into your neighbors yard. If you plant some sage in some flower pots and place them beside your front and rear doorways, you will keep ants out of your house forever. You can also place a few sprigs in your cabinets or cupboards and that will keep the ants out of your kitchen. Leaving a few sprigs in the cellar will keep the ants from tunneling in to the house as well.

Are you tired of running around your home with a rolled up piece of newspaper trying to swat a fly that got in? A great way to keep flies out of the house altogether is to once again take some plower pots and plant some Basil. Place these flower pots by the doors and by a few windows and you will keep flies away. Basil is a tremendous all purpose insect repellent and it will work against moths, flies and other flying pests. Basil planted around tomatoes will help them taste better and it helps them grow better but the best part is that when the tomatoes are ready to be picked, you have the Basil for making sauce right there beside the tomatoes!

Two of the most disgusting creatures you find in gardens are snails and slugs....yuch. To keep these slimy creatures out of your garden and out of your life, plant some Anise. Anise is a great repellent for slugs and snails and also works to repel aphids.

I have a large and open back yard and I have a brook that runs through my yard and a lot of open space on each side of the brook. That means that I have field mice running around the area. I dont want to kill them but at the same time, I dont want them in or anywhere around my house, so I plant spearmint along the brook banks and around my yard and garden, I plant a lot of it around the foundation of my house and by my doors. This keeps mice away from my house altogether. It also makes my yard smell tremendous too but spearmint works and it will keep all rodents away without fail. If you ever get a mouse in the house, then you can always take some sprigs of the mint and scatter around the house or you can go to the nuclear bomb of rodent control and get some spearmint or peppermint oil and soak a cottonball in it and leave it in the corners of a few rooms. The smell will drive the rodents right out of the house and wont harm them at all.

Another great method of controlling ants, aphids and mice in and around your garden or house is to plant some catnip. Catnip is a superb repellent of insects but it will attract cats who just may find that they like to use your garden as a giant kitty litter box so if you plant some Rue there as well, that scent will repel dogs and cats and keep your garden happy.

There are a lot of natural means to keep your garden and your home free from insects and other pests. You do not have to try to destroy them by using harsh chemicals when natural means exist to control all garden and home pests. I use no chemicals in my gardens at all. I only use natural means of pest and rodent control and I have never lost any of my vegetables to insects or any four legged creatures. I attract the insects that I want such as bees but the rest always find a not welcomed sign waiting for them.

Try some of these methods, once you see that they do indeed work then try another and then another. In a very short time you will find that natural methods work better than any chemical that you can buy.

Shooting in West Hill

2008-04-07T06:47:00.000-04:00

It was in the late afternoon and I heard the shots plain as day from my home half a kilometer away.

Two Toronto Police officers were patrolling an apartment at Morningside and Lawrence when they were shot at by a drive-by gunman outside a Scarborough high rise.

Slugs ripped into two cars parked at the apartment and also into the empty St. Martin de Porres schoolyard across the street. The shooting took place half a block away from where the police horse Brigarier was run down and killed.

Officers from 54 Division raced to the area and quickly found the four-door 2006 Acura parked on Oak Knolls Crescent, about three kilometers away.

A search of nearby McDonald's restaurant on Kingston Rd. near Port Union Rd. led to the arrest of one male who had moments earlier tried to hide a knife in the washroom.

Ours is a quiet neighbourhood, for the most part, as city neighourhoods in a major urban area go.

Crime has decreased by nearly ten percent over the past couple of years. We have a large new police division building, our outdated Mall is being replaced by a modern new shopping complex, our GO/VIA Train station has just completed a multi million dollar renewal.

New luxury condos are spreading along Kingston Rd. New Restaurants are being built. A vibrant community market with fresh vegetables, crafts and entertainment runs through the summer on the St. Margarets-in-the- Pines Church grounds. The City have rebuilt Kingston Road with a new treed median and Lawrence Ave in slated for upgrading this summer.

A new book by our local United Church Minister has become a national best seller. New Community Associations are hosting Community Picnics, Clean Up Days, Neighbour's Nights out and other events. More than any other area in Toronto, there is a sense of vibrancy about West Hill.

But all it takes is a punk with a gun creating the impression of the area being a dangerous place to visit to put everything at risk.

We are just emerging from the second most vicious winter since records were kept and may be entering a long hot summer.

Shoeless Joe's Restaurant Coming to West Hill

2008-03-03T15:53:00.000-05:00

Evan Williams Director of Development at First Capital has confirmed that a Shoeless Joe's Restaurant will be a part of the new Morningside Crossing development. The restaurant will be built at the corner of Morningside and Lawrence.

A fast food restaurant from a chain that has not previously had an outlet in West Hill will also be an addition to the new development and will be located beside the new Shoeless Joe's.

Mr. Williams made his announcement at a joint meeting with the Coronation Community Association of West Hill and the Resident's Rising Community Association. The meeting had been arranged through the office of Ward 43 Councilor Paul Ainslie. John Alderdice, from Economic Development chaired the meeting.

Mr. Williams also confirmed that a Canada Post Office would be part of the new Shoppers Drug Mart currently under construction on the site. The cement foundation for both the Shoppers and the new Food Basic has been laid and the superstructure has begun in time for a summer opening of phase two of the development.

A Goodlife Fitness Centre will be located on the upper story of the new plaza currently under construction along Collinsgrove. This new plaza will host a new and enlarged LCBO, a Dollarama, a Bulk Barn and possibly fashion and hardware stores as well. The metalwork on the plaza has now been completed and the walled enclosing of the site is underway.

First Capital has also purchased the Blockbuster Plaza and is considering its options for these stores.

The new development will be only the second to be built to the LEEDS environmental standards and the grounds will be extensively landscaped to encourage pedestrian as well as vehicular traffic. The Community Associations pushed for a Community bulletin board along with appropriate seating and requested the developer consider a butcher shop along with a small department store.

West Hill In Love

2008-03-01T05:56:00.000-05:00

I have to admit it, we Canadians are not known for romance. If someone were to ask you to name the most romantic people on earth, Canadians would not immediately come to mind. Might not even make it onto your list as a postscript.

"Nice people" yes we would be near the top of your list. "Polite", "clean", "nice neighbours", okay you got us.

If you're ever in a fight, a couple of our hockey players would be handy to have around. But women seldom dream of toothless lovers.

If you need comedians for the Hollywood grist mill, Jim Carey, Martin Short or Mike Myers will do just fine. They'd be fun to have at a party, but they're not romantic. Oh Hollywood did its best to make us romantic, with those singing Mounty/beautiful Indian maiden movies back in the thirties. But the Canadian Mounted Police don't dress in those red surge jackets any more, they don't ride horses and they sure don't sing. If you get stopped for a ticket in Alberta, they'll look like any other cop in North America. And the same old, same old isn't romantic.

That's what makes it so strange that the entire population of Canada should have fallen in love, deeply passionately in love. The stand in the freezing cold just for a glimpse, a taste of the ardour of your affection, kind of love. Romance on a grand scale.

With a chain of donut restaurants.

Cue Enya, dim the lights, we are about to name the object of our affection: Tim Hortons

Just listen to what Wikipeadia has to say:

"Tim Hortons Inc. is a coffee-and-doughnut fast food restaurant chain. Founded in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1964, the store rapidly expanded across Canada to become the country's largest quick-service food chain.

"Tim Hortons franchise stores are plentiful in Canadian cities and towns. As of July 1, 2007, there were 2,733 outlets in Canada, 345 outlets in the United States and one outlet just outside Kandahar, Afghanistan. Tim Hortons has supplanted McDonald's as Canada's largest food service operator; it has nearly twice as many Canadian outlets as McDonald's, and its system-wide sales surpassed those of McDonald's Canadian operations in 2002. The chain accounted for 22.6% of all fast food industry revenues in Canada in 2005. Tim Hortons commands 76% of the Canadian market for baked goods (based on the number of customers served) and holds 62% of the Canadian coffee market (compared to Starbucks, in the number two position, at 7%)."

Have sweeter words ever been spoken? Can you not feel our hearts beating. Our soldiers in Afghanistan could not exist without Tim Hortons and our troops wrote enough pleading letters to the restaurant chain that they opened a store on our military base in Kandahar province.

And Tim Horton, the man for whom the entire chain is named, was a hockey player.

If you want to find romance in Canada, just go to any Tims and look for the line-up that stretches from the counter out the door into the cold frigid morning.

In West Hill, we are not afraid to suffer for our love.

Have pity on us, we're Canadians.

Roadmap to a Vital Community

2008-02-21T06:13:00.000-05:00

Invitations had been sent to every school, church, political and community organization in the area. But people arrive home weary from a days work and a long commute to the suburbs. And, of course, it was girls night on American Idol. Given such adversaries, would anyone come to hear a talk on community development by Toronto's Poet Laureate?

Millie, at Sister's Restaurant, had donated her party room for the evening and attended the event herself.

People trickled in and time raced toward the 7 pm start of the meeting. In the end, 25 people turned out in a room set for over 60. City Councilor Ron Moeser, MP John McKay and representatives from MPP Margaret Best attended, but no teachers and only one church sent two people. From that point of view it was a disappointment.

Pier Giorgio arrived, tired emotionally and physically from officiating at the burial of a friend. Although the Poet Laureate of Toronto, Giorgio was once a Brother in the Order of St. Augustine and is now a Roman Catholic Priest. The City Planner of Toronto had died suddenly and Giorgio had been asked to preside over his funeral. He had come to our meeting directly from that, dressed in his black suit and roman collar, the normal flamboyant clothing of the poet laid aside for his somber duties.

He went from table to table, engaging each individual in conversation. Who are you, why are you here (when so many others stayed in the comfort of their home), what do you want for your community?

Then he went to the lectern and waited patiently during his introduction. And then he began to speak. Hesitantly at first, struggling to find his way into his message. But then finding the heart of what he wanted to say, his voice gained strength, lifting the audience out of the drabness of suburban life into the promise of a vital community, where people spoke to each other, where artists found each other and contributed to the public space, where political will encouraged innovation and risk over safety, where messiness was tolerated and fears laid aside.

Here is the essence of his message: "Let's say an artist creates a piece of public sculpture, a red boot. You will find there are two reaction to this red boot--"Oh look, someone created a red boot and set it here on the sidewalk. Why would they do that? What a fun thing for someone to do!"--or "Look at that stupid red boot, someone's going to stub their toe on that. We better get in touch with our City Councilor and have that removed."

You can have vitality or safety, human interaction or safety, growth or safety, a healthy community or safety. But you can't have both. Creativity is a messy and risky human endeavor but joyful and hopeful for all of that.

The meeting went on for two hours, with Giorgio having another two hour drive back to his home north of the City.

As we left the meeting, a lunar eclipse was nearing the 3/4 mark. Attendees stood in the cold winter night, warmed by the meeting and the vibrant exchange of ideas that followed and watched the moon turn red. Like the statue of an old boot sitting on a sidewalk, just waiting for someone to stub their toe.

Toronto's Poet Laureate Talk Tonight

2008-02-20T08:37:00.000-05:00

Toronto's Poet Laureate is giving a talk at Sister's Restaurant at 7 pm this evening. An adviser to the Prime Minister's office, the Premier of Ontario and Mayor Miller, on the factors that make for creative and very human communities, Di Cicco will focus on the Soul of the City.

MP John McKay, MPP Margaret Best and City Councilor Ron Moeser have all confirmed attendance., as has a representative from Paul Ainslie's office.

Some seating remains for this event so come early and prepare for a provocative evening.

Getting Personal

2008-02-11T21:05:00.001-05:00

I decided to work from home on Friday. Year end is coming up and I had a lot of data to enter into AIM and knew from (painful) experience that the work goes faster in the quiet of my home office.

If my dog, Lindsay, was glad to have me home for the day, she concealed it well and could be found sleeping in various places around the house without ever seeming to move from one spot to the other.

About two o'clock I noticed three young teenagers walking down the street with shovels and assumed they were out to make some money shoveling driveways. They'd make no money from mine since I'd already cleaned it off twice that day.

However, one of the boys, without a shovel, walked up my drive, momentarily disappeared from my view, and then turned and walked back down it again. Thinking he had been delivering pamphlets, I went to the door to check the mail box.

Only to spot the same boy retrieving my ergonomic snow shovel from where he had tossed it into the middle of my neighbour's front lawn. I yelled, but he and his friends just kept walking. With my shovel added to their collection. Running back into the house I quickly put on a pair of boots and raced out the door. But they were gone, the street empty.

So I phoned the police and two patrol cars rolled up to my front door within five minutes. They took my statement and description of the boys and description of my shovel.

Being a pessimist, and faced with another snowfall today, I have just returned from purchasing a new shovel.

Oh, and Lindsay the guard dog, of course, slept through the whole thing. If a squirrel had stolen our shovel, I'm sure the entire neighbourhood would have heard about it.

Bob Johnston Ends Relationship with GM

2008-02-06T08:50:00.000-05:00

As hard as it is to believe, on another day of heavy winter snow and miserable driving conditions, Spring is within reach. Only this year, when the snow leaves, it will be accompanied by a West Hill landmark that has served the community for nearly 40 years.

Bob Johnston Motors has terminated its long standing relationship with General Motors. Johnston Chevrolet Ltd. had been a fixture in the community since it opened its doors back in 1972. Not only was it the dealership of choice for local residents interested in GM products, but the Johnston family were well known contributors to neighbourhood events. Bob Johnston will continue as a service center for all makes of cars.

With a massive condominium complex replacing the Markington Plaza, the creation of the Morningside Crossing shopping Centre, and the redevelopment of the Montoro Motel site, West Hill is in the process of a remarkable transformation.

Indeed as Realtor Maria Florosz observes, "People are just coming to realize that Scarborough in general and in this area of Scarborough in particular, homes are significantly under valued."

If so, watch for even more radical change in the future.

PC Gord Hayford Retires

2008-02-04T06:38:00.001-05:00

The smiling photo of PC Gord Hayford and Community Police Liaison Committee Chair Marilyn Hodge, was taken at last years 43 Division open house.

Gord has put a human face on policing in West Hill as the Crime Prevention Officer and expert in the way Environmental design affects public safety.

Gord announced his retirement from policing today:

A heartfelt THANK YOU

Greetings to all.

Many of you may have wondered over the past several months, what happened to me?

Well I’m still here. But only for today. I apologize for the lack of information but it was due to office politics. Nuff said.

I want you to know though that 43 Division has some of the most caring, competent, compassionate and professional hard working Police Officers I have ever had the pleasure to work with. And to her benefit. The second in command, Inspector Bernadette Button is one of the most intelligent and caring woman I know. A totally competent officer and leader. A real spark in the management of 43 Division.

I would encourage everyone to become more and more involved in your communities. Know that you can make a difference and you can make things change. A community in which people take an interest is a community that crime can not grab a hold of.
Get out on the street. Use your parks, use your recreation facilities. You have the ability to make the space you call your home better and safer. The police can not do this as much as you.

Several years ago, ( now I’m dating myself) a milk store called Beckers started a campaign with buttons which simply stated “our cops are tops”. Well Beckers is long gone and you could probably get a few bucks for those buttons on Ebay. But how about this. When you see a cop drive by, why not wave to him or her. If you see them on the street or in a plaza. Say hello. (No don’t buy them a coffee and donut. They get enough.)

You have no idea how far that goes to making the officer feel accepted and part of the community themselves. An officer who feels that way is more apt to take a more personal interest in the area they patrol. That simple gesture can be a crime fighting tool by it self.

Kind of one of those win win situations. It really doesn’t take much to make a community safer.

At any rate I have decided to retire and today was my last day on the job.
Tomorrow I will be just another citizen. My wife and I have moved up north to a new home on Lake Scugog and I have a water front property. I plan to catch up on some much needed fishing come the nice weather. ( If it ever comes)

I would like to extend my thanks to everyone in the community who have honoured me by allowing me to work alongside them. In the past 33 years I have seen many changes in South East Scarborough. Most for the better. Some of them I have had a part in changing. Most have been changed by you, the community. Your community is one of the most thriving in the city.
I have had the pleasure of working with some fine politicians, Ron Moser, Gay Cow born, David Soknaki, Maryann Chambers and Paul Ainsly just to mention a few.

I extend a special thanks to Lori Metcalfe who is the most dedicated community advocate I know. Also to the staff of CPAT, The Crime Prevention Association of Toronto and Lesley Chitra for their trust, support and dedication to me and the community. I don’t want to forget Marilyn Hodge, Co-Chair of the 43 Division CPLC ( Community Police liaison Committee) and the committee itself for their support.
To my replacement, Const Bill Campbell, the new Crime Prevention Officer, I wish great success. Bill is a very dedicated and caring officer who I know will go that extra distance for the community. A special thanks to Inspector Button for her support over the last few months. Thanks to Deputy Cheif Tony Warr. A great boss, great leader and a real gentleman. I also want to thank you, the community, for allowing me the opportunity to serve you.

On January 24th I was honoured with a retirement dinner / roast in which the Deputy Chief of Police attended along with other high ranking Police officers both active and retired. Members of the community were there, politicians, Auxiliary Police Officers, friends and family. I am fortunate to be able to live vicariously through two of my children who are both police officers at 52 and 54 Divisions.

No one could have asked for a better job or to work with better people than I had the privilege of over the past several years

So again I would like to say both a very heartfelt thanks and goodbye. 33 years working in the streets of Toronto with incredible people. What a ride.

Mark me 10-7

PC Gord Hayford
4496 (retired)

Markington Square to be replaced by Condos

2008-02-02T06:25:00.000-05:00

The Markington Square Shopping Centre at the intersections of Markham-Kingston-and Eglinton Road (as the name suggests) is to be demolished and replaced by seven high rise condominiums., comprising 1400 new residential units. Only the Dominion and Beer store will remain.

A consultation meeting will take place at the Scarborough Village Recreation Centre at 7 pm on Monday February 4 to permit those interested to view the plans for the proposed new development. The Scarborough Village Community Association strongly urges residents to attend the meeting to voice their opinion on the development plans.

The planning application proposes a mixed-used project comprised of four apartment buildings in the seven- to nine-story range, two 23-story towers and one 28-story tower, as well as 26,200 square feet of retail space at the bottom of the buildings fronting Eglinton Avenue. For comparison, the 7 acre Plaza currently has 174,997 square feet of retail space. The Dominion and beer store in the northwest corner of the plaza are to remain.

Nearby Morningside Mall was recently been demolished and is the the process of being re-branded as Morningside Crossing and redeveloped as a higher end retail space.

Toronto's Poet Laureate Talk Rescheduled

2008-01-27T07:03:00.000-05:00

An Evening With Toronto's Poet Laurate, Pier Giorgio Di Cicco, has been rescheduled for Wednesday February 20 at Sister's Restuarant. The talk, sponsored by the Coronation Community Association of West Hill, will focus on the Creative Community.

--There's no escaping the virtual project of the planet; keeping in mind that information technology enriches, extends our domain, generates wealth and makes life easier if not profound, we also recognize that it robs us of the indigenous, the flavored, the local. And that is the challenge of the contemporary city; the question of how to be international and at the same time unique.

Di Cicco’s philosophy has found popularity in forums ranging from The Prime Minister's Advisory Committee on Cities and Communities, The Creative Cities Project of the Ontario and Toronto governments, to Waterfront Toronto to international conferences on urban sustainability. In 2005 he was appointed official "Curator" for the City of Toronto’s Humanitas project, a global showcase where Toronto will host its heritage, vision and strategy for global citizenship.

--The creative city is taken to mean different things. It means to prosper and to assert one’s heritage in a climate of adventure. It means innovation to those who would marry commerce and imagination. It means a welcoming city with places in which to relax, with people free to invent and encounter, through the arts, in public spaces and through architecture. But architecting a city is first about constructing the space between people, the metaphysical space¦ the way they feel about each other and for each other.

Di Cicco's work has earned him numerous awards, including five Canada Council Awards, six Ontario Arts Council Awards and the City of Toronto Arts Award. He was recently appointed the Emilio Goggio Visiting Professor in Italian-Canadian Studies at the University of Toronto.

As a unique exercise in creative Community building the Coronation Community Association of West Hill has invited representatives from every School, Police, Faith and other Community groups in West Hill, including our City, Provincial and Federal representatives. It is a rare opportunity to meet others working to enhance the quality life in our community.

--For until we have architected the civic space between each other, we will inevitably put up bad buildings, confused infrastructure and obscure the project of city spirit.

Hear Giorgio Di Cicco at Sister's Restaurant in 7 pm Wednesday February 20, 2008

For tickets visit the Events section of the Coronation CA website at http://www.coronationca.com/

Di Cicco was born in Arezzo, Italy, and was raised in Baltimore, Montreal, and Toronto. He currently resides in the countryside north of Toronto. He is the author of over thirteen books of poems from 1975 to 1986 including The Tough Romance, Dancing in the House Of Cards, Flying Deeper into the Century, and Virgin Science: Hunting Holistic Paradigms. He withdrew from the world of letters to join a monastery in 1986 and re-emerged in 2001 to publish Living in Paradise-- New and Selected Poems with Mansfield Press. He has been the Emilio Goggio Visiting Professor in Italian-Canadian Studies at the University of Toronto, and in 2004 he was named as the Poet Laureate for the City of Toronto.

Storefront's New Vision

2008-01-25T15:10:00.000-05:00

Unique to West Hill, the East Scarborough Storefront has been providing assistance to residents for over five years. Begun as a pilot project funded largely by the federal government, Storefront could be found in the old Library location on the third level of the old Morningside Mall. When the Mall was slated for demolition Storefront moved to the vacant Police substation on Lawrence which has been its home for the past year.

With its first 5 year plan coming to a close, Storefront Manager, Anne Gloger, decided it was time time for a new vision and a reassessment of Storefront's role in the West Hill community.

About 100 people, including community members, agencies, City Councilor Paul Ainslie, Coronation Community Association of West Hill representatives, West Hill Community Services, Toronto Police and other Storefront supporters, met from 4-8 pm on January 23rd at St Margaret’s-in-the-Pines church, in order to shape the vision of the Storefront in the years to come.

As Ms. Gloger promised, it was a fun and interactive event…with good food! Numerous exciting ideas were generated by the process and it will take a while to sort through them all. But out of the wealth of material will come a new vision and a new direction for this vigorous community support.

Storefront currently provides - Settlement services in 12 languages- Health services (blood pressure checks, vaccines and more)- Legal advice lawyer- Safety tips and police information- Employment services- Senior fitness- Computer use & computer training- Homework clubs- Mental health supports- Youth services and groups and more.

For additional information on Storefront visit their website at: http://www.thestorefront.org/

Who ReadsThe West Hill News?

2008-01-19T08:18:00.001-05:00

A surprising number of people from a surprising number of different places, actually. Originally intended for residents of the West Hill area of Toronto, people are logging onto the West Hill News from all over the world.

The map above represents the log-ons from yesterday. Of course the main cluster, as intended, is located right here in West Hill and throughout southern Ontario, but we are also visited by an amazing number of people all down the East and West coasts of the United States.

Germany and Great Britain always generate a cluster of "hits" but so to do Australia and India. Westhillians vacationing down south are likely responsible for the cluster of hits we get from Mexico.

Both Japan and Nigeria are also often represented. Not on yesterday's map, but with surprising regularity.

So, to all of you out there, welcome and I hope you're enjoying your visit.

More trees Under Threat in Woodgreen Ravine

2008-01-16T06:55:00.001-05:00

Two white tailed deer returned to the young forest clearcut by developers last week, gingerly stepping around the tangled branches of the fallen trees, unaware 36 additional trees are now under threat at the southern end of the Ravine. The trees bordering Danzig Creek are protected by the Ravine bylaw and were not part of the recent clear cutting. However, as Don York, President of the Manse Valley Community Association, writes:

In the fall of 2007, trees in the protected area were tagged and when we questioned this we were advised that this area would be cleared for the construction of the sewer lines for the new development. We were later told that an agreement had been reached with the developer to tunnel in this area to minimize the loss of trees. On Friday, Jan. 11, 2008, a number of representatives from the City and from David Schaeffer Engineering Ltd. were on site examining the protected area, and when questioned, they said that they had changed their mind regarding tunneling and would be clear-cutting that section. A total of 36 trees will be removed, many of them of significant size.

Since we were originally told that there would be no loss of trees in the protected area we have never questioned that part of the development plans. Now we find out we have been mislead. The area above Danzig Creek is protected under the Ravine Bylaw, and those trees need to be protected, as provided by the Bylaw.

There were 32 trees identified on the proposed construction site as "protected" under the Tree Bylaw, but Council approval was given to remove them with no regard to the significant opposition by the public. Now we have 36 trees in the ravine area, protected under the Ravine Bylaw, and there appears to be NO requirement to get ANY permission from Council. How is this possible???

The fact that there was no reference in any of the developer documentation related to the removal of trees in the protected ravine area shows that either the Engineering firm and the City staff were incompetent in their assessment and review, or there was a DELIBERATE omission of this fact to avoid any additional confrontation with residents. Neither of these possibilities is acceptable! If facts were omitted from the report for this item, how many other facts were conveniently removed from other reports? How many more "surprises" are there going to be?

The removal of the trees in the protected area violates the terms of the Ravine Bylaw. The fact that NO approvals appear to be required to do so shows a major flaw in the process. The fact that an "agreement" was reached to tunnel and then suddenly and quietly reversed is deceitful. There was NO community involvement or notification on this !!!

IMMEDIATE action is required to further investigate this situation and discuss possible alternatives. An answer is required on how the City staff and the developer can decide to remove trees in a protected area with NO Council approval. The developer should NOT be allowed to remove those trees prior to a full investigation of this matter. It is our understanding that this removal could occur during the week beginning January 14, 2008, so there is no time for delay in actioning this item.

Ravaged--2000 Trees lost at Woodgreen Ravine

2008-01-12T06:55:00.000-05:00

Well its gone. The developers finally moved in with the 40 ton feller-buncher on Thursday and by the end of the day its massive blade had ripped through all two thousand trees at Woodgreen Ravine. The 4 year battle to save this young forested site in West Hill had come to an end.

Bruce Smith, Director responsible for the Advisory Board of the Manse Valley Community Association, was in disbelief that after such a long and valiant battle, machinery could clear cut such a large area in such a short period of time. In place of a forest, the land was littered with five acres of fallen trunks and branches waiting to be ground to sawdust.

Back in November, over 30 local residents had successfully braved nearly freezing rain at 7:30 in the morning to block the developers entrance to the site. Don York, President of the MVCA had just submitted a brilliant and devastating rebuttal to the staff report negating the the area's notorious water drainage problem. There seemed to be hope. There seemed to be time. But there wasn't. This time the developers arrived unannounced and all the community could do was watch, and cry.

The Ravine is a five acre site, located near Lawrence Ave. E. and Manse Road behind the new 43 Division Police Station. This wonderful site had more than 1200 trees, plus an additional 800 saplings, and many types of bushes and flowers. It was the home to abundant wildlife including white tailed deer, fox, raccoons and a wide variety of birds. It was both a resting and feeding ground for the monarch butterfly on its migration to Mexico. The Ravine was used by people of all ages for playing, walking, exploring, meeting, or enjoying the fruits of a huge blackberry patch.

All of this, however, has come to an end. The City of Toronto, as owners of the property, sold it to a developer for the construction of 60 affordable houses. The developer is now in the process of clear-cutting the site, and removing the top layers of soil so that not a single blade of grass will remain.

There had been many reasons to save this environmentally sensitive woodlot. In addition to being a community meeting place and treasure, and a home to birds and animals, the trees help act as a carbon sink removing pollutants from the air, helping moderate the air quality in the area. The Ravine borders on an industrial site along Coronation Drive with a large concentration of chemical industries. The area has been identified as having the fifth highest toxic chemical emissions in the City of Toronto.

With continued population growth, all wild areas are now precious but they are especially critical where, by some miracle, that wilderness can still be found the heart of a City of three million, the economic engine of an entire nation. In such a large city it is easy to loose sight of the fact that we are a part of nature. And now with the loss of Woodgreen Ravine, it will be harder still to hold onto that knowledge.

Scarborough Community Concert Band

2008-01-06T08:44:00.000-05:00

The seniors and their families crowding the large central lounge at Cedarview Lodge broke into delighted applause as the Scarborough Community Concert Band moved out of the classical section of their program and began a rousing rendition of Jingle Bell rock.

The thirty piece band, now in its 35 season, were obviously enjoying themselves and the warm reception they were getting from their audience. In a way, the occasion was a kind of minor miracle. Here were thirty people, several of them from West Hill, not only taking an evening of their time out of the busy Christmas season to brighten the lives of Cedarbrook's elderly residents, but who devoted several nights a month to rehearsals, all at their own expense. Just for the love of playing music.

The concert band is comprised totally of wind instruments, "no strings attached", as they like to say. Founded in 1972 by Paul Dunn and David Bourque, it was originally intended as an opportunity for recent highschool music program graduates to continue their love of music. Steve Duff, head of the music department at David and Mary Thompson C.I. was the first music director. Over time several members of the Band went on to professional careers with the Toronto Symphony and the Canadian Opera Company.

Now under the direction of Andrew Chung, the group is self sufficient, supported by corporate and individual sponsorships and welcomes any brass or woodwind musicians willing to make the commitment of time and with an interest in performing.

As the band's final number ended, the audience at Cedarbrook weren't able to give a standing ovation, but the cheers and applause were warm and prolonged enough to encourage an encore.

If you missed the Scarborough Community Concert Band at Cedarbrook, look for them at the Scarborough Civic Centre this summer, where rumour has it , they will be joined by highlanders playing bagpipes for at least one number.

2008

2007-12-31T08:07:00.001-05:00

New Church Tower No Cause For Cell-ebration

2007-12-26T12:57:00.000-05:00

It must have seemed a good idea at the time. Bell Canada would put up a cellphone tower on church property, the Guildwood community would get improved phone service for their cell phones and blackberies, and the Church would make some welcomed income. Everybody wins.

However, the 150 people who jammed the Guildwood Community Presbyterian Church just before Christmas, clearly disagreed. The meeting had been called by officials from Bell and Industry Canada, the federal agency that governs telecommunications, to reassure residents that electromagnetic radiation from the tower would pose no health threat and that the tower will look like a flagpole. Although at 37 metres in height, that would make for a very large flagpole indeed. One with a large shed at its base.

The deal had been reached between the Church and Bell Canada in back in April, but residents, only learned about it on Nov. 8th, after Bell sent letters to about 70 homeowners in the area informing them the tower would be built in the new year. Ward 43 Councilor, Paul Ainslie, told the meeting the city has developed a protocol requiring telecommunications carriers to consult with the municipality on tower locations as of January 1, 2008, but it couldn't be backdated to this tower and wouldn't be binding on cell companies.

Under the Radio Communications Act, Industry Canada has the final authority to approve the location of telecommunication towers and antennae. Municipal zoning by-laws do not have to be considered. A court decision on March 2, 2007 determined that telecommunication installations are not subject to site plan control since they are a Federal undertaking.

Many people at the meeting were also angry that no church officials showed up to explain why they made a 20-year lease deal with Bell without first informing the community.

In the past, the City of Toronto Board of Health have noted concerns that existing guidelines may not be health protective for continuous lifetime exposure to radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic levels and that several jurisdictions have adopted stricter limits than those in Canada. In 1999, the Board of Health recommended a prudent avoidance policy that RF waves from telecommunication towers and antennas be 100 times below Safety Code 6 in areas where people normally spend time. The Medical Officer of Health has recommended that the City collect data from cell phone carriers on predicted RF levels of proposed towers and antennas to allow the City to monitor the potential impact of proposed telecommunication facilities in Toronto.

Bell officials reassured residents that testing done at the base of other towers showed the electromagnetic radiation is "thousands of times" lower than acceptable levels; however, many at the meeting distrusted the claim. Others felt that even if the tower was not a health threat, they didn't want a flagpole more than twice as high as the church steeple towering over their community.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

2007-12-23T08:34:00.001-05:00

Our Best Wishes to Everyone For a Happy Holiday Season and a Peaceful 2008

New Condominium To Be Built In West Hill

2007-12-21T05:26:00.000-05:00

Morningside Crossing isn't the only major construction slated for West Hill in the new year.

Ward 43 City Councilor Paul Ainslie's office has just confirmed that an 8 story condominium is planned for 4151 Kingston Road, on the site variously known as the Petro Mart or the Shamrock gas station, beside Johnson Chevrolet. The application complies with the existing zoning and would only require site plan approval before it could proceed.

According to Ainslie, "The drawings demonstrate an attractive building for this site and I have asked staff to ensure that a number of trees be added to the plan."

The Councilor is in the process of arranging his own community meeting for February 2008 to discuss the proposed development because City staff have advised him that a community meeting is not mandated for such an application.

The mixed use building would contain some street level retail along with the privately owned condominiums. The Payzac and Kingston Road Building would not likely be completed until 2009

Having disused gas stations turned into condominiums instead of used car lots will be a refreshing change.

Winter Comes Early to West Hill

2007-12-16T16:18:00.001-05:00

It came as predicted. All the way from Texas. The most vicious December storm in more than two decades.

The City's plows were out early racing against the endless down fall of snow and the wind whipped drifts that made driving treacherous. But the task was hopeless. The storm just too massive.

Neighbours were out shoveling driveways again and again, trying to stay ahead the accumulation. Ambitious teens were out with shovels making extra money clearing driveways and walks. For the most part the roads were deserted and the small number of drivers braving the weather were taking proper care. Of course there were always the few, with engines more powerful than brains, driving their pick-ups and muscle cars as if it was a fair weather day in springtime, putting at risk those cautious drivers whose responsibilities forced them onto the road.

The photo above was shot at the Tim Horton's restaurant parking lot at Kingston Road and Morningside looking west along Kingston Road. The usual coffee line-up back to the restaurant door was missing; but, despite the weather, all the tables were taken. Groups of people huddled over their coffees, refugees from the storm, talking in hushed tones, worried about the drive home.

Most Westhillians stayed indoors, snuggled around kitchen tables or roaring fireplaces, sipping hot chocolate and hoping Monday would be declared a Snow Day.

Brigadier Remembered

2007-12-12T17:13:00.000-05:00

Dan Sandor, recent Conservative candidate in Scarborough Centre, is leading the fight to protect police enforcement animals with a new law he calls "Brigadier's Law".

You may remember Brigadier, the 8-year-old prize-winning Belgian cross, who worked in the Mounted Unit of Toronto Police until he was killed by an erratic driver in 2006 at Lawrence and Kingston Road. Being 16 hands high, "Brig", the "Gentle Giant", weighed 1500 lbs but was no match for a speeding car.

According to police, on February 24, 2006, Brigadier and his rider, PC Kevin Bradfield, were on Community Patrol in the West Hill area, when their attention was drawn to a driver stopped at the former drive-through ATM machine at TD Canada Trust. The driver was reportedly yelling and screaming at the driver in front of him. The enraged driver sped away when approached by the mounted unit, but then made a u-turn, and drove full force into Brigadier, leaving the horse and his rider crumpled in the roadway. The officer's neck, back and rib were damaged, and he was rushed to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. But Brigadier had taken the full brunt of the collision and his massive injuries were untreatable. He was put down where he lay on the street next to MacDonalds, by officers from the Toronto Police Emergency Task Force.

Unlike many other countries and several US states, there are no additional charges available under the Criminal Code of Canada for deliberately killing a law enforcement animal. This is despite the critical roll Police Service Animals perform in a whole range of duties such as Search and Rescue, Community Oriented Policing, Public Safety and building a bridge between the community and the police.

Now Dan Sandor has proposed creating an amendment to the Criminal Code of Canada to better protect Law Enforcement Animals. Letters have been written to the Canadian Federal Government, including the Prime Ministers office, regarding this proposal giving Police Service Animals the much needed protection they require, under the law. The proposed amendment was nicknamed "BRIGADIERS LAW". For a copy of the open letter to Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada, written by Dan Sandor, visit: http://www.brigadierslaw.ca/ or join the cause on Facebook at http://apps.facebook.com/causes/view_cause/46332?recruiter_id=10811716

Antigone

2007-12-08T06:54:00.000-05:00

West Hill Collegiate has just finished a brilliant production of Antigone (an-tig-o-nee). Not the ancient play by Sophacles, but the 1944 adaption by Jean Anouilh, intended to make the play more accessible to modern audiences.

Antigone is, of course, a tragedy and modern audiences have little appetite for tragedies, no matter how well adapted. If anything, our entire culture is a rebellion against tragedy, against predestination, against fate. Against death itself, for that matter. Given the hubris of our time, it is little wonder the West Hill Auditorium was less than half full.

Antigone is the daughter of King Oedipus who married his mother without knowing his relationship to her. But in ancient Greece, innocence is no excuse and once the rule of the gods has been transgressed, there is only once possible outcome. Oedipus is destroyed and so are his innocent children who are the result of his marriage. Oedipus' two sons fruitlessly battle over their father's throne, killing each other. Crea, the new Queen, declares one brother an enemy of the state and orders that his body remain on the battlefield unburied, and therefore deprived of what passed for heaven in ancient Greece. Outraged, Antigone determines to give her brother a proper burial knowing that her disobeying the Queen's law will result in her death. As, of course, being a Greek tragedy, it does. But there is a twist in Anouilh's Existentialist adaption, no longer does Antigone nobly choose death, instead she rejects life as desperately meaningless without affirmatively choosing a noble death.

Antigone is a challenging play with difficult themes and an heroic clashing of ideas, as the various characters debate Antigone's plan and debate the appropriate response to her disobedience of the Queen. As Anigone, Gaayathri Saravanamuthu is in nearly every scene of the play and has an astonishing amount of dialog to master. Antigone succeeds or fails with this one performance and Saravanamuthu carries the part off with a spirited and rousing performance, well worthy of the standing ovation and the two curtain calls. Giving as good as she gets, Shanique Pearson, as Queen Crea, dominates the stage with a regal presence that also infuses the part with with a real humanity as her personal sympathy and affection for Antigone wrestles with her duties as ruler of a shattered country.

There were no weak performances in Antigone but Stephanie Hinds as Antigone's sister Ismere, Eric Slyfield as Antigone's finance and Aretha Reid as her Nurse were out standing. Justin Kwan managed to replace the entire Greek Chorus with an arresting performance that was at once omniscient and more than a little creepy. Providing much needed comic relief, Priyanka Kumor as the First Guard, showed a rare comedic talent that reached the audience every time. Unexpected additional comic relief was also provided by Bruce, a bat that had gotten into the threatre and occasionally swooped over the heads of audience and cast alike.

Perhaps the real tragedy of Antigone were the empty seats in the auditorium. The acting was at a near professional level, the play was filled with challenging and engaging ideas that are as relevant today as they were in Sophocles time. The actors deserved a full house. If this level of sophistication is the norm for plays put on by West Hill drama students, the community needs to give them more support.

Farewell Old Friend--The Morningside Mall is Gone

2007-11-30T12:53:00.000-05:00

There was certainly no minute silence to mark her passing. Indeed the roar of the tractors, powershovels, crushers and dump trucks was louder than ever as the last of the Mall came down on a bleak November 30, 2007. In the picture above, only the North front stairwell to the second floor remains standing, behind the new Morningside Crossing.

Still young by any standards, the Mall suffered from internal decay, the life slowly bled out of her over the last ten years.

Among the first signs of trouble, more than a decade ago, was the closing of Jack Sprats restaurant on the upper level between a pet food store and Shoppers Drug Mart. It wasn't so much that the restaurant closed as the inability of the Mall to find a new tenant for the site. It sat empty for several years with a large "For Rent" sign out front before the Mall gave in and simply walled over the area making it look as if nothing had ever been there. Soon to follow was the loss of Walking on a Cloud and Mahar's Shoes. The loss of Second Cup Coffee with its lively and attractive wait staff was a devastating blow. Then we said goodbye to Suzie Shear, Town and Country, Jack Fraser's and the other clothing stores. The Library moved from the third to the second floor, to disguise the growing number of empty store fronts with "For Rent" signs in the windows. The closing of Home Hardware and the German deli on the ground floor were the writing on the wall for all to see. The two jewelery stores got tired of being robbed and fled early.

Security Guards began to patrol the two levels of the Mall. Their very presence an advertisement that the Mall was no longer safe. Shoppers began to stay away in droves.

When Walmart pulled out it was clear it was over. No more would the little animated family wave at us from above the movator at Christmas time, as they had since Woolco days. Coles bookstore fled to far distant Kennedy and the 401, to become Chapters. Blacks photography held on until nearly the end. As did Nat and Mario's and Cadet dry cleaners and the shoe repair. The Library moved to Manse Road and away from the major population centre. Then Dominion closed forever. Soon only the banks and the convenience store remained.

Gradually all the fast food restaurants brought down their shutters for the last time until only coffee time on the bottom floor was left.

Now all we have are memories. And for good memories we have to stretch back a very long way indeed. However, somewhere, in almost every West Hill resident's photo album there is a picture of them or their children taken in the lower level court yard of the Mall, seated on Santa's knee and beaming radiantly at the camera . Those are the memories that will last forever.

Mystery of the Missing Totem Pole

2007-11-25T08:32:00.000-05:00

The installation of a 15 foot totem pole in Morningside Park was intended to be an event, not an adventure and a mystery. The Pole was a creation of the Monarch Park Project by Mr. Dorsey, part of an effort to beautify our parks and is the second Totem to be raised in the City. The project was completed with the assistance of 30 youths from the Malvern community.

The totem was built in a collaborative effort between the Toronto and the Regional Conservation Authority, the Scarborough Arts Counsel, Dorcey (a professional sculptor) and the students from Malvern. The magnificent totem pole was made from a recycled hydro pole gracefully carved from top to bottom. The first totem had been created back in 2004 as part of the Monarch Project, an attempt to involve youths in artistic and environmental initiatives to improve the community.

However, the day before the Pole was to be raised, it went missing. The theft of the pole outraged the community and made headlines in all the Toronto papers. To loose this work of art after so much time and attention had been lavished on its creation, was heart-breaking. How such a large object could have been spirited out of the Park was a mystery. Police speculated that it would have taken six people and a truck to remove the pole. Fortunately the truth proved much simpler than that once the mystery was solved. It had just been rolled into some distant bushes and was later found by two Toronto residents who had strolled off the Park's main pathway.

At over 416 acres, Morningside is by far the largest park in West Hill and one of the most beautiful and interesting in the City of Toronto. Connecting to the University of Toronto grounds and Col. Danforth park, it forms part of a continuous trail all the way to Lake Ontario. Through the summer months, the Park is regularly visited by numerous Community, Church and Scout groups, families, and sports organizations. Although the totem was erected at the end of the third parking lot, due to the vastness of the park, and despite the size of the pole, the totem is easily missed. Although not deliberately hidden now, to be seen, it still needs to be found.

Wood Green Ravine

2007-11-25T08:11:00.000-05:00

This week will likely see the end of the Wood Green Ravine. A 4 year battle to save this young forested site in West Hill has come to an end and developers will soon start to clear cut the nearly 2000 trees.

Earlier this week over 30 local residents braved nearly freezing rain at 7:30 in the morning to block the developers entrance to the site.

The Ravine is a five acre site, located near Lawrence Ave. E. and Manse Road behind the new 43 Division Police Station. This wonderful site has more than 1200 trees, plus an additional 800 saplings, and many types of bushes and flowers. It is the home to abundant wildlife including white tailed deer, fox, raccoons and a wide variety of birds. It is both a resting and feeding ground for the monarch butterfly on its migration to Mexico. The Ravine is used by people of all ages for playing, walking, exploring, meeting, or enjoying the fruits of a huge blackberry patch!

All of this, however, is about to come to an end. The City of Toronto, as owners of the property, have sold it to a developer for the construction of 60 affordable houses. The development plans call for the site to be clear-cut, so that not a single blade of grass will remain!

There are many reasons to save this environmentally sensitive woodlot. In addition to being a community meeting place and treasure, and a home to birds and animals, the trees help act as a carbon sink removing pollutants from the air, helping moderate the air quality in the area. The Ravine borders on an industrial site along Coronation Drive with a large concentration of chemical industries. The area has been identified as having the fifth highest toxic chemical emissions in the City of Toronto!

With continued population growth, all wild areas are now precious but they are especially critical where, by some miracle, that wilderness can still be found the heart of a City of three million, the economic engine of an entire nation. In such a large city it is easy to loose sight of the fact that we are a part of nature. And if we loose Woodgreen Ravine, it will be harder still to hold onto that knowledge.

West Hill Students show Appreciation For The Old Man Who Rips Tickets at Morningside 401 theatre

2007-11-24T07:45:00.001-05:00

If you live in West Hill and you have ever been to the movies you know West Hill resident, James Loader. You may not have known his name, but you sure know his face. If you're old enough you remember him from the Cedarbrae Theatres where he collected your tickets and directed you to your theatre for many years. After Cedarbrae closed he could be found working at Fairview or $2.00 ticket days at the massive Scarborough Mall. For the last seven years James has been ripping your ticket at the Morningside and 401 theatre and without anyone knowing it, he has become one common denominator that units us all.

In a world where you never get the same waitress no matter how many times you visit the same restaurant, James has been working for the same theatre chain for over 40 years. And now, thanks to Gus Saurer of Port Union, James is finally getting a little appreciation. Gus is the creator the the "Old Man Who Rips Your Tickets at the Morningside Theatre Appreciation Page" on Facebook. Since putting the page up a little over a month ago, over 10,000 local residents have joined to show their appreciation. There is even a move under way to get James nominated for the Scarborough Walk of Fame. If being instantly recognizable by virtually everyone in Scarborough counts as fame, James nomination is a sure thing.

As one fan puts it, "James is a great guy. He has been working in the cinema's for a long time. I have known him for about 20 years. He used to belong to the same church that I went to. He is truly a very nice person. He has a son, and lives with him. Lost his wife years ago, sad to say. He will greatly appreciate this fan club on his behalf and he really deserves this. He is truly a wonderful man, and is in the right job where he enjoys being of public service."

West Hill Website Gets Major Upgrade

2007-11-24T06:35:00.000-05:00

We may look the same, but behind the scenes the West Hill website has undergone a major upgrade. Virtually every page of the site has been changed in some way. For the most part, dated material has been removed, broken links repaired or eliminated, new photos added and much older sections of the site replaced with the new format we introduced a year ago.
In one of the more substantial changes, our popular poll feature has been incorporated into the new West Hill News, which replaces the old Westhillian News section.
The West Hill website began over ten years ago as a simple attempt by West Hill resident, Barry Fraser, to show a distant Australian cousin what the West Hill area of Toronto looked like. His cousin, Roger, had been unable to find West Hill on any map. The West Hill Today section is a somewhat more elaborate version of that small original website.
To Barry's surprise the site began getting a large number of hits. He later discovered it had been linked as a Community on the City of Toronto webpage . The number of visitors led to a flood of e-mail questions about the area which resulted in more and more features being added to the site until it assumed the essential structure it has today.

Toronto's Poet Laureate Talk To Be Rescheduled

2007-11-23T18:50:00.001-05:00

Pier Giorgoi Di Cicco, the Poet Laureate of the City of Toronto was to hold a workshop on Building Creative Communities at Sister's Restaurant on Kingston Road this Fall. However unforeseen delays in the publishing of the Community Newsletter prevented news of the talk from reaching residents, and is now slated to be rescheduled.

Pier Giorgio is the author of "Municipal Mind, Manifestos for the Creative City."

Di Cicco offers a blueprint for building sustainable cities in a global era, predicated on the City Soul. As former Toronto Mayor, David Crombie observes, Di Cicco's ideas "...will find a home in the hearts of those who want to understand the indispensable connection between the building of livable cities and the growth of the human spirit."

Tickets for the event will be on sale from the Coronation Community Association of West Hill website at http://www.coronationca.com as soon as a new date is chosen.

Morningside Crossing

2007-11-23T17:51:00.000-05:00

The abandoned and nearly empty space known as Morningside Mall in West Hill has reached its end. The once massive three story building is now little more than rubble.

The reconstruction of the Morningside Mall space, at Kingston Rd and Morningside, into a medium sized box store shopping complex is now well underway, with a “Super-bank” centre including Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and Toronto Dominion branches joining the old Scotiabank branch now complete. Other stores like Shoppers Drug Mart and Food Basics will be constructed on the site of the actual Mall when its demolition is complete. The date for these new stores to open is in the Fall of 2008. Pizza Hut, greatly reduced in size, has moved to the new Morningside Crossing from its present location at Kingston Rd and Lawrence. The TD branch between Kitchener Road and Lawrence has closed. Starbucks is thriving. While the line-ups don't match Tim Horton's across the road, it is still very busy.

The are rumors of the Liquor Store closing and moving to much larger quarters at Morningside and Lawrence where earth movers are already at work. There is also talk of the renovations extending to the demolition of the Blockbuster plaza, but this is unconfirmed.

The properties formerly housing TD Bank at the top of Kitchener Rd and Pizza Hut and Lawrence and Kingston have yet to be sold.

Welcome

2007-11-23T17:25:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the reformatted Westhillian News. The old format was taking far too long to to update, stories were being missed, deadlines weren't being met and something had to be done.
Using the services of google blogs, all the tedious formatting is done for us.
Now we can return to the original intent of the Westhillian News, to keep Westhillers up to date on changes within our area, like the demolition of the massive three story Morningside Mall. As you can see, it is now easy to incorporate pictures into the News and news articles will all be achieved for future viewing.
This format also allows readers to comment directly on the stories they read in the News. Just click in the comments box and let us know what you think.

More general comments can be still be posted in our guest book.