Traffic tweak sparks debate in North Leaside

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Yesterday, Councillor Rachael Chernos Lin shared an update on new rush-hour turn restrictions aimed at reducing cut-through traffic and congestion on Donlea Drive. Her full message, originally shared in a local Facebook group, appears below:

Important traffic update!

I have just been advised that no-left-turn signage is being installed today on Eglinton Ave E between Brentcliffe Rd and Don Avon Dr. These signs indicate a turn prohibition between 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. onto Eglinton Avenue E from Brentcliffe Rd and Don Avon Dr.

Following a unanimous vote at North York Community Council, City Council approved my motion to implement these turn prohibitions on May 21. No-left-turn signs at Don Avon and Brentcliffe Rd, as well as advance information signs, at Hanna Rd, Rumsey Rd, Sutherland Dr, and Laird Dr, will be installed this morning.
By my request, Toronto Police Service – 53 Division will have officers present on Thursday and Friday to enforce these changes. Waze has incorporated new turn restrictions into its trip suggestions and the City has requested that Google Maps do the same.

In the months since my election, the situation on Donlea Dr has reached a breaking point with immense traffic volumes and unprecedented congestion, leading to access issues and dangerous driving incidents. After exploring many options in consultation with staff, turn prohibitions emerged as a quick and effective tool to implement. The new prohibitions aim to alleviate congestion while minimizing disruptions to neighbouring streets – ensuring residents can still reach their homes.

As directed by my motion, Transportation Services staff will be closely monitoring these changes, including initial adjustment issues and the impacts of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT, once it opens. Congestion management and road safety are top priorities for me as your City Councillor, and my office will be continuing to look at strategies to manage the high volumes of traffic throughout Leaside.

Councillor Rachel Chernos Lin, via Facebook

Community reaction to the update was mixed. Some residents are optimistic the changes will help calm traffic, while others voiced concerns about spillover congestion or lax enforcement. A few also offered suggestions for further improvements.

Love it or loathe it, are traffic woes just part of life in the big city?

BAYVIEW BIZ: Rumi on Bayview — the wait may be over!

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It’s been a looooong wait, but there are signs that Rumi Turkish Cuisine (1599 Bayview) is finally nearing its debut! The plywood that’s been blocking the front entrance for ages is gone, and a Now Hiring sign has appeared in the window. After all the ups and downs since plans were first announced in 2022, could Bayview’s swanky new Turkish spot soon be ready to welcome diners?

Baaa-ck at it: Goats help green the Don Valley again

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On Tuesday and Wednesday this week, an eco-herd of about 50 goats returned to Don Valley Brick Works for a two-day grazing session — part of the City of Toronto’s ongoing effort to restore meadow habitats by munching away at invasive plants and woody growth.

The “Prescribed Goat Grazing Project” launched in 2024, and it’s baaack for another season of eco-friendly park maintenance. Couldn’t catch them this time? No worries — we’ve got a video throwback of the goat goodness with a clip from 2024. 🐐🌿

Bayview bites & bright lights: What’s new on the strip

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Fairway Restaurant & Bar (1660 Bayview)
Hermie’s (1595 Bayview)
Lemongrass (1630 Bayview)
Just Chicken Portuguese BBQ (1703 Bayview)
Kamasutra Indian Cuisine, “Chefs of Pauri Khal” (1522 Bayview)
Bonnie Byford Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage (1536 Bayview Ave)
1678 Bayview Ave, papered windows, future site of a No Frills
1678 Bayview Building Permit info from City of Toronto Website

Things are cooking — literally and figuratively — on Bayview Avenue! Here’s a fun round-up of local food and storefront updates to catch your eye (and maybe your taste buds):

First up, Fairway Restaurant & Bar (1660 Bayview) has a new sign up, and a sandwich board out front reads “Coming Soon.” They’re also hiring. After a long wait for something to replace the old Original’s, it’s exciting to see Fairway finally taking shape.

Just down the street, Hermie’s (1595 Bayview) has revamped its patio — gone is the oversized wooden structure from a previous business, making room for an inviting, open setup for the summer season.

Lemongrass (1630 Bayview) is quietly mixing things up! In addition to their usual Asian fusion fare, they now offer a Brazilian menu. Not new exactly, but a fun surprise if you haven’t been in a while!

Renovations at Just Chicken Portuguese BBQ (1703 Bayview) are ongoing, but the freshly painted white facade hints that opening day might be on the horizon.

Kamasutra Indian Cuisine (1522 Bayview) has a new look and a new direction, rebranded as “Chefs of Pauri Khal.” Check out their updated menu by Masterchef Virender Singh and the new Instagram account: @chefsofpaurikhal.

Over at Bonnie Byford Real Estate, something is lighting up the window — literally. A bright neon red maple leaf is turning heads, and one lucky visitor will win one of their own! Drop by the office (1536 Bayview) or visit bonniebyford.com to fill out a ballot and enter the draw before June 27, 2025.

And finally — grocery gossip alert, breaking news, hold onto your reusable shopping bags — brown paper has gone up over the windows of the vacant storefront at 1678 Bayview, just north of Hillsdale (formerly home to Sweet Potato). According to the City of Toronto’s website, a permit has been issued for interior renovations… for No Frills! Could it really be true? Is a grocery store finally returning to Bayview? Our carts are ready.

Whether you’re grabbing lunch, scouting a patio, or just walking the strip — there’s plenty to see (and speculate about) on Bayview these days. Got an update? Let us know!

Remembering Dr. Jonathan Slivka (Leaside Family Eyecare)

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Our neighbourhood is mourning the loss of Dr. Jonathan “Jono” Slivka, optometrist and founder of Leaside Family Eyecare, who passed away on June 8, 2025 after a courageous journey with Crohn’s disease and lymphoma.

Dr. Slivka brought his warmth, wit, and clinical expertise to patients in Toronto and beyond. After years serving the Palm Desert community and volunteering with the Lion’s Club in Mexico, he returned home to practice at the Herzig Eye Institute before opening his own clinic. Known for his gentle manner and steadfast care, he touched countless lives and will be deeply missed.

Funeral and shiva details are available via Benjamin’s Park Memorial Chapel.

Debora Kuchme: Bayview’s gardener, guide, and green spirit

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Premier Kathleen Wynne, Debora Kuchme
The Bayview Pixies (2018)
Debora Kuchme

We are deeply saddened to share that Debora Kuchme, long-time Bayview-Leaside area resident and passionate community advocate, passed away on May 21, 2025, in her 69th year.

Born in Hamilton, Debora moved to Toronto to pursue a career in fashion, launching her own label in the 1980s. In later years, she channeled her creativity and love of nature into environmental work—founding the Bayview Pixies, contributing as a gardening columnist for Leaside Life, and championing sustainable practices throughout the neighbourhood.

The Bayview Pixies, created in partnership with the Bayview Leaside BIA in 2016, transformed neglected sidewalk planters into native gardens. Wearing their green-and-black aprons, this dedicated group of volunteers became a familiar and welcome sight along Bayview. They watered with rain barrels, planted with care, and brought joy and life to the street.

Debora was also instrumental in local events like AppleFest and environmental initiatives including the Earth Day seed giveaway. Her efforts were formally recognized at the Don Valley West Volunteer Awards in 2018.

Though the Pixies have since retired their gardening gloves, they remain close-knit thanks to Debora’s lasting influence and the spirit of community she nurtured. She will be fondly remembered for her warmth, her vision, and the deep roots she planted across our neighbourhood.

For more on her life and contributions, visit:

Sources: Leaside Life (June 2025), Toronto Star obituary, and Bayview News archives (2017–2024)

🚨 Toronto’s air quality among worst in the world Friday

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EarthCam, June 6, 2025 /www.earthcam.com/world/canada/toronto/cntower/
EarthCam, June 6, 2025 /www.earthcam.com/world/canada/toronto/cntower/

Toronto is experiencing some of the worst air quality globally today due to wildfire smoke drifting in from northern Ontario and the Prairies. According to global tracker IQAir, the city ranked among the most polluted major cities worldwide.

Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement across the GTA, warning of a “very high risk” on the Air Quality Health Index. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity and consider wearing an N95 mask if outside is unavoidable.

Common symptoms from smoke exposure include eye and throat irritation, headaches, and coughing. Those with respiratory conditions, young children, seniors, and pregnant individuals are most at risk.

The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) is monitoring the situation, with some schools moving recess and physical activity indoors. HEPA filters are being used where possible.

Conditions are expected to improve slightly by evening but may remain poor into early next week.

📎 Air quality in Toronto among worst in the world amid wildfire smoke, global tracker shows, CBC News

📎 Toronto’s air quality currently among worst in world due to wildfire smoke, CP24

Sidewalk Sensation returns to Bayview Ave – June 14th

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“Sidewalk Sensation” Returns to Bayview Avenue – June 14, 2025

Mark your calendar for a day of fun, shopping, and community spirit! The Bayview Leaside BIA invites everyone to Sidewalk Sensation on Saturday, June 14th, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM.

Bayview Avenue will be buzzing from Parkhurst Blvd. to Davisville Ave. with live entertainment, free giveaways, and family-friendly activities. It’s a great chance to explore local shops, discover a Father’s Day gift, and enjoy the lively neighbourhood vibe.

✨ Highlights include:

  • 🎨 Free face painting for the kids
  • 🖍️ Colour-in greeting cards for all ages
  • 🛍️ Free reusable shopping bags (while supplies last)
  • 🥤 Coupons for a free drink or snack (while supplies last)
  • 🍴 Tasty food samples from local restaurants

Admission is free and the fun is guaranteed—bring the whole family and celebrate all things local!

Organized by the Bayview Leaside BIA. Follow @bayviewleasidebia for updates.

Music, food & fun at Arraiá on Yonge – June 21st

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📷 Instagram /@MYBIA
📷 Instagram /@MYBIA
📷 Instagram /@MYBIA
📷 Instagram /@MYBIA

Brazilian-Inspired “Arraiá on Yonge” Festival Coming to Midtown

Midtown Yonge is about to come alive with the sounds, flavours, and colours of Brazil! Arraiá on Yonge — inspired by Brazil’s festive Festa Junina — is set to take over Yonge Street (between Manor Rd. and Belsize Dr.) on Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 11 AM to 9 PM.

Expect a full day of live music, traditional Brazilian food, dance, family-friendly games, and vibrant cultural performances. Featured acts include Joy Brandt, known for her Afro-pop and Latin-infused energy, and Orquestra Zabumba, a Toronto-based quintet re-imagining traditional forró with flair.

This free event is organized by @MYBIA (Midtown Yonge BIA) with support from Councillor Josh Matlow.

Interested in volunteering? It’s a great way to meet neighbours and be part of something special. Just message @mybia.ca on Instagram to get involved.

Source: @mybia.ca via Instagram

Cactus Curious? Toronto’s prickliest plant sale is June 8th

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🌵 Mark your calendars!

Join the Toronto Cactus & Succulent Club‘s Annual Show and Sale on June 8, 2025 between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. for a day filled with unique plants from all part of the world, expert advice, and a chance to connect with fellow plant enthusiasts. Explore a wide variety of cacti and succulents available for purchase most of which are not readily available anywhere else. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your plant journey, this event is perfect for you. FREE admission.

More info: torontocactus.club

Takeaways from SEDRA’s 2025 AGM & Townhall

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The South Eglinton Davisville Residents’ Association (SEDRA) welcomed a great crowd at its 2025 Annual General Meeting and Townhall held on Tuesday, May 6. The evening began with updates from SEDRA Co-President John Hiddema, who shared the board’s recent efforts and accomplishments. The association also confirmed the return of its current board members for another term.

Following the business meeting, a townhall featured remarks from local representatives including Councillor Josh Matlow, Councillor Rachel Chernos Lin, and TDSB Trustee Stacey Cline, who also spoke on behalf of fellow Trustee Shelley Laskin. Trustee Laskin was away attending a Historica Canada event celebrating a new Heritage Minute honouring her uncle, Bora Laskin, Canada’s 14th Chief Justice.

Topics of discussion included local development activity, improvements to parks and green space, updates on councillor-led initiatives, and news from the Toronto District School Board.

SEDRA encourages residents to stay connected by subscribing to newsletters from local councillors and school trustees, and by keeping their SEDRA memberships current.

For more details, you can read the full SEDRA recap here.

Source: South Eglinton Davisville Residents’ Association (SEDRA) AGM Recap, 2025.

Metrolinx work will limit Don River access for two years

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Don River restrictions adjacent to West Don Crossing work area /Metrolinx
Metrolinx sign, E.T. Seton Park (2025)
Don River, E.T. Seton Park (2016)

On or about May 20th, 2025, a portion of the Don River near E.T. Seton Park will be closed to paddlers and other river users as Metrolinx begins in-water work for the Ontario Line’s West Don Crossing bridge that will carry the Ontario Line across the valley, over the E.T. Seton Park area, connecting the Thorncliffe Park and Flemingdon Park guideways and stations.

This phase — expected to last until September 2027 — will involve stabilizing riverbanks, installing a temporary cofferdam, and other erosion control measures to support the bridge structure. The river closure is significant for paddlers, kayakers, and canoeists who use this stretch of the Don. To safely bypass the work zone, Metrolinx will install a portage route—requiring river users to carry their vessels around the closure.

According to Metrolinx’s construction notice, crews will be using heavy equipment to place riprap and meter bags in the riverbed, with care taken to minimize vegetation loss and restore the area with native plantings after work concludes.

Read full Metrolinx Construction Notice: Click here
BlogTO: Stretch of Toronto river to be closed off to public for over 2 years