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Hi Neighbour!


Happy September! Hope all the parents in our community had a smooth transition back to school. Earlier bedtimes and packing lunches have been a struggle at our home.

I am grateful most of my team were able to take vacations over the summer. Our first days back as a full team have been intense as the new season of fall activities are set to begin! I hope to see some of you at the first-ever Repair Cafe THIS SATURDAY, the Willowdale Entrepreneurs Connect Event THIS SUNDAY, as well as the Willowdale West Participatory Budget Idea Collection Meeting happening at Edithvale Community Centre NEXT THURSDAY! If you live in Willowdale West, PLEASE COME and help us spend $500K to improve the community! Click Here to RSVP.


We are also excited to announce a Community Brunch Potluck Consultation is happening at Silverview Park on Sunday, October 22 from 10am-1pm. City staff have drafted two proposed layouts and would like to hear your feedback. Click Here to RSVP for a great community potluck. Click Here to fill out the online survey. We hope to see you there!


There are a plethora of ways to get involved THIS MONTH and beyond. You can CLICK HERE for a new Printable calendar for your fridge!


Upcoming Development Consultation

The ESSO on Yonge St, south of Sheppard (4696 Yonge St.) is slated to be developed. There will be a virtual community consultation happening on Tue. Sept. 17, 7-8:30pm. Click Here to RSVP to share your thoughts and concerns.


TASTE OF NORTH YORK

NeighbourLink North York does incredible work in our neighbourhood including programs for seniors, youth, and those struggling with food insecurity. We are excited they are bringing their magic to Mel Lastman Square with a festival that celebrates the flavours of our community. Included in this festival will be a Community Organization Fair where you can meet the many organizations that make our neighbourhood amazing (including our very own Willowdale Youth Council)! This is truly a community celebration with heart, complete with hours of entertainment that have been carefully curated to reflect the diversity of our neighbourhood! 


Please come out and get connected. We know there may be some rain this evening, but umbrellas are very useful and can help us show love to an organization that truly provides so much care and love to our fellow neighbours. The good news is that sunny weather is slated for the rest of the weekend!


Click Here to see the schedule.


Mayor Chow is making 2 visits to our incredible neighbourhood event and I hope to see you there!


MEL LASTMAN SQUARE


THIS WEEKEND! Sept. 6-8  

Sun. Sept 15 

       Sat. Sept. 21, 7am-12pm


RBC Race for Kids Supporting Sunnybrook Youth Mental Health - Mel Lastman Square
Sun. Sept. 22
Sat. Sept. 28  

Radio Controlled Model Boating by Metro Marine Modellers 

  October 4-6 Diwalicious  
  Oct. 19-20 North York Diwali Fest  
Sat. Nov. 30  

NeighbourLink Christmas Market & Walking Parade w/ Yonge North York BIA Tree Lighting 


COUNCILLOR & COMMUNITY


THIS WEEKEND! Sat. Sept. 7, 12-3pm

Repair Cafe @ North York Central Library

THIS WEEKEND! Sun. Sept. 8, 1:30-4:30pm

Willowdale Entrepreneurs Connect at North York Central Library

Thurs. Sept. 12, 6-8pm   Participatory Budgeting Idea Collection, Willowdale West - Edithvale Community Centre
Sat. Sept. 14, 9am-12pm   Willowdale Community Bike Ride (to Downtown Toronto)  
Sun. Sept. 15, 9-11am Terry Fox Run - Rose Garden at Gibson Park
Tue. Sept. 17, 7-8:30pm 4696 Yonge St. Community Consultation - ESSO near Yonge & Sheppard. (Virtual)
Wed. Sept. 18, 6-8pm   Participatory Budgeting Idea Collection, Newtonbrook West - Goulding Community Centre  
Sept. 19-21  

Common Ground Dance Festival at Lee Lifeson Park 

Sun. Sept. 22, 10am-1pm   Silverview Park Community Brunch Potluck and Consultation
Tues. Sept. 24, 6:30-8:30pm   ReNew Sheppard Secondary Plan Open House (presenting preferred option of draft Secondary Plan) - Evangelical Presbyterian Church - 10 Thomas Clark Way  
NEW! Mon. Sept. 30, 4-6pm   Youth Council Fall Launch Game Night *Free Event* - at North York Civic Centre  
Sat. Oct. 5, 1:30-4:15pm   Willowdale Climate Action Roundtable followed by Willowdale Climate & Health Forum  


Update on 175 Cummer Modular Supportive Housing

I am working collaboratively with the Housing Secretariat, TCHC, TSHC and Cummer Lodge for a smooth implementation of the supportive housing project at 175 Cummer, one that takes into account the surrounding community who shares the space and ensures they too are supported throughout the journey.


Last year, a new tenant moved into 175 Cummer Ave. with some behavioural challenges. Despite many complaints and incidents, the situation was not addressed in a timely fashion resulting in an assault where another senior lost their hearing in one ear and now struggles with PTSD. This illustrates the vulnerability of this community and the challenges they face when issues arise. This is why I am deeply invested in a positive outcome for the upcoming transition.


My team and I have supported information meetings, including the provision of translated discussions, and cross-divisional meetings to ensure we have open communication channels and strong bridges between agencies and the local community. At this time, we are very much in a “ sleeves rolled-up” mode to get the best outcome for everyone. We look forward to further clarity when the service provider is selected which is expected to happen in the coming month. Construction is expected to begin this fall. Project completion is anticipated in fall 2025.


Practical pieces we are working on include:

  • Ensuring a welcoming and furnished outdoor space is provided to both the current tenants at 175 Cummer and their new supportive housing neighbours

  • Looking for ways to expand the parking capacity to make room for new tenants and staff from supportive housing as parking is already stretched to accommodate Cummer Lodge and Willowdale Manor staff, residents and visitors

  • Fostering stronger communication channels between agencies for greater clarity in planning

  • Exploring opportunities with the Housing Secretariat for the selected service provider to extend additional services to existing TSHC tenants

  • Working with the city-hired consultant to ensure a bridge-building integrated welcoming committee that helps foster a greater sense of inclusion across the campus and the greater community.


North York Community Council

August was supposed to be the only month without official meetings - but then urgent matters came up for our ward and I ended up having to take several meetings while away at a rented cottage with my family. The North York Community Council convened, much to the chagrin of my fellow councillors due to urgent matters about 2 developments in Willowdale - both of which passed at a shortened City Council meeting yesterday that was for urgent matters only.


6125 Yonge Street

Many people will recognize this address as the location of a beloved Persian grocery store - Super Khorak. The developer has appealed the Yonge North York Secondary Plan and was willing to settle with this motion. We are working with the applicant to secure a much-needed parkland dedication. The applicant has agreed to continue discussions with city staff. It is unfortunate that due to the smaller land assemblies and multiple owners, securing the parkland needed to meet the needs of this future high-rise community will be very hard in comparison to the redevelopment of Centerpoint Mall across the street. Because it is one owner, it is much easier to include a park in the development. The developer originally wanted to build a high rise but working with staff agreed to something much lower.


6355 Yonge Street

Similar to the development above, this applicant was also appealing the Yonge Street North Secondary Plan, but has agreed to withdraw with the passing of the motion at council this week. They originally proposed 7 parking spots for a 50-storey tower which is unacceptably low. Unfortunately, due to current policies (which Councillor Carroll and I have asked to be reviewed), this meets all requirements. We were able to negotiate an increase of up to 15 spots. Life in this neighbourhood in the future will be quite challenging as many of the surrounding developments will offer similarly low numbers. There is no public parking garage available and street parking will be minimal. People with visiting friends and relatives, contractors or PSWs will have difficulties competing for so few parking spots. I hope future buyers are aware of the impact this could have on their quality of life.


I asked this developer for affordable housing as a community benefit - however, their math and the math of our city did not align on the value of units and we were not yet able to reach an agreement on the number of units. The developer has agreed to continue discussions with the city and I am hopeful we can get a few units. We want mixed communities and embedding affordable housing within our growing community is the best way to achieve this.


Comment on the Yonge St. North Secondary Plan

Unfortunately, this plan was passed before I was elected. City Staff reasoned that since there were developments reaching 70 storeys across the street in our bordering municipalities, it would be hard to defend lower heights. I’m not sure I agree; however, that ship has sailed and the challenge before us is building a livable complete community without the sources of funding such as Section 37, that used to help build important community amenities. I have been working with staff to identify opportunities to create a larger park within the concentration of density. However, it will be a costly investment as property values have gone up with the introduction of the secondary plan, even though it is still in the appeal process.


NEXT WEEK’S KEY MEETING:

Thursday, September 12, 9am - Toronto Police Service Board

Click Here to read the agenda. Included in the discussion will be the multi-year hiring plan and the strategic plan.


Hope to see you at Taste of North York!

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Councillor Lily Cheng

Ward 18 Willowdale / Councillor_Cheng@toronto.ca / 416-392-0210

COUNCILLOR UPDATES

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FALL COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR!


Get ready for an autumn of excitement in Willowdale! Looking for fun for the season? Look no further! We've got all the hottest events lined up for you this autumn. From markets to parades, there's something for everyone.

 

Print out our flyer to stay in the loop with all the can't-miss events happening in Willowdale this season!

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INAUGURAL WILLOWDALE ENTREPRENEUR NETWORKING EVENT


Join us for our inaugural networking event in collaboration with Club Win, a local Iranian Entrepreneur Network, on Sunday, September 8th, from 1:30 to 4:30 PM at North York Central Library. This event is designed to bring together like-minded small business owners to connect, support each other’s ventures, and explore how the Toronto Public Library can offer resources to help entrepreneurs thrive.


We recognize the challenges of establishing a business, especially in a new country. Our local library offers valuable services to entrepreneurs that many may not be aware of, and this event aims to highlight these resources and supports.

 

Learn from a Business, Science & Technology Librarian about the resources and services available at Toronto Public Library (TPL) that support small business owners and entrepreneurs! North York Central Library branch (NYCL) is one of two research and reference branches with a diverse collection of circulating and reference material and expert library staff. Featured at NYCL are specialized services such as the Entrepreneurs Suite,Virtual Interview Room and the Digital Innovation Hub. Library customers also have access to individual and group study spaces, as well as small business programs and specialized business resources. Join us for a presentation to learn more!


Light refreshments will be provided by GTA Party PlatterVanilla Sweet Art and LeaL Bakery all from Willowdale. We look forward to seeing you there!

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PARTICIPATORY BUDGETING IDEA COLLECTION: WILLOWDALE WEST


LAST CHANCE TO SUBMIT YOUR IDEAS!  How Would You Spend $500K to Improve Willowdale?

Your ideas can lead the way! Join us at the Willowdale Participatory Budgeting IDEA COLLECTION event and pitch your ideas for making our community even better using $500K in funds from sections 37 and 42. This is your chance to take part in direct democracy and leave your meaningful mark on Willowdale! After this step, City Staff will analyze the cost and feasibility of the top proposed ideas.

Don’t miss this chance to voice your ideas and help shape Willowdale’s future.

Learn more at Lilycheng.ca/pb
RSVP NOW at Lilycheng.ca/events


When: Thursday, September 12, 6:00PM - 8:00PM

Where: Edithvale Community Centre, 131 Finch Ave, M2N 2H8, North York

Bonus: Enjoy complimentary refreshments while we brainstorm together!

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WILLOWDALE COMMUNITY BIKE RIDE


Join us for a Willowdale Community Bike Ride Downtown! There will be rest stops along the way with marshals available to assist those who have never taken on this challenge. Pick up some food at the Evergreen Brickworks market or pack your own picnic to enjoy at the end of the ride at Sherbourne Common Park. BikeShare is providing a limited number of FREE Bike Rentals! 


The bikes will be returned at the end of the ride and participants can transit back to Willowdale. Riders are also welcome to use their own bikes! Please choose the appropriate ticket based on whether or not you need to borrow a bike.


Come with your families and join in a fun recreational bike ride!  Riding your bikes downtown is a fun option - as we ride along the Don trail.


When: Saturday, Sept 14, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Where: Start at Avondale Park, end at Sherbourne Common Park

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DEVELOPMENT CONSULTATION: 4696 YONGE STREET


Join us for a Virtual Community Consultation with City Planning on Tuesday, September 17 from 7:00 to 8:30 PM to discuss a new proposal for a 40-storey mixed-use building. 


This project includes 35,311.1 square meters of residential space and 718.8 square meters of ground-floor retail along Yonge Street, totaling 36,029.9 square meters with a floor space index of 14.09. 


Your input is valuable, and we look forward to hearing your thoughts!

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PARTICIPATORY BUDGETING IDEA COLLECTION: 

NEWTONBROOK WEST


LAST CHANCE TO SUBMIT YOUR IDEAS! How Would You Spend $500K to Improve Willowdale?

Your ideas can lead the way! Join us at the Willowdale Participatory Budgeting IDEA COLLECTION event and pitch your ideas for making our community even better using $500K in funds from sections 37 and 42. This is your chance to take part in direct democracy and leave your meaningful mark on Willowdale! After this step, City Staff will analyze the cost and feasibility of the top proposed ideas.

Don’t miss this chance to voice your ideas and help shape Willowdale’s future.

Learn more at Lilycheng.ca/pb
RSVP NOW at Lilycheng.ca/events


When: Wednesday, September 18, 6:00PM - 8:00PM

Where: Goulding Community Centre, 45 Goulding Ave, M2M 1K8, North York

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ANNDALE DRIVE STREET PARKING SURVEY


Do you live in Avondale, and close to Anndale Drive? We need your feedback on the Street Parking on the North side, between Tradewind Ave and Leon Dr! 
CLICK HERE to fill out our survey on Willowdale Action Hub by September 30th!


Councillor Cheng will collect the responses to determine if this change proposal will be brought to North York Community Council. CLICK HERE to stay tuned for updates to be posted on Willowdale Action Hub!

CITY OF TORONTO UPDATES

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LANE CLOSURES FOR ROAD WORK:

FINCH AVENUE, SHEPPARD AVENUE, AND BAYVIEW AVE AT STEELES AVE


Finch Avenue and Dufferin Street:

The contractor working on Finch Avenue was engaged in post-flood event mitigations and cleanup efforts, in addition to returning to the base project scope. Unfortunately, the severe flooding that occurred on July 16th has caused unexpected delays, significantly impacting their project schedule.


Contractor is actively working to reopen as many lanes as safely possible.  However, there were ongoing tasks that required the necessary Traffic Control Plan (TCP) to be followed. These tasks included:

  • Shaft and tunnel remediation

  • Large trunk manhole (MH) delivery and installation

  • Equipment mobilization and demobilization, including crane operations.

  • Rehabilitation activities essential to the project’s progress


Sheppard Ave:

Lane closure was implemented due to ongoing work where the asphalt was removed to make essential repairs to the concrete road base. At this stage, the contractor determined that it was not safe to reopen the lanes, as the road base was still under repair and required curing. Opening the lanes prematurely could have posed significant risks to both vehicles and pedestrians.


Once the concrete road base has been fully repaired and cured along the working area, the road was reopened. The contractor is working diligently to complete these repairs as quickly and safely as possible, minimizing the impact on traffic and the surrounding community.


Bayview and Steeles:

The scope of the work required the right turn lanes to be continuously closed and it had been closed since early May, as there was extensive sewer, concrete and full electric signal replacement work in effect. A lane in each direction was accessible at all times and pedestrians were accommodated to cross safely. The intersection was ground and paved last weekend and as of now it is fully open.


Why Lane Closures Remain in Place:
In certain cases, lane closures remain in place even when active work is paused.  This can occur due to several reasons:

  • Safety Concerns: The area may have been prepared for work (e.g., asphalt grinding, excavation), making it unsafe for regular traffic until the road surface is fully cured and project is completed.

  • Ongoing Equipment or Materials in Place: Equipment or materials necessary for the project might still be on-site, which could pose a hazard if the lane were reopened.

  • Continuity and Efficiency: In some cases, reopening and then closing lanes repeatedly can cause more disruption and delays, rather than maintaining the closure until the work is fully completed.

Inclement Weather conditions: Snow/ice, heavy rains and flooding are all factors that can significantly have a negative impact on scheduled construction work. 

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METROLINX CONSTRUCTION NOTICES


Please be informed of two Construction Notices for Metrolinx’s Yonge-North Subway Extension Investigation work:
•	Yonge St. and Drewry Ave: September 23 – October 14. Click Here for more information
• Yonge St. and Patricia Ave: September 23- Nov 1. Click Here for more information
Questions can be directed to YongeSubwayExt@metrolinx.comor 416-202-7000.

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SAFETY ALERT: BUYER BEWARE


With the rise of private online sales and purchases, we would like to remind our residents that 32 Division offers two "Buy and Sell Exchange Zones" at their police station in order to help facilitate safer buying and selling. Don't get caught in a theft, fraud or robbery situation during your in-person exchange!


CLICK HERE for a full instructional video!

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NEW BIKE SHARE STATIONS IN WILLOWDALE


Heads up, Willowdale! Our neighbourhood has new Bike Share stations!


  • Talbot Rd / Finch Hydro Corridor Trail - 15 docking points
  • Willowdale Ave / Bishop Ave -19 docking points
  • Yonge St / North York Blvd - 23 docking points
  • Yonge St / Sheppard Ave E - 19 docking points
  • Kempford Blvd / Yonge St - 19 docking points
  • Empress Ave / Yonge St -19 docking points


It's wonderful to know this program is expanding throughout our neighbourhood!

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2024 CENSUS TEST


Statistics Canada is conducting a 2024 Census Test from September 3rd to October 13th to evaluate new and revised questions for the 2026 Census. This test, involving approximately 24,000 randomly selected households across all provinces, ensures high-quality data for effective planning in areas like employment, education, and public services.


Selected households will receive a letter with instructions to complete the questionnaire online or by phone. Participation is mandatory under the Statistics Act, and all responses are strictly confidential.

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ALBERT STANDING PARK UPDATE


Please note that the decorative fountain at Albert Standing Park is currently out of service due to an electrical fire that damaged the control panel. The City of Toronto electricians have assessed the situation and are gathering the necessary parts for repairs. While we don’t have a timeline for completion yet, we will provide updates as we move forward. Thank you for your understanding!

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ZONING BY-LAW PARKING REQUIREMENTS REVIEW: PUBLIC MEETINGS


New developments in Toronto are required to provide automobile and bicycle parking based on standards in zoning by-laws. The City of Toronto is currently reviewing the accessible parking and bicycle parking standards in the city-wide Zoning By-law (569-2013), as a continuation of the work reported to Planning and Housing Committee on December 15, 2021 (https://secure.toronto.ca/council/agenda-item.do?item=2021.PH29.3).

 

This review responds to an increasing demand for bicycle parking, growing interest in the impact of parking supply on housing affordability and travel behaviour, and the importance of providing appropriate accessible parking spaces.

 

In November 2023, the City hosted a series of public meetings and launched a survey to collect feedback on initial directions. Based on the feedback collected from the meetings and surveys, a draft proposal was developed for amending the zoning by-law standards of accessible parking and bicycle parking.

 

Next month the City will be holding a series of online meetings to present the draft proposal of updated accessible parking and bicycle parking requirements as well as to report the preliminary findings on the impacts of new auto parking-related standards. The consultations with interested parties and the public will inform the final recommendations. Both scheduled meetings on each of the two topics will cover the same content. Please register for an upcoming public meeting:

 

Accessible Parking:

Tuesday, Sept 17 - 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.:

https://toronto.webex.com/weblink/register/r4b8cc1e5b5ebeea64a65a271afe589b6


Wednesday, Sept 18 - 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.:

https://toronto.webex.com/weblink/register/r04e2a8580edf29828076b6429d72aae8

 

Bicycle Parking:

Tuesday, Sept 17 - 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.:

https://toronto.webex.com/weblink/register/r4f0ed2daa183737a6fe154e4ceed8ca0


Wednesday, Sept 18- 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.:

https://toronto.webex.com/weblink/register/r26b75f1250e525375344474f41e62af5

Consultation materials will be added to the website prior to the meetings.


Visit www.toronto.ca/parkingreview to learn more or sign up for updates.

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UPDATE ON GOULDING COMMUNITY CENTRE: 

STATE-OF-GOOD REPAIR PROJECT


The project is near completion of the Construction Phase, including work on the interior rooms, washrooms, change rooms, mechanical and electrical systems.


Phase 1: Construction at the community centre areas are completed, including improvements at the multipurpose rooms, classrooms, dance room, gym floors and gym changerooms, front main entrance (including new art murals), mechanical units and BAS connections.


Phase 2: Construction at the outdoor pool areas are completed, including change room renovations and a new outdoor pool deck shade structure. The outdoor pool season opened as scheduled.


Phase 3: Construction at the ice arena areas and change rooms were completed by September 2024, allowing the ice rink programming to proceed as scheduled. Work continues until early Sep 2024 at one remaining change room area, the ice rink referee change room, and maintenance office.


Project updates can be found on the project webpage:

Goulding Community Centre Improvements – City of Toronto

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SILVERVIEW PARK IMPROVEMENTS UPDATE


We're thrilled to announce that Silverview Park is set for significant enhancements. Last year, with the support of Parks, Forestry & Recreation, our office hosted a brunch potluck at the park, where we gathered ideas directly from residents. Based on the feedback collected during Community Engagement Phase 1, the project team has developed two design options for the park's revitalization.

We invite you to review these design options and share your thoughts by participating in our online survey by September 8, 2024. The survey is available in English, Farsi (Persian), and Korean. Your input is essential in shaping the future of Silverview Park!

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CONSTRUCTION NOTICE: 6150 YONGE STREET


CLICK HERE to view the construction notice from Toronto Hydro. The boundaries for the project include a section of Pleasant Avenue. Work is expected to begin September 2024.

COMMUNITY UPDATES

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TASTE OF NORTH YORK IS BACK!


NeighbourLink North York presents the 2nd Taste of North York Community & Food Festival, September 6-8 at Mel Lastman Square!


Celebrate North York’s vibrant cultures, diverse cuisines, and community connections with delicious food vendors, live music, art, dancing, kid's activities, and NeighbourLink’s Meet & Eat! Net proceeds support NeighbourLink's food bank and community care programs.


The Meet & Eat located at the Reflection Pond at Mel Lastman Square includes:

· A patio to enjoy food and meet neighbours all weekend long - join us September 6 at 7pm for a community meal with special entertainment

· A Community Fair of local charities, organizations, clubs, and artisans on September 7th & 8th

· Family activities including art, juggling workshops, aerial hammocks, lego-building, caricatures, instrument petting zoos, and robotics


Don’t forget to bring a non-perishable food item to help fill a 32 Division police cruiser and support NeighbourLink’s food bank!


Taste of North York

September 6-8, 2024

Mel Lastman Square, 5100 Yonge St.

Fri (6pm-10pm), Sat (12pm-10pm), Sun (12pm-8pm)


Join in the fun of building a more connected community together!


CLICK HERE for the full schedule!

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APPLY TO VOLUNTEER AT TASTE OF NORTH YORK


NeighbourLink North York is seeking volunteers for their community and food festival Taste of North York! It will take place from Fri, Sept 6 to Sun, Sept 8 at Mel Lastman Square.


There will be an open-air food and drink festival with 50+ food vendors, a full weekend of live performances, and a patio to meet and eat with fellow neighbours!


On Sat, Sept 8, there will also be 20+ charities, as well as an opportunity to meet your local councillor and learn more about your neighbourhood!


Refreshments and volunteer hours will be provided to volunteers.


Volunteer Roles include:

· Set-up volunteer

· Greeter at Neighbourlink Tent

· Greeter at Meet and Eat Patio

· Stage Support

· Volunteer Driver

· All Day Event General Volunteer

· Afternoon Event General Volunteer

· Evening Event General Volunteer

· Tear Down/Clean Up


CLICK HERE to sign up for any of the volunteer shifts you are interested in!


You are also welcome to contact the volunteer coordinator, Lily Su, directly with any questions, concerns, or ideas you may have. You can email her at lily.su@neighbourlink.org or call her at 416-221-8283 ext 6.

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REPAIR CAFE IS COMING TO WILLOWDALE!


We’re thrilled to announce that, thanks to the support and advocacy of our Willowdale Climate Action Roundtable members, Repair Café is coming to North York Library on September 7th!


Repair Café Toronto is a grassroots, volunteer-driven group that organizes events where neighbours help neighbors learn how to repair. Have a broken household item? Don’t toss it! Bring your small appliances, computers, electronics, clothing, jewelry, books, and more, and experts will show you how to fix it—for free!


When: Saturday, September 7, 12:00PM - 3:00PM

Where: North York Central Library, 2nd Floor Auditorium

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BREAKING BARRIERS: THE POWER OF CHILDREN'S BOOKS


Join author Rie Muranaka 村中李衣 and illustrator Eriko Ishikawa 石川えりこ as they introduce their award winning picture book “Kokun” (Nodding), chosen as Outstanding for the IBBY Collection for Young People with Disabilities. Based on their work in Japan, the authors will describe how they have used picture books to spark discussion about visible and invisible barriers.

 

Lecture will be in Japanese with an English translator. There will be a Q&A afterwards.

 

Register online by Sunday, Sep 15!


When: Wednesday, Sep 18 - 6:30-8 pm

Where: North York Central Library, Room 1

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FALL NEIGHBOURHOOD PLANTING PROGRAM GIVEAWAY


A local Newtonbrook West resident is organizing a special giveaway as part of the Fall Neighbourhood Planting Program with the City of Toronto! On September 21, 2024, visit Regatta Crescent (Steeles and Bathurst) for a chance to receive up to 3 free trees from a selection of stunning species like Sugar Maple, Red Oak, White Spruce, and more.


Event Details:

  • Date: September 21, 2024
  • Location: Regatta Crescent - Steeles and Bathurst (Exact time to be confirmed)
  • Pre-Registration: Required to participate
  • Selection: Choose up to 3 trees or shrubs
  • Availability: First come, first served while supplies last

Additional Information:

  • Trees will be delivered on September 21st; pick-up time to be confirmed closer to the event.
  • Grant staff will be available to assist and answer questions.

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BCNA: BACHATA DANCE SESSIONS


The Bayview Cummer Neighbourhood Association is kicking off its Bachata dance sessions again on Tuesday, September 24 at 7:30 PM, with 19 sessions at St. Agnes Catholic School’s gym. Join in on a fun evening of dance, exercise, and community, where you can relax and enjoy the company of friends and neighbours. 


No dance experience or partner is required.


The schedule runs until December 17, 2024 and will resume on January 7, 2025, until February 11, 2025. 


Any updates will be shared in our WhatsApp Bachata Chat group, so join us to stay informed. To participate, you’ll need to be a BCNA member (or an associate member if you’re outside the area). The fee for the rest of the year is just $10 for a household.


To RSVP, people may send their signup requests to mycommunity@bayviewcummer.ca and include the subject line "Attention: Natasha Mansouri for Bachata Lessons" to be put on the list!

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NORTH YORK DIWALI FEST


Over the past few years we have seen an increase in Indian neighbours in our community. As such, I was excited to see the great success of last year’s North York Diwali Fest. This year I am pleased to be co-hosting the event which will span two days on October 19–20 at Mel Lastman Square. We want this event to give visibility and build connectivity to the growing Indian community in Willowdale. 


If you are interested in joining the planning committee or in being a vendor please email events@northyorkdiwali.com or reach out at 437-258-3065. Additionally, community members can join the Facebook group "Indians in Willowdale"- www.bit.ly/indiansinwillowdale or the WhatsApp Group for the Willowdale Indian Community www.chat.whatsapp.com/De5LjwA2BC62gdk9MkqTlq.

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