December, 2024

As the Sorauren Farmers Market shifts to its winter season location at Henderson Brewery on Mondays from 3-7 p.m. you can be sure there are lots of festive foods and activities to explore. Every week the market comes to life complete with karaoke, craft pints, twinkling lights, live music, and local seasonal goodies—right through to May 12th. This December, 

December 9: Folk duo Rachel Melas and Conny Nowe of Hobo Soles will set the scene with festive tunes.

December 16: Participate in a wreath-making workshop with Mount Wolfe Farm! You’ll have access to foraged wild materials to craft your masterpiece, along with expert artistic guidance. This is a pay-what-you-can (PWYC) event.

December 23: Stock up on festive favourites for your holiday entertaining – it’s the last market of the year!

Note: the market will take a break over the holidays (closed Dec 30 and Jan 6), but will be back on Monday Jan 13. 

Sorauren Farmers’ Market Association is a non-profit organization and a welcoming holistic hub offering wholesome fresh food and community connection since 2008. Learn more at https://www.soraurenmarket.com/

The Parkdale Hall  (at 1605 Queen Street West) comes to life every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. where local vendors gather to sell a range of unique items. You’ll find vintage clothing, antiques, handmade crafts, art, jewelry, and specialty foods. It’s a great spot for locals and tourists alike who enjoy browsing through carefully curated items, hunting for one-of-a-kind finds, or supporting small, independent businesses.

The market has a rotating selection of vendors, so there’s always something new to discover each week. It’s a popular weekend outing in Toronto, attracting a diverse crowd looking to connect with local makers and collectors in a lively, community-focused atmosphere.

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December, 2024

The City of Toronto is updating its Parkland Strategy and Parks and Recreation Facilities Plan, and invites feedback from residents. Share your experiences and insights on the needs and priorities for recreation spaces and parks.

The Parkland Strategy is updated every five years. Learn more, and take the online survey.

Similarly, the Parks and Recreation Facilities Plan is updated every five years, and you can provide input through an online survey which closes on December 18.

As part of the Parks and Recreation Facilities Plan, the City is specifically seeking feedback on its outdoor and indoor ice facilities.

Meanwhile, work continues on the Wabash Community Recreation Centre at Sorauren Park. The City’s project webpage says a construction firm will be hired, and construction will start, next year, following several years of consultation and design. Subscribe to the Friends of Sorauren Park newsletter for updates.

November, 2024

As we step into the festive season, the vibrant community of Roncesvalles Village is ready to embrace the holiday cheer with a series of exciting events. Here’s your guide to what’s happening over the next few weeks.

Roncesvalles United Church Annual Christmas Arts & Crafts Market

📍 Roncesvalles United Church
📅 Saturday, November 16
🕒 10 am – 4 pm
🎟️ $5 Admission (Children under 12 enter for free)

The Roncesvalles United Church Annual Christmas Arts & Crafts Market is a must-visit event for those who love unique, handcrafted goods. With over 100 vendors, you’ll find an impressive selection of jewelry, pottery, apparel, children’s goods, and much more—perfect for your holiday shopping. Take a break from browsing and treat yourself to award-winning chili, homemade baked goods, or an artisanal sandwich.

Plus, your participation helps a great cause. Proceeds from the cafe and admission support the Kindred Kitchen, a local meal program making a positive impact in the community.

For more details, visit the Roncesvalles United Church website.

Shop Roncy and Win!

This holiday season, Roncesvalles Village encourages everyone to shop locally, and they’re sweetening the deal with a fantastic chance to win cash prizes.

To enter, simply save your receipts from local purchases of $15 or more, then upload photos of your receipts to enter weekly $1,000 draws. All entries also go into a Grand Prize draw of $1,500 at the end of the contest!

What qualifies? Digital receipts, third-party delivery app receipts, and even online reviews count as entries, so it’s easy to participate. Support Roncesvalles businesses and win big this holiday season!

For a list of qualifying businesses and full details, head to Shop Roncy to Win.

Santa in the Village – Bloor West Village’s Annual Holiday Celebration

📍 Green P Parking Lot (Carpark 91) at Bloor St. and Armadale Ave.
📅 Saturday, November 23
🕒 10 am – 4 pm
💫 Free Entry

Join the holiday magic at the 8th Annual Santa in the Village event! This family-friendly day is packed with festive activities sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Highlights include:

• Photos with Santa – Capture a magical holiday photo with Santa, and bring your pets for some extra cuteness!
• Gingerbread Cookie Decorating – Let the kids get creative with cookie decorating.
• Children’s Crafts – Make holiday crafts to take home as cherished keepsakes.
• Children’s Entertainment – Say hello to the Grinch, meet beloved princesses, watch a magic show, and more.
• Live Music – Carolers will be strolling along Bloor Street, filling the air with festive tunes.
• Holiday Marketplace – Browse the Holiday Marketplace featuring over 25 local artisans and businesses with unique gift options.

This festive day is organized by the Bloor West Village BIA. If you’d like to get involved, they’re welcoming vendors for the Holiday Marketplace and volunteers for the event. For more information visit their website.

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November, 2024

While Swifties are eagerly anticipating Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour debut this month in Toronto, there’s another kind of “eras tour” happening right in the heart of the city! High Park’s Nature Centre is offering a chance to explore the diverse “eras” of Toronto’s largest public park with a unique blend of history, conservation, and hands-on experiences for all ages. 

Saturday, November 16
🕙 10:00 – 11:30 AM
💵 $10 per person

Call it What You Want, but the history of High Park is a true Love Story that celebrates nature, conservation, and community. Grab your cardigan and join the High Park Nature Centre for a walk that Hits Different! This immersive experience, called the Suburban Legends Eras Tour, will take you Out of the Woods, down to Grenadier Pond, and past the labyrinth in the Savannah as you learn about the park’s fascinating “eras.”

Along the way, you’ll encounter stories of London Boy John Howard (the man who donated High Park to Toronto), see how conservation efforts are helping native habitats Begin Again, and learn how the park’s landscape has evolved to support wildlife and native plants.

The event starts at the High Park Nature Centre’s Forest School building, located at 375 Colborne Lodge Drive.

November also brings several exciting activities for those who want to engage with nature in new and creative ways!

Introduction to Linocut Printmaking

Date: November 23
Time: 1:00 – 4:00 PM

For adults looking to get creative, join the Nature Centre’s Introduction to Linocut Printmaking class. Learn the art of carving and printing original linocut prints inspired by the leaves of native High Park trees. This hands-on workshop provides all materials and instruction to help you design and create your own unique print.

Song Circle with Pete Moss

Date: November 24
Time: 10:30 – 11:15 AM

Bring the little ones to High Park’s Song Circle with Pete Moss for a musical morning celebrating the animals, plants, and weather patterns of High Park. This interactive event will feature sing-a-longs to nature-themed songs, adapted classics, and fun props like egg shakers, scarves, and even puppets to enhance your child’s connection to the natural world. Plus, you might even see a parachute show up for extra fun!

Registration: Pre-registration is required for all events, so be sure to sign up early to secure your spot.

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October, 2024

As the vibrant fall season settles in, celebrate the community spirit of Roncesvalles Village and embrace the season at my annual pumpkin sale that not only brings neighbours together but also supports our important community spaces: Sorauren Park and Charles G. Williams Park.

Each year, I partner with the community to host this festive fundraiser, offering up the perfect pumpkins for carving and decorating ahead of the other beloved seasonal tradition: Sorauren Park’s annual Pumpkin Parade on Nov. 1. Families, friends and neighbours are invited to pick out their pumpkins while enjoying the fall atmosphere in one of Toronto’s most charming neighborhoods. It’s a fantastic way to get into the Halloween spirit, create lasting memories, and support a local cause at the same time.

Sorauren Park and Charles G. Williams Park are more than just green spaces—they’re the heart of Roncesvalles Village, hosting everything from farmers’ markets to outdoor movie nights, soccer games, and a variety of family-friendly activities all year round. It’s a gathering place for neighbours, a playground for kids and an oasis for those looking to escape the city’s hustle. 

100% of proceeds from the pumpkin sale will go toward supporting future programming and community initiatives, ensuring the park remains a vibrant and welcoming space for all. Over the years, the sale has raised more than $30,000.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, October 20, 2024
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Sorauren Park Town Square

Stop by and grab your pumpkin for Halloween and then don’t forget to return to Sorauren Park for the annual Pumpkin Parade – Toronto’s original, it’s biggest and best!

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October, 2024

Remember Motley Crue, mullets and mall hair? What about Rick Astley and Reeboks? And don’t forget Spandau Ballet and Spandex.

It’s time to bust out all your 80s favourites and relive that magical decade, just for one night! 

Where: Community Hall at Roncesvalles United Church – 214 Wright Ave., at Roncesvalles (Lower Level) Toronto, ON M6R 1M3

When: Saturday, November 9, 2024 from 8:00 p.m. to Midnight

Tickets: $35 on Eventbrite and $40 at the door.

Rock-out to your favorite dance tunes with good friends, for a good cause. Money raised will go to Kindred Kitchen, formerly Dinner with Dignity, a community kitchen in Roncesvalles Village that serves delicious and nutritious meals to about 100 people every Sunday at Roncesvalles United Church. Meals are created and served by volunteers in a safe and welcoming space.

There will be a cash bar, snacks and a plethora of embarrassing moments as old people pretend to be young. 80s attire and hairstyles are optional, but highly recommended.

This event is cash only. There are multiple bank machines a short stumble from the venue.

Can’t attend but want to support Kindred Kitchen? Donations are graciously accepted.

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October, 2024

There is a new proposed development and city planning application for the Loblaws site at 2280 Dundas St West which details seven mixed-use and residential buildings (including five residential towers) on four development blocks. 

The development will offer both ownership and rental housing options, with a new central public park and new street system. It includes approximately 1,923 residential units in a range of unit sizes and includes 735 rental units within 3 rental buildings. 

Local City Councillor Gord Perks and Toronto City Planning have scheduled a virtual Community Consultation Meeting for the evening of October 7th at 6pm, so the community can become acquainted with the latest iteration of the development of this site.

Previous community meetings were held for this site in 2018 and 2022. The meeting on October 7th will consist of short presentations of the development from City Planning and the applicant’s team, followed by a Q&A session. This will be a great opportunity to allow residents to view the proposal and share your thoughts.

Councillor Perks, City Planning staff, and the applicant will be in attendance to help answer any questions that may arise.

Further information on the project and what is being proposed can be found on the City’s Application Information Centre website or on the developer’s website.

September, 2024

This September, artist Paul Osadchuk brings an exhibition of thought-provoking photography to the Shevchenko Museum, located at 1604 Bloor St. West, Toronto. THE OTHER VIEW: Searching for Peace opens on September 22, 2024, offering a visual examination of ways to resolve conflict and maintain harmony in our world. Through his lens, Osadchuk captures the delicate balance between unrest and resolution, reflecting on the pressing need for dialogue and understanding in times of turmoil.

Born in Brazil to Ukrainian parents, Paul Osadchuk now calls Toronto home. He honed his craft studying photography at York University under the mentorship of renowned photographers Michael Semak and Shin Sugino. Since 1978, Paul has worked as a freelance photographer, earning four Ontario Art Council awards and exhibiting his work across the globe. His photography has been featured in galleries from Australia to Malaysia, Mexico to Peru, Ukraine, and throughout Canada, including Manitoba, New Brunswick, and Ontario.

Paul’s career spans decades, with his work ranging from documentary photography to abstract art. Currently, his passion lies in capturing the beauty of world heritage sites, showcasing the resilience and cultural significance of these historic locations.

Osadchuk’s dedication to creating meaningful art extends beyond the gallery walls. The proceeds from all sales of his work at THE OTHER VIEW will be donated to support the people of Ukraine as they continue to heal and rebuild in the face of ongoing conflict. This exhibition not only offers a visual exploration of peace but also serves as a direct contribution to a country striving for stability and justice.

The exhibition runs from September 22 to October 25. For more information and to register to attend the opening, visit the Shavchenko website.

September, 2024

Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and rich heritage of Roncesvalles Village at the Roncesvalles Polish Festival, happening September 14th and 15th! This beloved neighborhood event is a celebration of community, tradition, and creativity, bringing together the best of old-world charm and contemporary Toronto flair.

For years, the Roncesvalles Polish Festival has been a local favorite, drawing crowds with its lively polka dances, delicious pierogies, and joyful atmosphere. This year, in addition to the classic Polish traditions you know and love, the festival will feature a fresh focus on celebrating a broader range of local artists, musicians, and culinary delights.

Roncesvalles Village is well-known as one of Toronto’s most vibrant and unique communities, and the festival is the perfect opportunity to explore everything it has to offer. Stroll along Roncesvalles Avenue and discover a delightful array of global cuisines from our local eateries, shop at charming boutiques, and enjoy top-notch services. The streets will come alive with performances by talented local artists and musicians, including special Indigenous programming and a variety of family-friendly activities.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned festival-goer, we’re excited to welcome you with a friendly “Hello,” “Cześć,” “Boozhoo,” “Tansi,” and “Bonjour” to Roncesvalles Village!

The festival is brought to you by the Roncesvalles Village Business Improvement Area (BIA), representing over 270 businesses and property owners who have been serving this vibrant community in Toronto’s West End for more than 35 years.

For more details and the full stage schedule visit polishfestival.ca.

September, 2024

I’m thrilled to once again sponsor the lively and much-anticipated Sorauren Market Country Fair, happening on September 2nd from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at Sorauren Park. This year’s fair is shaping up to be the biggest and best farmers market of the year, packed with all the excitement and charm that makes this event a seasonal favorite.

Come out and celebrate the season with us! There’s something for everyone at the fair—from lively music and country dancing to a fun-filled dog show, “Best in Fair” competitions, and a host of kid’s activities. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, this is one event you won’t want to miss.

Got a knack for making delicious jams, pickles, cookies, or cakes? Put your skills to the test by entering the competition! Simply fill out this form to enter. Be sure to drop off your entries by 3:00 p.m. on the day of the fair.

And let’s not forget the entertainment! Chris Staig and Jonathan Billings will be on hand to keep things lively (and hilarious) with their performances, starting at 3:00 p.m. Their blend of music and humor is sure to add an extra spark to the festivities.

Even after the fair wraps up, the outdoor farmers market will continue every Monday from 3:00-7:00 p.m. in the Town Square until October 28th, when it moves to its cozy winter home at Henderson’s Brewing Company.

Mark your calendars, gather your family and friends, and join us for a day of fun, food, and festivities at the Sorauren Market Country Fair. See you there!

August, 2024

There’s no shortage of summer festivals in Toronto, and this August there are a few music-focused ones in the west end ready to bend your ear.

SWANSEA SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL

Every Tuesday evening this August, bring your lawn chairs and snacks to the front piazza of Swansea Town Hall (95 Lavinia Avenue) to enjoy live performances by four wonderful bands. Presented by Durie Lane Music and ZoomerRadio, the Swansea Summer Music Series is a pay-what-you-can, family-friendly event.

Bands will perform from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., offering a lively mix of jazz, blues, folk, classical, and swing music. For more information, visit .

PARKDALE MUSIC CRAWL

In Parkdale, experience the Parkdale Music Crawl on Saturday, August 24th, as you explore venues from Dufferin to Roncesvalles Avenue.

This vibrant celebration highlights Parkdale as a hub of musical talent and dynamic live venues. Enjoy a diverse lineup of buskers, solo artists, bands, and various genres from 10 a.m. on Saturday, August 24th, until 2 a.m. on Sunday, August 25th.

Organized by the Parkdale Village BIA, with support from Lil’ Demon Guitarists’ Pro Shop and local musician Andy Sharp, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

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August, 2024

Attention parents of girls between the ages of 6 and 10: on Saturday, August 10 and 31, Coach Mark from the Friends of Sorauren Park will be hosting a free one-hour basketball skills and games clinic at the Junior basketball court at Charles G. Williams Park across the street from Sorauren Park. 

This is a return engagement from previous clinics.

The clinic starts at 9 am and no registration is necessary. Bring your ball and your water bottle!

Admission is free, but donations to support the Friends and free programming in the park are most welcome.

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July, 2024

On Saturday, July 13, the Roncesvalles United Church will be presenting two special shopping events, the Roncy Flea Market and the 14th annual Roncy Book Sale, happening at 240 Roncesvalles Avenue.

Get ready to indulge in a captivating and refined shopping experience at the highly anticipated Roncy Flea Market. Set to take place in the heart of Roncesvalles, this unique event promises to delight even the most discerning shoppers. Step into a world where vintage charm meets contemporary style, as you wander through a maze of beautifully curated stalls. From retro furniture and rare collectibles to handmade artisanal crafts and one-of-a-kind fashion pieces, Roncy Flea Market offers a wide array of treasures to cater to diverse tastes.

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a fashion enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a unique shopping experience, the Roncy Flea Market is the perfect destination. For more info, email roncyflea@gmail.com 

Booklovers will also find lots to choose from at the 14th Annual Roncesvalles United Church Book Sale, with hundreds of books in all subjects with ongoing new stock.

Time: 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Books are $3/each or 4 for $10. Kids books are priced at $2 and up. All funds go to supporting Roncesvalles United Church in our ongoing pursuit to be an inclusive community hub.

A second date of the book sale will be held on August, 10, 2024.  Admission is free and all are welcome.

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July, 2024

The City of Toronto Housing Secretariat has collaborated with Housing Help Centres and the Toronto Public Library to offer free in-person workshops at selected Toronto Public Library locations across the city this July.

Applicants can join a session to learn:

• how to apply for subsidized housing
• how to apply or complete an existing application through the MyAccesstoHousingTO website
• how to manage their account

Applicants can reserve a seat at a session online here or call the Application Support Centre at 416 338 8888.

The following sessions are scheduled in Parkdale-High Park 

Location: Parkdale Public Library, 1303 Queen Street

Dates & times:

July 10 — 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.    

July 17 —  11 a.m.-1 p.m.and  2 p.m. – 4 p.m.            

July 24 — 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and  2 p.m. – 4 p.m.     

July 31 — 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and  2 p.m. – 4 p.m. 

Toronto Public Library is creating a new Strategic Plan to guide the library over the next five years, and they’d like your input! Based on the ideas shared in the first round of consultations, the library has identified eight areas to focus on. Now, they need your help to further prioritize and guide their work. To participate, please visit tpl.ca/strategicplan before July 24. 

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June, 2024

I’m pleased to once again be a presenting sponsor for the Sorauren Park Outdoor Movie Season as it returns to the Town Square on the fourth Saturday of June, July, August and September: June 22, July 27, Aug. 24 & Sept. 28, 2024.

All movies are free. Donations welcome! Enjoy fresh popcorn and drinks from the Snack Shack. New this summer, come early for special pre-show performances! Dance, comedy, music and more. Here’s the lineup:

Saturday June 22 – Dirty Dancing 

Pre-show Dance Demo and Class: 7:30 to 8:40 p.m.
Movie start time: 9:05 p.m.
Starring Patrick Swayze, Jennifer Grey and Jerry Orbach, this 1987 classic is set in the Catskill Mountains of New York, where a family vacation turns into a summer romance when Frances “Baby” Houseman falls in love with the camp’s dance instructor, Johnny Castle.

Saturday, July 27 – The Lunchbox 

Pre-show Stand-up Comedy: 7:30 to 8:40 p.m.
Movie start time: 9:00 p.m.
A mistaken delivery in Mumbai’s famously efficient lunchbox delivery system connects a young housewife to an older man in the dusk of his life as they build a fantasy world together through notes in the lunchbox. 

Saturday, August 24 – Barbie 

Pre-show Music 7:00-8:00 p.m.: Local band Superspreader
Movie start time: 8:15 p.m.
The hit movie of 2023 comes to the Sorauren screen! Come pretty in pink, and get your Ken on.

Saturday, September 28 – Family Double-Header
Feature #1: Paddington 2  Feature #2: Yes Day 

Pre-show 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.: Teddy Bear Surgery clinic & Soap Bubbles fun
Movie #1 start time: 7:15 p.m.
Movie #2 start time: 9:00 p.m.

The popular September family double-feature returns with Paddington 2, the animated story of the lovable bear who picks up a series of odd jobs to buy the perfect present for his Aunt Lucy’s 100th birthday, only for the gift to be stolen. That’s followed by the hilarious Yes Day, in which the children convince their naysaying parents to say Yes to every single request for one full day.

The volunteer community group Friends of Sorauren Park hosts free movie screenings in the park every summer and they’re always looking for new volunteers. Visit soraurenpark.com and sign up for the volunteer Sorauren Park Film Crew.

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June 2024

A popular annual tradition that takes place in the heart of Toronto’s Little Portugal, the Do West Fest will kick off the summer season of popular community street festivals on June 7-9, 2024.

Expect a lively mix of music, arts, food, and fun along Dundas Street West between Ossington Avenue to Lansdowne Avenue, covering 16 west-end Toronto blocks. Neighbourhoods come together and visitors are drawn to the area to explore shops, food & rich cultural diversity. There is a fresh hip vibe along the street with many young artists and entrepreneurs jostling and interacting with the old guard in lively and curious ways.

Local businesses participate in the festival, with over 20 licensed patios and more than 200 unique local vendors. Last year’s festival’s estimated attendance was 750,000 people.

2024 Festival hours:

Friday, June 7th  →  6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Saturday, June 8th  →  11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Sunday, June 9th  →  11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For more information about this year’s program lineup of live music and food vendors, as well as an interactive map, visit dowestfest.com

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May 2024

The Annual West Toronto Artists Art Tour is back to showcase the original works of more than 30 local artists in the Bloor West / Swansea / High Park / Junction and Roncesvalles communities. Experience original art and connect with talented local artists in this free local event organized by the community group West Toronto Artists, which has been creating and sharing art in our community since 1998.

Dates & Times:

Saturday, May 25th, 11 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

Sunday, May 26th, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

ADMISSION IS FREE

For more information about participating artists and a map of locations visit their website here or follow them on instagram.

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May 2024

With spring in full swing, local farmers’ markets are re-emerging in Toronto’s west end, to provide local, sustainably produced fresh foods, build community, and support local food growers and producers.

The 2024 season of the Junction Farmers Market begins May 18th in Baird Park (275 Keele St.) and will run every Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. until October 26, 2024.

After a great winter season at Henderson Brewing, the Sorauren Farmers’ Market is set to return to Sorauren Park for another outdoor season, which runs every Monday from May 20th to October 28th, 2024.

From 3:00-7:00 p.m. each week, expect a fun community vibe, with live music and a wonderful selection of fresh produce and products from local farmers and artisans. Bring your picnic blanket and enjoy a farmers’ market dinner at Sorauren Park!

The market is run by the non-profit Sorauren Farmers’ Market Association, which continues to expand and diversify its programming. To find out more or volunteer, contact them here. They’re also accepting applications from local musicians.

For more information on weekly events and vendors, visit soraurenmarket.com

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April 2024

Want to have a say in the public artwork that will grace the City of Toronto’s new Wabash Community Recreation Centre? Located in Sorauren Park, the new recreation centre will be the site of highly visual artwork(s) centrally located in the atrium of the building and visible from various perspectives.

There are five artists short-listed through a City of Toronto public art process:

• A Part of the Whole – Shellie Zhang
• Earth, Water and Sky – Michael Belmore
• Hanging Garden – Jyhling Lee
• Swarm and Flock – Lou Sheppard
• The Spiral of our Relations – Alexandra Iorgu, Roark Andrade, Alan Colley

You can read about the five proposals and leave your comments on a survey published by the City. The survey closes at end of the day on May 13. You can also learn more about the proposals in-person at a City-run pop-up in Sorauren Park on Saturday May 11 and Sunday May 12.

“While no specific theme was provided to the shortlisted artists, they were encouraged to expand on the project’s vision of inclusion, community-building, and environmental stewardship,” says the City. “They were asked to consider the flow and continuity between the building and Sorauren Park, the town square, and the beadwork patio designs created by Terence Radford [which will form the pattern on the reconstituted town square]. They were also asked to create a community engagement plan detailing ways they would involve community members during the development and/or creation of their proposals, should they be successful. They were also encouraged to create a mentorship plan.”

The City’s survey includes detailed descriptions of each proposal from the artists. They are worth reading for the thought put into each design, and how the art connects with and reflects community.

You can see renderings for the new centre under the “Preferred Design” tab on the City’s project page.

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April 2024

Spring has sprung and as the sun shines on our streets and parks, locals are getting out to keep our neighbourhoods clean at the following community events:

CLEAN TORONTO TOGETHER:
On Sunday, April 21st, join over 200,000 residents, students, businesses, organizations and communities for the annual spring cleanup.

When: Sunday, April 21, from 12:00 p.m. – 2: 00 p.m.
Where:  Roncesvalles Avenue
Who: Property and business owners are encouraged to sweep/tidy/pickup in front of their businesses especially on this day. The Roncesvalles Village BIA has also hired a small crew to assist in the street wide clean up as well. Garbage bags and gloves will be available for volunteers who are available to participate. Meet at the northwest corner of Westminster and Roncesvalles (by Joe’s Variety)  between 12 p.m. – 12:30 p.m. 

Once you have finished collecting any trash or recycling, please drop off the secured garbage or recycling bag at the northwest corner of Westminster at Roncesvalles (same location of supply pick up) for a specially arranged one-time pick up by the City of Toronto.

COMMUNITY ENVIRONMENT DAYS: 

One of many waste reduction programs and initiatives supporting the Toronto’s Long Term Waste Management Strategy. This program helps reduce the amount of reusable or recyclable waste going to landfill and allow for safe disposal of household hazardous waste.

This spring, there will be an environment day hosted locally at Sorauren Park (50 Wabash Avenue) on April 27, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 

Citizens can pickup free bagged compost (limit of two bags per household, while supplies last); and drop off for recycling or proper disposal:

• Electronic Waste
• Household Hazardous Waste (maximum of 50 litres or 50 kilograms in total)

Donate items for reuse:

• Sporting goods
• Books (excluding textbooks)
• Cameras, CDs, DVDs and Blu-rays
• Dress-up clothing and costume jewelry
• Clothing, footwear, accessories, linens, etc.
• Small household items
• Musical instruments, board games
• Eyeglasses, walking aids, hearing aids, etc.
• Non-perishable food for donation

For more information, visit the City of Toronto website at toronto.ca/environent_days.

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March, 2024

While school is out for TDSB students on April 8th, members of the community can head to Sorauren Park where there will be a viewing party for the solar eclipse from 2-4 p.m. ISO-certified eclipse glasses MUST be worn to safely view the eclipse, and a limited number of eclipse glasses will be available for sharing.

• Bring your eclipse glasses*
• Enjoy eclipse cookies from the Bake Oven
• Sip on Sorauren Solar Mocktails
• Warm up by the Fire Pit
• Education Displays
• Eclipse Activities for children

This event is hosted by the Friends of Sorauren Park and sponsored by community businesses including myself, Scooter Girl Toys, Laneway Custom Build and The Mercantile.

Please note this event is weather-dependent. Follow @soraurenpark on social media for updates.

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March, 2024

Start your engines! The Sorauren Park Radio-controlled Car Derby returns Saturday, March 23! The race uses the rink boards on the park’s baseball diamond as the course, before the boards are taken down for the season. Jumps and obstacles add to the excitement.

Races begin at 10 am sharp on March 23, with registration beginning at 9:30 a.m. Entry is free, but donations to support Friends of Sorauren Park and free park programming are welcome.

All participants will be entered into a raffle draw for a chance to win an awesome radio controlled toy car courtesy of Scooter Girl Toys.

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March, 2024

The City of Toronto is inviting residents to learn more and provide feedback about West Parkdale Cycling Connections project on March 5. As part of the City of Toronto’s Vision Zero Road Safety Plan, the project proposes to connect a gap in the cycling network from The Queensway to Brock Street and improve cycling access to destinations like High Park, St. Joseph’s Health Centre, retail, transit, and schools.

There are proposed changes from:

• The Queensway to Sunnyside
• Galley Avenue to MacDonell Avenue
• Seaforth Avenue to Brock Avenue

This project also includes intersection improvements and changes to parking.

Vision Zero’s goal is to reduce traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries on Toronto roads by making roads safer for all users.

Public Drop-In Event

The Public Drop-In Event will provide an opportunity to view the project information panels and speak with members of the project team one-on-one.

Date: Tuesday, March 5, 2024
Time: 5 to 8 p.m.
Location: The Parkdale Hall, 1605 Queen St. W.

If you’re unable to attend the public drop-in event, you may still complete the feedback survey by March 19. To learn more about the project and the City’s road safety plan, visit toronto.ca/westparkdalecycling

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March, 2024

The second edition of the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) triennial exhibition, Greater Toronto Art 2024 (GTA24), is opening on March 22. The exhibition will feature the work of 25 intergenerational artists, collectives and duos, all with a connection to the region and working across a variety of mediums.

As part of GTA24, there will also be a Live and Screening Programme, which will include performances, events, and screenings. Find more information about the programmes, and how to purchase tickets here.

Highlighting the unique subject-position of each artist while emphasizing difference as a point of understanding and connection, GTA24 reflects the dense, energetic, and ever-changing place that is the Greater Toronto Area.

The exhibition is led by MOCA Curator Kate Wong and two guest curators, Ebony L. Haynes and Toleen Touq, and will be open until July 28, 2024.

To learn more about the participating artists, programming and the curatorial team, visit the Museum of Contemporary Art’s website here.

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February, 2024

Sorauren Farmers’ Market

This coming Family Day, February 19, join your local community along with farmers and vendors on hand to sell lots of fresh produce and treats at the Sorauren Farmer’s Market from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at Henderson Brewing Co., 128 A Sterling Road.

Enjoy local farm produce and food, artisan delights, live music, kids’ games and activities, and face painting too!

Free Birding Event at High Park

Join your friends and family for High Park’s Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) community science birding event on February 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Walk through High Park identifying, learning about, and counting the birds you spot. The data collected will be submitted to eBird.

Note: This is a beginner and family-friendly birding event. Considering the duration and nature of the event, it may be more suitable for older children (10+ years old) or children who are comfortable being outside for long periods.

Where the Wild Things Are – Revue Cinema

Head to The Revue on Roncesvalles Family Day for a 15th Anniversary Screening of Where the Wild Things Are happening at 4:00 p.m. 

The film is based on the book by celebrated author Maurice Sendak and is directed by Spike Jonze. It is a classic story about childhood and the places we go to figure out the world we live in. Max imagines running away from his mom and sailing to a far-off land where large talking beasts — Ira, Carol, Douglas, the Bull, Judith, and Alexander — crown him as their king, play rumpus, build forts, and discover secret hideaways.

Winter Stations

A Toronto winter tradition, Winter Stations invites the international design and art community to reimagine the lifeguard stations along Toronto’s east-end beaches for the winter. The competition has seen entries from more than 90 countries, bringing the world of design to the water’s edge. Founded as a collaboration between local firms RAW Design, Ferris + Associates and Curio, Winter Stations is in its seventh year and continues to capture the imagination of the city.

The public exhibition starts on February 19 at Woodbine Beach. Learn more about this year’s artists here.

Skating at The Bentway

Celebrate Family Day at The Bentway with a fun-filled afternoon of skating, crafts, music, refreshments, and more! They’ve teamed up with the Bata Shoe Museum to offer activities for the whole family that celebrate the history of skating, inspired by their online exhibition Boots and Blades: The Story of Canadian Figure Skating. Learn about figure skating in Canada from the 1600s to the present through an interactive scavenger hunt with a tasty treat at the end. 

Gear up for the skate trail by decorating your skate boot covers at the free Boots & Blades Workshop – drop in anytime between 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Enjoy festive treats and delights throughout the day and check out The Toronto Mom Market as they return to The Bentway to share unique local products. Festivities take place between 12:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.

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January, 2024

The 2024 City Budget, which will be launched on January 10, will make decisions that shape the future of our city. On Monday, January 15 from 5 – 6:30 p.m. Gord Perks, City Councillor for Ward 4, will be hosting a virtual Town Hall on the 2024 Budget. 

City representatives will be going over what is proposed, and how you can be involved. Come out, learn about the process, and have your say in what you think Toronto should be. Visit Gord Perks website to register. To join the virtual meeting please use this link: https://bit.ly/48P3cai

The City budget determines the level of service provided to Toronto residents and guides decisions on City infrastructure. Each time you visit a recreation centre, borrow a book from the library, have your garbage or recycling picked up, drink clean water from the tap, ride the TTC or use emergency services – you are using a City of Toronto service. 

In November 2023, Toronto residents joined Mayor Olivia Chow, Budget Committee Chair Councillor Shelley Carroll, Members of Council and other Torontonians to share ideas about the City’s 2024 Budget and Toronto’s future. A total of 16 public consultation meetings were held. View the budget consultation presentation.

A report on the results of these virtual and in-person consultations will be posted on the City website this month, with public presentations happening January 22 and 23.

For more information or to register, contact buc@toronto.ca

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January, 2024

High Park Nature Centre promotes awareness and respect for nature through year-round, hands-on outdoor nature education and park stewardship. The centre offers a variety of community events and opportunities for nature appreciation throughout the year. Here’s what’s on in January:

January 13 – Sleeping Skeletons & Green Giants nature walk

Trees have different adaptions to survive winter: some lose their leaves and become sleeping skeletons while others are green giants, holding on to their leaves year-round. Join this winter tree hike in High Park and meet the majestic oaks, hardy maples and wonderous white pine trees in High Park. Learn how different trees fit into the ecosystem and some winter identification tips.

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January 21 – Nature Through a Lens: A Deep Dive Into High Park’s Wildlife

Discover the enigmatic wildlife in High Park through the lens of local photographers. Each snapshot tells a story, revealing the quirks and charms of creatures big and small, and how our actions can influence their lives. Let the images speak, the stories resonate, and take action to protect and preserve the incredible personalities that share High Park. Refreshments provided.

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January 27 – Weird Duck Time: Winter Birding

Bundle up for a beginner-friendly birding walk where peculiar ducks take center stage this season! Wander along Wendigo Creek and Grenadier Pond while discussing winter birding, waterfowl migration, winter adaptations, and the threats faced by wetlands in High Park.

Events are for all ages and pay what you can (a suggested donation of $5, $10 or $15). Pre-registration is recommended.

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December, 2023

The Friends of High Park Zoo is hosting its annual Snowflake Walk where you get to stroll through the Zoo in the dark and see the 30-plus beautifully decorated and lit-up trees, enjoy festive carollers … and you might see some animals too!

Where: High Park Zoo
When: December 17th from 5-8 p.m.

Tickets are $10 per family and can be purchased online here. All money raised will help support zoo upgrades.
(Please note charitable receipts will not be issued for this event.)

Please note the park remains closed to cars for the Sunday walk only, please park along Bloor or Parkside and walk into the Zoo.

CELEBRATE THE WINTER SOLSTICE AT HIGH PARK

The Roncesvalles United Church will be hosting a community gathering to celebrate the winter solstice at High Park on December 21, 2023, at 6:00 p.m.

The event will include gathering words, a connection meditation, Celtic and local indigenous wisdom, and a solstice song. Hot apple cider and snacks will be provided.

To attend, RSVP to oakstreet123@gmail.com

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December, 2023

It’s beginning to look a lot like the holidays on Roncesvalles Avenue, and on Saturday, December 9th you can join the community for the 5th annual Family Fun Afternoon and Community Tree Lighting!

Where: The Roncesvalles United Church, 240 Roncesvalles Ave.
When: Saturday, December 9th

2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.:  Holiday Carolling on the steps 
3: 00 p.m. – 5: 00 p.m.: Crafts, “Selfies with Santa”, face painting, and more!

PLUS: Local youth choir, magician “The Magic of Ricardo”, and the world-famous indoor ‘Snowball’ fight.

Community Tree Lighting: Outdoors (in the parking lot of the Roncesvalles United Church)  at 5:00 p.m. with a choral performance by the West End Choir following the tree lighting.

All are welcome, this event is sponsored by the Roncesvalles Village BIA and is free of charge.

The Roncesvalles United Church will also be hosting its 2nd Annual re-gift sale on Sunday, December 10 at 11:30 a.m. Community members are encouraged to donate new items in original packaging Monday to Friday between 9:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at the Wright Avenue door.

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December, 2023

The Sorauren Farmers’ Market has a new location for the winter season — it will take place indoors each Monday from 3:00-7:00 p.m. and then every second Monday starting January 8 to May 13th at Henderson Brewing Co. at 128 A Sterling Road.

Enjoy local farm produce and food, artisan delights, live music, and the company of your neighbours!

The Market will head back outdoors to be held at the Sorauren Park town square starting May 20, 2024.

On Monday, December 4, musicians Rachel Melas and Conny Nowe from Hobo Soles will be playing — enjoy the folksy tunes of these beloved market regulars.

The Market is run by the non-profit Sorauren Farmers’ Market Association.

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November, 2023

This holiday season, there are plenty of opportunities to support local designers and artisans while you enjoy shopping for special gifts for family and friends. Here’s a round up of some of the holiday markets in the Roncesvalles Village, Bloor West, and Parkdale area:

Roncesvalles United Christmas Arts & Crafts Market

Saturday November 18, from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Roncesvalles United Church, 240 Roncesvalles Avenue, Toronto

One of the most anticipated markets of the year returns with more than 120 hand-picked local artisans. Featuring jewellery, décor, apparel, pet treats, children’s toys, art, pottery and so much more. Admission is $3.

Meet Santa in Bloor West Village

Saturday, November 25, from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The Green P lot (between Willard Ave & Armadale). 

Enjoy a festive outdoor holiday marketplace and live entertainment! Santa’s Workshop will feature Gingerbread Cookie Decorating and planting of mini-Christmas Trees to take home and enjoy. Stroll the shops to help you find the perfect holiday gifts for everyone on your list.

Holiday Artisan Market

Sunday, November 27, from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The Great Hall, 1087 Queen Street West Toronto

Featuring more than 50 amazingly talented Toronto artisans, find unique and one-of-a-kind gift items including leatherwork, stained glass, jewellery, bath & beauty products, candles, clothing, and more. Admission is free and the first 30 people to arrive will receive a holiday VIP swag bag.

Handmade Vendor Popup

Saturday, December 2, from 12:00 – 6:00 p.m.
At Noble Space, 103 – 46 Noble Street, Parkdale

Three local, women-owned businesses are hosting this Pop-Up shop, including Waratah Collections upcycled couture & handbags, Arumi Creations jewellery design, and sürfhutte beach accessories + home decor by Véronique Claassen, a Roncesvalles designer.

Toronto Vegan Christmas Market

Saturday, December 9, and Sunday, December 10, from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Lithuanian House – Ballroom, 1573 Bloor St W, Toronto

Indulge in a bounty of animal-friendly delights, from melt-in-your-mouth baked goods to gourmet fine foods, tempting chocolate creations, and more, every product on offer embodies a commitment to a cruelty-free lifestyle. This market is a radiant display of vendors who champion animal-friendly choices. Explore stalls packed with cosmetics, artisanal soaps, and stylish fashion accessories – all made without animal exploitation.

Shop Ontario Showcase Toronto Holiday Market

Sunday, December 10, from 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
The Garrison – 1197 Dundas St W. 

A day of holiday cheer, local food, great music, and drinks. Enjoy a curated selection of artisans, small businesses, and artists. Admission is free and all are welcome.

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October, 2023

The Sorauren Park Pumpkin Parade, the original and best, returns to the park the day after Halloween, starting at dusk on November 1, when you are invited to bring your carved jack-o-lantern to join the show of pumpkin art along the park’s pathways.

Special this year, the West Toronto Community Choir will present two spook-tacular vocal performances, at 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., featuring suitable songs for the occasion.

It’s all free and there is no competition. The reward is contributing to a community tradition, and enjoying an evening in the park viewing great gourds… in some years there are more than 1,500 pumpkins, every one unique. The pumpkins are composted after the event.

Participants are asked to light their pumpkin with a wax candle to make the show come alive. More details, directions and TTC stops are available on Sorauren Park’s Pumpkin Parade page.

Since the first community-led event in 2004, pumpkin parades have become an annual tradition across Toronto and have spread to other parts of the world as well. Visit the City of Toronto pumpkin page for the full list of events in Toronto.

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October, 2023

Remember Motley Crue, mullets, and mall hair? What about Rick Astley and Reeboks? And don’t forget Spandau Ballet and Spandex.

Roncy, get ready for a blast from the past — on Saturday, October 14 rock out to your favorite 80s dance tunes with good friends, for a good cause at the Roncesvalles United Church (240 Roncesvalles Avenue). 80s attire and hairstyles are optional, but highly recommended.

The event takes place from 8 p.m. to midnight and will offer a cash bar, snacks, and a plethora of embarrassing moments as old people pretend to be young.

Tickets are $30 (plus a service fee of $3.28) on Eventbrite and $35 at the door. This event is cash only. There are multiple bank machines a short stumble from the venue.

Money raised will go to Dinner with Dignity, a community kitchen that serves delicious and nutritious meals to about 100 people every Sunday. Meals are created and served by volunteers in a safe and welcoming space for the most vulnerable members of our community — no one is ever turned away. 

This organization provides emergency food bags, hygiene products, clean clothing, cold weather relief, and much more. Most importantly, it gives guests a true sense of being respected and valued. Your donations help to ensure that no one goes hungry any day of the week.

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October, 2023

My annual pumpkin sale fundraiser returns to Sorauren Park on Saturday, October 21 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon on the Sorauren Park Town Square.

All are welcome – pick up your pumpkin for Halloween and Sorauren Park’s annual Pumpkin Parade. 100% of the proceeds are donated to future programming and local park improvements at Sorauren Park. The Pumpkin Sale has raised more than $30,000 over the years to support community programming and projects at Sorauren Park and Charles G. Williams Park, including outdoor movies, natural ice rink, festivals, dance programs, bake oven, and more.

Over the years, the Pumpkin Sale has raised more than $30,000 for Sorauren and Charles G. Williams parks.

The pumpkins often sell out, so come early! If there are any pumpkins left over, they will be donated to local schools in the Roncesvalles Village area.

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October, 2023

The Roncy Reduces community group that focuses on making an effort to do a little better for the environment every day is hosting its second annual Roncesvalles REmarket on October 21.

Drop by if you have something in your household that needs repair, want to drop off unwanted electronics or things like pens & batteries (to name a few examples), swap some clothes at the teen clothing swap, donate food & winter clothing, visit the mini bike clinic, learn about reducing plastic… and so much more! 

Where: Roncesvalles United Church parking lot — 240 Roncesvalles Avenue
(inside in case of rain)

When: Saturday October 21, 2023, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

*** New this year: ***

– Full Repair Cafe

– Learn about residential energy retrofits

– Saponetti Eco-Friendly Soap Refill Delivery Service

– Take a peek at pre-loved Dutch bikes at the quick bike clinic

– suitcase donation for Not Just Tourists

– TerraCycle dental product collection box

– Zero waste quiz

– Savoury snacks from Dil Se Indian Restaurant and products from Source Bulk Foods, among other local businesses

Check the Facebook event description for the full partner list.

Roncy Reduces is part of Canada Reduces, a network of local groups formed by neighbours to promote waste reduction habits in their community.

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September, 2023

I’m pleased to once again be a presenting sponsor for this year’s outdoor free movie series at Sorauren Park, and the final movie night of the season takes place on Saturday, September 23. It’s a family-friendly double-header — bring your chairs and blankets to the Town Square to watch Turning Red, followed by Honey I Shrunk the Kids.

The movies start at 7:15 p.m. but come early for the return of the Teddy Bear Clinic, staffed by the Dundas West Animal Hospital. Come watch as a vet performs check-ups and “surgery” on stuffed animals! The Clinic starts at 6 pm.

Remember to bring your reusable container to save 50% off fresh popcorn from the Snack Shack!

Set in Toronto in 2002 and directed by Toronto’s own Domee Shi, Turning Red is the Oscar-nominated Pixar animated feature film that follows Meilin “Mei” Lee, a 13-year-old Chinese-Canadian student who transforms into a giant red panda when she experiences strong emotions, due to a hereditary curse.

Honey, I Shrunk the Kids is the 1989 sci-fi family adventure classic starring Rick Moranis as a struggling inventor. His kids and the neighbors’ kids are accidentally shrunk down to the size of a quarter-inch (6 mm for the metric-minded) and must make their way through various dangers back to their house after being thrown out with the trash.

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September, 2023

Autumn is a great time to explore the city and your local community – there are many options to discover more about local history and the natural environment at these upcoming walking tours. 

High Park Walking Tours
Sunday, September 10 & Sunday October 15, 2023 at 10:30 a.m.

On these walks, Don Scallen will share stories about the diverse trees that thrive in High Park’s remarkable urban forest. Rare Black Oak savanna thrives on its sandy soils. Regionally rare Sassafras trees are common. Among the planted trees are Ginkgos and Dawn Redwoods. Their claim to fame? Both are recognized as “living fossils”. 

Meet at the grassy centre triangle, just inside the main entrance to High Park on Bloor Street at 10:30 am.

Ghosts of Toronto Historical Walking Tour
Sorauren Park, Saturday, September 16, 2023 at 11:00 a.m.

Local ghost sign enthusiast Stephan Petar helps to tell the stories of the businesses and people behind ghost signs throughout Canada. This month he’ll be hosting a free walking tour to explore the hand-painted advertisements popular between the late 1800s to 1960s that are slowly fading from existence. 

The tour will take you on a journey from the Sorauren Park area to the Junction Triangle as you go in search of ghost signs, learn about their history, the advertising techniques used, and how they helped build an identity for the area. Learn about the advertising medium and hear stories of entrepreneurship and community.

“My interest in them is a mixture of my passion for history and my marketing/communications education. From a historical perspective, some signs have survived over a century, representing businesses that fueled the Canadian economy, that were owned by influential Canadians, and live on buildings by famed architects. If you examine the history deeper, you’ll likely learn the stories of the Canadian worker as well,” he says.

Meet at the North East corner of Sorauren & Wabash Ave. at 11:00 a.m.

Annual Governor Simcoe Walking Tour
Saturday, September 23, 2023, 9:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

This free guided walking tour will retrace a portion of Simcoe’s 1793 expedition up the Toronto Carrying Place portage route. As in past years, Part 1 of the tour will start at 9:30 am at the Rousseau plaque (8 South Kingsway, beside the Petro Canada station), heading north, mainly along Riverside Drive, and finishing near Bloor Street. After a break for lunch on Bloor Street, Part 2 will start at 1:00 pm at the Alex Ling Fountain (north-west corner of Bloor and Jane Streets), and then head farther north, mainly following residential streets a short distance east of the Humber River. Participants are free to join or leave the walk at any point along the route.

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August, 2023

One of the most popular weekly attractions in the Roncesvalles neighborhood is the Farmers’ Market on Mondays from 3-7 p.m. at Sorauren Park. This summer, market organizers have a few extra attractions, including live music, crafts for children, and a Tomato Festival.

The much-loved local toy shop Scooter Girl Toys will be hosting free mini-market craft activities for children on August 14 and 28th, and on August 21 you can cast your vote for the best-tasting tomato at the market’s annual Tomato Festival.

The Market is also calling for design submissions from local artists for their limited edition fundraiser tote bags. They are looking for artwork that is bold and urban, and that reflects the goodness of the produce enjoyed from the market. Send designs by August 21 in JPG/PNG format. 

Looking ahead to the September long weekend, the market will be hosting its annual Country Fair on September 4, including live music and tons of local goodies.

Sorauren Farmers’ Market Association is a non-profit organization and a welcoming holistic hub offering wholesome fresh food and community connection since 2008. 

For more information, visit soraurenmarket.com

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August, 2023

Starting August 5, the City of Toronto is implementing a number of changes at High Park in line with its recently approved High Park Movement Strategy. Changes include:

• The West Road and parts of Colborne Lodge Drive, south of Grenadier Café, will be car-free at all times
• The main vehicle entrance will be at Parkside Drive and High Park Boulevard and will be open Monday to Friday and closed on weekends and holidays. Visitor vehicles will not be permitted to enter at Bloor Street West
• Visitor vehicle access will be provided to the Children’s Garden, Colborne Lodge Drive and the Spring Road Parking lot at all times
• Public parking spaces within High Park will be reduced. Designated pick-up/drop-off spaces will be added near main destinations
• Dedicated bike lanes will be added to Centre Road and Colborne Lodge Drive
• Improved pavement markings and signage will be added to pedestrian crossing areas

City Council also endorsed the continued closure of High Park to visitor vehicles on Saturdays, Sundays and statutory holidays and a long-term strategy to achieve a car-free park. High Park has been closed to visitor vehicles on weekends and holidays since March 2020.

The High Park Movement Strategy has been met with both praise and criticism from Toronto residents. A vocal group of protesters have said the changes could negatively impact vulnerable groups, including seniors, families with children, and individuals with limited mobility.

For more information, vist toronto.ca/highparkmove.

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July, 2023

The City of Toronto is hosting its annual Community Environment Days for Ward 4 (Parkdale-High Park) on July 15 and September 23 at Sir Casimir Gzowski Park (2001 Lake Shore Blvd W). 

This is your opportunity to safely dispose of household electronics, paint, batteries, and more. Drop off your items and pick up leaf compost from 10 am to 2 pm. 

You are also welcome to drop off a variety of items for reuse, including sporting goods, art supplies, clothing, non-perishable food, and more.

Community Environment Days is one of many ReduceWasteTO programs and initiatives supporting the City’s Long Term Waste Management Strategy. This program helps reduce the amount of reusable or recyclable waste going to landfills and allows for the safe disposal of household hazardous waste.

In 2023, there will be 45 Community Environment Days held across the city from April 15 until September 24. In addition, six Community Environment Days will be hosted at Drop-Off Depots on Sundays in July and August.

Learn more at toronto.ca/environment_days

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July, 2023

The Friends of Sorauren Park are once again hosting free world dance lessons outside the Sorauren Fieldhouse every Wednesday in July.

No experience is necessary – these are beginner-level sessions, and all ages are welcome.

6:30 to 8:00 pm

Meet behind the Fieldhouse.

• July 5 Brazilian Samba
• July 12 Flamenco
• July 19 West African Dance
• July 26 TBA

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June, 2023

Help finalize the design for the new Wabash Community Recreation Centre! The City of Toronto is conducting the latest phase of community consultations to determine the final preferred design for the new Community Recreation Centre and surrounding landscape.

Share your feedback through the online survey. Park Pop-Ups are also being hosted by Toronto Parks Forestry and Recreation as part of the community engagement for the final phase of the Wabash Community Recreation Centre design process. You can attend Pop-Ups to review the proposed design and share your feedback:

Pop-Up 1: Sorauren Park – Farmers’ Market

• June 19, 2023 – 3 to 7 p.m.

Pop-Up 2: Sorauren Park – before the Friends of Sorauren Park movie night

• June 24, 2023 – 5 to 9:15 p.m. (The pop-up will end once the Friends of Sorauren Park movie begins)

You can also visit the project webpage to take the online survey, register for the virtual public meeting on July 5, or learn more.

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June, 2023

Mark your calendars for the fourth Saturday of June, July, August and September and join the community at the Sorauren Park Town Square to watch outdoor movies. I’m pleased to once again be a presenting sponsor for this year’s outdoor free movie series.

Come early for a pizza dinner fresh from the park’s oven and enjoy popcorn and drinks from the Snack Shack. Join the volunteer Sorauren Park Film Crew! Donations are welcome to cover the many costs.

​​Saturday, June 24, 9:15 pm

• Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby

Saturday, July 22, 9:00 pm

• Vertigo

Saturday, August 26, 8:00 pm

• Black Panther

Saturday, September 23, 7:15 pm – Family Double-Header

• Turning Red
• Honey, I Shrunk the Kids

For updates and weather alerts, follow @SoraurenPark on social media.

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June, 2023

The start of the summer festival season has arrived! Join the celebration of music, arts, food, fun, and community along Dundas Street West from Shaw Street to Lansdowne Avenue the weekend of June 9-11 in the heart of Toronto’s Little Portugal.

Formerly known as ‘Dundas West Fest’, the festival has been renamed “Do West Fest” as it celebrates its 10th Anniversary this year. Why the name change? Light has been shed on the fact that the namesake for Dundas Street (Henry Dundas) was an 18th-century politician who delayed Britain’s abolition of slavery by 15 years. He also aided in the continued subjugation of Indigenous peoples in Canada in his role as British Home Secretary. In July 2021, Toronto City Council voted 17-7 in favour of a motion to rename the street, along with subway stations, a library, Yonge-Dundas Square, and a number of parks. Although the city is still in the process of deciding the new street name, the organizers feel it is important to accurately display our values by removing ‘Dundas’ from the BIA and festival names promptly. Until the street is renamed, the event will be known as Do West Fest.

This change is significant to us as it marks a new chapter for the neighbourhood, of combined efforts in improving the area with true community spirit in mind. The festival takes place:

Friday, June 09th → 6 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Saturday, June 10th → 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Sunday, June 11th → 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

For more information, visit dowestfest.ca

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May, 2023

Spring is a wonderful time to explore High Park, and while the cherry blossoms may no longer be at their peak, there is lots to discover. The High Park Nature Centre hosts a variety of family-friendly nature events and stewardship activities open to the public. See what’s happening and register to participate:

Sunday, May 21 from 1-3:30 p.m. – Air is life

Join the Taiaiako’n Historical Preservation Society for a Spring gathering to honor the life-giving wonder of Air through ceremony, feasting, and fire, culminating with a mindful guided art practice with Catherine Tammaro.

Saturday May 27 from 1:30 – 3 p.m. – Nifty Nests and Bouncing Babies Family Nature Walk

Explore who’s having babies at this time of year, their quirky mating behaviours, and their cool nests and homes!

Saturday, June 3 from 1-3 p.m. – High Park Beginner Tree ID

Build naturalist skills and learn to tell trees apart by their leaves, bark, and buds.

Saturday, June 17 from 1:30-3:30 p.m. – Plant, Learn, Grow

High Park is home to the rare and beautiful Black Oak Savannah. Join their restoration efforts by planting some native plant species, and learn about the plants that make the Savannah so special.

You can also check their event calendar to see events and workshops coming up.

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May, 2023

The Sunnyside Historical Society is hosting a walking tour of the Roncesvalles & Parkdale neighbourhoods with the theme “In the Shoes of a Hangman”. The walk begins at the High Park Library, Sunday, May 14, 2023, at 2:00 PM.

Join Julie Burtinshaw, author of Hangman: The True Story of Canada’s First Official Executioner to learn more about John Radclive, who lived on Fern Avenue. Mr. Radclive came to Canada in 1888 and moved to Parkdale in 1892 when he became Canada’s first official executioner and remained there until his death in 1911.

In his off hours, Mr. Radclive enjoyed masquerading as Thomas Ratley, steward at Toronto’s prestigious Sunnyside Rowing Club where he secretly sneered at the hypocrisy of the Canadian elite. Learn more about this complex character and his impact on Canadian society. 

*Mature subject matter – bring children at your own discretion.

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May, 2023

Join the Friends of Sorauren Park, Friends of Charles G. Williams Park, and volunteers from the 15th Annual Yale Day of Service to help tidy up the lush garden around the Sorauren Fieldhouse, the pollinator garden at Charles G. Williams Park, and distribute new mulch provided by City of Toronto Parks department.

No experience necessary. Meet by the Fieldhouse at 10 am and bring gardening gloves and simple garden tools if you have them: pruners, shovels, trowels, weeders, and buckets. Coffee will be supplied by donors to Friends of Sorauren Park.

Yale Day of Service is the university’s annual celebration of service, with Yalies banding together each year to give back to their local communities. In all, alumni communities host close to 300 service projects each year.

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April, 2023

Jane’s Walk is an annual festival of free, community-led walking conversations inspired by Jane Jacobs — a journalist, author, theorist, activist, and proud Torontonian.

​On the first weekend of May every year, Jane’s Walk festivals take place in hundreds of cities around the world. Jane’s Walks encourage people to share stories about their neighbourhoods, discover unseen aspects of their communities, and use walking as a way to connect with their neighbours.

This year, you can join walks happening locally in High Park, The Junction, Trinity Bellwoods, Toronto’s waterfront, and more locations throughout the city to discover local history and the power of community engagement.

The Jane’s Walk festival is largely volunteer-run and donor-funded. Since the festival’s launch in 2007, Jane’s Walks have been held in nearly 500 cities across 6 continents.

Learn more, view the full schedule or learn how to lead a walk event of your own.

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April, 2023

As Earth Week draws to a close, join the Wilderness Committee on April 30 from 4-6 p.m. at The Revue Cinema for a premiere screening of Logging Algonquin, a new documentary by Conor Devries.

The film not only provides expert opinions but brings the viewer onto the forest floor as they follow a group of passionate environmentalists (Mark Friesen, Katie Krelove, Dave Marcus) searching for the logging in the park and a researcher (Michael Henry) attempting to document the remaining old growth forest in Algonquin Park.

While short in length, the film dives into numerous topics around the issue and manages to relate the logging in Algonquin Park with the broader environmental condition in Ontario and across the globe. 

The screening will be followed by “Finding Algonquin’s Old Growth”, a presentation by forest researcher Mike Henry and an audience Q&A .

Reserve tickets for free. Pay What You Can donations will be taken at the door to cover costs.

The Wilderness Committee is a national charitable organization working towards people-powered protections for nature, wildlife, and climate, including advocating to end industrial logging in parks.

Email katie@wildernesscommittee.org for more information about this event.

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April, 2023

On behalf of the Ontario government, Infrastructure Ontario (IO) is leading the preparation of the Ontario Place site to get it ready for redevelopment. This includes approvals for government-led components of the project, such as design of the public realm, heritage conservation, environmental assessment and servicing upgrades.

Members of the community can join a virtual public consultation event online:

Thursday, April 27, 2023, from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. 

The meeting is a chance to discuss the Environmental Assessment process and review the recommended design for Ontario Place’s public realm. Together in small breakout groups IO will be hosting open conversations to gather feedback about the recommended design. On Zoom, you’ll be able to contribute via video, audio and/or chat, whichever is most comfortable for you. ASL interpretation will be provided.

Participants must register to attend this online Zoom meeting.

Learn more about the redevelopment plans and history of Ontario Place at engageontarioplace.ca

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April, 2023

With the recent increase of violent incidents that have occurred on the TTC affecting passengers, staff, and the broader community, local representatives from the three levels of government are coming together to host a Town Hall meeting to discuss transit safety with the community of Parkdale-High Park.

Arif Virani, MP for Parkdale-High Park; Bhutila Karpoche, MPP, and Gord Perks, Toronto City Councillor for Ward 4, will be discussing issues related to making transit safe for everyone. This is an opportunity to give your government representatives feedback on how you think safety on the TTC can be improved.

Date: Thursday, April 20th, 2023 

Time: 6:30-8:30 PM 

Location: Bishop Marrocco Secondary School; 1515 Bloor Street West  Toronto, ON  M6P 1A3

In late March, 16-year-old Gabriel Magalhaes was the victim of an unprovoked fatal stabbing at Keele TTC subway station – an attack that has shocked the community.

This week, Toronto mayoral candidates made their pitches for a safer transit system, including calls to reverse transit cuts, improve cellular coverage within the network, and expand trauma community crisis response services.

Meanwhile, a new report by the Toronto Transit Commission released on April 10 showed the number of safety incidents involving TTC passengers fell by nearly 20% following increased security on the network. There were 111 safety and security incidents in February compared to the 136 reported in January.

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April, 2023

Spring has sprung and the Friends of Sorauren Park are looking forward to the annual spring sports swap – a chance to clear out your garage, shed or basement and trade gently used sports equipment for something new.

Participants can drop off used bicycles & sports equipment at the Town Square in the morning from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., and swap them for something new from 10:30 – 12:30 p.m.!

Please ensure items are clean and in good working order.

Any leftover equipment will be donated to KIP Canada, a national charity focused on supporting the needs of the over 375 000 children affected by their parent’s involvement in the justice system. 

On the same day, Clean Toronto Together will host a spring cleanup at the park. Gather your family, friends, neighbours and colleagues and help clean up litter and keep the park looking beautiful for everyone.

Since 2004, the City of Toronto has held a city-wide spring cleanup weekend that brings together Toronto residents and community groups, schools, businesses, and City staff to help clean litter from our public spaces, including parks, beaches, and schoolyards. Toronto’s spring cleanup is the largest municipal cleanup in Canada.

Share a photo of your cleanup in progress – using hashtag #cleantoronto.

Volunteers are needed for both events – sign up at soraurenpark.com

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March, 2023

The final community meeting on the High Park Movement Strategy will take place on Monday, April 3 at Lithuanian House from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. This public open house meeting will allow residents to drop in and learn about the progress made on the project.

The High Park Movement Strategy is a city-led study to explore improvements to the travel network in High Park to better serve park users and the surrounding community while prioritizing safety, accessibility, and the park’s natural environment.

The in-person Open House is an opportunity to learn about the study process and the preferred strategy. Members of the project team will be available to answer questions.

Date: Monday, April 3, 2023

Time: Drop by anytime between 4:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Location: Lithuanian House – 1573 Bloor Street West

Registration: While registration is not required, it is helpful to ensure the project team is adequately staffed. Register here

Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible. Attendees will need to take one elevator to the lower level. If you have any accommodation requests contact highparkmove@toronto.ca or 437-220-5975 at least 72 hours before the meeting.

Additional information about the study as well as Open House materials are available on the project website. 

You can also reach out to City Councillor Gord Perks at councillor_perks@toronto.ca and the HPMS project team at highparkmove@toronto.ca

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March, 2023

The Friends of Sorauren Park are hosting the Second Annual Radio-Controlled Toy Car Rally in the park on Saturday, April 1 starting at 10:00 am. Participation is free, and all racers will be entered into a draw to win prizes provided by Scooter Girl Toys!

The fun takes place on the course formed by the boards used for the ice rink on the baseball diamond. While the rink didn’t get much skating action this winter, it will serve one last purpose before the boards come down.

This year there will be different races for different categories, based on car size. Participants can register on-site.

The first rally held last year featured cars of all sizes zipping around the course, over and through obstacles. Volunteer race marshalls registered the participants, rescued stranded cars, and kept things moving.

The RC Toy Car Rally is sponsored by Scooter Girl Toys. All race participants will be entered into a draw to win a Lite-Hawk Radio-Controlled Rocket. Plus, you can win a Rowdy Radio-Controlled Toy Car by visiting Scooter Girl on Roncesvalles between March 13 – 26, and dropping off a picture or a few words about what your favourite part of going to the park is. Or, you can like a Scooter Girl post on Facebook or Instagram and tag two friends between March 13 – 26 to enter the car draw.

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March, 2023

In an effort to improve safety and transit connectivity, Metrolinx plans to build a new tunnel between Bloor GO/UP Express Station and the TTC’s Dundas West Station on Line 2. A memorandum of understanding between the TTC and Metrolinx has been negotiated for the work to proceed, and the construction phase is scheduled to commence by Metrolinx in mid-2023.

Metrolinx operates its Bloor GO/UP Express Station and TTC operates its Dundas West Subway Station in close proximity to the Bloor Street West and Dundas Street West intersection. The lack of a weather-protected connection between the two stations has baffled users since the airport express rail line opened in 2015.

Both Metrolinx and the TTC wish to improve the transit riders’ experience by providing a direct underground connection between the two stations through new corridors, elevators, and stairs.

The project is also designed to enhance the safety of TTC customers and staff by providing an additional exit out of subway stations in case of an emergency. A fire/life safety assessment study completed in 2002 identified 14 high-priority stations that need to have a second exit, including Dundas West Station. 

Funds for this expenditure are included in the TTC’s 2023-2032 Capital Budget and Plan, which was approved by the TTC Board at its meeting on January 9, 2023, and City Council on February 15, 2023. The total project cost for the Fire Ventilation Upgrade and Subway Station Second Exits programs are $726.9 million, comprising of costs to the end of 2021 of $338.6 million, projected year-end spending of $48.1 million for 2022 and funding of $340.3 million over the 10-Year Capital Budget and Plan.

More information about the project is available here.

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February, 2023

The Parkdale Hub project, located at the intersection of Queen Street West and Cowan Avenue, aims to transform approximately 4.24 acres of City-owned land for social, cultural, and economic benefits to the Parkdale community.

The intersection is currently home to an important cluster of City-owned facilities and community services in need of significant capital investment over the next 10 years in order to maintain current service delivery levels. 

Reimagining the future of this area provides a unique opportunity for collaboration between City divisions, agencies, the non-profit sector and the broader community to create spaces that will more efficiently and effectively serve the Parkdale community into the future.

The properties earmarked for potential redevelopment include:

• Masaryk-Cowan Community Recreation Centre (220 Cowan Avenue)
• Parkdale Library Branch (1303 Queen Street West)
• Parkdale Arts and Culture Centre (1313 Queen Street West)
• Toronto Parking Authority lot (1325 Queen Street West)

Join the City of Toronto and CreateTO staff to learn more about Phase 3 of the Parkdale Hub project at the following community consultation meetings:

Tuesday, Feb 28, 2023
2:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Parkdale Library, 1303 Queen Street West

Friday, March 3, 2023
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Masaryk-Cowan Community Recreation Centre, 220 Cowan Avenue

Wednesday, March 8, 2023
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Virtual Community Meeting: City of Toronto and CreateTO staff will share a presentation and answer questions about Phase 3 and next steps.
LINK TO REGISTER AND JOIN

Join by phone: 647-558-0588 and enter meeting ID: 864 0011 2037

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February, 2023

This coming Family Day on February 20th, the Friends of Sorauren Park and the Sorauren Farmers Market will be hosting community events at Sorauren Park, including:

Ball Hockey                                     1-4 pm on the Town Square

Indoor Farmers’ Market                3-7 pm in The Fieldhouse

Hot Chocolate by Choco Sol         3-7 pm in the Courtyard near the bake oven

Pizza by Cucinato Studio               3-7 pm in the CourtYard near the bake oven

If weather permits, there will also be leisure skating and shinny happening on the natural ice rink in the park. The volunteer Hosers rink crew floods the rink when temperatures are below zero.

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February, 2023

A new redevelopment application has been submitted for 2280 Dundas St W, the site of Loblaws & surrounding land, south of Bloor and Dundas Streets. Toronto City Planning will be holding a community meeting along with City Councillor Gord Perks on Wednesday, February 15, 2023, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm to allow the community to learn more about the application, ask questions, and offer feedback. 

Perks will chair the meeting, which includes presentations from City Planning and the applicant, Choice Properties REIT, followed by a Q&A period to allow discussion.

The proposed single-storey shopping centre and surface parking lots on the site are proposed to be redeveloped in conjunction with the adjacent Bishop Marrocco/Thomas Merton Catholic Secondary School and Regional Arts Centre with a major mixed-use centre combining homes, workspaces, retail, parkland, and a new school. Improved transit connections are a major emphasis.

The proposal includes seven mixed-use and residential buildings on four development blocks, a new public park, and a new public street system. The proposal also includes approximately 1,923 residential units including 735 rental units as well as commercial retail and office space.

A link will be provided on the City Planning Consultations website before the session to be used for joining the meeting online. For more information about how to join the meeting, how to participate, and code of conduct visit the Engagement Website. More information is also available here.

For more information and to see more renderings of the proposed development, visit Urban Toronto.

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January, 2023

Further delays have hampered infrastructure improvement projects by the City of Toronto and Toronto Transit Commission at the intersection of Queen Street West, King Street West, and Roncesvalles Avenue.

Stage 3 work along Roncesvalles Avenue was originally scheduled to be completed by December 2022. Unfortunately, the City’s contractor has been unable to complete all the required work and is now expected to continue working in the new year and complete Stage 3 by the end of February 2023. Work will continue after this period with the installation of TTC streetcar track platforms and overhead wiring, with lane restrictions as necessary. 

During construction, 504C King replacement buses will continue to operate in place of streetcars between Dundas West Station and the King/Bathurst area. From Dundas West Station, buses will operate via Howard Park Avenue, Parkside Drive, Lake Shore Boulevard West, Colborne Lodge Drive, and The Queensway to the King/Bathurst area. Stops on Dundas Street West/Roncesvalles Avenue between Howard Park Avenue and King Street West will not be served until further notice. Streetcar routes impacted by this project are expected to resume service through this area in Spring 2023 following the completion of all works. 

For further information on this construction project, please contact:

Public Consultation Unit Mark De Miglio, 416-392-3074, kqqr@toronto.ca 

TTC Senior Community Paul Tran, 647-461-5133, paul.tran@ttc.ca 

City Councillor for Parkdale Gord Perks, 416-392-7919

Or visit toronto.ca/KQQR

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December, 2022

Every year, the Parkdale Community Food Bank hosts a Toy Drive & Market to support families struggling to afford gifts for their children during the holiday season.

Thanks to the generosity of the community, in 2021 more than 1000 children were served – each child receiving 3 toys, 1 stocking stuffer, and 1 book. 

This year, the Toy Drive will accept donations of new, unused & unwrapped toys for children aged 0-13 from November 22nd – December 21st at various locations:

1. At Roncesvalles United Church (214 Wright Avenue). The hours for drop off are: Monday – Friday 10 am – 3 pm; Saturday 10 am – 5 pm
2. At Scooter Girl Toys (187 Roncesvalles Avenue). Donate in person or online by leaving a note at checkout that the donations are to support the PCFB Toy Drive.
3. At Fern Avenue Public School (128 Fern Avenue). Donations are accepted outside the main office until December 21.

The Toy Market will operate at the Parkdale Hall on December 22nd and 23rd and all families struggling to afford gifts for their children this holiday season are welcome to attend.

For more information about the Toy Drive & Market, and ideas for age-appropriate gifts, visit pcfb.ca/toy-drive

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December, 2022

Local volunteers helped to build the natural ice rink at Sorauren Park on Dec 17 and will begin flooding the rink when Mother Nature sends the signal, which is one full week of below-zero temperatures.

Volunteer positions are available for those interested in joining the Sorauren Park Hosers crew. The commitment is one evening per week with an experienced captain and other crew mates to flood the rink. There is also a Sunrise Soak crew on many Saturday and Sunday early mornings.

 Once the ice rink is up and running, all are welcome to skate! Thanks to Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation for rink scrapers, hose storage, water access and permits. 

And special thanks to the 2023 returning Sorauren Rink Sponsors, who support material purchases and volunteer activities, including myself, Scooter Girl Toys and Evolve Roncesvalles.

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December, 2022

With the holiday season in full swing, you can light up the festive spirit in Roncesvalles Village at the annual Community Tree Lighting ceremony taking place this Saturday, December 10 from 3-6 p.m.

Beginning at 3 p.m. at Roncesvalles United Church, there will be a performance by the Howard Public School Children’s Choir, a magic show with Scott Dietrich, the legendary indoor snowball fight, a visit from Santa, kids crafts, face painting, and more!

At sunset, join your friends and neighbours outside for a performance by The West Toronto Community Choir and the lighting of the community tree.

Throughout the month of December, the Roncesvalles Village BIA has organized holiday caroling through the village on Saturdays from 2-4 p.m. 

There will also be a holiday market at Northern Contemporary (420 Roncesvalles Avenue) where you can pick up one-of-a-kind gifts and support local artisans/craft makers this holiday season!

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November, 2022

This month, work started as part of the GO Expansion Project – the largest transit expansion in Canadian history. Metrolinx is building a new track on the Kitchener GO line next to the West Toronto Railpath, adding a fourth rail line at Bloor Station and transforming the line into a two-way, all-day rapid transit line.

There will also be a new community park built along the West Toronto Railpath at Ernest Avenue, on behalf of the City of Toronto.

 During construction, there will be detours on West Toronto Railpath, sometimes lasting for weeks. A lot of this is due to the tunnelling needed as part of a direct connection to the TTC (which is a separate Metrolinx project.) There will be signage on Railpath to help give notice.

Users will use a section of the Bloor Go Station platform to bypass a section of Railpth that will be under construction. Cyclists are asked to dismount and use the detour path.

The majority of work will take place between 7 am – 7 pm on weekdays, and construction will be ongoing until 2025.

In future, the City of Toronto also plans to extend the West Toronto Railpath 2 km south from its current termination at Dundas Street West to Abell Street (just north of King Street) by 2024-25. It’s a big project with 5 bridges. It will be built for the City by Metrolinx after their work on a 4th line near the Bloor GO station is done.

For more information visit railpath.ca

October, 2022

After a pandemic-induced hiatus, I’m pleased to announce my annual pumpkin sale fundraiser returns to Sorauren Park on Saturday, October 22 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon on the Sorauren Park Town Square.

All are welcome – pick up your pumpkin for Halloween and Sorauren Park’s annual Pumpkin Parade, which happens at the park the day after Halloween. 100% of the proceeds are donated to future programming and local park improvements at Sorauren Park.

Over the years, the Pumpkin Sale has raised more than $30,000 for Sorauren and Charles G. Williams parks.

The pumpkins often sell out, so come early! If there are any leftover pumpkins, they will be donated to local schools.

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October, 2022

Celebrate all things spooky at High Park’s fun family Halloween Howl event. This outdoor experience will begin with a hike through the woodlands to learn the not-so-scary truth about owls, spiders, bats, decomposers, Witch Hazel trees, and more. 

After the hike groups can warm up around a campfire and make Halloween-themed art. Roasting sticks, hot chocolate, and marshmallows will be provided for everyone and you are welcome to bring any additional items you would like to roast. 

Fun for all ages! Costumes are strongly encouraged but optional.

Dates & Times:

Saturday, October 29, 4-5:30PM & 6-7:30PM

Sunday, October 30, 1-2:30PM & 3-4:30PM

Price: $15/person (receive 20% off when you purchase 3 or more tickets using coupon code SPOOKY).

Guided family nature walks are also scheduled in October and November – view the full schedule here.

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September, 2022

September 30th is Canada’s National Day of Truth and Reconciliation and the Roncesvalles United Church, Reconciliation Roncesvalles, and the Dundas Roncesvalles Peace Garden are hosting events locally to reflect and honour Survivors, their families, and communities affected by the legacy of Indian Residential School policies.

At 5:30 pm, meet at the corner of Roncesvalles and Dundas Street W – the site of our local Indigenous Peace Garden (2201 Dundas Street West) – and join the Orange Shirt Walk down the street to Roncesvalles United Church, 240 Roncesvalles Avenue, at Wright Avenue.

Inside, see artifacts and hear stories from Métis history from Indigenous Elders. Learn to clap spoons, or get up and dance to Métis fiddlers.

The event is free and all are welcome. Donations will be accepted to support Native Child and Family Services of Toronto, which strives to provide a life of quality, well-being, caring and healing for children and families in the Toronto Native Community.

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September, 2022

Roncy Reduces is hosting its first RE-Market on Saturday, September 24, designed to contribute to a circular economy approach to shopping, spread awareness about re-use and entice you to try it for yourself.

Roncy Reduces is part of a collective of local organizations, Canada Reduces, whose mission is to reduce plastic and overall waste in our neighbourhoods by inspiring both neighbours and neighbourhood businesses to take on waste reduction together.

The RE-Market will be held in the parking lot of Roncesvalles United Church, and the community is welcome to drop in to:

• REPAIR: get an expert consultation on how to fix your broken household item, toy, bike, and more!
• SWAP: clothing at the teen clothing swap
• DROP OFF: old textiles, electronics, used batteries, containers, and more!
• DONATE: warm clothing, food items, medical supplies, etc.
• SHOP: upcycled, locally made items, bulk foods, native plants, and more!

WHEN: Saturday September 24, from 10 am – 3 pm

WHERE: Roncesvalles United Church (240 Roncesvalles Avenue)

Find out more at the Roncy Reduces Facebook page

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July, 2022

Local City Councillor Gord Perks recently gave an update on the status of The High Park Movement Strategy (HPMS), which will rethink the travel network serving High Park in the context of the city’s growing population, changing travel patterns, and the impacts of COVID-19. The goal is to improve mobility within the park while prioritizing safety, accessibility, and the park’s ecological integrity. The study will also explore interim solutions

Transportation Services has reviewed the need for pedestrian crossing protection on Parkside Drive and recommends installing traffic control signals on Parkside Drive where it intersects with High Park Trail, located north of The Queensway overpass. Traffic control signals will provide enhanced safety for vulnerable road users using the trail as well as the existing transit stops.

Other recommendations include: 

• The installation of traffic control signals on Parkside Drive, approximately 100 metres south of Spring Road (at High Park Trail).
  
• Amending the existing parking prohibition in effect at all times on the west side of Parkside Drive, between Bloor Street West and The Queensway, to be in effect between Bloor Street West and Spring Road.
• Amending the existing stopping prohibition in effect from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Monday to Friday, except public holidays on the west side of Parkside Drive, between Bloor Street West and The Queensway, to be in effect between Bloor Street West and a point 30.5 metres south of Spring Road.
• Prohibiting stopping from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Monday to Friday, except public holidays on the west side of Parkside Drive between Spring Road and The Queensway.
  
• Authorizing the installation of parking machines on the west side of Parkside Drive.

Learn more about the HPMS project and timeline here.

Read the interim report.

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(Photo: Andrew Faiz)

May, 2022

Roncesvalles United Church this month celebrated the unveiling of the first-ever Indigenous artwork inside the walls of a church in Canada.

In the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation, in 2020 Rev. Anne Hines invited acclaimed Indigenous artist and educator Philip Cote to paint “anywhere he chose and anything he chose,” within the sanctuary “to symbolize us giving back space to our Indigenous friends.”

The “Walls of Welcome” mural ​​depicts the Ojibwe Algonquin people’s creation story, and features Turtle Island underneath the Christian images in the church’s stained glass windows.

In an artist statement, Cote says, “The mural is a visual story of our beginning. It’s the first of its kind in a church. This is how the narrative is going to change. Our story needs to be inside all institutions and across the country.”

Cote spoke about his work at the event, which also featured a premiere showing of a documentary on the making of the mural by P.J. Marcellino and Jo Proux.

This is the second artwork by Cote in the neighbourhood, as he has also painted a mural titled “The First Peoples“, at the corner of Roncesvalles and Garden Avenue in 2018 commissioned by the Roncesvalles Village BIA in Partnership with StreetARToronto.

A dog at Sorauren Park – one of many parks and green spaces in the Roncesvalles Village neighbourhood.

February, 2022

Did you know that Toronto is recognized internationally for being a top pet-friendly city? A 2022 study by Luko revealed that Toronto was among the Top 10 most dog-friendly cities in the world.

The city is home to over 230,000 dogs, has more than 114 pet shops and 65 off-leash dog areas, with easy access to plenty of trails and parks. 

A new report from liv.rent reviews the most pet-friendly neighbourhoods in Toronto for renters. From the number of available rentals that will welcome you and your pet to the number of pet amenities in the area, the list lays out where you and your furry friend will be most comfortable.

High Park ranked #4 on the list, and Roncesvalles Village ranked #5. It’s easy to understand why, when both neighbourhoods offer plenty of green spaces, off-leash dog areas and trendy pet shops within walking distance.

“Roncesvalles enjoys a reputation as one of Downtown Toronto’s more renter-friendly neighbourhoods thanks to the sheer selection of rental properties available. The prime location means you may have to pay a bit more, but the good news is many of Roncesvalles’ apartments, detached homes and townhouses are amenable to pets,” the report says.

The neighbourhood has multiple animal hospitals like Roncesvalles Animal Hospital on its south end and Dundas West Animal Hospital to the north. As well, places like Kennel Café and Wholesome Canine ensure your pets have access to the same trendy businesses as you do.

Read the full report here.

February, 2022

Toronto’s oldest Hindu temple, on Fern Avenue in Roncesvalles Village, is about to get a major facelift.

While the building dates back to the late 1800s, from around 1910, it was home to the Fern Avenue Church of Christ until purchased by Hindu Prarthana Samaj. In the 1960s it became a place of worship for a group of Hindu families in the city.

Now, the Hindu Prarthana Samaj community wants the former church building to look more like a temple. They aren’t planning on tearing down the building or increasing the footprint. They will only demolish the front of the building and replace it with a more traditional Hindu structure.

On February 5 Hindu Prarthana Samaj performed Bhumi Puja to mark the official start of construction of the Temple, which will commence in March. 

Plans also include renovations to the inside with columns with niches, decorative features, new washrooms, and a new dining hall. The total cost of the project is estimated at $1.5 million.