Rally to raise funds for Toronto Rehab on September 10th

UHN Foundation’s Rally for Rehab, presented by BMO, is a peer-to-peer fundraising event where individuals or teams raise money in support of research at UHN’s Toronto Rehab. A morning of family-friendly activities will culminate in an accessible walk in the Leaside community. Rally for Rehab has raised more than $2 million in support of Toronto Rehab since its inception in 2015.

WHEN:

Sunday, September 10, 2023 from 9 a.m. to noon EDT
9 a.m. registration opens
10 a.m. opening ceremonies and warmup
10:30 a.m. walk or roll
11:30 a.m. return/conclusion

WHERE:

The outdoor track at Toronto Rehab – Rumsey Centre
347 Rumsey Road, East York ON M4G 2V6
Parking is available on site

Neighborhood happenings, community delights & local fun

On Sunday, September 10th, from 11:00am to 3:00pm, the ‘Sweet Potato Community BBQ‘ at 1678 Bayview Ave offers free burgers, sausages, plant-based grillers, samples of SPK favorites, kids’ activities, and more as a gesture of appreciation for the warm welcome to their new neighbourhood. thesweetpotato.ca

On September 9th and 10th, from 11:00am to 5:00pm, explore the ‘Bayview Outdoor Art Tour & Sale‘ featuring 15 artists across 6 venues. bayviewarttour.art

For Saturday, September 16th, from noon to 8:00pm, the ‘1st Annual Pape Village Block Party‘ promises live bands, a car show, vendors, a kids’ fun zone, and more on Pape Avenue between Mortimer & Gamble. papevillageblockparty.com

On Sunday, September 17th, from noon to 5:00pm, the ‘Toronto-Leaside Rotary 27th Annual Community Corn Roast‘ at Trace Manes Park, McRae Dr. & Millwood Rd., offers inflatables, BBQ, face painting, a 50/50 draw, family fun, and games. torontoleasiderotary.com

Save the dates for ‘Mount Pleasant Village Harvest Fair‘ on Saturday, September 23rd, from 10:00am to 4:00pm, and ‘Bayview-Leaside BIA Applefest‘ on Saturday, October 14th.

Join the community for these exciting events … and a few more …

Photis Philos, formerly of Bell Jewellers, has passed away

Photis was a large presence spanning multiple decades on Bayview Avenue at the helm of Bell Jewellers earning him the nickname “Mayor of Bayview”. We fondly remember the lively chats we shared while buying a new timepiece, getting watch batteries replaced, or pricing out jewellery repairs.

Photis’ funeral will be held on September 5, 2023. Visit the Mount Pleasant Group website for obituary, funeral details, and to sign the Guestbook. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Toronto Leaside Rotary Foundation (Toronto Leaside Rotary Foundation and sent to: c/o Mr. Bill Fitz, 112 Reeve Drive, Markham ON L3P 6C7), Canadian Cancer Society or New Visions Toronto.

Leaside mom urgently needs a kidney donor

Robin & Len and their children

Robin, a 46 year old mother of 4 (aged 9-14), is in desperate need of a kidney donor. A bad bout of Covid-19 in 2021 has now developed into stage 5 kidney disease. Her kidneys are failing and her veins are not strong enough to withstand conventional dialysis. Otherwise in excellent health, she has been green-lit for a transplant. Robin loathes the idea of asking people for body parts; she has been very private about her situation and stoic. But if ever there was a time to ask for help, this would be it. Below is a message shared on social media by Robin’s husband Len. If anyone knows of anyone – or any avenue – that might lead to a potential donor, please forward this message.

In a list of awkward things to write, I would have to rank this one near the top. I am writing this brief passage to ask anyone that might be reading these words to consider giving me a body part…specifically a kidney from someone with ‘O’ blood.

Robin, my beautiful wife of 19 years, decided to be a good host to the Delta variant, and over the last two years, has lost 95% of her kidney function. She needs a new kidney or she will die.

I do not write these words easily. But when I stare into the eyes of my four young children, and then imagine a world where they exist without their mother, then I know personal awkwardness must be placed aside and certain polite boundaries of society must be crossed.

And so I am begging anyone reading these words to check your blood type and start the process today. Please, click the link. Imagine waking up knowing that you could save a life.Len

Robin is in the care of Toronto’s University Health Network. Follow this link to learn more about how you can help: www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program

Calling all canine aquanauts: Dog Swim 2023 is coming up

Dog making a splash /Hanson Lu

Get ready to wag those tails and make a splash, because Toronto’s annual Dog Swim is just around the corner. On September 3rd, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., dogs all over the city will have the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in selected pools as the outdoor pool season draws to a close. (Another round of dog swims will take place at selected pools on September 24th.) This tail-wagging event is a perfect way to bid farewell to summer with your furry companions. Get ready for a doggone good time! (Sorry, couldn’t resist!) For locations and more information, check out the Dog Swim tab on the City’s webpage: www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/recreation/swimming/

Celebrate the last splash of summer in TO this long weekend

A splash of summer fun /Mi Pham

Toronto is turning up the summer fun dial for the Labour Day long weekend with a host of activities to keep you busy without putting a dent in your wallet. Whether you’re a water lover or prefer to keep your feet dry, the city has something for you. Wade into the city’s supervised swimming beaches, where lifeguards will be stationed until September 4th, or explore the city’s many splash pads. Parks, picnic spots, cultural centers, historic sites, galleries, and Toronto Island Park will be offering a blend of relaxation and exploration. And guess what? Even your four-legged friend can join in the fun with dog-only swims on select dates. Whether you’re into history, art, or simply basking in the sun, Toronto’s got you covered this long weekend. Get all the details from the official news release here.

Toronto-Leaside Rotary’s Annual Community Corn Roast!

Get ready for a fantastic afternoon of fun at the Toronto-Leaside Rotary Club’s 27th Annual Corn Roast.

Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 17th, 2023 between 12:00pm – 5:00pm at Trace Manes Park.

After a 4-year hiatus, they’re back with delicious corn, inflatables, games, and the 50/50 draw and more. This family-friendly event promises to be a memorable day for everyone. See you at Trace Manes Park! 🌽🎉

Explore “Dwarf & Unusual Evergreens” w/ Jim Lounsberry

The Leaside Garden Society’s September Speaker Series will feature renowned horticulturist Jim Lounsberry. With 35 years of horticultural expertise, Jim brings his insights as a lecturer and TV guest to delve into the captivating world of “Dwarf & Unusual Evergreens in the Landscape.”

Discover how Jim’s passion for horticulture led him to become the owner of Vineland Nurseries, where he specializes in unique flora such as dwarf evergreens, Japanese maples, bamboos, rhododendrons, and heathers. This virtual event promises to unveil the beauty and power of small yet impactful trees in urban environments.

Mark your calendar for an informative evening that promises to inspire both seasoned garden enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Leaside Garden Society – September Speaker Series
Speaker: Jim Lounsberry
Topic: Dwarf & Unusual Evergreens in the Landscape
Date: Thursday September 14, 2023
Time & Place: 7pm on Zoom

Leaside Garden Society always welcomes Guests and New Members to join the Society for their meetings. Visit: www.leasidegardensociety.org or email: leaside@gardenontario.org for more info.

Bayview Biz: A grand opening, a closure, and a new tenant

Jing Chinese Restaurant is celebrating its grand opening with limited time specials being offered at 1634 Bayview Ave. Unfortunately, Hindusthali at 1574 Bayview Ave has closed its doors. Meanwhile, the premises at 1673 Bayview Ave, formerly Nicee Premium Dry Cleaning, has found a new tenant, leaving us curious about the upcoming addition to the area’s business landscape.

August long weekend activities and attractions in Toronto

Summer fun! 📷 Alimurat Üral via Pexels

The City of Toronto encourages residents and visitors to explore a range of attractions and recreational activities during the upcoming August long weekend. On Simcoe Day – Monday, August 7 – named after Lieutenant-Governor John Graves Simcoe, City-run attractions such as beaches with lifeguard supervision, municipal golf courses, cultural centers, and Toronto Zoo’s diverse animal exhibits offer ample entertainment. Residents can also enjoy open tennis and pickleball courts, visit Centennial Park Conservatory and Allan Gardens Conservatory to see blooming flowers, or head to Union Summer at Union Station for live events and a variety of food vendors. While enjoying these offerings, remember to adhere to safety guidelines and stay informed about the TTC’s holiday schedule. More details can be found in the official news release. www.toronto.ca/news/august-long-weekend-activities-and-attractions-in-toronto-2/

What’s open & closed this weekend? cp24.com