Councilor Jon Burnside says he is working toward a “fully-functioning community centre” which he would like to see located in a re-named Leaside Park, just off Overlea Blvd near Millwood Rd. He has reviewed the high percentage of young people in this largely immigrant neighborhood. As much as 26 percent of the population is said to be under the age of 14. Thorncliffe Park needs more attention, the councillor says. The Jenner Jean-Marie Community Centre is housed in the same building as the Thornclffie Public Library at 48 Thorncliffe Park. It is always busy as is the seemingly quite dynamic Valley Park Middle School at 130 Overlea Blvd. Its cricket field is an enormous attraction. No doubt more could be done but it must be said the young people of Thorncliffe Park seem by and large to be a credit to the community. The Councillor correctly says however that it is essential that the City provide sufficient programs and facilities to engage our youth. He asked that those with suggestions for a name for Leaside Park call his office at 416-392-0215. All ideas will be considered.
