Issuu

J A N UA R Y 2026

No. 164

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ANNOUNCING THE NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND PLANS FOR THE FACILITY PAGE 24

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LEASIDE MEMORIAL COMMUNITY GARDENS

LOCAL B

THE HEART OF LEASIDE BEATS STRONGLY:

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Leaside Life • January 2026

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Editor’s Welcome Fresh start for a fresh year It’s time to make our annual New Year’s resolutions – and keep them. For Leaside Life that means launching new features and columns. One that is already close to my heart is an initiative we’re calling Don’t Mess With Leaside, or DMWL. Many of you have likely heard of the very active group Don’t Mess with the Don, which we’ve written about before in Leaside Life. This volunteer group is dedicated to doing much more than just cleaning up the Don. As they state on their website: “We are looking not to simply clean up but rather to fix issues at the source and stop the recurring problems and behaviours that are the cause.” That’s also the thinking behind the very Leaside-local new initiative, DMWL, with John Scott, who served on Don’t Mess with the Don’s board, and entrepreneur and philanthropist Paul Bolté, founder of ecoMVMNT, helming the many activities

we’ll be introducing over the next few months. As John Scott says in his introduction to DMWL, “A group of committed Leaside residents is launching a 12-month program to … keep Leaside beautiful – one year of less litter in Leaside, beginning this month.” These efforts will reinforce the work of one individual – Cheryl Vanderburg – who for many years wrote Leaside Litterati, in which she raised awareness of the scourge of litter. Thank you, Cheryl! We are fortunate to know people who really care about our personal environment. As John Scott wrote this month, “We could kick that litter down the street, walk around it, or pick it up. We hope you will join us in doing much more picking up over the coming months!” What a great resolution to kick off 2026. Happy New Year! n

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Introducing Don’t Mess With Leaside A single-use plastic bag was found at the bottom of the Mariana Trench. Microplastics have been found in the snow at the top of Mount Everest. Where humans go, litter is sure to follow. But we’re not going to those remote areas, and we’re unlikely to be able to do anything about litter in those places, despite how disturbing the situation may be. With that distance from the problems and the inability to solve them, it becomes natural to want to switch the channel, change the conversation, or skip to another, more uplifting article. But all that is about somewhere else. Litter is local and right here in Leaside. “I don’t see much litter in Leaside,” you might say. But a walk down Bayview or through the commercial areas east of Laird will undoubtedly reveal litter or “re-garbage,” litter that was once in a bin or dumpster and now blown out or removed and displaced by animals.

DON’T WITH MESS

LEASIDE You might say, “This is not my issue,” and “my own environment is free of litter.” To that I say that Leaside, as a proud, strong community, is the broader environment lived in, so it’s everyone’s issue. “Why does a little litter even matter?” is another oft-asked question. Leaside’s elevation above sea level is about 450 feet. The elevation at the shore of Lake Ontario is about 250 feet. Everything that goes into the water systems heads downhill from Leaside.

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Leaside Life • January 2026

by JOHN SCOTT

Leaside’s Helen Hayward is a force of nature

Helen Hayward is one energetic woman. She gardens, practises yoga and tai chi, and golfs regularly. A walk often is a huge loop through Sunnybrook, Serena Gundy and Wilket Creek parks. A Bayview shopping trip does not usually involve a car. Helen walks…everywhere. Born in Hong Kong, she was sent to Canada for university by her parents. Her first degree was an Honours BA from McMaster University in geography, followed by a Master of Arts in a joint program in environmental studies/transportation planning from York University and the University of Toronto. With that educational background, it may seem unusual that she found her career strength in administration and governance. For about 20 years until 2001, she worked with the Ontario Government

LEASIDE PEOPLE

TYLER HAYWARD

Leaside Life • January 2026

Helen and her husband JP.

Public Service in a variety of leadership roles in many ministries, ending as CEO of the Ontario Municipal Board as well as the Ontario Property

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Assessment Board. Helen met her husband, JP Hayward, at work. A born and bred Torontonian, JP found it a stretch to consider living as far north as Eglinton Avenue. The Haywards’ first house was on Donegall, then in 1981 they bought 34 Parkhurst Blvd. – a Brockington-built house lived in by the Brockington family. Their two boys grew up there and attended Bessborough. One of the first things they did with the Tudorstyle house was highlight the timbers in red. Then, over the years, they increased the garden space in front of their house. Helen was proud of being a Leaside Garden Club Garden of Distinction winner in 2014. A passionate volunteer “(Volunteering) is a core value, a way to give back to the community and the country." And she certainly does give back. Bessborough Drive Elementary and Middle School was where Helen first started her impressive volunteer career – first with the Bessborough School Council. At the Yee Hong Centre for Geriatric Care she served as a member of the Yee Hong foundation board and ended her term as chair of the board of governors. At what was then Seneca College of Applied Arts & Technology, she also ended as chair of the board of governors. In the hospital sector, she has been

HAYWARD Page 26

Leaside Life • January 2026

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Monarch House navigates the autism journey by SUZANNE PARK As late as mid-October, you might have spotted a monarch butterfly or two migrating through Leaside enroute to their winter home in central Mexico. On their journey of over 3,000 kilometres, the butterflies wisely cross the Great Lakes at their narrowest points, like Point Pelee National Park, where they can rest before crossing Lake Erie. They fly 200 kilometres a day over two months encountering habitat loss, climate change, and pesticides. The monarch’s journey is a miracle of nature. Just as the last monarch butterfly left Leaside, Monarch House opened in Leaside at 25 Industrial St. to help those dealing with the many challenges of autism such as missing social and communication cues, facing problems with routine changes and flexibility, experiencing sensory processing differences, or dealing with difficulties starting and completing tasks. Samantha Herberman, the clinical director at Monarch House Leaside,

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Leaside Life • January 2026

is a Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA Ontario), MADS, and BoardCertified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA). She has over 10 years of experience supporting children, parents, and families to achieve their goals and engage in healthy relationships with one another. Monarch House has a network of clinics across Canada: eight in Ontario, one in Calgary, and five in British Columbia. As Samantha explained, “Their services assist families in establishing positive behaviour and reducing or eliminating inappropriate behaviour; improving how clients interact and express their needs and wants including using assistive devices; helping with academics, reading and writing skills, as well as functional and vocational skills; developing and improving dexterity, strength, mobility and hand-eye coordination. In a nutshell, my role is to support people who support children.” Samantha’s personal journey to her role at Monarch House seems pre-destined. “I’m a hybrid of my dad, a management consultant, and my mom, a special education teacher,” she said. “I’ve always been interested in working with children. As a youngster I helped Mom set up her classroom. In high school I did a co-op work term

in an autism class and worked at summer camp for years, where I met my husband. Then, during my undergraduate studies, in psychology, I worked with teens in group homes. However, it was when I was completing my master’s in applied disability studies with a specialization in applied behaviour analysis that I found my calling, and which, as I gained work experience, eventually led me to Monarch House.” When asked about work-life balance as a working mom with a toddler and five-year-old, Samantha spoke glowingly about Monarch House’s caring professional team and her supportive family team on the home front. She added, “Although fitness is currently taking a back seat, finding daycare space near the office has been a blessing.” On their website, Monarch House features informative videos like “Early Signs of Autism in Children” and such blog posts as “Ten Ways to Create a Visual Schedule for Children.” They also have speakers available to offer insight into autism and ways families can navigate the autism journey. And as the clinic’s name suggests, perhaps we can all take inspiration from those mighty monarchs flying to their safe haven. https://monarchhouse. ca/toronto/ n

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Leaside Life • January 2026

Hockey hero Carl Brewer –

legend on the ice, champion in the courtroom

Leaside Life • January 2026

by SUSAN SCANDIFFIO Leaside has been home to many outstanding hockey players over the years including Frank and Peter Mahovlich, Kim McCullough, George Armstrong, Cal, Paul and Dave Gardner, Doug Gilmour, Jack and Terry Caffery, and the list goes on. While each player had a unique experience and story over the years on and off the ice, one former player stands out for both his talent and dedication on the ice and his dogged determination to seek justice for players in the legal arena. Carl Brewer was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1958. As a gritty and talented defenceman, Brewer was chosen to play in five NHL All Star games and was in the top 10 in the NHL for points scored by defencemen for four seasons. A stalwart on defence, Brewer was a pivotal member of the Leafs’ three Stanley Cup winning teams in 1962, 1963 and 1964. He also led the league in penalty minutes in two seasons.

This propensity to end up in the penalty box was truly representative of who Brewer was. He was tough, he protected his teammates, and he didn’t suffer fools lightly. Still, in 1965, just months after winning their third Stanley Cup, Brewer shocked the hockey world

when he announced his retirement from the NHL. Frustrated with the abrasive and punitive approach of Leaf coach Punch Imlach, Brewer later noted that “my damaged psyche destroyed by Imlach would no longer allow me to accommodate playing hockey and being a hockey player.” Brewer returned to studies at the University of Toronto and graduated with a B.A. in 1966. After playing with the Canadian National Team, the Muskegon Mohawks of the International Hockey League (IHL) and the Finnish team HIFK based in Helsinki, Brewer returned to the NHL in 1969, playing with Detroit and St. Louis. He later played with the Toronto Toros of the World Hockey Association and after a five-year retirement, finished his career with 20 games with the Maple Leafs. Into the courtroom While his playing career was both tumultuous and incredibly successful, his post-retirement years saw him take on a Goliath in the form of both the NHL and his former friend, agent, and executive director of the NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA), Alan Eagleson. The realization that Eagleson had been defrauding players for many years spurred Brewer and his partner Susan Foster to spend 17 years meticulously investigating the practices and malfeasance in the management of players’ pension funds. It was their dogged persistence that resulted in the recovery of $40 million U.S. for retired players. Eagleson was ultimately indicted on charges of racketeering, fraud and embezzlement and was sentenced to 18 months in prison and personally fined $1.2 million. According to hockey historian and multi-award-winning author Kevin Shea, “Hockey owes a great debt of gratitude to Carl Brewer. Generations of players are indebted to Brewer, and he deserves a berth in the Hockey Hall of Fame in either (the player or builder) category.” Hall of Famer Frank Mahovlich expressed his own feelings about Brewer, noting, “Carl Brewer. Defender of the underdog; a man

BREWER Page 29

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Leaside Life • January 2026

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by JAKE ROSS Mike Kelar, co-founder of design agency Jacknife (and a product of Leaside), has had a creative bone since childhood, but he didn’t know for certain that he wanted to do graphic design. “I was always drawing and making models and shooting photography, so I always knew I was gonna go to art school. …I didn’t really have a backup plan.” Kelar credits his introduction to graphic design to his aunt. But it wasn’t until his second year at OCAD, at the time known as the Ontario College of Art, that he finally saw it as a career path. By the time he finished school, though, the Canadian market hadn’t caught up to his creative, outsidethe-box approach. Companies loved his work but didn’t have room (or the imagination) for his innovative designs. Rather than give up, Kelar saw an opportunity. There was a void in Canadian design that his creations could fill. “We just made a decision that we’re gonna do that here and we’re gonna see what happens,” said Kelar. He joined forces with fellow graphic designer Mikey Richardson, and the two founded AmoebaCorp, which in 2013 became Jacknife. They quickly found success. One of their first jobs was an ad campaign for the children’s TV network, YTV. They were competing against some

of the largest ad designers in Toronto and were told by the network to “keep it weird.” “Keep it weird” they did. Their unique approach to design beat out the competition and they landed the job. The YTV job is just one example of the “cool stuff” Kelar set out to do when he and Richardson founded their company. They’ve done so much cool stuff since then that Kelar couldn’t point to one thing as being the coolest. He does have plenty to choose from. He and Richardson have worked with Nike, the Toronto Maple Leafs, Coca-Cola, TFC and plenty of others. As they’ve matured, though, Kelar says he’s come to realize that what sets Jacknife apart is that they design “with purpose.” While they are creative, push boundaries and still do “cool stuff,” they also design with their client and their client’s target audience in mind. Kelar credits some of his creative spark with growing up in Leaside. He went to school at Bessborough Drive Elementary and Middle School and attended Leaside High School. He played hockey at Leaside Memorial Arena and played baseball in the area too. “I loved growing up in Leaside,” said Kelar, who added that living close to the library and so many different parks allowed him to explore his creative side. Not bad for a Leaside kid who didn’t have a backup plan. n

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Leaside Life • January 2026

I’m having generational déja vu I remember the experience vividly – it was oddly surreal and must be exceedingly rare. There I was, sitting in front of my Grade 7 home room teacher at Bessborough School. Except it wasn’t 1971 and I wasn’t in class discussing my book report. It was 1995, I was 35 years old, accompanied by my wife, Melanie, and we were discussing our daughter’s progress to date in Grade 1! Mr. Dufton, whom I had revered as my teacher 24 years earlier at Bessborough, was teaching our daughter, Sarah’s Grade 1 computer class. Mr. Dufton! If you had asked me back when I was 11 if I thought, as a father, I’d participate in a routine parent-teacher interview at Bessborough, two and a half decades later, I likely would have answered, “of course.” You see, even at that age, I knew I wanted to live here forever – such is the profound impact of the Leaside experience. So, there we were, in Sarah’s Grade 1 classroom, the same classroom I had occupied during my Grade 3 year, chatting with Mr. Dufton.

He said, “Call me George,” and I said “Sorry, I can’t do that” – he’ll always be Mr. Dufton to me. He claimed he remembered me. If that were true, it could only be because identical twins can sometimes be at least a little memorable. Admittedly, I was distracted by the memories that came flooding back. While Mr. D. was praising Sarah’s computer navigation skills, I was noticing that the curtains hadn’t been replaced since I was a student there! The year my brother and I spent in that room was actually quite memorable. It was a coveted spot as it was closest to the schoolyard. Every day, we were inevitably enjoying recess at least 30 seconds before any other kids made their way outside. I remember loving that.

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Our teacher, I’ll call her Mrs. M., was a strict disciplinarian who ran a tight ship. I recall one day, one of the bigger boys was misbehaving. He didn’t just “cross the line,” he drove an 18-wheeler right through it at 100 kms an hour. Mrs. M. calmly strode down the aisle, stopped at his desk and whacked him on the forearm with a 12" wooden ruler that instantly broke in half – the ruler, I mean, not his forearm. Inspired by the student protest movement sweeping the continent in 1968, our Grade 3 classmate calmly looked up at her and said: “That didn’t hurt.” The incident became Bessborough folklore for years. Later in the term, Mrs. M sent my brother Terry to the principal’s office, for the first and only time during his student career, for some heinous transgression neither of us can remember 57 years later. (I should note here, for the record, that I was never once sent to the office – after all, I was the good twin.) While quaking in the huge chair in front of the principal’s huge desk, Terry watched Mr. K. open his desk drawer and take out the huge “strap,” commonly used back in the day. He looked at Terry and said: “Do you think I should use this?” In a genius application of reverse psychology, Terry sobbed: “Yes.” Well, Mr. K. was flummoxed and didn’t know what to do then. Finally, he gave Terry a break feeling he’d suffered enough mental trauma just imagining his fate and sent him back to class. Well, we all survived Mrs. M.’s Grade 3 class but she remained famous in our household for years to come after admitting to my mother that she gave Terry and me the same grade every time because she couldn’t tell us apart. (That was the wrong thing to mention to our mother, but that’s a story for another column.) Needless to say, I’m glad Melanie was with me during that 1995 parent-teacher interview as, while remembering so much from the past, I heard very little in the present. Even with all the hijinks and mishaps, or perhaps because of them, our eight-year run at Bessborough was utterly idyllic. And our two children would agree when it comes to their Bessborough experience too. Thanks for everything, Mr. Dufton. And Mrs. M. too! n

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Leaside Life • January 2026

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Leaside Life • January 2026

Building the buildings of Durant Motors in record time In contrast to the long-delayed opening of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT, past capital projects in Toronto often went far more smoothly – and quickly. The TTC’s original Yonge Street subway line took only five years to build (1949-1954). Toronto’s Bank of Commerce building on King Street, for more than 30 years the tallest structure in the British Empire, was finished in two years (1929-1931). The old Maple Leaf Gardens arena completed in just over five months in 1931. And in the U.S., Manhattan’s iconic 102-storey Empire State Building was erected in an astonishing 13 and a half months. Durant Motors Factory Here in Leaside, we had our own example of a well-managed project – the Durant Motors factory and office complex, built during the 1920s. Durant Motors Canada established itself in Leaside in September 1921, purchasing from Canada Wire and Cable the former Leaside Munitions building. Durant planned to use this building as a machine shop and immediately construct additional buildings for car assembly and autobody manufacture. Production began in early March 1922 and quickly reached over 100 cars per day. Within months, demand had grown so great that the need for even more buildings became obvious and urgent. Construction on these facilities began in August 1922. By early December, they were virtually complete. There were six buildings in total, two of which were three storeys high and over 400 feet long. Another was over 500 feet long. The contractor for this huge complex was the Toronto firm Norman McLeod Ltd., which also did the entire designing and detailing of the project in only three days. At its peak, the job involved as many as 350 workers and at least 23 subcontractors and suppliers. Materials used included: 20,000 barrels of cement; 500,000 bricks and 65,000 sq. ft. of glass. And it all took just four months at a cost of $750,000.

thanks to the efficient management of the project’s contractor, JacksonLewis Co. Ltd.

Durant Motors headquarters Six years later, in 1928-29, Durant Motors repeated this achievement with the construction of its two-storey, 177 ft.-long, head office building on the west side of Laird Drive. Designed by Toronto architect Robert Stacey Hambleton (18791948), it was built and ready for occupancy in seven months –

Yesterday and today Today, both projects would take much longer to complete. There are good reasons for this. Modern projects must satisfy numerous important and legitimate expectations – among them environmental impact assessments, stricter workplace and public safety regulations, and community consultation requirements. Projects undertaken 100 or 75 years ago faced these issues less frequently. The bar is much higher now. Still, there are times when one is tempted to marvel, rightly or wrongly, at the speed and efficiency of past projects – projects like the construction of Durant Motors’ Leaside operations. n LHPS board member Jeremy Hopkin in front of the Gyro Durant Star car at the Viva La Leaside event, August 2025.

A Durant engine plate, an artifact in the LHPS collection.

Sources: The Contract Record, December 27, 1922; Toronto City Archives photographs; Toronto Star, Globe and Mail and Financial Post online archives. ILLUSTRATION: MACLEAN’S, JULY 1, 1925. RED DURANT: SELBOURNE MUSEUM, VERMONT. OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY LEASIDE HERITAGE PRESERVATION SOCIETY.

From Lagos to Leaside – Jollof warms the heart, feeds the soul

Leaside Life • January 2026

by MITCH BUBULJ

Olawami Abidoye

“Jollof rice is something to look forward to,” says Olawami Abidoye. She is referring to the spicy traditional dish famous in West Africa. Like Olawami, her recipe for Jollof hails from Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, though there is also a Ghanaian version. In fact, the competition for best recipe between the two nations is sometimes called “the Jollof wars,” but Olawami assures me with a smile that the rivalry is a friendly one. The dish is a fragrant, one-pot taste sensation which Olawami says is easy to make. “I learned it from my mom,” she tells me. “I am the only daughter in a family of five children, but Mom made sure my four brothers also knew how to prepare the festive meal.” Olawami uses long grain white rice and includes fresh tomato puree, red bell peppers, Scotch bonnet peppers (to give it heat), onions, garlic and just a hint of ginger. Rice is added

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Find the recipes online by clicking the Leaside Cooks tab. at the end, at

which point it is allowed to cook in the bright red broth. She added chicken, although beef or fish can also be used, for a delicious dish that literally warms the heart, the soul and the stomach. Jollof is served on special occasions, especially Christmas. “As well as being served on the 25th of December, it can also be eaten at parties or family gatherings,” Olawami adds. Olawami has an adventurous spirit. She was born in Osun State and spent her childhood in Ibadan, eventually moving to Ogun State for university where she studied food science and technology at the agricultural school. After graduation and marriage, she made Lagos her home base. She and her husband and children arrived in Toronto in June 2025, a move driven by a curiosity “to see how is life outside Nigeria.” Her husband, Ibukun, is a radiologist who is doing a fellowship at Sunnybrook Hospital. “Leaside was a logical choice,” she says. “We were fortunate to find an apartment in South Leaside close to the hospital and schools.” Her youngest son Ife – a name which means “love” in Yoruba – attends

MITCH BUBULJ

Rolph Road, while her eldest son and daughter attend Leaside High. It is a Nigerian tradition to choose names carefully. Her eldest son is Rere, which means “goodness,” and daughter Iyanu’s name means “miracle.” “Olawami” means “prosperity or wealth,” while her doctor husband’s name – “Ibukun” – is “blessing.” The name of the dish relates to the Jolof (or Jollof) or Wolof Empire, which ruled parts of West Africa from around the 14th century. The empire was later known as the Jolof Kingdom. The Senegalese version of Jollof – called Thieboudienne – has the distinction of being recognized by UNESCO as “an intangible cultural heritage dish.” Jollof is an easy-to-make, delicious one-pot, complete meal. The combination of flavours and textures is both filling and gratifying, and the vibrant red appearance is a feast for the eyes. Olawami’s version has a great taste that lingers; I understand her saying Jollof is something to look forward to. n

Leaside Life • January 2026

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Leaside Life • January 2026

Steak, cake, rake or blow, and baby toes by DAVID CRICHTON Before we get into the meat of the story today, I have a confession: it was mostly written by a ghost writer. Well, a dozen or so ghost writers. Sort of. You’ll understand soon. Patience. I’m in Lit Espresso Bar’s front window, watching the holiday rush and practising my physiognomy on those scanning the shop windows for any relief possible from their holiday gift guilt. Two days ago, our dear editor had hit me with another “Gentle Reminder” of our deadline. But, as I say to myself, and anyone willing to listen to my whining, these stories don’t just fall out of my pant leg, like a pair of underwear did that day in a busy college hallway all those years ago. But I wasn’t panicked. This time. Because a week before, I was walking past Leaside Pets on Bayview when I happened upon my first ghost writers: a mother, father and their two toddlers with their noses pressed to the Leaside Pets window. Mom and Dad were trying in vain to disguise the fact that they were having an argument, by whisper-shouting.

“This is the end of the conversation,” says Mom. Her husband shrugs and starts to walk away. “Where are you going?!” “You just said.…” “I’m not finished.” “Mom, can we get a dog?” That’s when my story idea struck. And so, I went on a little sonic stroll. I was rewarded almost immediately by two women looking in the window of La Muse: “Once I push this kid out, I’m getting THAT.” Then in the line at COBS “…Almost as bad as getting raw steak in Italy, that time. I didn’t know what it was….” “Why’d you eat it?” their friend asks. “I was hoping it was steak.” And outside Mayrik restaurant: “Did they fall off?” “No, I’ve NEVER had nails on my baby toes.” I envisaged two pieces of vestigial pink bubble gum stuck on the front corners of both her feet. I came upon another couple in the

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Super Mart, as the husband says, resignedly, “It was the beans, what else could it be?” I can relate. I’ve muttered similar statements about asparagus. Having depleted my monaural mine that day, I decided to keep both hearing holes attuned for the rest of the week. Longo’s, the next day, had a nugget or two. One stood out: “I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I can’t breathe, my back is shot, my hip is out. But my legs are actually the worst….Hey look at this – Black Forest Yule Log Cake!” THE Later that evening, the LEASIDE underground parking OBSERVER lot at GoodLife Fitness on Millwood proved productive. Although I admit, it was a challenge to force myself to believe the cellphone voice I heard thumping though the door speaker of a parked car was referring to a future workout, “And I’m going to make YOU sweat.” Which brings me back to Lit, where I sit at the big table, cortado and oatmeal cookie in front of me. Listening. After all, there is never a dearth of dialogue in a coffee shop. To wit: “Shhh. I don’t want people knowing I have a tattoo there.” Too late, I think. “That’s where you gotta rake, not blow,” says one guy to his buddy as they stand at the counter. “Yeah, it’s always a debate: rake, sweep or blow.” “And if you got new mulch, never blow. Forget it, it’s like blowing money down the street.” With a hearty leafblower-loud laugh and slap on the back, the bros exit with their decaf, non-fat, no-foam lattes. The woman at the window seat – MY seat – starts to pack up her computer, prompting me to jump up and enquire whether she is leaving. And with that, she unwittingly ghostwrites the perfect ending: “I bequeath it to you.” n

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Leaside Life • January 2026

Outrage on Astor It was a close call for residents outraged by a proposal for a massive new build for 10 Astor Ave. Committee of Adjustment (CoA) members were generally okay with the plan presented by the applicant. One raised a concern about the side yard variances. A second member raised a concern about the access to the lower unit which was at the rear, and involved stepping over a grate across a window well. He felt that was not safe or appropriate and made a motion to refuse the application, which passed three to one. The applicant, a “frequent traveler” at North York CoA, will need to decide whether to appeal the refusal to the Toronto Local Planning Appeal Tribunal and make changes to the plans. So, the next step is unclear, but for now the application cannot proceed in its current form. The experience with this application (to date) is notable for two reasons – the application’s “duplex deception” and Astor Avenue residents’ remarkable demonstration of an engaged (and enraged) community. The application stated that a duplex was being built; this state-

Geoff Kettel

On Development

The front elevation of the proposed duplex.

ment, a “waiver” of a complete review, permitted the application to move forward with limited review. However, on examination the pro-

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posed development involves constructing a detached house with a secondary (basement) suite, just as every residential property in the zone is entitled to do. The definition of a duplex states it is a “building that has two dwelling units....” and that “a detached house that has a secondary suite is not a duplex.” The applicant’s zoning waiver declared that there were only two variances (both side yards), thereby taking advantage of the recently expanded permissions of the multiplex bylaws. However, in the opinion of the planner hired by the street, the application is for an “oversized detached house with a secondary suite, subject to maximum permitted building height of 8.5m and maximum permitted building length of 17m.” An engaged community This is also the story of a street as an engaged community. Astor Ave. residents came together united in opposing an application for a new house that did not fit the street – in height, massing, materiality and design, with an oversized garage and without a ground floor front window. And with an overriding concern that “now everyone can stretch their home to build a bigger mansion.” A letter of opposition was submitted on behalf of 35 addresses, and some residents sent separate letters of objection. Nine residents (plus yours truly for the LRA) spoke at the CoA hearing in opposition. This application struck a chord with Astor Ave. residents – but the secret sauce (to mix a metaphor) was the strong relationships among the residents, fostered through events like the annual street party, and their ongoing communications. And, of course, it spoke to the issue and the strong leadership of individual residents. For me this application raises deeper questions, which need to be raised with the City, about such things as: • whether the zoning bylaws, amended to encourage “missing middle housing” are being gamed to produce much larger single-family houses, departing from the intent of the revisions, and • whether the CoA can refuse to consider an item at a hearing if there are questions about the veracity of the zoning waiver that is at the heart of the application under consideration. n

And the walls came tumbling down In Leaside Life’s November issue the Curious Idler was “surprised” (disturbed? dismayed?) to see a house on Laird (actually, two semi-detached houses) bite the dust, literally. But in case you thought this was another case of a large building in the offing – no – there are approved plans for 68-70 Laird Dr., and they are for two semi-detached three-storey multi-family fourplexes. Here’s the back story. In April 2023 there was a proposal to construct two-storey rear additions to the existing dwellings. These were approved, but for whatever reason, did not get built. In October 2024, the same owner returned to the Committee of Adjustment with a new proposal for semi-detached multiplexes, which was approved. The Leaside Residents Association raised concerns at the CoA about the wide expanse of parking in front, and wondered why there was no retail, despite the location on Laird Drive – now seen as a “shopping street”? The other question is whether the original semi-detached residences,

Leaside Life • January 2026

by GEOFF KETTEL

now dust, should have been protected as heritage. In fact, they were considered in the heritage part of the Laird in Focus study (2018), but the conclusion after research and analysis was that the properties lacked sufficient cultural heritage value or integrity to be included on the Heritage Register. Unlike the 50 or so semis on Sutherland Drive, Airdrie Road and Rumsey Road submitted for heritage

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listing in 2024, the properties did not have historical-associative value as housing constructed for Canada Wire and Cable Company (CWCC). So “random act of destruction?” Hopefully not – a building permit is in place, so remaining optimistic that the replacement building will go up shortly and not leave a blighted site. Then of course there’s the Sunoco gas station site just down the road…! n

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Leaside Life • January 2026

Takin’ it off the street for kids’ indoor fun When readers ask Leaside Life for information, we always (try to) deliver! So, when parents recently asked us where they could take their kids for indoor activities, we got busy. There are SO many amazing places in our greater neighbourhood where kids can sign up for weekly classes. But not everyone wants, or can commit to, a set schedule. Each of the places listed here has drop-in times available to keep your schedule flexible and give your child the opportunity to explore a variety of activities. By Susan Scandiffio.

LIBRARIES (MULTI-PROGRAMS)

The author’s children enjoying indoor fun!

Leaside Library 165 McRae Dr. Programs range from story time, songs and movement for babies to age 5 with their parents or caregivers to afterschool clubs for kids 6 to 12. Check out their schedule at www. torontopubliclibrary.ca/leaside Mount Pleasant Library 599 Mt. Pleasant Rd. Current programs include weekend story time, songs and movement for babies to age 5. Check out their schedule at www. torontopubliclibrary.ca/mountpleasant

DROP-IN SPORTS FOR TEENS Davisville Public School 50 Davisville Ave. The City of Toronto has drop-in programs for teens in the evenings including basketball. Sports and times may change so check their schedule by googling: City of Toronto Davisville Public School.

DROP-IN SPORTS MULTIPLE AGES Skating Leaside Gardens 1073 Millwood Rd. Family skate begins Sat., Jan. 24th, from 5:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. There are no age restrictions but all kids under 12 must be accompanied by an adult and must wear a helmet.

Archery Shawn’s Archery 60 Bowden St. Book time in advance for your kids (and you too if you’re interested) and they’ll get professional instruction followed by the

Playground Paradise 150 Grenoble Dr. For kids up to age 12, the indoor playground offers modernized play areas, a toddler zone and a vertical play maze. All visits are free. Check their website for hours of play. Google: Paradise Playground.

Trampoline park

chance to practise their new skills. Contact bullseyeadams@yahoo.com to make bookings or ask questions.

Pickleball & Padel Fairgrounds Racket Club 849 Eglinton Ave. East Book a court for two to four players so you and your kids can enjoy playing one or two fun racket sports indoors. Check out www.visitfairgrounds.com to book a court.

Swimming Leaside Memorial Pool 1073 Millwood Rd. The pool has lane swim times for kids 7 and up and a family leisure swim time for newborns and older. Check their website for times as they can change week to week. Google: Leaside Memorial Pool.

INDOOR PLAYGROUNDS Midtown’s Tiny Tots Activity Centre 745 Mount Pleasant Rd., 2nd Floor Book ahead to bring your kids to this wonderland of play. Visit www.midtownstinytots.com

Skyzone 45 Esandar Dr. Skyzone offers huge areas for freestyle jumping and trampoline basketball, a foam zone, climbing, sliding and much more. Certain areas are separated for age and size. All ages are welcome (including adults). Book a ticket in advance at: www.skyzone.com/ca-toronto

Golf simulators

Leaside is now home to four golf simulators! All ages are welcome. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. Fore! 51 Laird Dr. www.foreindoorgolf.ca Golf 24/7 94 Laird Dr. www.golf247.ca Fairway 1660 Bayview Ave. www.fairwayrestaurant.ca Shotgun Golf 105 Vanderhoof Ave., Unit 3 www.shotgungolf.ca

CREATIVE 4Cats Arts Studio 1386 Bayview Ave. #1 Create and paint clay creations at themed workshops for kids aged 5 and up. (Workshops are also available for teens and adults.) Check the website for times and details. Google: 4 Cats Leaside.

INDOOR FUN continued

Canadian Contemporary School of Art 109 Vanderhoof Ave. Workshops in multiple art forms are available for kids 4 and up. To see the various workshops and dates go to www.ccsa.art. In their homepage menu, click on About Us and then Events.

ANIMALS! Pawsitively Pets 94 Laird Dr., Unit 200 Drop by one of the drop-in sessions and meet their team of rescued animal friends from all things furry, fluffy, feathered, slithery, scaled, slimy and more up close and personal. Check their website for drop-in times: pawsitivelypetskidscamp.com. n

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Leaside Life • January 2026

Creative Clay Studio 566 Mt. Pleasant Rd. Clay workshops for kids 8+ are offered for groups of five or more. Two weeks’ notice is required. Check out their website at: www.creativeclaystudio.ca

The heart of Leaside beats strongly

Leaside Life • January 2026

by BRANDON PARENT The Leaside Memorial Community Gardens (LMCG) – a beloved, Cityowned, 6,970-sq. metre (75,000-sq. ft.) arena complex at the heart of the Leaside community – is, perhaps surprisingly, managed by an entirely volunteer board of management, appointed by the City of Toronto. Since the arena opened its doors in 1951 at Millwood Road and Laird Drive, generations of volunteers have served on the board, overseeing the facility on behalf of residents. Reporting to Toronto City Council, the board comprises civic-minded community members and includes participation from Don Valley West Councillor Rachel Chernos Lin, as well as a representative from the City’s Parks, Forestry and Recreation Division. As a board of management, it provides guidance and oversight while working together with the arena’s dedicated management team and staff of 12, who manage the facility’s day-to-day operations. Together, the board and staff’s focus remains fulfilling the arena’s core

for several years. Under the leadership of Chair Baker, the newly constituted board has quickly come together with renewed energy, launching a fresh strategic planning process – its first in many years – as an early step toward advancing the arena’s mandate in new and exciting ways. The enthusiasm and commitment of both board and staff are unmistakable, with plans to take clearer shape in FROM expected the coming months.

mandate: providing safe, THE equitable access to high-qual- COVER Plans in the works ity ice sports and recreational Even as the board looks ahead, facilities for user groups and the significant improvements have been broader community, all while ensurmade within the past six months – ing responsible financial stewardship. clear evidence of the team’s dedicaNew board members tion to enhancing the facility today. Visitors will have noticed that the In May of last year, the board welBert F. Grant Rink B has been comed four new members – Brendan closed since the end of last hockey Brooks, Karin Hwang-Lew, David season to allow for major upgrades, Martin, and Brandon Parent – who including a new rink slab, refrigerreplace outgoing members Glenn ation system, boiler and plant. The Asano, Janice Ivory-Smith, Kathleen facility’s 288-sq.-metre (3,100-sq. MacKenzie and Craig Uyeno. They ft. banquet hall, the William Lea join returning members Matthew Room, has also undergone extenBaker, Edmund Chan, Dan Teguh sive renovations, including the and Lisa Villeneuve, each of whom addition of a universal washroom, has proudly served the community new roof, ceiling and lighting, as well as a refreshed look through refinished floors and new tiling. Less visible but equally important are several infrastructure improvements, such as improved dehumidification on the Dr. Tom Pashby Play Safely Rink A, new emergency lighting throughout the facility, and new HVAC for both the William Lea Room and Rink B dressing rooms. Each reflects the ongoing commitment and hard work of everyone involved. The future of the Leaside Memorial Community Gardens Arena is bright and already taking shape. The community can look forward to seeing what the board has in store next. For those interested in helping shape the future, the City is currently accepting applications to fill a board vacancy at www.toronto. ca/community-people/get-involved/ public-appointments. n Cover photo: L-R, front row: Jennifer Smith (Director Business & Finance), Dan Teguh (Vice-Chair), Karin HwangLew, Lisa Villeneuve, Brandon Parent. L-R, back row: Dave Martin, Matt Baker (Chair), Brendan Brooks, Shawn Mackay (Director, Operations). Absent: Edmund Chan (Treasurer).

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60+? January 11 10am-3pm Sports Card Show January 25 10am-3pm Sports Card Show

Free Adult Public Skating

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11am – 12pm for adults (18+) only Tuesday, January 6, 13, 20, 27 Thursday, January 8, 15, 22, 29

Free Community Public Skating Saturdays 5:15pm-7:15pm Jan 24, 31 All ages welcome. Helmets mandatory for children 12 and under and recommended for all skaters.

• Resistance training to prevent frailty • Balance training to prevent falls

Bert F Grant Rink Reopening Event Come for the Celebration! Monday January 26th, 10am-11:30am Ribbon cutting followed by free community skate and refreshments. All ages welcome. Helmets mandatory for children 12 and under and recommended for all skaters. n

leasidelife.com Editor: Jane W. Auster Publisher: Lorna Krawchuk Webmaster: Erin Sorhaug Graphic Design: Robin Dickie Advertising: Karli Vezina

FH Publishing Inc. 30 Commercial Rd., Toronto, Ontario M4G 1Z4 Comments, Letters to the Editor, Advertising Enquiries: Contact: 416-504-8047 Ext. 120

leasidelifepublishing@gmail.com leasidelife@gmail.com Published monthly in Leaside, Toronto, ON.

Circulation 10,000 to every home and business in Leaside & Bennington. No part of the editorial content of this publication may be reprinted without the publisher’s written permission. All rights reserved. Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor or the publisher. No liability is assumed for errors or omissions. All advertising is subject to publisher’s approval. Such approval does not imply any endorsement of the products or services advertised. Publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising that does not meet the standards of the publication.

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Leaside Life • January 2026

William Lea Room Events:

HAYWARD From Page 4

TYLER HAYWARD

Leaside Life • January 2026

chair of the governance committee at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and vice chair and chair of the strategic planning committee with the Ontario Hospital Association. For something completely different, she was a Canadian board member for World Education Services and chair of their governance committee. (WES validates educational credentials for people with credentials from countries other than Canada and the U.S.) Those terms are now completed, but that hasn’t stopped this dynamo. She’s joined the board of Holland Bloorview Kids’ Rehabilitation Hospital and is vice chair and chair of their governance committee. Of her days in management, she said that “it was time to try something new and different, to learn and grow – and to jump off the cliff.” Along with her various noteworthy board positions, she worked as a consultant under the umbrella of Western Management Consultants. Helen had already decided to retire when the pandemic hit in 2020. She

January

is now a partner emeritus. While with WMC, she helped advise businesses on ways to solve problems. She describes it as “an advisory and enabling role where you build long-term relationships with a particular For a complete company as they face diflisting ferent challenges.” The move to a townhouse of local events for in Kilgour Estates was well January 2026 planned. Helen and JP wanted visit our to stay in the neighbourhood, with a bit of space to garden, but without website at all the additional work of a house. It https://Leasidelife.com/events took them five years from when they first started looking to their move in 2021. They also did their best to choose owners for their SUBSTANTIAL Parkhurst house who would appreciate its unique charm. For her significant contributions Ring lost at Tim Hortons 85 Laird Drive Helen received the on Saturday, November 29. Queen’s Diamond Please call Shirley (416) 962-7994. Jubilee Volunteer Award. WellNo questions asked. deserved! n

Events

REWARD

LOST RING

ANTIQUES WANTED

Leaside Life • January 2026

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Leaside Life • January 2026

Member of Provincial Parliament for Don Valley West

Happy New Year! You’re Invited

Please join me and the Hon. Rob Oliphant, P.C., MP to celebrate the New Year with music and refreshments at our 2026 New Year’s Levee. Sunday, January 11th, 2026, 1PM-3PM Toronto Botanical Garden, 777 Lawrence Ave E, Toronto. RSVP at sbowman.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org OR 416-425-6777 Constituency office Constituency Office 795 Eglinton Avenue East 795 Eglinton Avenue East Unit 101, Toronto, ON M4G 4E4 Unit 101, Toronto, ON M4G 4E4 416-425-6777

Questions or concerns? Please contact my office.

Stay Connected (416) 425-6777 Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates sbowman.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org sbowman.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org

LEASIDE From Page 3 Geoff Kettel wrote an article in June 2015 for Leaside Life about the shallow water table and underground rivers. Litter can get into waterways above or below ground through stormwater systems, sewer overflows, wind, and groundwater seepage, like toxins and microplastics from cigarette butts. Those who toss litter seem not to be making the connection that we are all part of nature. That is why plastic litter is in the food chain and finds its way right back inside us. Recently, a Grade 4 class asked their teacher to have someone come in and speak to them about litter. A friend and I were invited to address this young crowd. At the end, a boy put up his hand and said, wisely, “The city sends trucks each week to pick up our garbage. They can’t do it all; we have to help, too.” A group of committed Leaside residents is launching a 12-month program to do just that – keep Leaside beautiful – one year of less litter in Leaside, beginning this month. We are calling it Don’t Mess With Leaside. There will be a formal launch in the spring, with scheduled litter pickups, with details to follow. Stay tuned! We will need some Litter Leaders to help ensure safety for all and successful pickups. We could kick that litter down the street, walk around it, or pick it up. We hope you will join us in doing much more picking up over the coming months! Don’t Mess With Leaside means don’t litter! John doesn’t like litter where it shouldn’t be. He spent seven years volunteering and serving on the board of Don’t Mess with the Don, a grassroots group that began by taking thousands of pounds of litter from the Don Valley. To address behaviour change, John became the Canadian Ambassador for LitterLotto, a UK company that incentivized picking up litter and, through data collection, demonstrated behaviour change. John is on the City of Brampton Litter Reduction Working Group. And he helps other communities and organizations launch and grow effective litter-reduction initiatives. n

BREWER From Page 8

Looking to volunteer over March Break? of vision with a mission, a believer in principles, a fighter for NHL players’ rights.” Brewer died in Leaside, in 2001, at the age of 62, having lived in the apartments at 75 Leacrest from 1995 to his passing. Brewer’s life, career and fight for justice are rivetingly shared in The Power of Two: Carl Brewer’s Battle with Hockey’s Power Brokers, written by Susan Foster and Carl Brewer. n

We are recruiting volunteers for our March Break* program. Programming includes recreation activities such as: Creative Arts Respite Camp Ronald McDonald Playroom Therapeutic Recreation and more!

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Leaside Life • January 2026

Traffic back in the spotlight! If you ever doubted Leasiders’ concern about our community’s traffic woes, you had only to attend Ward 15 Councillor Rachel Chernos Lin’s November 25 town hall meeting. Held in Leaside Gardens’ William Lea Room, the town hall attracted a standing room only crowd. Also in attendance were numerous senior City staff. It was certainly a lively and informative evening. Comments focused on congestion, speeding, and construction-related matters. How do you reduce the impact of construction blocking arterial streets such as Bayview and Eglinton avenues or Laird Drive? What can be done to expand road capacity as well as create safer sidewalks for pedestrians? The City’s congestion manager Roger Browne described various actions to address specific challenges, for instance, charging road closure fees and enforcing them swiftly. Another suggestion: give buses a dedicated lane again, to allow pullout and improve surface transit reliability and scheduling. When it comes to police enforce-

ment of traffic signage, especially on our internal streets, we were told that there is little the police can do, short of massively increasing police numbers, which is neither feasible nor affordable. Physical narrowings and speed pads are effective, and roundabouts are an efficient use of road space. On a lighter note: because drivers slow down when they think they’ve attracted police interest, parking empty police cars around the neighbourhood can be remarkably effective! Who knew? As many Leaside Life readers know, I’ve been involved in Leaside’s traffic matters and in charge of several official traffic studies for many years. Decades even. Once upon a time, a lot of Leasiders who lived on adjacent “quiet” low-volume traffic streets

were unwilling to address traffic problems on busy streets like Southvale, McRae, and Broadway, lest their problems spread. “You knew yours was a busy street when you moved there,” they’d say. That was a divisive strategy, and counterproductive. Our digital age has produced car navigation systems which suggest routes through Leaside in real time. More of us now realize that no street is immune. I’ve been encouraged by the resultant change in public attitudes toward neighbourhood traffic control, working together for Leaside as a community, not just individual street versus street. The Leaside Residents Association board meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. These are public meetings, and you are welcome to join us, and join in. Our January, February, March and April meetings will be on Zoom. For contact information and more details and updates, visit leasideresidents.ca/ contact-us. Our next board meeting is on Wed., Jan. 7th. In the meanwhile, we wish you and your families a very Happy New Year! n

Robbie Burns Supper Saturday January 24th. 2026 St. Clement Of Ohrid

76 Overlea Blvd., Toronto (just west of the Don Valley River bridge at William Morgan Drive) Hosted by The Kiwanis Club of East York

• Roast Beef Dinner • Haggis, Neaps and Tatties (of course) • Door Prizes • Silent Auction • Scottish Highland Dancing • Cash Bar • Single Malt Whisky Bar TICKETS - $125 incl. HST (advance purchases preferred) Income Tax Receipt is available. COCKTAILS at 6:15 PM – DINNER at 7:00 PM. DRESS: Highland Dress or Business Attire FOR TICKETS: Online: eventbrite.ca https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/robbie-burns-supper-tickets-1977414447844?aff=ebdssbdestsearch Phone: (416) 451-6777. Email: BurnsSupper@kcey.ca All proceeds go directly to local community programs

31 Thoughtfully designed custom cabinetry and millwork entertainment units • armoires • home offices banquettes • mantelpieces • bookcases and more... matthewtormey.ca 416.356.3056 I live in your neighbourhood. Call for a free consultation!

Real Estate • Wills • Estates • Trusts

@ Fax (416) 481-5275 Phone (416) 481-1146

1552 Bayview Avenue Toronto, ON M4G 3B6

Number 9 Autobody 10 Canvarco Rd., Toronto, ON M4G 1L3

sarahpennypsychotherapy.com info@sarahpennypsychotherapy.com 4711 Yonge Street or Virtual Appts.

Mike Golemis number9autobody1@gmail.com 416-467-6845

Now accepting new clients! Please reach out to book a free consult.

WAREHOUSE & YARD LEASIDE BUSINESS PARK

2,400 sq. ft. heated warehouse with water, bathroom and lots of power. Easy access for trucks and deliveries. 3,000 sq. ft. of outdoor parking space can be included. Available in early 2026. Call Larry 416-623-9479.

SENIOR FITNESS Toronto Finnish-Canadian Seniors Centre 795 Eglinton Avenue East FALL / WINTER / SPRING & SUMMER SESSIONS AQUA FITNESS * GROUP FITNESS * OSTEO FITNESS Office Hours: Mon. to Fri. 9 am–5 pm For more info contact: 416-425-4134 x 225 Email: emas@suomikoti.ca

Your Old Home Movies On DVD Let us digitize your �lm and video to DVD or File.

416-623-9479 www.manicmedia.ca VHS Betamax 8mm MiniDV Film

Local Leaside Business

Leaside Life • January 2026

5/5 rating on Google and Homestars

est. 2004

Happy New Year to the Leaside Community and our valued Partners!

AccessStorage.ca | 1-855-466-7367