Beach Metro News, April 14, 2026

Beaches Spring Sprint takes to the Boardwalk

Runners in the kids two-kilometre race set off from in front of the Leuty Pavilion during the 40th annual

morning. The annual event, which also features a five-kilometre competitive run and a recreational walk, is a fundraiser for

Report calls for ban o motorized watercraft o Woodbine Beach

By Alan Shackleton

AN UPDATE on plans to ban motorized watercraft within 150 metres of Woodbine Beach this summer will be heard by members of the City of Toronto’s Executive Committee on Wednesday, April 15.

The summer ban on motorized watercraft will also include Humber Bay Shores in Etobicoke and Hanlan’s Point Beach at the Toronto Islands.

The Toronto Personal Watercraft Safety Plan will be presented at Wednesday’s Executive Committee, with the recommendation to go ahead with the banning of motorized watercraft within 150 metres of the Woodbine Beach, Humber Bay Shores and Hanlan’s

Point Beach areas. A particular focus of the report will also be on the illegal renting of personal watercraft (jet skis) by unlicenced businesses in those areas.

The issue came to the forefront last summer at Woodbine and other city beaches due to numerous incidents of unsafe operations of the jet skis and the proliferation of businesses and individuals renting out the machines without licences to do so and without permission to be on city property.

similar rules would be in place for this coming summer.

A number of levels of government and authorities hold jurisdiction over Toronto’s waterfront, depending on whether activities are taking place on the land or the water.

The Toronto Port Authority (TPA) will be requested by the city to implement the proposed Motorized Watercraft Exclusion Zone bylaws at Hanlan’s Point Beach, Humber Bay Shores, and Woodbine Beach for this summer, and the report to be heard on Wednesday will also be requesting the TPA continue to do so for the 2027 and future summer seasons. The report is also recommending Toronto Council “request the

Continued on Page 5

By Kat Bergeron

MALVERN

COLLEGIATE

Institute will host Black Knight Lounge, in support of the school’s music programs, this Thursday night.

Taking place from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the school’s cafeteria, the April 16 event is organized by Malvern’s Music Council and will feature 16 performances by both individual musicians and groups.

Last July, in reaction to numerous complaints and safety concerns, Beaches-East York Councillor Brad Bradford was able to have Toronto Council approve a 150-metre ban on motorized watercraft off Woodbine Beach and plans were made to make sure Scarborough

LAST NIGHT’S federal byelection in Scarborough Southwest took place after Beach Metro Community News’ print deadline.

Please see our website today at

Malvern Collegiate hosts Black Knight Lounge

Members of the school community and public are welcome to attend on a “pay-what-you-can” basis, said teacher Georgia Moutafis-Tymcio. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m.

In addition to donating, those attending can also purchase mocktails and baked goods at the event.

The Malvern Music Council is a student-led group in charge of the school’s music events, with faculty

Continued on Page 5

www.beachmetro.com for coverage on the results of the federal byelection. Also, look for more coverage in our next edition of the paper on April 28.

Earth Day Globe Walk for the environment set for this Saturday

ON SATURDAY, April

18, Toronto East Residents for Renewable Energy (TERRE) is among local groups organizing the Earth Day Globe Walk, beginning at Bluffers Park in Scarborough and concluding at Humber Bay Shore in Etobicoke.

The walk takes place from 6 a.m. to sunset, with participants covering the 25 kilometres between the two parks with local stops along the way.

Locally, the walk will be making stops at East Lynn Park, Danforth Avenue just west of Woodbine Avenue); and Withrow Park, between Carlaw and Logan avenues just south of Danforth Avenue.

East Lynn Park will welcome the participants with a number of activities from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. The stop at nearby Withrow Park is slated for 10:30 a.m. to noon.

East Toronto residents are invited to stop by the local parks to cheer the participants on, and to sign a petition calling for Ontario to triple its use of renewable energy

and phase out its fossil gas plants, and to respect Indigenous land rights.

The petition will be presented to the Ontario Legislature on Earth Day (April 22).

Groups involved are ARCA, Seniors for Climate Action Now, Toronto East Residents for Renewable Energy, The Red Rebels Toronto, ClimateFast, Toronto350, Ontario Clean Air Alliance, Toronto Climate Action Network, The Elementary Teachers of Toronto, Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment, Green Neighbours Networks, Urban Alliance for Race Relations, and Clay and Paper Theatre.

The walk starts at Bluffers Park (foot of Brimley Road) where participants will meet at 6 a.m. for an opening sunrise celebration led by Indigenous elders Cat Kriger and Sally Gaikezheyongai.

For more information on this Saturday’s walk (rain date is Sunday, April 19), please go online to www.earthdayglobewalk2026.ca

Meeting on plan for 33-storey building on Beer Store site slated

THE CITY of Toronto has issued notice for an upcoming public meeting to discuss a large-scale residential building at 3130 and 3150 Danforth Ave. where a Beer Store is currently located.

The public meeting will be held on April 30 at 9:30 p.m. in the Scarborough Civic Centre’s council chamber (150 Borough Drive), and by video conference at www.youtube. com/TorontoCityCouncilLive.

Applicant Batory Planning & Management is seeking to redevelop the existing low-rise commercial building and associated surface parking into a 33-storey mixed use building with 445-residential units and 29,009 square metres of residential gross floor area.

The proposed structure is expected to be comprised of a single tower with a five-storey podium that wraps the building on three sides. The proposal also includes 806 square metres of retail space on the ground floor along Danforth Avenue and St. Dunstan Drive, and 1,903 square metres of indoor and outdoor amenity space.

Unlike many of the city’s ongoing development proposals, which often include limited parking options, the Beer Store application includes surface parking and a two-level underground parking garage, providing 149 underground vehicle parking spaces and eight spaces at grade.

A large component of bike parking has also been proposed, with 348 bicycle parking spaces, including 32 short-term spaces, 304 long term spaces and 12 publicly accessible spaces.

At the April 30 public meeting, Scarborough Community Council will hear input, review the proposal, and make recommendations before sending it to Toronto Council.

Residents can register to speak to Scarborough Community Council by emailing scc@toronto.ca or calling 416-397-4579 by 12 p.m. on April 29. Written comments may also be emailed to the same address.

Greek Independence Day parade on the Danforth

Mental Wellness group to start Danforth meetings this month

EAST TORONTO residents are being reminded that the Mental Wellness group offers a variety of services and help for those who are in need of support or wish to share their experiences with others.

Along with in-person and virtual peer support meetings, the group also has a number of online services and information available.

The in-person meetings take place in the East Toronto area, and there is also a new group starting at the end of this month with a focus on seniors.

The Danforth group will meet at Eastminster United Church, 310 Danforth Ave., from 7:15 to 8:15 p.m.

Those wishing more information on the in-person and virtual meetings are asked to go https://www.meetup.com/mental-wellness-peer-to-peer-support-groups/

The meetings are peer-to-peer support based. They give participants an opportunity to learn they are not alone.

The format for all meeting is one hour, and participants are welcome to share

(but don’t have to) how their mental wellness is affecting them. They can then get “feedback” from another member (which is empathy or a technique which has worked for that other member)…but nobody at the meeting will tell someone what they “should” do as none are professionals.

The group meetings are popular as participants learn they are not alone and there are others like them, they can unburden themselves to a sympathetic ear that does not have a “lived history” with them, and they can get real-world suggestions on techniques that have worked for others.

Those taking part in Mental Wellness group sessions also can become eligible for free professional therapy with a licenced therapist.

The group uses donations to pay for five sessions of therapy with a licenced therapist for any of the people who attend the peer support groups.

For more information on the Mental Wellness group, please visit www.MentealWellness.help

Take advantage of today’s prices. Complete your funeral and cemetery plans now with your choice of budget and terms.

Contact Ryan today for a FREE Planning Kit. Call 416-554-1339 or email rhorvath@arbormemorial.com.

Residents question city’s rules regarding building o new house on Selwood Avenue

By Matthew Stephens

RESIDENTS LIVING on a quiet street in the Beach are questioning the city’s building rules after they claim a residential development was fast tracked through the approval and demolition process.

“Late last week, we found a demolition notice posted (at a house on Selwood Avenue) and a fence going up. We were told the house was coming down and a threestorey duplex with a basement apartment going up,” said a local resident (who wished to remain anonymous) in an interview with Beach Metro Community News last month.

(Beach Metro Community News has decided not to name any of the residents involved in this story, including the building’s owner, as this story’s focus is on how City of Toronto and Province of Ontario rules have changed regarding development on properties in residential neighbourhoods.)

Several Selwood residents said they received little notice about the demolition of the house, and said no Committee of Adjustment hearing was held despite plans to increase the building’s height from two to three storeys.

Demolition work takes place on Wednesday, April 8, at this house on Selwood Avenue in the Beach. It will be replaced with a three-storey house, that has some residents in the area questioning the city’s rules regarding demolitions and new builds on neighbourhood streets.

house with other Selwood Avenue residents.

The City of Toronto said the building going up on Selwood Avenue is allowed under “as-of-right” rules and conforms with all of the city’s zoning bylaws.

The Committee of Adjustment is authorized by the city under the Planning Act to evaluate applications for minor variances (including building setbacks, height, or lot coverage), land severances (consents), and legal non-conforming uses in order to ensure builds and renovations fit within the community’s official plan and zoning bylaws.

vincial legislation had no impact on the plan.

“Bill 23 (the province’s More Homes Built Faster Act) did not remove or eliminate the Committee of Adjustment process. Variances are still required when a project exceeds zoning permissions,” said Lear.

However, provincial and municipal rules aren’t the only issues concerning residents on Selwood Avenue.

zone, Municipal Licensing & Standards may investigate and take enforcement actions.”

Other Selwood Avenue residents complained the developer posted an “insufficient” demolition notice just several days before work began.

The City of Toronto’s demolition permit process operates separately from broader planning approvals, which can limit public visibility.

In many cases, permits are issued administratively by city staff without mandatory public notice, particularly if the property is not designated under the Ontario Heritage Act and the proposed redevelopment complies with existing zoning bylaws which was the case for the Selwood Avenue property.

Lear said, under Municipal Code Chapter 363, residential developers are required to post a demolition notice on the property “for at least 14 days,” before work begins, and inform the local city councillor.

“We were told the house was coming down and a three-storey duplex with a basement apartment going up. No consultation with neighbours and no Committee of Adjustment necessary. Apparently, this is supposed to give us time to lodge a complaint,” said the resident.

Despite what they described as a “fast-tracked” demolition process, the resident acknowledged the builder/owner sent a note last December inviting the community to see their new plans for the property.

“He sent a note in December saying, ‘Come join us and we’ll show you the plans.’ And then last week, they said the demolition notice was up for two weeks, I only noticed it for about 10 days,” said the resident.

Beach Metro Community News has confirmed the owner did earlier offer to share the plans for the new

As with other three-storey buildings in the area, City of Toronto Communications Advisor Kate Lear said the Selwood Avenue building complies with the zoning bylaws under as-of-right, and that no Committee of Adjustment hearing was necessary.

“A Committee of Adjustment hearing is only required when a development needs either a minor variance from the zoning bylaw or consent to sever property,” said Lear in an email to Beach Metro Community News.

“The proposed construction… complied with all existing zoning regulations... therefore, Committee of Adjustment (CoA) approval was not required.”

Several Selwood residents also claimed the project was fast tracked by the province under the More Homes Built Faster Act, a 2022 bill intended to increase housing options for Ontarians.

However, Lear said pro-

They said they were concerned part of the residential space at the new house might be used as a business, and they are questioning how the city ensures residential properties are used for their intended purpose after approval.

Beach Metro Community News has been told that the owner does not plan to run a commercial business at the new house.

Lear said developers are required to show compliance with both zoning and building code regulations when applying for building permits, and that Municipal Licensing & Standards (MLS) may investigate if a property owner operates a commercial business in a residential property.

“In Toronto, all properties, including new construction must comply with zoning bylaws, the Ontario Building Code, and issued building permits. (Selwood Avenue) is zoned in a residential zone. When an applicant applies for a building permit, they must show compliance with both zoning and the Building Code,” said Lear.

“If a non-permitted use operates in a residential

However, one neighbour recalled seeing a demolition permit on the property on March 10, noting that demolition crews began gutting the property’s interior shortly after.

“I first met the new owner March 5, and the work started the start of the following week. I didn’t notice any notice, until this notice appeared March 10th. Work had started that day or the next day. Definitely not 14 days later,” said the resident.

Lear said demolition of a property is not permitted during the 14-day notice period, but that work to deconstruct the interior “may occur” during that time.

“Demolition of the building structure is not permitted during the 14-day notice period. During this time, some interior demolition work may occur, such as the removal of finishes and flooring provided that the work does not require a building permit,” said Lear.

As of April 1, demolition of the exterior of the existing house had not started. As of April 8, demolition work on the exterior was taking place but much of the house was still standing.

Enforcement alone will not solve jet ski water safety issues: rental company rep

‘Report’ from Page 1

Director, Waterfront Secretariat, in consultation with the General Manager, Parks and Recreation, Executive Director, Municipal Licensing and Standards, Toronto Police Service Marine Unit and other City officials as required, to finalize requested boundaries and submit an application to Transport Canada to establish a Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations” prohibiting powerdriven vessels and vessels driven by electric propulsion in the waters off Marie Curtis Park, Humber Bay Park, and Bluffer’s Park Beach.

Also being recommended is that the Toronto police Marine Unit increase enforcement along the shores of city beaches, including Woodbine Beach where the 150-metre ban is expected to be implemented, this summer.

While the above recommendations deal with what’s happening on the water, the city is also expected to crack down on those illegally renting or operating jet ski rental businesses without a licence on city property.

At a virtual meeting on March 16 hosted by Toronto Parks and Recreation to discuss the personal watercraft safety plan, it was made clear that the city intends to take a much more robust approach on dealing with illegal operators and trespassers on public property.

Ryan Facciolo, Supervisor, Complex Case Enforcement Team, Municipal Licensing

and Standards with the City of Toronto, told the March 16 meeting that the city’s approach to illegal rental operators will be changing for this summer.

“Our approaches are evolving and are changing…The enforcement initiatives in 2026 will be very different, the repercussions will be much more significant,” said Facciolo.

“I don’t want to say it in a threatening way but what I’m saying is if you’re putting your vessels into the water from a park, you’re potentially costing yourself an enormous amount of money and a difficult time in 2026.”

The owner of one jet ski rental company told the March 16 meeting that the demand for renting the machines is huge and his business and others already have numerous bookings for this summer.

He said enforcement alone will not solve the problem of illegal renters or dangerous operation of the jet skis.

“The demand is massive and that demand is not going anywhere,” he said.

“The public needs a proper, safe option to actually do this safely. If it’s only enforcement, the demand is just going to move underground and enforcement’s going to be 20 times harder.”

For more information on the Toronto Personal Watercraft Safety Plan to be presented to the Executive Committee on Wednesday, go to https://secure.toronto.ca/ council/agenda-item.do?item=2026.EX30.2

Music at Malvern to be celebrated

‘Malvern’ from Page 1

advisors Laura Norris and Michael Falla who teach vocals and band.

The council also organizes bimonthly coffeehouses and concerts, to support students involved in the arts.

Thursday’s event will feature a variety of genres including acoustic sets, rock and jazz. Notable groups who have performed at other Malvern Collegiate events are The Basic Studs, The Pigtails and Malvern’s Jazz Combo.

The idea for the Black Knight Lounge name came from a combination of the school’s mascot, The Black Knight, and an open-mic cafe night, according to MoutafisTymcio.

In a statement sent to Beach Metro Community News, co-leaders Liv Indrigo and Katie Stringer of the Malvern Girls’ Choir spoke about what music means to them and the significance of this Thursday’s Black Knight Lounge.

“I’ve been involved in music my whole life. My dad is a passionate musician and my aunt was my piano teacher for years. However, I didn’t connect to music on a more personal level until I was about 14. As I got older, I began to explore music as a conduit of self-expression and was given more opportunities to do so. I started in Malvern music through my grade 9 vocal class, which quickly evolved into many extracurriculars. I joined Jazz Choir and Music Council in grade 9, and in grade 10 I joined Girls Choir. Now I co-run Girls Choir and I take as many opportunities to sing as I can,” said Indrigo.

“Performing is so gratifying in a way that

nothing else will ever equate to. It’s like a liberation from anything that’s draining or worrying me. I’m looking forward to the Black Knight lounge to share my talent and passion with the people I love and being able to see the talent of my friends and peers. For me, this performance is an opportunity to do the thing I love the most with the people I love the most,” she said.

Stringer said her love of music began a young age.

“My parents always encouraged me to explore music through piano lessons and playing my dad’s record collection. Music has always been my whole life,” she said.

“My sister played with the Malvern Marching Band for her four years at Malvern and from watching her I knew I wanted to be in Malvern Music in any way possible. Performing at events like the Black Knight Lounge has helped me gain so much confidence and has made me so many friends. I’m really looking forward to supporting new performers and having a good time. The Malvern community is always so supportive and I’m excited to get to perform for the community and watch some really talented people. Me and everyone else who is performing have put so much time and effort into this event and I’m really excited to get to show everyone what we’ve been working on.”

Indrigo is also a Malvern Music Council representative, and Stringer is Music Council vice-president.

Malvern Collegiate is located at 55 Malvern Ave. For more information on the Black Knight Lounge, please go to https:// schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/malvernci

Tax pain?

New dementia treatments and family caregivers

covered by public health plans.

If you’re caring for a family member who is living with dementia, you’ve probably asked your loved one’s doctor what treatments are available. Normally, the answer is a depressing one, because medications can only alleviate symptoms for a time. But these are exciting times in medical research, and new treatments are emerging.

Last year, Health Canada approved a new drug called Lecanemab (sold under the brand name Leqembi) for treating Alzheimer’s disease. However, Leqembi treatments cost about $30,000 per year, and are not

For many family caregivers, then, deciding whether to opt for new and costly treatments such as Leqembi will trigger some familiar questions that disturb one’s conscience and one’s nightly rest.

“Am I willing to pay the price?”

“Am I being selfish?” “Am I doing enough?”

I can’t answer those questions for you, but after seeing both my parents through dementia care and writing a book about it, I can at least suggest five questions that you should be prepared to ask, when discussing any medications for treating a loved one’s dementia.

These questions matter for your loved one; they also matter to you, because the implications for your life go far beyond the ques-

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Letters to the Editor

tion of expense.

1.) Does the treatment work for your loved one’s specific kind of dementia? Dementia is caused by a number of different disorders, and the treatment may not work in all cases. If the treatment only works on the plaques caused by Alzheimer’s Disease, for example, it may not work for Lewy Body or vascular dementia.

2.) Does your family member belong to a population that was represented in the clinical trials? If not, you may want the doctor to do more investigation: different ethnic, gender or income groups may react differently from those in the trial. Furthermore, side-effects can vary, and you need to know if your loved one belongs to a group that is particularly vulnerable to those side

effects. This may involve additional tests to make sure that the treatment is reasonably safe.

3.) How is the treatment administered? This is crucial for the caregiver to know, particularly if the treatments are time-consuming or logistically complicated. Lequembi, for instance, is typically administered intravenously twice per month, along with regular and frequent MRI scans. As a caregiver, you need to know how upsetting or disruptive a treatment will be to your loved one and to yourself. You also need to know if the facilities for such treatment are available where you live.

4.) At what stage of the dementia does the treatment work? If the drug works at the early stages of dementia, the family member

with dementia can actively participate in both the decision and the procedure, and the caregiver’s job is much lighter. Getting someone in the later stages of dementia to cooperate while undergoing complex procedures may well be impossible. Getting your loved one to stay still during an MRI scan, for example, can be a challenge, especially if the machine arouses claustrophobia.

5.) What kind of relief can the family expect through this treatment, and for how long? So far, no one has invented a cure for dementia; the most any of these treatments can provide is to keep the loved one in the early stages for a longer time. In that case, you and your loved one are entitled to ask: in general

Midwives stress importance o Equal Pay Day

Today (April 14) marks Equal Pay Day. It is the day when Ontarians recognize the pay gap between working women, non-binary people, and men, and call for planning and action to redress such pay inequity.

As midwives, we understand firsthand what it’s like to face gender-based discrimination in pay. And as care providers primarily serving women, we see how our clients are struggling to make ends meet because of a gender pay gap that leaves women earning 26 per cent to 31.5 per cent less than men for the same jobs (based on 2011 Statistics Canada Data). This gap means our clients face impossible choices between affording essential nutrition, safe housing, and childcare.

The rights of women and gender nonconforming people to equal pay for work of equal value and equal treatment in pay and employment opportunities are interna-

tionally recognized human rights standards which Canada has ratified and binds Ontario. Yet we are falling short.

Every day midwives serve families that rely on women’s pay to support their households. In fact, in Ontario, women represent nearly half of Ontario’s paid labour force.

Yet consistently, women and gender nonconforming people are underpaid, undervalued and face discrimination in hiring and retention, particularly women of colour, Indigenous women, and women with disabilities who experience greater pay gaps and disadvantage. This persistent pay inequity is not only morally unjust, it also actively harms our economy and hinders Ontario’s ability to thrive.

But some things can be done, especially when it comes to healthcare and childcare.

It starts with supporting our nursing, allied health, and public sector unions. Union rep-

resentation narrows the gender pay gap by negotiating wage increases that reflect the skills and education of workers, which is particularly relevant in female-dominated sectors like nursing and child care. Unions in the childcare sector, such as CUPE, are actively working to raise wages and create better working conditions, which directly translates to higher staff retention and better care for children.

Furthermore, we still do not have enough affordable and accessible child care. As midwives, we see our clients struggle as they juggle the responsibilities of becoming a parent and balancing work. As Supreme Court of Canada Justice Rosalie Abella said in 1984, “Child care is the ramp that provides equal access to the workforce for mothers.” Which is why we need to fully fund $10 a day daycare and raise wages for Early Childhood Educators (ECEs).

Pay equity is a growing national movement. People from around the country recognize the importance of measures to close the pay gap. But we aren’t moving fast enough. At the rate we are going, the gender pay gap will take more than half a century to close. We cannot wait that long! As midwives, we call on our community to support Equal Pay Day this April 14th. Contact your MPP today and demand they commit to: 1.) Implementing strong Pay Transparency and Pay Equity laws; 2.) Fully funding universal $10-a-day childcare and ensuring fair wages for Early Childhood Educators; and 3.) Standing up against all forms of gender-based pay discrimination in the public and private sectors. We cannot wait another 50 years.

The Registered Midwives of The Midwives Clinic of East York / Don Mills

In My Opinion

How to protect our lake

KEW BEACH ECO CLUB Guest Column

What is water pollution? Water pollution is the contamination of lakes, rivers, or oceans by hazardous chemicals.

Water pollution happens when these chemicals get into the water, causing it to be harmful to humans and the ecosystem.

Every day, water pollution happens when harmful substances enter our bodies of water and the main drinking water sources. Things like medications, microplastics, and far more are putting us, Toronto’s animals, and the ecosystem in danger.

As Terri Swearingen, a grassroots eco activist and 1997 Goldman award winner, said, “We are living on this planet as if we had another one to go.”

Unfortunately, when this polluted water gets into the drain, it can end

up in Lake Ontario, which is where we get clean drinking water from. When this contaminated water gets into our lakes, it causes bacteria to spread around the area.

Lake Ontario is full of dangerous chemicals, including abrasive cleaning products, pesticides, heavy metals, and many different waste products.

How Can You Help

Make a Difference?

1. Do not pour cleaning products or chemicals down the sink.

2. Do not flush medications down the toilet; instead, bring them to your pharmacist, and they will dispose of them properly.

3. Do not use the toilet as a trash can.

4. Reduce the use of water so that the excess water will not get into our lakes.

5. Make sure you dispose of your waste properly.

6. You can help to clean up your local beach or park.

7. Reduce how much you put in the garbage.

8. Use a reusable water bottle instead of a plastic one.

9. Do not use harmful chemicals.

10. Join an environmental group to help clean up our water sources.

Our sources: 10 Things You Can do to Protect Our Water from the University of Arkansas, and Water Pollution in Toronto from the Toronto Environmental Alliance.

- This column was written by members of the Kew Beach Junior Public School Eco Club.

Family caregivers belong at the table

‘New’ from Page 6

terms, how long? Does this give the loved one an extra three months? An extra three years?

There’s no reliable and specific answer to that, of course, but at least you should know what the research suggests.

The subjects of the clinical trial for Leqembi, for example, experienced

on average 18 additional months of only mild cognitive decline. That may seem all to short for some; for others, on the other hand, it might provide enough of a window for the loved one to make some crucial decisions, empty some of the bucket list, and meet the first great-grandchild. Whatever answers you receive to these questions, remember: as a fam-

ily caregiver, you belong at the table. Your concerns matter, and you owe it to yourself and to your family to participate fully in decisions about your loved one’s welfare.

- D. Grant Campbell is the author of Surviving Dementia Care: the Realities of Caregiving, published by University of Toronto Press.

am-12

Community Calendar

APRIL 15, 29: Everyone Has A Story To Tell. An invitation to a small writing workshop at Judy’s Beach Café, 2188 Queen St. E., 2-4 p.m. Enjoy a coffee and write some memories with writer Patricia Brean. Enrollment is free. Please email pat_brean@hotmail.com to sign up.

APRIL 16: YMCA Spring Talks at The Steve & Sally Stavro Family YMCA, 907 Kingston Rd., 3-4 p.m. How AI Will Revolutionize Health Care: Insight into how AI is affecting our care and treatment. Free. Info: 416-928-3362

APRIL 17: Spring Fabric Fundraiser with East End Arts at St. Matthew’s Clubhouse, 450 Broadview Ave., 3:30-6:30 p.m. Bring your own shopping bag and purchase fabrics priced from $2 to $20, along with rolls of fabric for $5 per yard. Light refreshments available. Info: www.eastendarts.ca/spring-fundraiser-2026

APRIL 18: Historic Walk through Kew Beach neighbourhood with BMN history columnist Gene Domagala, 1 p.m. Meet at the Beaches Branch Library, 2161 Queen St. E.

APRIL 18: Vendor Call for Spring Market at Farmacia, 2096 Queen St. E., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. No table rental, % based. Info: Steve 416-684-8747

APRIL 18: Music for the Soul at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave., 4:30 p.m. Singer-songwriter Micaela Rae joins us for an afternoon of Indie folk, and poetry, accompanied by Juno-nominated pianist Steven Noronha. Their music blends lyrical storytelling with expressive piano in an intimate and reflective concert experience. Tickets are pay what you can, suggested amt. $20

APRIL 18: Acoustic Harvest presents Russell De Carle & Steve Briggs, with opening set Jason LaPrade, at St. Paul’s United Church, 200 McIntosh St., 8 p.m. $35 advance tickets, $40 at door. Tickets and info: acousticharvest.ca

APRIL 18: Earth Day Globe Walk at East Lynn Park, 1949 Danforth Ave., 9:30-10:30 a.m. (rain date April 19). Join in to welcome volunteers carrying a giant globe across Toronto representing hope and renewal. Event also includes button making, music, and a selfie station. Info: www.earthdayglobewalk2026.ca

APRIL 18: Poetry Reading and Open Mic – Crossing Lines: Poets Who Came to Canada in the Vietnam War Era at Hirut Café, 2050 Danforth Ave., 3-5 p.m. Poets who left the US during the Vietnam War era will read from their contributions to the anthology, and each attendee will receive a copy. $20. Info: https://joshua-fernandes.bloomtickets.ca/event/903?PoetryReadingandOpenMic-Crossin gLines:PoetsWhoCametoCanadaintheVietnamWarEra

APRIL 19: Wonder Church at St. Aidan’s Anglican Church, 2423 Queen St. E., 4 p.m. This 30-45 minute service, designed for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, early elementary children and their families, includes puppets, music, and prayers. Coffee and treats are provided. All are welcome. For more information, contact children’s minister Elizabeth at children@staidansinthebeach.com

APRIL 26: Young People’s Concert and Instrument Petting Zoo at Kingston Road United Church, 975 Kingston Rd., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Join us for a mini concert presented by the Toronto Symphony Youth Orchestra. After the concert young people are encouraged to try out Clarinets and Cellos. Any donations are welcome. Info: www.kruc.ca

APRIL 26: Toronto Beach Chorale presents Carmina Burana at Kingston Road United Church, 975 Kingston Rd., 7:30 p.m. Ticket info: www.torontobeachchorale.com

APRIL 26: Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave., presents musical director, Steven Webb, leading a service focused on rock music and its origins. Come help us sing “With a Little Help From My Friend”. Another innovation at Beach United.

APRIL 30: YMCA Spring Talks at The Steve & Sally Stavro Family YMCA, 907 Kingston Rd., 3-4 p.m. The Beaches: The Creation of a Unique Toronto Neighborhood, with Richard White, Beach historian and author. Free. Info: 416-928-3362

MAY 7, 8: Serenata Singers – 50th Golden Anniversary Concerts at Scarborough Bluffs United Church, 3739 Kingston Rd., May 7 @ 2 p.m., May 8 @ 7:30 p.m.Celebrate 50 years of harmony with “The Maple Leaf Forever”, a sparkling program of choral gems by Canadian composers. $25.

MAY 9: Beach Bridge Pub Crawl. Friendly duplicate bridge, rotating through three pubs on Queen St. E. in the Beach. Info: 416-987-1019 or https:// beachbridgepubcrawl.wixsite.com/bbpc

MAY 12: A Senior Moment coffee and dessert at The Stone Lion, 1958 Queen St. E., 1:30 p.m.

THURSDAYS: GROUP MEDITATION at the Church of St. Aidan, 2423 Queen St. E., 7:30-8:15 p.m. All ages and stages of experience welcome! Type of meditation will vary based on the instructor. Email: office@staidansinthebeach.com

A A at Community Centre 55, 97 Main St., Saturdays 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Info: 416-691-1113

AL- ANON at Community Centre 55, 97 Main St., Wednesdays 7:15 p.m. Alateen members are welcome to attend. Info: 416-691-1113

BEACH INTERFAITH OUTREACH FELLOWSHIP

In Good Hands

APRIL 20: From Lawn to Woodland: How I Grew a Forest in my Own Backyard at Stan Wadlow Clubhouse, 373 Cedarvale Ave., 7:30-9 p.m. with speaker, Todd Irvine, cityforest.ca. Info: www.eygc.ca

APRIL 21: Toronto Walking Soccer Club — Free Demo Day at Cherry Beach Sports Fields, 275 Unwin Ave., 10 a.m.-12 noon. This FREE session is open to adults of all abilities, no experience needed. Our ages range from 41-86, skill levels from ex-pro to never kicked a ball before. Info: torontowalkingsoccer.com

APRIL 22: The Beach & East Toronto Historical Society presents historian and award-winning author Greig Stewart “A.V. Roe and the Tragedy of the Avro Arrow” at the Beaches Sandbox, 2181 Queen St. E., 7-8:30 p.m. Admission free. All welcome. Info: www.tbeths.com

APRIL 22: A Senior Moment luncheon at The Stone Lion, 1958 Queen St. E., 1:30 p.m. R.S.V.P. Colleen at 647-829-8042

APRIL 23: YMCA Spring Talks at The Steve & Sally Stavro Family YMCA, 907 Kingston Rd., 3-4 p.m. Health: Active Aging. Explore how adults can thrive physically, mentally and socially into later life. Speakers to be confirmed. Free. Info: 416-928-3362

APRIL 25: Yard Sale at St Clair O’Connor Community (meeting room), 2701 St. Clair Ave. E., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Clothing, household items, books & toys, small furniture, and more. All proceeds support community projects approved by the Residents Council for our non-profit community. Info (to donate or attend): 416-757-8757

APRIL 25, MAY 9: I Love to SING! at Community Centre 55, 97 Main St., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Kids from 8 to 16 are welcome to this free program that is fun, empowering, and great music instruction from some of top singing teachers in Canada. No experience or commitment necessary. Info: singtoronto.com/i-love-to-sing

APRIL 25: Cantemus Singers, conducted by Michael Erdman, present “Good Queen Bess” at St. Aidan’s Anglican Church, 70 Silver Birch Ave., 7:30 p.m. A concert of Elizabethan music for Easter and Springtime, featuring works by Tallis, Byrd, Morley and Tomkins. A performance will also be held at Church of the Holy Trinity, Eaton Centre, on Sunday April 26 at 3 p.m. Tickets at the door (cash), or via Eventbrite at www.cantemus.ca. General Admission $35 / Kids under 12 free. Info/reservations: 416-578-6602

APRIL 25: Once upon a Spring Night, an interactive evening of poetry and music presented by Beaches author and composer Mark Battenberg at Danforth Mennonite Church, 2174 Danforth Ave., 7:30 p.m. Featuring a live reading and symposium of his transcending poetic work A leaf in the Wind, with musical meditations by special guest Shakuhachi Flute Master Debbie Danbrook. You could win a copy of the book A Leaf in the Wind signed by the author. $20 at the door or pay what you can.

APRIL 26: Glen Stewart Ravine Cleanup, 10 a.m.12 noon. Meet at the Beech Ave. ravine entrance. Bring your own gloves. Bags and treats will be supplied. Info: friendsofglenstewartravine.com

LUNCHES for adults in the community, 11 a.m. •Mondays at Corpus Christi Church (16 Lockwood Rd.). Closed April 6 •Tuesdays – alternating locations: St. Nicholas Anglican Church (1512 Kingston Rd.) April 14, 28; St. Aidan’s Anglican Church (2423 Queen St. E.) April 21, May 5 •Wednesdays at Beach Hebrew Institute (109 Kenilworth Ave.). Closed April 1 and April 8 •Thursdays at Beach United Church (140 Wineva Ave.) •Fridays at Kingston Road United Church (975 Kingston Rd.). Lunch format may vary from site to site. BEACHES MENTAL WELLNESS GROUP meets each Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Community Centre 55, 97 Main St. at Swanwick. Info: www.mentalwellness.help. Or join us most nights of the week on Zoom. Go to: https://www.meetup.com. Ask to join us: Mental Wellness Peer-to-Peer Support-Groups BEACH PHOTO CLUB. Are you interested in photography? We invite all shutterbugs to check out our local photo club. We offer a range of activities including guest speakers, mentorship, opportunities to share your work, photo excursions, competitions, practical seminars and more! We meet the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month from September to June, 7-9:30 p.m., at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave. (unless specified in program). Info: beachphotoclub.com or email beachphotoclub@gmail.com

DANFORTH/COXWELL LIBRARY, 1675 Danforth Ave. •April 15: How To Teach Kids About Money, 7-8 p.m. Economist Teri Courchene will share ideas and strategies for teaching your children the value of money. This program is for adults but children may attend with parents. •April 17: Digital Photography: Studio Photography, 2-4 p.m. In this follow-up class to Digital Photography Basics, we will explore more advanced photography techniques including how to shoot inside a studio setting. Registration required. •April 23: NatureTO: Trees Around the Branch Tour, 1-2:30 p.m. Led by City of Toronto Urban Forestry staff, explore the natural world on a local neighbourhood tour. Learn how to recognize different species and acquire fun facts about their cultural and ecological importance. Start and end at the library. Info: 416-393-7783 •April 23: Introduction to 3D Printing, 6-8 p.m. Learn how 3D printers work and how you can print at the Toronto Public Library’s Digital Innovation Hubs. Registration required. Info: 416-393-7783

THE CHURCH OF ST. AIDAN (Anglican), 2423 Queen St. E., is an energetic, active faith community committed to following Jesus as we gather for meaningful worship, spiritual growth, and community engagement. We live this out through our vibrant children’s and youth programs, diverse sacred music offerings, and active community outreach and environmental stewardship ministries. On Sundays, we welcome you to join us for worship at 8:30 a.m. (spoken service) and 10:30 a.m. (with music and children’s and youth programs). Wednesdays please join us for the Eucharist Service at 10:30 a.m. Weekly euchre on Tuesdays from 7-9 p.m. (enter from the northeast side door, $5 to play, all proceeds go to outreach). Busy Bees drop-in playgroup for ages 0-3 and caregivers features stories and crafts on Thursdays, 10:00-11:30 a.m. in the Parish Hall.

FORWARD BAPTIST CHURCH, 1891 Gerrard Street E. Sunday •Worship @10:15 a.m. •Above the Beach: Tuesdays @ 9:30-11:30 a.m. Drop-in for kids age 0-4 and their caregivers. •Youth Group: Wednesdays @ 7 p.m. Grades 6-12.

Letters to the Editor

Now is not the time for jets at island airport

Daniel Burnham had a vision for the Chicago lakeshore. Toronto, by contrast, has rarely seemed guided by a comparable vision.

Into that void - now steeped in unbridled development along the waterfront - steps Premier Doug Ford with his promotion of jets at Billy Bishop Airport.

Ford suggests Prime Minister Mark Carney supports the idea, along with the Liberty Village community.

In the same spirit of questionable certainty, I can report the results of a recent survey regarding the land where the airlines operate.

Torontonians overwhelmingly support transforming the airport into a park called West Island Park, with the tunnel becoming a one-of-a-kind playground destination for children.

The people of Toronto are still recovering from the disruptions of COVID - now

compounded by the ongoing assault on Canadian sensibilities from south of the 49th parallel. The war in the Middle East has also been deeply distressing for many. This is not the moment to advance contentious projects that reshape our waterfront.

The question of jets at Billy Bishop can wait until the Leafs win the Stanley Cup.

Ken Hundert

The Pegasus Shoppe also accepts gently used items

Re: ‘New Diabetes Canada clothing donation drop-off centre opens on Kingston Road’, Beach Metro Community News, March 31.

I was a little shocked and a bit alarmed when I opened the latest edition of the paper to see on page two and three an article and ad about a new donation centre opening up at 334 Kingston Rd. Run by Diabetes Canada, this storefront will undoubtedly affect our 24-year old storefront, The Pegasus Shoppe, which also accepts gently used items.

While we agree that the need to create more places for people to divert used items from landfills is vital, and we acknowledge that Diabetes Canada is an incredible organization serving medically vulnerable people, we hope that readers remember that we have been open and operating since 2002 in this community and funds raised through donation to our Shoppe support our not for profit organization, Pegasus Community Project.

Pegasus operates community participation supports

for adults with developmental disabilities and has for over 30 years. Our Shoppe income is vital to our operations.

Please consider us as well when choosing where you donate your gently used items. While you are donating, you can also shop for some unique and select second-hand items. The Pegasus Shoppe is at 931 Kingston Rd. at Silver Birch Avenue.

Paula Murphy, Executive Director Pegasus Community Project

Federal leadership needed to deal with climate crisis

Do you use the TTC?

Drive an EV? Benefit from a heat pump or solar panels?

Wonderful! You’re among a growing number of people working to move away from fossil fuels.

Canadians are ready to act on climate change. But individual efforts alone are not enough.

Meaningful progress requires federal government leadership.

At a time when global ten-

sions increasingly revolve around energy security, Canada has the responsibility and the resources to lead in renewable energy. This means acting at the scale the climate crisis demands: cutting emissions sharply this decade and ending billions of dollars in annual subsidies to fossil-fuel companies. Expanding fossil-fuels while ecosystems decline is not nation-building. If Canada is to be an ener-

gy superpower, the energy must come from renewable, sustainable sources.

Our government must prioritize people, nature and climate.

I am a member of Seniors for Climate Action Now! I am joining with other seniors in the east end and across the country to urge our Members of Parliament to take effective and rapid action -- now!

Marilyn McKim

Shayna from Bowmore Road Junior and Senior Public School are Ambassadors for the Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital’s Capes for Kids campaign that took place during the month of March.

Bowmore Road students raise more than $36,000 for Holland

Bloorview’s Capes for Kids

By Kat Bergeron

KINDERGARTEN STUDENTS at Bow-

more Road Junior and Senior Public School have raised more than $36,000 for Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital’s Capes for Kids campaign.

The previous goal for the campaign was set at $35,000, but extended once the community surpassed this amount. The campaign, which ran until the end of March, raised $36,798.88.

“Our class has loved being involved with such an amazing initiative. We have several children in our kindergarten class who go to Holland Bloorview and are Capes for Kids ambassadors,” said Bowmore kindergarten teacher Nellie Hollywood in a statement to Beach Metro Community News

“Our class decided to take this challenge on and see how much money we could raise for such an amazing foundation. Our class loved supporting their peers who attend Holland Bloorview. We started off the fundraising in our classroom with our classroom families to spread the word. We then decided to put it out to the school as a whole school initiative.”

The class fundraising campaign began with kindergarten students Oliver and Shayna who are ambassadors to Holland Bloorview themselves. The campaign then grew into a school-wide team effort.

Some of the fundraising initiatives at the school included a superhero workout day in capes, a cape decorating day and a parade of capes.

“Even small superheroes can make a big difference, and there’s different ways to be a superhero. And I think the theme of the superheroes, with the accessibility and inclusion, really resonated with the kids and

with the whole school,” said Bowmore parent Stephanie Charal.

The Bowmore Team was in the Top 10 among all fundraiser groups for the Holland Bloorview Capes for Kids campaign, according to the online leaderboard.

“(The leaderboard is) just a way for people to see how they’re doing against other fundraisers and other teams. People like a little bit of healthy competition and especially within a whole range of corporate teams that fundraise for us, and they really do like to compete against each other, which is really great,” said Holland Bloorview Foundation Vice-President of Strategy and Public Engagement Ashleigh Saith.

The annual Capes for Kids campaign officially began on March 6, aiming to raise $1 million for Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital and The Bloorview Research Institute.

“They fundraise and wear a cape everywhere they go for a week every March, and we have a whole slew of community members who support us and have seen schools like Bowmore participate this year. It’s fully accessible and kids with disabilities are able to participate no matter what. So it’s not like a walk or a run, where you have to have a certain physical ability,” said Saith of the fundraising campaign.

Capes for Kids has raised about $7.7 million since it began in 2017, supporting research into childhood disability and developmental differences, as well as programs to help children live better through movement, speech, play and healing.

While Capes for Kids is a fundraiser across Canada for the Toronto research hospital, the Bowmore students were focused on what the hospital means to their community.

Beach Bridge Pub Crawl planned

THE TORONTO East Bridge Club will be hosting its annual Beach Bridge Pub Crawl on Saturday, May 9. It will rotate through three pubs along Queen Street East in the Beach, taking place from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Participating pubs are The Gull and Firkin, Immigrante and Breakwall.

Ada Spanjaard is the founder and organizer of the Beach Bridge Pub Crawl. She started the first pub crawl back in 2018 after visiting the Netherlands and noticing the different themes they had for pub crawls.

“The beauty of bridge is that it’s played

Steak Frites

all over the world, and the rules more or less stay the same,” said Spanjaard.

The first Beach Bridge Pub Crawl had 36 guests in 2018, but then shut down for a number of years. It was started again in 2025, and 48 people attended.

“It has been very, very popular. It’s a fun day,” said Spanjaard.

Registration fee is $82 per person, which covers lunch, three non-alcoholic beverages (one for each pub), and other costs.

To register and for more information, please go to https://beachbridgepubcrawl. wixsite.com/bbpc/registration

ViVetha Bistro 2485 Queen St. E. 416-686-5688

Happy Hour Specials

10 oz. Angus striploin steak with fries

Ribs & Fries

Homemade ribs and fries

Tandoori Chicken

Homemade Tandoori chicken with rice

Chicken Deluxe

Chicken, leeks, tomato, roasted pepper, and coconut curry cream. Served with rice.

Cajun Chicken Caesar

Homemade Caesar salad with Cajun chicken

Roasted Garlic Shrimp Caesar

Homemade Caesar salad with roasted garlic shrimp

Spaghettini Bolognese

Spaghettini pasta with homemade meat sauce

Meatball Pasta

Spaghettini with meatballs and tomato sauce

Homemade Burger

Homemade burger and Fries

Two Course Special Menu

(Before 5pm)

Appetizer & Entree OR Entree & Dessert

Free Small Caesar Salad (no meat), House Salad, or Freshly made Soup

Calamari Fried or Grilled

Choice of a Homemade Dessert

~~ Add a Glass of House Wine or Mimosa, or Spiritz Cocktails only for $7 ~~

Roasted Garlic BC Snapper

Served over spaghettini pasta with rose sauce

6 oz. Angus Striploin Steak with mushroom gorgonzola glaze

Served with spaghettini pasta with rose sauce

Bay Scallops & Escargot

Bay scallops, escargot, leeks, tomato, roasted pepper, jerk-spiced cream sauce, bowtie pasta

Meatball Pasta

Homemade meatballs with spaghettini pasta & tomato sauce

Spaghettini Bolognese

Homemade meat sauce over spaghettini noodles

Roasted Garlic Chicken Penne

Roasted garlic chicken, leeks, roasted pepper, Dijon mustard cream sauce, penne pasta

Amatriciana

Pancetta ham, broccoli, leeks, roasted pepper, saumbuca cream sauce, penne pasta

Chicken Parmesan

Homemade chicken with linguine and tomato sauce

Crispy Chicken Escargot

Crispy chicken, escargot, roasted pepper, broccoli, fettuccine, spicy rose

Pancetta Ham Carbonara

Pancetta ham, smoked bacon, mushrooms, leeks, tomato, bowtie pasta, cream sauce

Smoked Duck Sandwich

Pan-seared smoked duck, mixed mush,rooms, red onions, wilted spinach, brandy

BBQ sauce. Served on Focaccia bread with fries and salad.

Classic Breakfast

Three eggs, sausage, homefries

Santa Fe Omelet

Mushrooms, onions, mixed sweet pepper, tomato concasse

Ham and Mushroom Omelet

Ham, mushrooms, mixed cheese

Three Cheese Omelet

Asiago, cheddar, and mozzarella

Smoked Sausage Western

Smoked sausage, mixed sweet pepper, red onions, mixed cheese

Pancakes

Pancakes with sausage

Grand Marnier French Toast

Thick challah bread, caramelized peach and sausage

Eggs Benedict

2 poached eggs on an english muffin with home fries

Eggs Nova

2 poached eggs on an english muffin with smoked salmon and home fries

Eggs Florentine

2 poached eggs on an english muffin with wilted spinach and home fries

Mascarpone Cheese Stuffed Pancake with sausage

Golden Cheese

Mixed gold mozzarella, tomato sauce

Pepperoni

Pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce

Margherita

Basil, mozzarella cheese, bocconcini cheese, tomato sauce

Signature Veggie

Grilled zucchini, eggplant, asparagus, roasted red pepper, kalamata olives, Woolwich goat cheese, mozzarella cheese, tomato & pesto sauce

Bacon & Cheese

Double smoked bacon, mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce

Resident promotes topical gel to help those dealing with pain and soreness

By Kat Bergeron

UPPER BEACH resident

Ben Stellino is introducing her newest entrepreneurial connection to help those in need of pain relief.

LactiGo is a topical gel for inflammation in the muscles and joints. It differs from other on-the-market topical ointments due to its transdermal absorption, said Stellino.

“It’s not just for athletes, because we all move, we all have pain. So that’s how I got involved, and I’m very passionate about it, just as I was with the red-light therapy,” said Stellino, who has fibromyalgia which is a chronic pain condition that results in muscle pain and fatigue.

Partnering with Kevin Atkinson, who purchased the patent from a Milanbased pharmaceutical company in 2008, LactiGo now holds patents in 44 countries around the world. The

Upper Beach resident

Ben Stellino wants others to know about LactiGo, a topical gel that helps with muscle pain and soreness. Stellino, who deals with fibromyalgia pain, is passionate about the gel’s benefits company is currently selling the product in Canada and the United States in online sales, as well as to medical practitioners, chiropractors and sports teams.

“The gel contains carnosine and magnesium and

works by absorbing through the skin of the affected area, penetrating into the muscles and joints to repair cellular damage and inflammation,” said Stellino.

“It buffers lactic acid and that’s not just with athletes. If you’re shovelling the snow and you feel soreness, it helps with it.”

Former National Hockey League players Karl Alzner, Eric Fehr and Jay Beagle are also involved with LactiGo. Fehr is on the board of directors for LactiGo as well as the pharmaceutical company Ethoderm which researches and produces the formula. Alzner and Beagle are active investors.

Last month, LactiGo also launched a pet-friendly version of the product.

For more information about LactiGo, please contact Stellino by email at benstellino@gmail.com or call 647-282-4899 or go online to my.lactigo.com/benstellino

De Carle and Briggs at Acoustic Harvest on April 18

Originally, The Laws had been scheduled to perform, but they had to cancel due to illness.

Saturday’s concert is at St. Paul’s United Church (200

McIntosh St., Scarborough) starting at 8 p.m. Tickets are $35 in advance and $45 at the door. To order, please go to https://www.acousticharvest.ca

Jenny

Simon and Shane Little Sales Representatives

hello@JennyandShane.ca

JennyandShane.ca

jennyandshane.ca

PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY

Your gateway to connecting with skilled professionals in our community

Interested in advertising your business in our Professional Directory? Contact carolin@beachmetro.com or 416-698-1164 x 22 for rates. Your Professional Directory ad also appears on our website: beachmetro.com

Dashwood & Dashwood

Barristers & Solicitors

Geoffrey J. Dashwood 961 Kingston Rd. Tel. 416-690-7222 Toronto, M4E 1S8 Fax. 416-690-8738

PSYCHOTHERAPY

Kriens

LaRose,

LLP

Chartered Professional Accountants

• Accounting services for owner-managed businesses

• Audit services for not-for-profit organizations kriens@krienslarose.com krienslarose.com 416-690-6800

CHRISTINE KATO, B.Sc., D.V.M. KATO ANIMAL HOSPITAL 2830 Danforth Ave. (East of Dawes Rd.) 416-690-2112 Dogs, cats, pocket pets. Housecalls available.

HOUGHTON VETERINARY HOUSECALL SERVICES Vaccines, examinations, diagnostics, palliative care, and home euthanasia provided for your pets in the comfort of your own home. Dr. Barbara Houghton 647-221-5516

Patrick Ruiz Professional Corporation CPA, CA

An accountant you can count on For your Small Business Self-employed income & investments Real Estate Rentals 647-300-4062 • patrick@prtaxcpa.com

Snider & DiGregorio

Barristers, Solicitors, Notaries. 978 Kingston Road, Toronto, Ont., M4E 1S9 Tel: 416-699-0424 Fax: 416-699-0285 Email: info@sdlegal.ca

Shelly Pereira, Paralegal Commissioner/Notary, Small Claims, Landlord & Tenant/other Tribunals, Municipal Offences, Letters & Mediation. Call for a Free 30 min. Consultation 647-693-6240 Toronto info@toronto-paralegal.net

Peter J. Salah Family Law Lawyer 124 Merton Street, Suite 300 We Collaborate, Negotiate & Litigate 416.752.8128 peter@salahlaw.ca www.salahlaw.ca

KAMRUL HAFIZ AHMED REAL ESTATE LAWYER 416 690 1855 [P 416 690 1866 [F 2972 DANFORTH

Beaches Family Law and MEDIATION

Linda Bronicheski, J.D. 47 Main Street (at Lyall) 416-763-6884 Linda@BeachesFamilyLaw.com

GARRY M. CASS

BARRISTER & SOLICITOR, TEP

Wills/Estate Administration/Advice to Estate Trustees

416-767-CASS (2277) x 207 416-795-4899 (cell) 416-491-0273 (fax) garry@garrycass.com

Member Ontario Association of Architects

Cummings Architecture Residential new build,

Glover & Associates

Barristers, Solicitors, Notaries Real Estate, Family, Litigation Wills & Estates, Corporate 416-691-3700 Queen and Hammersmith

Cremation & Burial Services Inc. Life Celebrations. Done Differently. In Service with St. John’s Norway Cemetery & Crematorium. 647.660.5056 www.ecofuneral.ca

Beach Metro News Lucky Volunteers

PHOTO: SUBMITTED

A tip of the Beach Metro Community News cap for our Lucky Volunteers for April 14, Harper and Finley. For being named Lucky Volunteers they receive a prize of $50 which they are donating to Centre 55. They started delivering a few years ago in the Hunt Club area with their family.

“We’ve always loved the paper and the value it brings to the community. My wife and I both grew up delivering the Beach Metro with our parents, so when the opportunity came up to do the same with our own kids, we jumped at it. Through our involvement with local youth sports organizations like Triple Crown Volleyball, 41SIX Volleyball, Beaches Lacrosse, and Beach Community Soccer, we see all the time how much community matters, and the Beach Metro has long been an important part of that,” said dad Dave. If you would like to find out how to become a Beach Metro Community News volunteer, please contact Melinda Drake at melinda@beachmetro.com for all the details.

Toronto Chill charity game for Pegasus set for Saturday

THE TORONTO Chill of the Granny Basketball League will be holding a fundraising game for the Pegasus Community Project this Saturday.

The game between Chill players and Pegasus volunteers will be played at Eastminster United Church, 310 Danforth Ave., starting at 1 p.m. Doors will open at 12:30 p.m.

Pegasus Community Project is a local charity organization providing support for adults with developmental disabilities to learn life skills, gain independence and access resources.

Tickets for the game are $10 and can be purchased in person at The Pegasus Shoppe, 931 Kingston Rd., or at the Eastminster door by cash or debit on Saturday.

The Toronto Chill and the Granny Basketball League is for women players over age 50. To donate to the fundraiser, please, go to www. canadahelps.org/en/pages/ granny-basketball-fundraiser-with-toronto-chill

We believe that everyone can have a healthy smile for life, and with our help it’s easier than you think! We are passionate about helping patients live better quality lives thanks to good oral health.

Beaches Easter Parade draws big crowds to Queen Street East

Though the weather was a bit chilly, large crowds turned out on Sunday, April 5, for the Beaches Easter Parade presented by the Toronto Beaches Lions Club. This was the 60th year for the parade that started in 1967 and has been presented by the Toronto Beaches Lions Club since 1973. More than 60 groups, including Beach Metro Community News, took part in this year’s parade as it travelled along Queen Street East in the Beach from Victoria Park Avenue to Woodbine Avenue.

Neighbourhood Stops and Shops

ViVetha Bistro belongs on your must-visit list this spring

If you haven’t been to ViVetha Bistro yet, you’re already behind (but, not in a bad way).

Because this is the kind of place you only have to discover once, then wonder how it took you so long to get there.

Tucked back along the eastern stretch of Queen Street East near the Neville Loop, ViVetha has quietly built a reputation that spreads the old-fashioned way: through word of mouth, loyal regulars, and meals that people can’t stop talking about after they leave.

Opened in November 2005, the restaurant has been part of the Beach community for 20 years. And while the neighbourhood continues to welcome new families and new energy, ViVetha remains one of those rare constants, a place where people return again and again, often bringing someone new with them each time.

Step inside, and it’s immediately clear why.

Head server Janice Campbell greets guests like she’s known them for years, and often, she has. Many customers are on a first-name basis with both her and owner Siva Thanbinathan Somasuntharam, creating a warm, familiar atmosphere that feels closer to a family gathering than a typical night out.

Janice herself has been part of the team for nearly 15 years, a reflection of the kind of loyalty that defines the space.

In the kitchen, Siva brings decades of global experience, from Sri Lanka to Paris to Toronto, into a menu that puts flavour first, always. Presentation is refined, drawing on French and Italian influences, but it never comes at the expense of what matters most: how the food actually tastes.

That approach comes through in dishes like the Indian King pasta, layered with Madras curry coconut cream and vegetables, and the Seafood Delight linguini, rich with scallops, shrimp, and smoked salmon. Mains like Rack of Lamb with a brandy gorgonzola glaze or Roasted Garlic Pepper Crusted Salmon with fruit chutney round out a dinner menu that feels elevated without ever being out of reach.

Still, if there’s one thing that keeps Vi-

Vetha at the top of people’s lists, it’s brunch. Weekends from morning until 4 p.m. are walk-in only, and tables fill quickly. The mascarpone-stuffed French Toast, topped with fresh berries and caramel, has become a neighbourhood favourite, alongside Crab Eggs Benedict and the Santa Fe Omelette. It’s the kind of brunch that turns into a tradition.

And it’s not just adults who get hooked. Families are a huge part of the ViVetha story, with kids often returning for their own orders of ribs or the now-famous Indian King pasta after trying it once off their parents’ plates.

Beyond the dining room, ViVetha continues to meet the needs of the community in simple, thoughtful ways. Their takeaway pizzas, all under $15, are perfect for a quick dinner or to bring down to the beach as the weather warms. The patio is reopening for the season, with plans to expand outdoor dining in the coming years.

The restaurant also doubles as a space for life’s bigger moments. From baby showers to engagement parties, intimate weddings to full restaurant buyouts, ViVetha has hosted it all, each event handled with the same care and attention as a regular service.

In a city where convenience often wins, where meals are rushed or replaced with something quick at home, ViVetha offers a different kind of value.

Everything is made from scratch. Ingredients are sourced fresh daily, often locally. Dietary needs, including gluten-free and allergies, are taken seriously, making it a reliable choice for families with varying needs.

But more than anything, ViVetha offers something harder to come by: time.

A reason to sit down, slow down, and actually enjoy the people you’re with.

Browse the menu at vivethabistro.com, call ahead to reserve a table for dinner, or simply walk into 2485 Queen St. E this weekend for brunch, and see for yourself why this long-standing neighbourhood favourite continues to draw people back, again and again.

By Sean Mallen

Toronto Beach Chorale brings Carmina Burana to Kingston Road United

EVEN IF most people do not know the title, chances are that they have heard the most famous music from the choral masterpiece Carmina Burana. The kinetic, driving O Fortuna movement is instantly recognizable, having been featured in commercials for beer and Old Spice aftershave and in films as diverse as Excalibur and Jackass The Movie.

As he leads Toronto Beach Chorale’s rehearsals for their performance later this month, Artistic Director Mervin Fick calls upon another pop culture reference, telling the choristers that Carmina Burana will be as close as they ever get to singing with the rock group Queen.

“Some of the melodies are so raw, they remind me of (Queen lead singer) Freddie Mercury,” he said. “The whole thing is supported by rhythmic drive, and in that way modern rock music is defined by the same thing.”

Set for Kingston Road United Church at 7:30 p.m., the April 26 performance promises to be dazzling. The Mississauga Chamber Singers will be joining the Chorale to boost the vocal impact, accompanied by two grand pianos facing each other at the front along with the TorQ Percussion Quartet.

“I can hardly wait to get my teeth into it. There’s something spectacular about playing things with two pianos. They become the symphony orchestra,” said Ron Greidanus, who will be at the keyboard of one of the grands, opposite Adolfo De Santis.

“It’s more virtuosic and impressive.”

Carmina Burana is also a feast for percussionists. Typically, it requires six performers, but in this case TorQ has adapted it so that their four members can cover the parts. They will be busy, each playing between five and eight instruments, including timpani, snare drums, cymbals, xylophone, bass drum, chimes, gong, two glockenspiels and a car brake drum (in lieu of an anvil).

“We’re four guys who are passionate about percussion,” said Richard Burrows of

TorQ. “We say jokingly that we hit stuff for a living.”

Burrows and his partners have performed Carmina Burana many times and he says there is nothing like seeing and hearing it in person, as audiences uniformly give it a standing ovation.

“It’s visceral, and to me that just speaks volumes for the level of excitement that the piece can bring.”

The music for Carmina Burana was written by the German composer Carl Orff, set to a series of medieval poems, mainly in Latin. On its debut performance in Frankfurt in 1937, it became an immediate sensation and remains a staple in the choral repertoire.

A central image is the wheel of fortune (thus the O Fortuna movement), not the game show, but a reference to the ancient concept of how humans can experience many highs and lows in the course of their lives, with the wheel bringing success, love and happiness at one turn and disaster, dismissal and despair at the next.

“The wheel of fortune is as old as time. Somebody climbs up the ladder to the top of the wheel, and then the wheel turns, and you’re thrown off and you’re back down at the bottom,” said Fick. “Some people, like Joni Mitchell, would call it the carousel of life.”

The April 26 performance will open with a series of European folk songs, including works by Brahms, Bartok and Grieg, all of which influenced Orff. As Fick loves to do at each performance of the Chorale, he will periodically offer commentaries to set the stage for each piece.

“I stand in front of an audience and say thank you for coming. Let me be your tour guide as we travel through this part of music history, much like when you land yourself in a city in Europe, and you hop on a tour bus. “

Tickets for Carmina Burana can be purchased through the Toronto Beach Chorale’s website at www.torontobeachchorale.

Riverdale Collegiate students stage Mamma Mia! this week

By Jessica Shackleton

HERE WE go again…Riverdale Collegiate Institute is set to present the musical Mamma Mia! starting this Wednesday night.

When students and staff decided to try and bring the drama program and stage productions back to Riverdale four years ago, the show they first wanted to do was Mamma Mia!. Since it’s such a popular musical a lot of other schools were also doing it, and Riverdale was not able to secure the production rights.

In 2024, the school performed the musical Legally Blonde, which was a great success.

Frankie DiGiuseppe, the teacher/director for this year’s show, has worked with the Riverdale students over their high school careers and knew they wanted a chance to do Mamma Mia!

“When it came time to option out musicals again this year, we thought about what the kids would really want. The decision was easy. We applied early, and when we announced to the cast that we would be running Mamma Mia!, they were explosive,” said DiGiuseppe.

Mamma Mia! is an energetic show with songs that everyone knows. It began performances in London’s West End in 1999 and features ABBA songs. The 2008 film has a star-studded cast and is hugely popular.

The story follows Donna and her daughter Sophie, who is getting married and invites her father to the wedding. The problem is that she doesn’t know if Sam, Bill, or Harry is her father. When all three show up, chaos and groovy music ensue. Other characters include Donna’s best friends, Tanya and Rosie, and Sophie’s fiancé, Sky. To top it all off, it’s set on a Greek island.

Edina Lepeniotis plays Donna in Riverdale’s upcoming production, and she said she has always dreamed of being in a musical.

“High school theatre is such a great way to meet people and form a community with your peers. Performing is always such a joy, and it’s even more fun when done with others,” she said.

The role of Sophie is played by Meaghan Grant, who also loves the community aspect of theatre. Getting up in front of the audi-

ence is both rewarding and hard, she said.

“Performing is definitely the best and most difficult part of being in a musical. It’s an amazing feeling to be applauded for and have people react to the lines you deliver. It’s also at the same time very scary because you don’t want to mess up,” said Lepeniotis. Tommy Tran plays Sam, and he said he joined the musical to get over his fear of public speaking, as English was at first a difficult language for him to speak fluently.

“I would shy away from speaking up for myself, but the moment I was given a position of becoming a leader for the city, I knew that I needed to get over this fear of mine, so I asked my English teacher to sign me up,” he said.

Another potential father and eventual friend of Sam’s is adventurer Bill, played by Eric Edwards.

“I wanted to be part of a project and maybe make some friends. When I auditioned, I expected a small part or someone in the background, something fun, but not big. When I got the part, it was a bit scary. But I decided that I would still try my best,” he said.

Actors and crew at Riverdale have been working on the show since the start of the school year, and now it is time to take the stage. Performances are on Wednesday, April 15; Thursday, April 16; and Friday, April 17, at 7 p.m. in Riverdale’s auditorium, located at 1094 Gerrard St. E. Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased in advance via School Cash Online or at the door.

New owner to continue legacy o Vicky’s Hair Styling in East York

By Natasha Jackson

FOR MORE than 50 years, Vicky’s Hair Styling has been a staple in East York. By preserving classic hairstyling methods at affordable prices, and offering coffee and snacks, Vicky has always made her salon feel like home.

Vicky Simone attended hair styling school in New York back in 1959. Later, she moved back to Toronto and met her husband, who lived in East York, and decided to open her salon at Pape and Cosburn avenues. She created a special place that many in the community hold close to their hearts.

Now, after announcing her retirement, Vicky has been mentoring Mery (Mehri) Ataei to take over her spot as owner and head manager of the salon. She will continue Vicky’s legacy by offering the same services while also embracing some new, modern hair and beauty trends.

“The time was right for me to let go slowly and for Mery to come in and take over,” said Vicky.

Mery began her hairstyling career in her home country, Iran, where she obtained her hair licence in 2000. She immigrated to Toronto with her husband in 2007 and decided she wanted to do what she loved most: hairstyling.

“She’s very generous to give me all her knowledge and skills,” said Mery.

She took over the salon on Jan. 1 this year after Vicky’s Hair Styling celebrated its 50th anniversary in the community last November.

Mery said that she and Vicky share the same values when it comes to taking care of clients – by listen-

ing first and understanding what they want.

“We take care of them the same way. I learned from her that you put them first. How they like it. You listen to them,” said Mery.

Since January, the salon has undergone renovations, including new hardwood floors, ceiling updates, and new chairs and countertops.

The salon has a more modern look to it now, while keeping its charm. A new main-floor washroom and storefront sign are also in the works.

There are also a couple of new beauty services that the salon will be offering such as classic manicures and pedicures, and some more modern hair styling methods such as keratin treatments and foilyage balayages. Mery also mentioned plans to rent out space in the salon for local businesses and estheticians to offer services such as massages

and facial treatments, and bring in new clientele.

“We have the oldest to the youngest, and to put it together is really amazing,” said Vicky.

The salon now has the best of both words by combining both new and older hair-styling trends for all clientele.

For example, Vicky offers a traditional method of perm rollers. This is by sectioning off hair in spirals around rods connected to an electric heating device and adding ammonium thioglycolate to reshape hair into tight curls. They will continue to offer that style while now also doing modern curl methods with new digital hair drying machines that speed up the process of treatments.

Mery hopes to bring in more business to the salon and expand the team, but also wants to continue what Vicky started 50 years ago

Beach historical society presentation on the Avro Arrow set for April 22

AUTHOR GREIG Stewart will speak about the Avro Arrow during a presentation hosted by The Beach and East Toronto Historical Society (TBETHS) on Wednesday, April 22.

The free presentation will take place from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Beaches Sandbox, located at 2181 Queen St. E., just east of Lee Avenue. An historian and awardwinning author, Stewart will talk about his book Shutting Down The National Dream: A.V. Roe and the Tragedy of the Avro Arrow

The book is the winner of The National Business Book Award.

The story of the Avro Arrow is considered a Canadian business and technology tragedy by many. Stewart’s book examines the history of the A.V. Roe Canada company and its subsidiaries Avro Aircraft and Oneida Engines, focusing on the years from 1946 to 1959.

In that time, Avro’s aircraft engineers were considered among the best in the world.

By 1958, the Avro Arrow jet interceptor plane was on the verge of going into production, and it was considered “the most sophisticated piece of aviation design and technology the

world had ever seen” and it was decades ahead of other designs.

However, in 1959 the Canadian government scrapped the entire Avro Arrow aviation program and ordered the destruction of the six existing planes.

Stewart’s book has been called a story of “the right stuff ” at the wrong time, as it chronicles a “tragedy” of the plane’s demise and the political and other reasons behind the federal government’s decision to scrap the program.

For more information, please visit The Beach and East Toronto Historical Society at www.tbeths.com

and make the salon a welcoming place for the community.

“I know for sure that she’s going to do well,” said Vicky. “This salon has given me everything I’ve wanted in terms of relationships with my clients and happiness. It just kept me young. So I wish for Mery to spend another 50 years here.”

Vicky’s Hair Styling is located at 480 Cosburn Ave.

Beach Chorale

Mervin W. Fick, Music Director

In

My Opinion

nune a nanyan S o P rano Benjamin d one Tenor a lexander h

SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2026, 7:30PM KINGSTON ROAD UNITED CHURCH 975 KINGSTON ROAD, TORONTO www.TORONTOBEACHCHORALE. com

Rethinking osteoarthritis: Not a life sentence

JARED COX Guest Column

structural changes and very little pain.

AObituaries & In Memoriam

A space for remembrance and memory sharing. We publish Obituaries and In Memoriam notices online and in print. For details, email mark@beachmetro.com or call 647-988-1835

Crossword

It's No Big Thing

rthritis is a term that often sparks images of red, inflamed joints, stiffness, mobility challenges, and pain. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting one in five Canadians. It is commonly found in knees, hips, and the spine, but it can impact any joint in the body.

Although more common in adults, osteoarthritis can also affect children.

Increasing age, obesity, previous injury, genetics, and occupation can all play a role in its development.

by Barbara Olson

Osteoarthritis is often thought of as simple “wear and tear” on our joints, and many people believe they must put up with their symptoms until they eventually need a joint replacement. Much like damage to your car, it can seem as though nothing will improve until someone steps in to fix it.

But what if we have been thinking about osteoarthritis all wrong? What if those beliefs have been limiting our ability to get moving and feel better?

Unlike your car, your body has an incredible ability to repair and adapt. That is why “wear and tear” is a misleading and outdated term, and why it may be more helpful to think in terms of “wear, tear, and repair.”

Imaging has also shown that osteoarthritis is much more common than once thought, particularly as we age. It is so common that researchers and doctors often compare it to greying hair or wrinkles. While not always welcome, these changes do not have to be associated with pain.

A skilled manual therapist, such as an Osteopathic Manual Practitioner (OMP), considers these factors when developing a plan for someone with osteoarthritis, identifying barriers to achieving their goals. Through shared decision-making, OMPs work with patients to set meaningful goals, support day-to-day pain management, and tailor care to what matters most to them.

Manual therapy, particularly gentle movement of joints and muscles in a comfortable manner, is commonly used to address reduced movement that may have developed because pain has led to less activity. This approach can help improve circulation and interrupt the cycle in which pain leads to reduced joint use, further loss of movement, and may result in wider unwanted health effects.

18

20

Disc degeneration, for example, is common even in people without pain. It is seen in 37 per cent of painfree 20-year-olds and rises steadily with each decade of life, reaching 96 per cent of pain-free 80-year-olds.

Research also shows that up to 43 per cent of adults over 40 have knee osteoarthritis but are walking around pain-free and unaware of it. MRI studies of the hip show that abnormalities, including arthritic changes, are common in up to 73 per cent of pain free adults.

While osteoarthritic and other structural changes in joints are very common, particularly as we age, they do not reliably predict pain or a person’s ability to move and function.

Physical activity is strongly encouraged. It may sound counterintuitive, but the right kind of exercise is good for osteoarthritis. Movement supports joint health, and keeping the surrounding muscles strong is important. Exercise is often introduced in small, tolerable amounts and gradually increased over time. For example, this might mean walking a distance that does not aggravate symptoms, then increasing that distance by five per cent each week.

Depending on an individual’s barriers to recovery, additional advice may include strategies to improve sleep, nutrition recommendations, or explore approaches to reduce stress.

49

Ages twelve to twenty

So why do some people experience pain with these changes while others do not?

It is important to know that pain is a warning signal, not simply a measure of tissue damage. Pain is a complex and highly individual experience influenced by emotional, cognitive, and social factors.

In other words, someone can experience high levels of pain with relatively little tissue injury, while another person may have significant

Osteoarthritis may be common, but it does not have to define your future. Pain and joint changes do not always go hand in hand, and a diagnosis does not mean inevitable decline.

With the right advice, steady movement, and a plan that considers the whole person, many people can manage osteoarthritis well and keep doing what matters most to them.

- Jared Cox is an Osteopathic Manual Practitioner and a Certified Nutritional Practitioner at Beachealth, located at 350 Beech Ave. For more information, please go online at https://beachealth. com or call 416-546-4887.

Inside The Vault: A new lab for theatrical creations

By Annie Rosenberg

One by one, they shed the street: boots unlacing, coats draping, woolen hats tumbling onto small, careless heaps. At the juncture of Woodbine and Danforth, The Vault Creation Lab stands in the shell of a former bank. Inside, the bank’s bones remain: cool concrete under stockinged feet, vast windows stretching the full width of the street, light pouring in above the theatre’s dark below.

“The space always leads the way with this company,” says Diana Bentley. She and Ted Dykstra co-founded The Coal Mine Theatre a decade ago, shaping it into one of Toronto’s most respected indie companies.

In 2025, Bentley launched the Vault Creation Lab as a sister company, a new venture designed to address a growing gap in the Canadian theatre ecosystem: the lack of development time and space for new work. Here, creators—actors, playwrights, designers, and directors—come for the marrow of plays: words and time.

In one corner, an artificial tree sweeps toward the ceiling, its plastic canopy sheltering a cluster of potted plants in a kind of synthetic shade.

A white credenza rests against one wall, lights strung loosely along its edge, pieces of wood

tucked underneath—not a showroom, but a working space. “The Vault” is lettered across the walls and doors at steady intervals, extending down the hallway and up the staircase.

When Bentley and Dykstra took over the building, they considered softer names. “The Nest,” perhaps. But the architecture argued otherwise. The heavy doors and thick walls were built to safeguard assets.

Dykstra asked: “What about the Vault?” Bentley laughs. “I’m always saying, ‘Okay, put it in the vault.’ When we talk… I find myself saying, ‘It’s in the vault. Keep it in the vault.’ It’s about safety… a container for things that need protecting.”

The Vault is a nod to the building’s steel-and-rust history and a promise of protection. Once designed to guard currency, it now holds something more fragile: language still forming, ideas not yet shaped into dialogue, scene, and movement.

“You have to protect the early stages,” Bentley says.

She eventually stepped away from her shared mantle of artistic leadership at Coal Mine to focus her energy on the Vault, overseeing the commissions, residencies, and Public Labs dedicated to what she calls “the gestation period.”

“What Ted and I have built at Coal Mine is artist-led, artist-

forward,” she says. “Our mandate is simple: artists first.”

That philosophy sharpens its focus: the playwright—that solitary architect of worlds not yet built, facing silence, time, and the terrifying act of beginning. Within these walls, work is not rushed toward production or performance. Instead, there is the slow, deliberate work of gestation—readings, workshops, and discovery.

Bentley leans back, her eyes tracking the light as it shifts across the concrete. “People sometimes think plays just happen,” she says. “I wish they understood how hard and vulnerable and scary it is—and how long it takes. We want to honour that work.”

Around the table they assemble. Shoulders roll. Spines lengthen. Scripts open. Thermoses emerge from bags onto scarred wood—out, out—claiming their places. The air crackles with beginning.

Bentley moves through the room, a study in monochrome: black jacket, black pants, not a spectator, but the engine of the work.

“I envision the Vault as something like the Royal Court Theatre,” she continues. “A raw, unfinished space—but showcasing world-class work.”

Scattered across the concrete— black IKEA loungers, a white plastic chair on wheels—is the staging ground for the long work of revising and drafting, of holding the weight of a body midthought.

“It’s experimental, risky theatre—and a big part of the Vault,” Bentley adds. “People will come and see exciting new plays.”

One of the Vault’s quiet revolutions is its Public Labs—evenings when the doors open not only to artists but to audiences eager to step into the messy middle.

When a script has found its legs, pages are shared and read aloud. The playwright sits apart, listening as the room shifts— laughter in surprising places, stillness when a line lands. It is less a performance than a testing

ground—a chance to see where the current catches, where it stalls, and to carry that knowledge into the next draft.

Between those Public Labs, the work continues in smaller rooms.

In the Writers Reading program, playwrights gather to hear their pages read by peers, then stay for the work of critique and discussion — a practice as old as theatre itself.

Bentley describes the lab as “multi-dynamic”—both a development arm for Coal Mine and a training ground for the broader theatre community. In an ecosystem where resources are shrinking, the Vault is working to rebuild what has eroded. “We have a lot of development funding being cut right now,” she says. “Playwrights have lost so much support.”

“When we came to renovate the space,” Bentley says, “the whole basement felt like a bank, and the vault was this beautiful little spot.”

Downstairs, the vault opens into shadow: steel frame worn to rust-brown, hinges thick as fists. Where currency once sat,

tools hang on hooks: red-handled clamps, dormant. Cables trail across the concrete. A black bin stands against the wall. The door, heavy and scuffed, now guards the machinery of theatre.

Just outside the mouth of the vault, jackets and dresses hang from a rolling rack, suspended above the concrete.

In the basement, Coal Mine’s black box waits in darkness, rows of chairs rising into shadow, the stage bare, the space holding its breath.

Above, drafts circulate in daylight—voices testing language against air.

“It’s about giving the work room to breathe,” Bentley says. Nothing here declares itself finished. Lines are spoken, revised, returned to, and spoken again— each pass a small act of faith.

A solitary voice rises through the space. No one looks up. Dykstra shrugs. “Oh—that’s the cleaning woman. She likes to wear headphones and sing while she works.”

Beyond the vault, in the theatre’s dark, the cleaning woman sings.

Reel Beach: Movies in East Toronto

Award-winning drama Blue Heron screened at the Fox Theatre I

BERNIE FLETCHER

t’s not every day that a filmmaker gets to screen their movie at the same movie theatre where they work.

The Fox Theatre’s “very own” Sophy Romvari presented her acclaimed debut feature film, Blue Heron, on three evenings followed by a Question and Answer session with an appreciative audience.

Blue Heron blends fact and fiction, past and present, childhood moments and adult memories.

In the late 1990’s a HungarianCanadian family settles into a new home on Vancouver Island. Through the eyes of eight-year old Sasha we see idyllic nature contrasted with the family trauma caused by her older brother Jeremy’s disruptive behaviour. Sasha is an innocent witness to events she can’t fully understand. As an adult she turns her camera to her past.

Romvari has made short films for “many, many” years.

It’s difficult to receive funding for independent films, but “in Canada we are very lucky. I feel very privileged because I got to make exactly the film I wanted to make because I made it here.”

The writer/director explained how she found her title:

“There’s an arts market down the street in the Beaches. They sell local artists’ work and I bought this stained glass blue heron which I just felt compelled toward. And I liked it, I brought it home and I put it in my window. I knew I wanted there to be an object that the young Sasha brings into her adulthood, an object that has some kind of emotional connection for

her and a talisman of a sort of time travel.”

Romvari joked that her memories are “unreliable”. We can’t change the past, but we can try to understand it.

In the film, Jeremy gives Sasha a blue heron key chain. “I wanted to show the thing that she’s holding onto from her past physically… and then I found all these beautiful connections with the bird itself,” said Romvari.

When Romvari was finishing up her film and running out of money, the Fox Theatre offered her a job as a supervisor. She lives nearby and the theatre has become her “second home”, her “second living room”.

For Romvari it’s “very special to screen this film here…the greatest privilege of my life making this movie to share with people. Playing it at the movie theatre I work at…it’s great. What a dream!”

Blue Heron has won accolades and prizes at film festivals around the world as well as the Best Canadian

Discovery Award at TIFF 2025 and the Toronto Film Critics Award. It is nominated for seven Canadian Screen Awards, including Best Motion Picture (May 31).

Watch for Blue Heron to open in wide release on April 24. In Toronto the opening night will be hosted by David Cronenberg. Romvari added that it is more important than ever to support local arts and independent theatres. The Fox has survived since 1914. Director Norman Jewison grew up in the Beach seeing movies at local “nabes”. In 1949 there were 26 neighbourhood movie houses in the east end between the Don River and Victoria Park Avenue. Now you could call the Fox “the last picture show” in the Beach.

“I’m really excited to make another film,” said Romvari.

She is a talent to watch. The next time you are at the Fox, say hello. You may even buy a ticket from Sophy herself!

By David Van Dyke

This archival photograph (at left) taken by an unknown photographer depicts two businesses on the northwest corner of Kingston and Scarborough roads in 1931. Grimaldi Brothers Fruit Market switched to selling flowers in 1955. Today, the fourth owner and operators, Emily Shabsove and Cole Walker, are both born and raised Beachers who attended Malvern Collegiate Do you have an old photograph of a business on Kingston Road you’d like to share with our readership? Please contact me at gdvandyke61@gmail.com Special thanks to Eric Shabsove for providing info and the photograph.

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Music

THE TWO FOURS

Your Local Rockin’ Roots & Retro Revival Band Good Time Music, Every Time Book Now For Your Best Spring Event Dates & Times thetwofours@eol.ca • 416-690-5442

Tutoring

HELP WITH MATH & ENGLISH call ALBERTO 416 690 9389 for

FOUR SEASONS SERVICE

Cutting Lawns, Garden Work, Yard Cleanups, Hedge Trimming, Small Tree & Rose Pruning. Window Cleaning. If

LILLEEBEE Bee

Head Start Tutors

One on One Tutoring Grades 3-12

Keeping the Love of Learning Alive In-person and Online www.headstarttutors.ca 416-272-9589 • hstarttutors@gmail.com

Proudly serving the Beach for over 25 years Neil Bennett B.Ed./OCT • Sally Vickers B.Ed./OCT (4r)

Garden & Tree

Beach Lawn Care

Lawn Cutting Spring/Fall Clean-Ups 416-414-5883 info@blpm.ca (4r)

Proforestree

Tree Pruning/Removals Planting and more! 416-427-0595 Joel@proforestree.ca (4r)

EVERGREEN TREE CARE YOUR LOCAL, FAMILY RUN TREE PRESERVATION SPECIALISTS

Pruning, Cabling, Planting, Arborist Reports, Removals, Stumps, Milling Free Quotes! 416.546.4889 info@evergreentreecare.ca evergreentreecare.ca (r)

GREENWOOD TREE COMPANY

Another Local Arborist

Tree Pruning & Trimming, Tree

Removals, Arborist Reports, Stump Grinding, Tree Planting

Free Tree Evaluations, Quotes & Permit Assistance Mike - 416 992 7963 mike@greenwoodtree.ca www.greenwoodtree.ca (4r)

AMELIA ROSE

GARDENING & DESIGN

Spring & Fall cleanup. Maintenance. Garden design & plant installation. Seasonal/special occasion planters. Free consultation. Contact Deb 416-804-0646 deb@ameliarosegardendesign.ca www.ameliarosegardendesign.ca (4r)

Magnolia Tree Care

GROWING TOGETHER 10+ years experience

Pruning • Removals • Hedging • Planting • Arborist Reports Free Quotes • Fully Insured 647 388 8733 magnoliatrees.ca (4r)

STONEHENGE

KIM PRICE

Clean Toronto Together events set for this month

FROM APRIL 24 to 26, the City of Toronto is hosting the 21st annual Clean Toronto Together cleanup to celebrate Earth Day on April 22.

The event is considered Canada’s largest municipal annual cleanup.

Beginning in 2004, as a part of the Clean and Beautiful City initiative, the 20-minute event sees both the public and private sectors involved in litter cleanup throughout the city. In 2004 there were more than 44,000 participants.

Since then, the initiative has had various names, including Clean Toronto Together.

Last year, residents, students and businesses banded together to participate in more than 700 selfdirected cleanups with 400 of the them in city parks.

For this year, there are a number of scheduled local cleanups (with more to come).

Some of the planned local cleanups include:

East-Danforth Village on Sunday, April 19, at 10 a.m. Participants are asked to meet at the north end of Thyra Avenue and Detonia Park parking lot.

The Glen Stewart Ravine annual spring cleanup on Sunday, April

TOM

26 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Participants are asked to meet at the Beech Avenue ravine entrance.

The Clean Queen Street East Together initiative on April 24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This event will cover the Queen Street East neighbourhoods of Riverside and Leslieville.

All groups participating in or planning a cleanup are required to register in advance, choose an approved location, pick a day and time and gather supplies for their group, said a city news release.

All groups will be self-led and responsible for following safety

Carpenters

CARPENTRY

Your Project is our Passion 647-207-0124 patrick@greatwoodsolutions.com (19)

Repair, Stain & Build Call or Text 647-463-3436 (7)

Electricians

LOCAL ELECTRICIAN Fault Finding EV Charger Wiring & Install Service Upgrades Potlights & Lighting GREEN ISLE ELECTRIC

JUST SUPERIOR WORKMANSHIP INTERIOR • EXTERIOR 30 YRS EXPERIENCE • FULLY INSURED CALL SEAN FOR AN ESTIMATE 416-985-8639 newbrightpainting@gmail.com (8) Heather Feather Painting, Design and Wallpaper Installation Experienced, reliable, and detail-oriented painter & wallpaper installer based in Toronto. Specializing in all styles. 20 years professional experience. Clean work, timely service, and satisfaction guaranteed. Colour consultations available! www.heatherfeather.ca 905-923-0156 (4r)

ROB’S

BEACH PLUMBING

flooring Decks, fences • Interior painting *25+ yrs exp *Refs avail (4)

Roofers

LANIGAN’S

Roo�ing & Aluminum

An honest family service in the heart of The Beaches www.laniganscontracting.ca 416-569-2181 (r)

ROOFING & SIDING? SOLUTION!

Flat and Shingle Roofs Re-roofing, Repair Eavestrough, Soffit & Fascia Workmanship Guaranteed Gus: 416-910-8033 (4r)

TORONTO ROOFING INDUSTRIES LTD.

Local • Reliable • Professional Servicing the beach over 20 years. 416 694 0906 torontoroofingindustries.com (4r)

ROOFING, REPAIRS

DUN-RITE

Shingles, Flats, Eavestroughs Fascia & Soffit Chimney tuck pointing 15% off for Seniors • All work guaranteed 647-857-5656 (4r)

CANADIAN CONTRACTOR

Shingles • Flats Roof Repairs • Metal Work Eavestroughing & Siding Waterproo�ing • Since 1984 Met. Lic. B-16-964 Steve 416-285-0440 • 416-605-9510 (4$)

Beach Co Roofing

Your neighborhood flat roofing specialist. 647-309-8056 (4r)

tips as well as proper trash sorting guidelines, said the news release.

Cleanup supplies will be available for pickup at select locations. Anyone can register a cleanup at an approved type of location.

Approved location types are available on the city’s registration form. Approved locations include beaches, dog off-leash areas, parks, playgrounds, skateparks, sports fields and trails., said the city’s news release.

Other locations may include allotment gardens, areas of natural and scientific interest, community gardens, environmentally signifi-

EMPIRE CONTRACTORS ROOFING

YOUR COMPLETE ROOFING SERVICES. Free estimates • Factory pricing • Seniors discount • 416-875-5538 empirecontractorsroofing.com Homestars Best Winner 4 yrs in a row. (3/27)

ShandyMan Contracting

Residential & Commercial Projects Renovations, Additions & New Builds Over 20 yrs experience 647-697-8456 info@shandyman.ca shandyman.ca (4) beachmetro.com

Masonry

BEACHES BLUFFS MASONRY

Brick • Block • Concrete • Stone www.beachesbluffs.com beachesbluffs@gmail.com 416-988-2589 (4r)

OTTO’S MASONRY

Your neighbour for over 45 yrs!! Chimneys.Brickwork.Interlock Pavers Concrete.Porches.Stone To BOOK NOW Call: 416 467 1717

Email: info@ottosmasonry.ca Website: www.ottosmasonry.ca (15)

JDB MASONRY

• Brick / Foundation • Concrete / Stone • Chimney & Parging Restoration & Build www.jdbuild.ca 416-738-2119 (6r)

YORK MASONRY

S pecializing in: - Chimneys - Tuck-pointing - Brick/block repair - Patios Serving the Beaches for over a decade. A dam 416-895-1186 yorkmasonry@gmail.com yorkmasonry.com (4e)

ECK’S MASONRY

Repairs • Masonry Cement • Finishing Caulking • Walkways Odd Jobs • Fencing repair ecksmasonry@gmail.com 647-281-3084 (4r)

Scotstone

cant areas (ESA) such as ravines and select parks, golf courses, indoor facilities, naturalized and restoration spaces, public gardens, private properties, parking lots and bike lanes, wading pools or splash pads and wetlands.

The city is reminding participants to wear appropriate clothing, bring a first aid kit, be mindful of the surrounding area, and avoid unstable or slippery ground.

For more information, or to register for Clean Toronto Together, please visit www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/cleantoronto-together

S.A.C. Masonry

Brick, Block, Stone, Chimneys, Concrete, and all masonry repairs Call Sergio 416 873 9936(3e)

CJ DRYWALL & PAINTING

Professional drywall and plaster work. Renovation and Repair. Very clean. No job too small.

Call C.J. 647 222 5338 (4.

BEACHES HANDY WORKS

Dedicated precise worker. All your build and repairs. Indoor or outdoor: dry-wall, flooring, built-in, landscaping, interlocking, sheds, fences, decks,