The privatization of trash collection west of Yonge street will have a positive effect on all garbage pickup, east and west. That includes South Bayview and areas around it. With private collection to the west, it will be much less likely that city workers to the east will cause a work stoppage. But even if they do, the presence of private collection in place to the west will be a distinct advantage to homeowners. It will be possible for example to simply move your garbage to a pickup point on the other side of Yonge St and have it removed immediately. No more garbage piles in the parks. It remains to be seen how the new system will work but it seems to offer a chance for more efficient and functional garbage collection. The vote incidentally was 32 to 13 in favour.
Ready for the 100 best restaurants?
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Is South Bayview ready for the 100 best restaurants in Toronto? Is there time to read the list? Is Chai in there? Is Rosie’s? Olde Yorke Fish and Chips? Never mind, the free magazine box is once again bursting with the improbable proposition that you care about 100 restaurants somewhere. The list is compiled by the secretive Joanne Kates, a reviewer who has made a lifetime of hiding in the shadows as she ticked off the high and low lights of restaurants. It’s always said she remained unidentified so that a restaurant couldn’t give her special service. On the other hand, if the staff recognized her they might just slam the door. “Sorry Ms. Kates, we’re closing early. Bath night, you know.” But really, how does this matter? Why not a list of The Nine Best Bank Managers. Much more believable. We know there aren’t many. CGTA article on a Visa scam
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There is a notable story for retailers in the current mailing of the Canadian Tableware and Gift Association (CGTA). It tells of a nearly successful scam on a Stratford firm, Bradshaws. Many will know of Bradshaws from their visits to the Stratford Festival. The gist of the tale is that a scammer tried to order a large shipment of goods using a Visa which appeared to be valid, but ultimately was found to be invalid. Fortunately, Bradshaws got wind of the problem before they shipped. The CGTA story is vague however on just how the transaction was performed. If a Visa is tendered through an established acquirer like Paymentech or Monex, the cash should be in the retailer’s account the next day. If the Visa is invalid for any reason, it would be rejected on the spot. This part of the story is not well explained. You can read the article here.
Cash crisis at Bixi bike rentals
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The Montreal bike rental system beginning its expansion into Toronto is practically broke. Supporters say the firm is merely a victim of its own success, but the fact remains that Bixi, the Public Bike Company has had to lay off 70 employees and ask the City of Montreal for a $107 million bailout. The linked story is from CTV. Be sure you check the rather acidic comments from Montreal readers. Canadian Tire to carry large appliances
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In what some are calling a defensive move, Canadian Tire has said it will jump into the large appliance market. It’s a quantum leap away from its core business which seems to suggest a desire by CTC to end run many of the big U.S. competitors moving to Canada. Refrigerators, stoves and dishwashers will begin to appear at CTC by the end of 2012. The retailer said it tested large appliances in some stores and received mostly positive feedback from customers. The move would place Canadian Tire in segment competition with home-improvement retailers Home Depot, Lowes, and Rona, Sears and The Bay
Homefront has Julia Knight Serveware
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Here is a peek at pieces from Julia Knight that really redefine entertaining. There is stock at Homefront and others may be ordered in quick delivery. There are cake plates, segmented trays, cocktail napkin holders, salt and pepper sets, cheese sets salad servers, cake servers, spreaders, cocktail forks and spoons, and wine coasters. See the Julia Knight site. These pieces are hand made of aluminum using the ancient art of sand-casting. Each piece is hand painted with enamel infused with crushed Mother of Pearl. Offered in array of sumptuous colours these pieces have a durable, high gloss, food safe finish that will remain beautiful and functional for years to come. Happy St. Maple’s Day, South Bayview
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It missed St. Patrick’s Day by two months. All across our area this sloppy blanket of green, flowery Maple buds has fallen in today’s rain. This drop is on Macnaughton Road. It has decorated cars and made pavement slippery. But the trees are nice. Garbage privatization debate this week
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On Tuesday and Wednesday City Council will debate a garbage privatization plan that backers claim will save taxpayers $8 million a year. Groups such as the Toronto Environmental Alliance have argued the savings would be lower than advertised but the public works committee last month voted in favour of the idea of contracting out curbside garbage and recycling collection from Etobicoke’s east border to Yonge Street. As is often the case, the “cost” as opposed to the “saving” of a propsition like this is clouded by political smoke. Do estimates include, for example, the cost of your time disposing of your garbage when there is a work stoppage?
New Shoppers to open Thursday, May 26
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There will be a period of overlap between the opening of the new Shoppers Drug Mart and the closing of the old one. The opening will take place on Thursday, May 26, 2011 and the closing of the old store will occur a few days after that.
Sport Swap signage a winner
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New Sport Swap sign at 1541B is a good sign for South Bayview. All posts.
Seen Saturday on South Bayview
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Definitely worth the walk along South Bayview Garage Sale for Shelter on Macrae
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The annual Garage Sale for Shelter was held Saturday in the parking lot of the Royal LePage office on Bayview and Macrae. Despite damp weather, the sale was busy. Proceeds go to help women seeking refuge from abuse.