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Click Here to read this e-mail in Chinese (Simplified) Click Here to read this e-mail in Chinese (Traditional)
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Hi Neighbour!
Happy Birthday To Us! Yesterday marked 2 years in office for myself and several members of my team. It’s been quite a whirlwind and if I’m honest, feels much more like 5 years than 2 due to the intensity of the work. I continue to be grateful for the opportunity to represent this community I dearly love. The reason I became a City Councillor is because I believe in the power of community coming together to have a strong voice and build a vision collectively for a better future. With this in mind, my team and I have gone to great lengths to write regular email newsletters, to co-host cultural and community events and bring people together at Spaghetti Town Halls. I was so proud of our community when last week TTC staff remarked that our TTC Consultation was the largest they had attended all year! There is still much work to do, but my team and I often remind each other we must celebrate each precious win. And one of my wins is the time people spend reading this email. Thank you, for participating in building a Connected Community! If you’d like to cut some cake with us and celebrate this milestone, please join us at 3pm THIS SATURDAY, November 16 outside of North York Council Chambers at North York Civic Centre. This is a journey we all share and a community we are building together! THIS AFTERNOON! Parkland & Recreation Facilities Strategies: Community Engagement Let’s make sure our community gets the investment we need to support the continued growth of our population. Toronto’s recreation facilities and parks offer communities spaces to play, connect, learn, exercise and celebrate. The Parkland Strategy and Parks and Recreation Facilities Plan (formerly the Facilities Master Plan) is a 20-year plan that guides the growth and investment in these spaces across the city. Every five years, these plans are reviewed to ensure they continue to meet the changing needs and priorities of residents and reflect updates in population, policies and funding. Click Here to learn more. Stop by at the community engagement session at North York Central Library TODAY! from 12pm to 3pm to learn more about the plans and the community engagement process, and participate in discussions about the future of Toronto’s recreation spaces and parks. TAKE THE SURVEY! I encourage you to take the survey whether or not you can attend the consultation. The deadline is December 18. Click Here to take the survey now! SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK! Proposed Public Realm for the Yonge North York Business Improvement Area Do you dream of a beautiful Yonge Street? The Yonge North York BIA developed a draft public realm plan. Share your thoughts on the proposed design, streetscape, and public space improvements and opportunities. Submit the survey for a chance to win one of three $50 gift cards to a restaurant or cafe of your choice within the boundaries of the Yonge North York BIA. The survey will only take five minutes to complete and can be submitted until November 26. Click Here to take the survey now!
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Councillor & Community - Upcoming Events
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Mel Lastman Square - Upcoming Events
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Have a wonderful rest of your weekend!
Warmest regards,
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Click On The Links Below or Scroll Down To Learn More About:
~ COUNCILLOR UPDATES
~ CITY OF TORONTO UPDATES ~ COMMUNITY 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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WILLOWDALE LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM
Join us on Saturday, November 16 at North York Civic Centre, Council Chambers for the Willowdale Leadership Symposium. This is a time for leaders across Willowdale to break out of our silos and learn more about each other towards building stronger pathways to collaboration.
Registration begins at 8:45 AM. The conference will run from 9am-3pm and will include: Poverty Alleviation Roundtable - Meet some of the agencies working with the most vulnerable in Willowdale as we consider how we can strengthen our community support to build a better future. Networking & Collaboration - As leaders in our neighbourhood, it is important for us to share the work we are doing and find ways our efforts can be amplified and multiplied through collaboration. Peer Connection - Meet with others who are doing what you are doing, be it, Parent Council, Condo Board, Culture Group, Neighbourhood Associations and more! Facilities Master Plan Consultation - Give input on what facilities and amenities our community will need in the next 10 years. Skills Building - Learn about tools and platforms that can help you strengthen your service to the community.
When: Nov 16, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Where: North York Civic Centre, Council Chamber, 5100 Yonge St.
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PARKLAND & RECREATION FACILITIES STRATEGIES: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Toronto’s recreation facilities and parks offer communities spaces to play, connect, learn, exercise and celebrate. The Parkland Strategy and Parks and Recreation Facilities Plan (formerly the Facilities Master Plan) are 20-year plans that guide the growth and investment in these spaces across the city. Every five years, these plans are reviewed to ensure they continue to meet the changing needs and priorities of residents and reflect updates in population, policies and funding.
Stop by pop-up events to learn more about the plans and the community engagement process, and participate in discussions about the future of Toronto’s recreation spaces and parks.
When: Saturday, November 16, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM Where: North York Central Library, 5120 Yonge St.
Join the Parks and Recreation consultations to give the City your feedback in Phase 1 of community engagement for Parkland & Recreation Facilities Strategies: Facilities Plan Virtual Public Meeting: November 28, 2024, 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Parkland Strategy Virtual Public Meetings: December 3, 2024, from 2 to 4 p.m. December 4, 2024, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Please make sure to fill out the Online Survey, open until December 18, 2024, to share your experiences and insights on the needs and priorities for recreation spaces and parks.
You can also Sign Up for Updates, to be informed about future updates and opportunities to participate and engage in this consultation process!
Visit the project webpage to learn more about the project and the various engagement opportunities: toronto.ca/ParksAndFacilitiesPlans
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104-114 FINCH AVE EAST DEVELOPMENT CONSULTATION
Join us for a virtual development consultation about the proposed 11-storey building at 104 to 114 Finch Ave E, featuring 184 residential units!
When: Mon, Nov 18, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Where: Virtual (link will be provided shortly)
This is a great opportunity to learn more and share your thoughts on the project. We hope to see you there!
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CITY OF TORONTO WARMING CENTRES
Warming Centres are part of the City’s Winter Services Plan for people experiencing homelessness. The City activates Warming Centres when temperatures reach minus five degrees Celsius and/or when Environment and Climate Change Canada issues a winter weather event warning.
Warming Centres are pet-friendly and focus on getting and keeping vulnerable residents inside. Facilities provide: - Resting spaces
- Meals
- Access to washroom facilities
- Referrals to emergency shelter
Individuals do not need to contact Central Intake to access a Warming Centre. Walk-ins are welcome. If someone arrives at a Warming Centre and it is at capacity, the City will assist with transportation to another Warming Centre, if space is available.
Generally, Warming Centres open at 5 p.m. on the day that locations are activated. Once open, Warming Centres remain open 24 hours a day until it is determined that locations will close. Once a Warming Centre closes to new admissions, staff work to refer individuals who remain onsite to alternate spaces in the shelter system.
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PFR REGISTRATION AND BOOKING SYSTEM
ACTIVENet has officially been launched to members of the public, who are encouraged to create accounts in the new system so they are ready for Winter registration, which begins December 3 and 4. PFR will be providing all seniors (aged 60+) the ability to register for Older Adult programs, in advance of the regular registration days. For the winter session, this means that all Older Adult Programs (for persons aged 60+), can be registered for, by seniors, beginning Tuesday, November 26 at 10 a.m. in person at any recreation or seniors’ centre, online and over the phone.
All other programs will be open for registration at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, December 3 and Wednesday, December 4. Seniors wishing to take adult programs (those designed for persons 18+) will have the opportunity to register for these activities as part of the regular registration period.
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WOMEN4CLIMATE TORONTO
Are you looking to advance your climate action initiative? Apply now for the Women4ClimateTO Mentorship Program! Gain valuable mentoring, training and networking opportunities to accelerate your project.
Applications from those interested in becoming a mentor are also welcomed.
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CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE - 311 - TORONTO AT YOUR SERVICE
The City of Toronto is conducting the 311 Awareness and Usage Survey to gather feedback from residents, businesses, and visitors regarding their familiarity with the 311 Toronto service. The survey aims to understand the current 311 Service accuracy and clarity of our customer communication. Improving communication within the system will ensure that 311 Customer Service Representatives and our digital channels provide accurate information, ultimately enhancing the overall customer experience.
The survey will be live from November 4th to December 4th, 2024. Please take a moment to provide your feedback and help the City improve 311 services.
Please visit the city webpage for more information.
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VACANT HOME TAX DECLARATION 2024 - 2025
On November 1, the Vacant Home Tax (VHT) declaration period opened for residential property owners.
Beginning on November 1st, homeowners are now able to declare the 2024 occupancy status of their property in three ways: If you experience trouble when trying to submit your declaration of occupancy status, you can call 311 or send an email to our office with details of your issue and the following information: Property owner’s full name Property owner’s phone number Property address (including postal code) Assessment roll number Details of the issue or problem
Q: What qualifies as a “vacant” home? A: A house or condo is considered vacant if it is not the owner's principal/main residence or the principal residence of someone they permit to live there, or if it was not occupied by tenants for more than six months during the calendar year. A property may qualify for an exemption from the Vacant Home Tax if certain conditions apply. If the property is the owner’s main residence (where they reside and conduct their daily affairs, receive mail, pay bills, etc.) it can remain unoccupied and would not be considered vacant. Q: What are the exemptions to the Vacant Home Tax? A: Vacant Home Tax exemptions include properties that meet the following criteria: Property undergoing major repairs or renovations Legal transfer of ownership occurred within the taxation year Owner(s) is/are in an extended, long-term care facility (can be claimed for two consecutive years) Registered owner passed away in the taxation year or the two previous taxation years (can be claimed for three consecutive years) Property is required as a secondary residence by the owner or their spouse for full-time employment purposes Property is required as a secondary residence by the owner, their spouse or dependent for medical treatment in Toronto Property cannot be occupied due to court order Property was newly constructed and never occupied or sold and was actively listed for sale during the taxation year (can be claimed for two consecutive years)
Q: How can homeowners who need to make their declaration in another language get help? A: Homeowners who need assistance making their declaration can call 311 which offers service in more than 180 languages. Q: What support is available for seniors or those with limited computer access? A: Homeowners who do not have easy access to a computer can declare the occupancy status of their property by calling 311. Or they can make a declaration at a Tax and Utility counter at Toronto City Hall or a civic centre. Homeowners can also have a family member or friend complete the online declaration for them.
In addition, the City is offering dedicated in-person assistance to submit a VHT declaration at drop-in sessions on select dates.
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TTC ANNOUNCES FINAL DAY TO USE OLD TTC TICKETS, TOKENS, AND DAY PASSES
The TTC has announced Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, as the final day that TTC tickets, tokens, and day passes, will be accepted on the transit system.
Starting Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, the TTC will only accept fares paid using a physical or digital PRESTO card, PRESTO Ticket, debit or credit card, including those stored in an Apple or Google Wallet. Cash payments will still be accepted in station fare boxes, and, on buses and streetcars. Customers can also use cash to purchase PRESTO cards and tickets from Fare Vending Machines in subway stations.
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TTC 2025 ANNUAL SERVICE PLAN SURVEY
The TTC needs your insights for the 2025 Annual
Service Plan, focused on improving local and overnight routes, construction
detours, and the Community Bus Network.
Help shape the future of transit in
Toronto by sharing your feedback through our survey: 2025
Annual Service Plan (ttc.ca) or request a hard copy at khly@thirdpartypublic.ca or
437-800-1882.
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YONGE NORTH YORK BIA PUBLIC REALM MASTER PLAN SURVEY
Share your Feedback on the Proposed Public Realm for the Yonge North York Business Improvement Area!
The Yonge North York BIA developed a draft public realm plan. As a member of the community, your feedback and insight into the future of the area is incredibly valuable. Questions will focus on things like your thoughts on proposed design, streetscape, and public space improvements and opportunities.
Submit the survey for a chance to win one of three $50 gift cards to a restaurant or cafe of your choice within the boundaries of the Yonge North York BIA. The survey will only take five minutes to complete and can be submitted until November 26.
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NORTH YORK COMMUNITY RESOURCES BOOKLET
The North York Community Resources Booklet is now available! This comprehensive guide provides essential information on local services, programs, and support in our community. Whether you're looking for health resources, legal aid services, or housing supports, you’ll find everything you need in one place.
Click Here for the English version.
Click Here for the Farsi version.
Click Here for the Chinese version.
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LEARN4LIFE REGISTRATION OPENED NOVEMBER 13TH
Looking for
something fun to do this fall? The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) offers
a wide range of Adult General Interest and Seniors Daytime classes through the
Learn4Life program. These classes provide an excellent opportunity to learn new
skills, stay active, and connect with others in your community.
Led by expert
instructors, Learn4Life offers courses in Arts, Business, Computers, Cooking,
Crafts, Dance, Finance, Fitness, Languages, Music, Sports, Sewing, and much
more!
Registration opened on November 13th.
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LIVE LOUNGE AT THE NOVOTEL NORTH YORK
Discover
North Toronto’s newest indoor live music venue, Live
Lounge at Novotel! Located in the heart of Willowdale, just off
Yonge Street. Experience great music, and good vibes, in the company of friends
at our chill venue located at the Novotel,
3 Park Home Ave.
Unwind and enjoy some fantastic
performances by talented musicians while enjoying a variety of food & drink
from the Trio Restaurant and Bar. Whether you're a music enthusiast or just
looking for a fun night out, this event is perfect for everyone. Don't miss out
on this opportunity to experience live music in a relaxed and inviting
atmosphere.
Willowdale Arts Collective has
partnered with T.U. Jazz Fest to bring live performances from
emerging musicians and award-winning artists.
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NYSC ACTIVE LIVING FAIR
Join the North York Seniors Centre Active Living Fair!
This year’s theme is "A Journey to Wellness". Get ready for a day filled with: - Multicultural refreshments
- Informative presentations
- Prizes to be won
- Many vendors to explore
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to learn, connect, and have fun!
Date: November 19 Time: 10 AM - 2 PM Admission: FREE!
Tell your friends and drop by for an unforgettable day of wellness!
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CHRISTMAS CRAFT AND BAKE SALE
The Catholic Women's League is hosting a Christmas Craft and Bake Sale on Nov 23, 2024 at St. Edward The Confessor Church. This event will feature a delicious variety of homemade baked goods, Christmas cards, holiday décor, and more. Perfect for family and friends as we enter the holiday season!
When: Nov 23, 2024, 10:00 AM- 3:30 PM Where: St. Edward The Confessor Church, 75 Churchill Ave.
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TECH-HELP AND TEA
Neighbourlink North York invites you and your network to Tech Help and Tea, a free tech support drop-in event for seniors! This event will take place on Monday, November 25 from 4 to 6 pm at Willowdale Manor at 175 Cummer Ave. There is limited visitor parking as well as free street parking nearby on Derwent Ct. Refreshments will be provided.
Neighbourlink North York has been hosting this event for seniors in Willowdale for some time after hearing from many seniors about their challenges with navigating technology. This event was launched with the help of their youth volunteers who have a great passion for serving our community! The volunteers offer basic tech support (e.g. filling out online applications and forms, connecting with a call centre over the phone on behalf of a senior, downloading and demonstrating how to use various apps, phone storage issues, etc.).
Support is offered in English, Cantonese, Farsi, Mandarin, Russian, and Ukrainian.
When: Monday, November 25, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM When: Willowdale Manor, 175 Cummer Ave, North York, M2M 2E8
For more information, please reach out to lily.su@neighbourlink.org
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WE LOVE WILLOWDALE CHRISTMAS MARKET
NeighbourLink North York's 4th We Love Willowdale Christmas Market
is Saturday, November 30th at Mel Lastman Square!
The Artisan
Market will take place from 2-8pm and the Festive
Tree Lighting, Presented by the Yonge North York BIA, will take place at 6:30pm.
At the market you’ll find:
- 50+ artisan vendors and small businesses
- Live Entertainment & Community Sing-a-Long
- Food Trucks (including Beaver Tails)
- Hot Chocolate
- Family Photo Booth ️
- Kids Activities from Sunnyside Up Camp
- Santa and Mrs Claus
- Cram A Cruiser Food Drive - bring a non-perishable food
item!
You're encouraged to RSVP each attendee from your group for the market. General
RSVP (13+) is a suggested $5 donation! You can also donate in person at the
event! Funds raised through donations from the public go directly to supporting
our neighbours this holiday season through NeighbourLink's food bank, senior,
youth and newcomer programs!
You can learn more about the market and RSVP at www.neighbourlink.org/christmas
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LANSING UNITED'S ADVENT MESSY CHURCH
Lansing United Church is hosting an Advent Messy Church on November 30th from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM!
Messy Church is an informal and fun way to remember the Christmas story, be creative, live into the season, and enjoy some pizza with your community!
All ages are welcome.
Please RSVP by calling 416-221-1722 or emailing lansingunited@lansingchurch.com.
To learn more, please contact Rev. Brad Inglis at 416-268-7592 or minister@lansingchurch.com.
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CAMERON PUBLIC SCHOOL'S 2024 HOLIDAY MARKET
You are invited to Cameron Public School's Holiday Market School Fundraiser!
Join in on Thursday, December 5th, from
6:00-9:00 PM at Cameron P.S. for a fun-filled evening with activities the whole family can enjoy, and of course shopping with over 40 local vendors. Admission is $5.00 per person (children 10 and under are free).
Come out and support our fabulous school, and vendors.
Bring your friends and neighbors, and help spread the word!
If you are a local business, and would like to provide an item or service as a donation for a door prize, please email Lisa at epsholidaymarket@gmail.com.
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WINTER CHARITY DRIVE
As the holiday season approaches, the warm-hearted community of Willowdale is thinking of those who may be facing challenges this time of year. One of our caring residents, Elle Mollaei, has initiated a Christmas Drive, and what better way to contribute than by donating winter clothing for all ages. Join us on December 10th to make a difference in our neighborhood by giving the gift of warmth to those in need.
When: Tuesday, December 10, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM Where: Lansing United Church, 49 Bogert Ave., M2N 1K4
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