This happy moment records the official opening Saturday of the long-awaited and newly-finished turf field at Maurice Cody Public School on Belsize Drive. Left to right are Kevin Rachman and Mary Kopman, parents who spearheaded the “dirt to turf” plan, Josh Matlow (Ward 22) holding his daughter Molly and David Percival of the Toronto and District School Board. The event was well attended by parents and kids in brisk weather. So strong was the family pull of this event that Ms. Kopman’s parents came from Burlington to see their daughter’s work accomplished. Mr. Rachman and Ms. Kopman recalled their determined efforts beginning in about 2008 to seek an artificial surface so play could go on in more or less any conditions. There were set backs. An initiative to seek parent support fell short of the goal and the TDSB instead laid a new field of natural grass. “It lasted about six months,” said Mr. Rachman. Soon after that the parents re-grouped and won approval for their fundraising effort. As is known, the councillor, Mr Matlow, obtained city funds to supplement the cost. The story of the retail participation is close to legendary in South Bayview. One business patron who made an early contribution was realtor Patrick Rocca, who also attended today. Other stories from the fund raising include the percentage on sales donations of Tremblett’s Valumart and COB’s Bread. Grilltime, the Laird Drive meat specialty shop owned by Andy Elder, contributed cooking lessons and dinner for eight which fetched a fine price in an auction at the Cody Howl earlier this year. Bulldog Flickr for more pictures.
