October 10

This week’s image:  on Thursday, parents and teachers gathered in front of Sprucecourt School to protest against cutbacks imposed on the school by the Ford Government


CABBAGETOWN
NEIGHBOURHOOD 
REVIEW



A RESPITE CENTRE IN CABBAGETOWN

What it does
The City of Toronto is moving a 24/7 women’s drop-in program from its current location at Adelaide and Church Streets to the former home of Free the Children (233 Carlton).  Councillor Wong-Tam describes the program that’s transferring here from the Adelaide Resource Centre as an excellent and necessary service that has not drawn any operational or safety concerns.
The service is aimed at transient and homeless women.  It’ll offer healthcare, laundry, shower facilities, phones and social activities.  It’ll provide three meals daily. It won’t house permanent residents.  Plans are also being made for training and educational opportunities for lower income women who may have homes. 
The decision to put this drop-in centre on Carlton has upset many business owners and local residents.  Many feel that it is being forced upon the community without opportunity to comment.

Lease arrangements
The City leased the building for ten years beginning January 1 2020 with an option to extend the lease for an additional five years.   The basic rent for ten years will be $3,714,861.  The five-year extension will cost an estimated $2,231,212.  In addition, it will spend approximately $3,700,000 on initial renovations involving an elevator, shower facilities, washrooms, accessibility facilities, a rooftop patio and other modifications to make it suitable as a drop-in centre.  The City is responsible for insurance, utilities, operating costs and on-going repairs.  
If it chooses to do so, the City has the flexibility to change the building’s uses without notifying the landlord.

Councillor Wong-Tam’s involvement
Councillor Kristyn Wong Tam has become enmeshed in the controversy about the new centre.
In 2017, City Council adopted a system called delegated authority that cut out any input from our local councillor on the location of this shelter.  She was given advance notice and a chance to comment but did not have a voice in the final decision - it was finally approved by the mayor.  The lease was signed in early August.
She says that she raised concerns about the project in a July meeting with City staff. After that, she was not given any updates about the project. Her staff says that she was kept in the dark about the details until the official announcement was leaked out last week.  She assumed, instead, that they were acting on her comments.
She describes the approach used by the City staff as “blindsiding” the community.  To fix this, she now wants the decision to be put on hold and community consultations to begin properly. In a community meeting on Tuesday, she made it clear that the final decisions about the location have been made.  Despite that, she wants community input on the programs and services.   
Over the summer, she met regularly with people from Cabbagetown South.  Officials from shelter services joined her in one meeting on August 22. Apparently local residents were assured that no new services were planned in the area for the foreseeable future.

Future options
The target audience for the centre needs to be clarified.  The BIA once had help from the City’s Streets to Homes staff who found very few homeless men or women in Cabbagetown.  If this is still the case, then this program may be aimed at people who aren’t here. 
Some practical matters have been suggested.  For example, the centre should have a smoking area where women can sit comfortably and not be forced onto the street to have a smoke.  On Adelaide Street, they sit on the steps at neighbouring businesses.
Local restaurants think that shower facilities are also a problem at the Adelaide Resource Centre. Women try to use nearby restaurant washrooms to wash themselves.
There should be an inner lobby where women with parcels and luggage can safely leave their stuff while they go farther into the building.
Policing in the Carlton-Parliament area will need reinforcing with special attention in the rear laneways.  In the past, the lanes have been heavily used by addicts, drug dealers and sex workers.

Suggestions for community action
Cabbagetown residents are very good at pressuring for change.  Emails can start the ball rolling.  Tell City of Toronto officials where you stand.  Ask them why they hid the decision for so long.  Tell them to start all over again from the beginning with meaningful consultations -
The City Manager - chris.murray@toronto.ca 
Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam - councillor_wongtam@toronto.ca 

THANKSGIVING IN OUR RESTAURANTS

Cranberries
Three courses and two sittings, 5 pm and 7:30 pm, Sunday October 13 and Monday.  Reservations at (416) 925-6330 - a good idea since these dinners are always a popular sell-out.  $35.  601 Parliament.

F’Amelia
Three courses that start with a Fall salad or wild leek and mushroom bisque.  For your second course, there’s butternut squash ravioli with ricotta, sage and walnuts with nut brown butter or roasted turkey roulade with stuffing, veggies, buttermilk mashed potatoes and pan gravy.  For dessert, there’s petite pumpkin pie.  $40.  Reservations at (416) 323-0666 or online here.  12 Amelia.

House on Parliament
Sunday October 13 and Monday, from 5 pm.  $22 for your main course.  Order your other courses individually. 454 Parliament.

Peartree
Three course dinner for only $28.95.  Saturday October 12, Sunday and Monday.  507 Parliament. 

The Tilted Dog 
Traditional Thanksgiving dinner on Saturday October 12 at 5 pm, Sunday at 5 pm and Monday at 4 pm. Traditional Turkey Dinner, $25 and add pumpkin pie, $29. 424 Parliament.
Roasted Ontario grain-fed turkey, mashed & garlic potatoes, seasonal mixed vegetables, housemade stuffing, cranberry sauce and turkey gravy. For dessert, add housemade pumpkin pie topped with fresh whipped cream.  424 Parliament 

FEDERAL ELECTION UPDATES

Advance voting
The Advance Polls happen from 9 am to 9 pm over the weekend of Friday October 11 through to Monday October 14.  Check your Voter Identification Card for your closest Advance Poll location.   
You can also vote on any day before 6 pm on October 15 at the official Returning Office (161 Bay Street, Suite 2700).  

2019 federal election
Are you registered on the official Voters’ List? Do you need to vote early?  You can check on the Elections Canada website.   
For contact info and links to the candidates for the major parties, click here.  

LOCAL NEWS

Sprucecourt School
On Thursday, October 10 at 8:15 am parents and teachers met in front of the school to express their concern over the Ford government’s cuts to education.  At Sprucecourt this year, four classrooms have been shut, there are 1.5 fewer teachers, the Special Education staff is reduced to 2/3 the size of the 2018 staff and there are 28 kids for one teacher in grades 5/6. 

Have fun, Father David
Photo:  Beau Opperman
David Donkin is retiring from his Chaplain post at Royal St George College.  He’s been a familiar face around Cabbagetown for years and a friend to many of us.  He’s planning a move to Ancaster or Dundas.  He wants to start painting again - and he has a vague scheme to be a school crossing guard.  
Whatever you do, thanks for your cheery smile here and best wishes for your future plans.

The summer’s last farmers’ market
The season’s last event at the Cabbagetown Farmers’ Market - next Tuesday from 3 to 7 pm, Riverdale Park West (Sumach and Winchester).  Grab some lovely food and gossip with your neighbours.
On Tuesday, CTV’s Tom Brown did his weather reports live from the market.  He interviewed Kelsey, squeezed some tomatoes and looked like a hungry tiger near the chicken bbq.
Drop by the park on Tuesday and get some heritage tomatoes, fresh squash and beautiful apples.

Cabbagetown Regent Park Museum Historical Tidbit
Image:  Serving the French community, 1911 Société d’histoire de Toronto
by Sally Gibson   
Fourteen-year-old Corine Sirois helped in her father, Albert’s small tobacco-and-candy store at 245 Queen Street East. The Sirois family were respected members of Toronto’s small francophone community which numbered about 3,000 in 1901. Many lived in and immediately south of “old” Cabbagetown, which stretched north from Queen Street. Although the Sirois were from the francophone community and dedicated to serving their francophone neighbours, virtually all the signs in the 1911 store were in English. Presumably, many of their customers were unilingual English-speakers or bilingual francophones. Chicklets tasted as crunchy-sweet in either language.

COMING EVENTS
Listed by starting dates   

Jazz Generation at the Imperial
Jazz Generation presents vocalist Ros Kindler from 5:30 to 7:30 on Friday October 11. Imperial Pub (54 Dundas E).  Her major influences are Billie Holiday and Rosemary Clooney. She has two CDs to her credit  - “Sugar Blues” and “I’m Alright”.  Cabbagetowner Graham Orwin and seven of his pals form this large ensemble that plays good-times jazz with traditional roots. 

Chrysanthemum show
The annual chrysanthemum show begins on Sunday October 13 from 10 am to 5 pm. Allan Gardens Conservatory (Carlton and Jarvis).  

First Parliament Project
Photo:  Toronto Star
Ontario’s first Parliament was built on a site that’s now beneath a car wash at Parliament and Front.  The project is aimed at rehabilitating the site.  There’ll be a public workshop on Tuesday October 15 at 6:15 pm.  You’ll get a chance to learn more about the project, its current status and ways to become involved.  St Lawrence Market Tent (125 The Esplanade).  

Farewell Regent
Photo:  Farewell Regent
Christene Browne’s movie explains why changes in Regent Park are making housing less affordable and less accessible. Interviews with the neighbourhood’s oldest and newest residents. A panel discussion with Ms Browne will follow the movie.  It’s part of the 19th annual Reelword Film Festival.  It screens on Saturday October 19 at 5 pm in the Canada Square Cinema (2190 Yonge).  

Plant sale at Allan Gardens
Join the Friends of Allan Gardens for the Fall plant sale fundraiser on Sunday, October 20 from 10 am until everything is sold. A wide variety of succulents and houseplants available, most in 4” pots.  Prices range from $3 to $25 - cash only.
The Toronto Master Gardeners will run a free clinic at the sale to help you care for your new green babies.

Silver Swans ballet classes
Ballet classes for new dancers ages 55+.  This is a fun, educational class that will help improve balance, mobility, posture, and coordination. No experience necessary.  Sundays, 10 to 11 am, $135 for 8 weeks. Canadian Contemporary Dance Theatre (509 Parliament).  

Jennifer Snowdon’s yoga schedule
While visiting Bermuda recently, Jennifer had an accidental fall from a scooter and her motion now is limited.  She’s still teaching drop-in classes, private lessons and Buteyko clients but she’s postponing her workshops and online trainings scheduled for this Fall. If you were hoping to join one of these, they'll be happening in the New Year.
Her drop-in classes are still on. She may only be able to demonstrate on one side for a bit longer but that won't stop your practice from continuing. Next weekend is her October Restorative and Yoga Nidra class as well. There are three spots left.
Her full schedule is listed online.  
Best wishes, Jennifer, for a full and speedy recovery.

Save the date - pumpkin walk
Give your pumpkin a second night on the town.  Bring it to Riverdale Park West (Sumach and Winchester) from 5 to 9 pm on Friday November 1.  Let your neighbours enjoy the beauty of your creation.  Last year, over 150 pumpkins proudly participated and there should be more this year.  Bring a donation for the food bank.  
The display starts at sundown.  Park staff and CRA volunteers will handle the cleanups.
Thanks to the Cabbagetown Residents Association for a fun event!

Healthy neighbourhood forums
Councillor Wong-Tam will host five community conferences to draft ideas for a healthier neighbourhoods.  Expert speakers and roundtable discussions.  Save the dates.
For Moss Park, Cabbagetown South and the Garden District - Wednesday October 30, 6 pm, Central Neighbourhood House (349 Ontario).
For St James Town, Winchester Park, Upper Jarvis and Bloor East - Tuesday November 12, 6 pm, The Church of St Peter & St Simon-the-Apostle (525 Bloor E).
For Regent Park and Cabbagetown - Tuesday November 26, 6 pm, Regent Park Community Centre (402 Shuter).
For St. Lawrence, Corktown & West Don Lands - Monday December 2, 6 pm, St Lawrence Community Centre, Multipurpose Room (230 The Esplanade). 

KIDS’ STUFF

Costume drive for Nellie’s Shelter
Carly Gaston reports that her kids started a costume drive last year after noticing the huge influx of Regent Park and St James Town kids at their door on Halloween.
They collected over 30 costumes which were delivered to Nellie's Women's Shelter (754 Queen E) on Monday.  They were so excited to share them with the kids in their program.  Carly is now collecting for donations for next year. Drop off your new or gently used costumes at 435 Sumach until November 9.

Growing up green in the garden
On the first Saturday of each month - the next date is Saturday November 2 from 10 am to 11:30 am.  Kid friendly gardening and composting activities, scavenger hunts, nature crafts and more. Bring a snack for garden story time at 10:30 am.  Best for kids 2 to 8 years old.  Suggested donation $2.  Parental supervision required.  Drop-ins welcome.  Allan Gardens Children’s Conservatory (19 Horticultural Ave, Carlton and Jarvis).  

All Things Fall
The Children’s Book Bank (350 Berkeley) hosts special daylong crafts, activities and stories whenever PA Days happen.  The first one during this school year is Friday October 11 from 10 am to 3 pm.  

BUSINESS NEWS

Extended hours for registered massage therapy
Paul Neira, RMT is now available four days a week at Parliament Street Fitness (488 Parliament) on Monday, Wednesday and Friday until 9:00 pm, and Saturday from 1 to 5 pm. Check out his personal details here.  
To book a 30, 45, 60 or 90 minute massage, call (416) 901-5421 or email info@parliamentstreetfitness.com.

Cracking Good Time
Kendall & Co’s adorable Thanksgiving crackers are the perfect hostess gift and party favour as friends and family gather for Fall’s bounty at the dinner table. Located between the LCBO & St. Jamestown Steaks, the shop is open this Saturday and Sunday for all your Thanksgiving needs. Stop in for napkins, candles, wine totes, gifts and home accessories. 
Store hours - Monday to Thursday from 10 am to 6 pm,  Friday 10 am to 7 pm, Saturday 11 am to 6 pm and Sunday 12 am to 5 pm.  https://kendallandco.ca

Tasso
Olya and Mike are open on Thanksgiving weekend with their regular schedule.  Yummy stuff.

Thanksgiving turkeys
Mark at St Jamestown Steak & Chops (516 Parliament) is taking orders for your Thanksgiving turkeys.  Lamb, steaks, roast beef and more are all available for people who have turkey allergies!  You can shop online - click here.  

RESTAURANT NEWS

Ready-made meals for Thanksgiving
Paintbox (555 Dundas E) and Daniel et Daniel (248 Carlton) have each announced prepared Thanksgiving feasts. 

Paintbox Bistro has roasted carved turkey, apple sage dressing, mashed potatoes, garlic green beans, roasted squash, cranberry sauce and gravy - for a vegetarian dish, substitute vegan baked squash for turkey.  $29 per person.  Order online for pickup on Friday October 11 between 8 am and 8 pm.  

Daniel et Daniel will prepare your Thanksgiving feast (minimum order for ten people) - butternut squash soup, sage roast turkey, cranberry sauce, herbed mash potatoes, French green beans, stuffing and apple or pumpkin pie.  $37.50 per person.  Click here for ordering and more info.  
Cyril’s soups
Cyril’s Fall schedule is now underway with more soups and juices.  On Saturday, his soup will be chickpea, tomato and potato curry ($9) and his juice will be beet juice, the return ($9).

He makes two soups every week, on Tuesday and Saturday and informs interested people about his menus in advance by email. He usually prepares a regular version and vegan one. His order deadline is 2 pm on the day before delivery.  He delivers to his Cabbagetown-area customers. He accepts payments by e-transfers and cash. Email him at abeautifulbowl@gmail.com

SEPTEMBER THEATRE & DANCE PRODUCTIONS
Listed by starting dates.

A Streetcar Named Desire
Soulpepper (50 Tank House Lane)
On stage to Sunday October 27
Website and tickets here.  (416) 866-8666    https://www.soulpepper.ca 

CAMINOS 2019: A festival of new performance works
Native Earth, Aki Studio (585 Dundas E)
On stage to October 13
Website and tickets here.  (416) 531-1402  https://www.nativeearth.ca/akistudio/

Almighty Voice and His Wife
Soulpepper (50 Tank House Lane)
October 11 to November 10
Website and tickets here.  (416) 866-8666   https://www.soulpepper.ca 

CLUBS & PUBS – DAILY LISTINGS

THURSDAY OCTOBER 10 TO SUNDAY OCTOBER 20

For contact info about these clubs and restaurants, see the list at the bottom of this page.  
If there's a cover charge or tickets are sold, the prices are listed.

THURSDAY OCTOBER 10

New Town
Oki Doki Karaoke
Tilted Dog
10 pm, Comedy Night with Ethan O’Reilly

FRIDAY OCTOBER 11

Alice’s Place
9:30 pm, Karaoke 
New Town
Oki Doki Karaoke

SATURDAY OCTOBER 12

Mill Street Beer Hall
6 pm, Oktoberfest party, $20
Paintbox
8 pm, Rastafest appreciation show, $20

SUNDAY OCTOBER 13

Alice’s Place
9:30 pm, Karaoke

MONDAY OCTOBER 14

Stout Irish Pub
7:30 pm, Headscratchers Trivia

TUESDAY OCTOBER 15
Dominion
7 pm, Pub Stumpers Trivia
Flipside Donuts & Bar
7 pm, Tuesday Trivia
Stout Irish Pub
7:30 pm, Headscratchers Trivia

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 16

Alice’s Place
9 pm, Karaoke
Stout Irish Pub
8 pm, Michael Darcy
The Tilted Dog
7:30 pm, Smart Ass Trivia with Porter

THURSDAY OCTOBER 17

New Town
Oki Doki Karaoke
Tilted Dog
8 pm, open mic with Robert

FRIDAY OCTOBER 18

Alice’s Place
9:30 pm, Karaoke
New Town
Oki Doki Karaoke

SATURDAY OCTOBER 19

Alice’s Place
9:30 pm, karaoke
Dominion
8 pm, Charlie the Kid

SUNDAY OCTOBER 20

Alice’s Place
9:30 pm, Karaoke

CONTACT INFO

ALICE'S PLACE
554 Parliament St, (647) 931-9088, 
ARVO
17 Gristmill Lane, Distillery,  (647) 352-2766
CORKTOWN KITCHEN
354 King St E, (46) 901-1188
CRANBERRIES
601 Parliament St, (416) 925-6330, 
DOMINION PUB & KITCHEN
500 Queen St E, (416) 366-5555, 
EL CATRIN
18 Tank House Lane, Distillery, (416) 203-2121, 
FLIPSIDE DONUTS & BAR
12 Case Goods Lane, Distillery
HENRIETTA LANE 
394 King E
HOUSE ON PARLIAMENT
454 Parliament St, (416) 925-4074, 
IMPACT KITCHEN
573 King St E, (416) 306-1986, 
THE IRV
95 Carlton Street, (647) 350-4787, 
JOHNNY G’s
478 Parliament St, (416) 928-1358
THE LOCAL GEST
See below - The Tilted Dog
MILL STREET BEER HALL
21 Tank House Ln, Distillery, (416) 681-0338, 
MILL STREET BREW PUB
21 Tank House Ln, Distillery, 
NEW TOWN
413 Parliament Street
ODIN
514 King E, (647) 350-6346,
PAINTBOX BISTRO
555 Dundas St E, (647) 748-0555
PHO PAS
480 Parliament, (416) 922-0769
QUINCY AFROKITCHEN & BAR
326 Parliament, (647) 989-9127, 
SOCIAL SMITHS
574&1/2 Parliament
SOULPEPPER
Young Centre, 50 Tank House Lane, Distillery, (416) 866-8666,
STOUT IRISH PUB
221 Carlton St, (647) 344-7676,
THE TILTED DOG
(Formerly The Local GEST)
424 Parliament. (416) 961-9425