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Hi Neighbour!


Monday is Remembrance Day. It is a time when we take pause and consider the many lives that were sacrificed for the freedom we enjoy today. We are lucky to have a beautiful Cenotaph at York Cemetery where I will be joining Councillor Pasternak to pay honour to our soldiers. Hope you will join us. I am always deeply moved by the poem, In Flanders Fields by John McCrae, which you can read here: 


In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

 That mark our place; and in the sky

 The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.


We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

 Loved and were loved, and now we lie,

 In Flanders fields.


Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

 The torch; be yours to hold it high.

 If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

 In Flanders fields.


Monday, November 11, 10:45AM - Remembrance Day Ceremony at
York Cemetery Cenotaph, 160 Beecroft Rd.
-  Please join me on Monday, November 11, starting at 10:45 a.m. as we honour those who have fought for our freedom. Visit toronto.ca/Remembrance for more information, including a livestream option for the Toronto Remembrance Day Ceremony.


Monday, November 11th, 6-8PM - Public Realm Open House

Do you dream of a beautiful Yonge Street? You are invited to the Yonge North York BIA Open House to share your feedback on the Proposed Public Realm Master Plan and ask any questions you may have. Details will be provided about the vision for our Business Improvement Area (BIA) and will showcase proposed design strategies and public realm improvements. Your input is invaluable. Registration is not required and admission is free!


Agenda:

6-7:00 PM Displays, Discussion and Free Family-Friendly Collaborative Collaging Activity 

7-8:00 PM Opening Remarks by Yonge North York BIA and Councillor Lily Cheng, Presentation and Q&A


Where: Yonge Sheppard Centre, 4841 Yonge Street, Ground Floor Near the Entrance to Winners.

Councillor & Community - Upcoming Events

THIS WEEKEND! Sat. Nov. 9, 11am-7pm   Silk Road Canvas Celebration - Enjoy a diverse array of artistic presentations including workshops at Lansing United Church  
THIS WEEK! Mon. Nov. 11, 6pm-8pm Yonge North York BIA Public Consultation - Yonge Sheppard Centre
STARTING THIS WEEK! Every Thursday, starting Nov. 14, 7:30pm Live Lounge at the Novotel Hotel
NEXT WEEK! Sat. Nov. 16, 9am-3pm Willowdale Leadership Symposium - North York Civic Centre
Sat. Nov. 16, 10am-3pm Danish Fall Bazaar - Danish Lutheran Church & Culture Centre
Sat. Nov. 16, 12pm-3pm Parkland & Recreation Facilities Strategies: Community Engagement
Mon. Nov. 18, 7-8:30pm 104-114 Finch Ave E Community Consultation  
  Tues. Nov. 19, 10am-2pm North York Seniors Centre Active Living Fair  
Sat. Nov. 30, 11am-1pm  

Advent Messy Church - Lansing United Church  

Thurs. Dec. 5, 6pm-9pm   Cameron Public School’s 2024 Holiday Market  
Tue. Dec 10, 4pm-7pm   Winter Charity Drive - Lansing United Church (see below for details)  

Mel Lastman Square - Upcoming Events

Sat. Nov. 30   NeighbourLink Christmas Market & Walking Parade w/ Yonge North York BIA Tree Lighting. Click Here to sign up to be a vendor.
Dec. 6-23   Holiday Fair in the Square by Epilepsy Toronto
Dec. 25 Hanukkah - Light Up the Night
Jan. 11 ‘25 Willowdale Community Skate Party


Willowdale East Community Town Hall

Thank you to the 200+ community members and volunteers who joined us for our largest Spaghetti Town Hall to date. It was heartwarming to see community members connecting over bowls of spaghetti as we discussed a wide range of topics including transit, speeding on roads, community safety, and more. One of our speakers remarked it was the most diverse room he’d ever seen for a town hall. It is beautiful that we can build these meaningful opportunities to connect and work together to strengthen our community. Community members brainstormed about ways to improve Willowdale. 


Some of the ideas included:

  • Local Food Festival featuring restaurants on Yonge Street

  • Get to know your neighbours

  • Activities for single adults including games nights and neighbourhood walks

  • Condo dwellers can ask their board to provide free access to party rooms for community-building activities

  • Don’t litter education campaign

  • Neighbourhood clean up

  • More garbage cans in parks

  • A “Design of the Year” award to recognize good architecture

  • Clothing swap

  • Building our own Willowdale Repair Cafe


If you are interested in spearheading or participating in any of these ideas, please let me know and we can work together!


Update on Sheppard Avenue East Complete Street

We recognize that the resurfacing of Sheppard Avenue East, between Yonge and Bayview, has caused disruptions to traffic flow and road conditions over the past few months, negatively impacting our residents. However, we are pleased to provide you with an encouraging update.


The road paving was completed on Wednesday afternoon. Following the completion of the paving, the contractor began reopening the lanes as quickly as possible, while also starting the permanent pavement markings, which will be completed overnight. If you drive through the area, you will observe a noticeable improvement in traffic flow.


The contractor is now addressing deficiencies in the boulevard and plans to be fully demobilized from the site by November 18, as previously mentioned. Thank you for your patience as we work towards completing this important project. 


Click Here to learn more about this project.


Willowdale Youth Council Update

A member of our Willowdale Youth Council wrote a blurb about their most recent meeting!


“In our recent Willowdale Youth Council meeting, we discussed exciting upcoming initiatives across several committees. The community connectivity team is planning a newcomers potluck in December in partnership with Neighbourlink North York. The community safety committee is developing a presentation for local elementary & middle schools, while the mental health team is introducing note-drop services to raise awareness about mental health for youth. Youth council meetings will now be held on the last Monday of each month from 4:30 to 6:00 PM. Join us as we work together to make a positive impact in our community!”


Anndale Drive - Restoration of Parking Prohibition

In response to concerns of safety around the recent change to 3-hr max. parking at all times of day on the north side of Anndale Dr from Tradewind to the Easterly limit of Anndale, a survey was conducted to collect feedback from surrounding and impacted residents on a proposal to restore the parking prohibition.


The following options were proposed:

  1. Restore No Parking between 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday to Friday. Parking will be allowed on evenings and weekends with a 3-hour limit.

  2.  Keep the 3-hr max parking at all times (No prohibitions).

  3. Prohibit Parking on weekdays at all times, but allow 3-hr max parking at all times on weekends.

  4. Prohibit Parking at all times of the day, weekdays and weekends.

78.3% of survey takers chose Option A, and the proposal was brought as a motion to North York Community Council on October 29th, and was carried. Please see Item 2024.NY18.32 for details of the motion. 


A service request has been submitted to Transportation Services Signs and Markings for installation of the parking prohibition signs (No Parking 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday to Friday), and the bylaw change will be effective upon installation.


Hope to see you at the Silk Road Canvas Celebration happening this afternoon into the evening when there will be a beautiful concert to enjoy at Lansing United Church. Local artists have worked incredibly hard to curate this special event including workshops. Although there is a cost, the fees will ensure all the artists are compensated for their time. 


Have a beautiful weekend.


Warmly,
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Councillor Lily Cheng

Ward 18 Willowdale / Councillor_Cheng@toronto.ca / 416-392-0210

COUNCILLOR UPDATES

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FALL COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR!


Get ready for an autumn of excitement in Willowdale! Looking for fun for the season? Look no further! We've got all the hottest events lined up for you this autumn. From markets to parades, there's something for everyone.

Print out our flyer to stay in the loop with all the can't-miss events happening in Willowdale this season!

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104-114 FINCH AVE EAST DEVELOPMENT CONSULTATION


Join us for a virtual development consultation about the proposed 11-storey building at 104 to 114 Finch Ave E, featuring 184 residential units! 


When: Mon, Nov 18, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Where: Virtual (link will be provided shortly) 


This is a great opportunity to learn more and share your thoughts on the project. We hope to see you there!


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WILLOWDALE LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM


Join us on Saturday, November 16 at North York Civic Centre, Council Chambers for the Willowdale Leadership Symposium. This is a time for leaders across Willowdale to break out of our silos and learn more about each other towards building stronger pathways to collaboration.


The conference will run from 9am-3pm and will include:

  • Poverty Alleviation Roundtable - Meet some of the agencies working with the most vulnerable in Willowdale as we consider how we can strengthen our community support to build a better future.

  • Networking & Collaboration - As leaders in our neighbourhood, it is important for us to share the work we are doing and find ways our efforts can be amplified and multiplied through collaboration.

  • Peer Connection - Meet with others who are doing what you are doing, be it, Parent Council, Condo Board, Culture Group, Neighbourhood Associations and more!

  • Facilities Master Plan Consultation - Give input on what facilities and amenities our community will need in the next 10 years.

  • Skills Building - Learn about tools and platforms that can help you strengthen your service to the community.

When: Nov 16, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Where: North York Civic Centre, Council Chamber, 5100 Yonge St.


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PARKLAND & RECREATION FACILITIES STRATEGIES: 

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT


Toronto’s recreation facilities and parks offer communities spaces to play, connect, learn, exercise and celebrate. The Parkland Strategy and Parks and Recreation Facilities Plan (formerly the Facilities Master Plan) are 20-year plans that guide the growth and investment in these spaces across the city. Every five years, these plans are reviewed to ensure they continue to meet the changing needs and priorities of residents and reflect updates in population, policies and funding.


Stop by pop-up events to learn more about the plans and the community engagement process, and participate in discussions about the future of Toronto’s recreation spaces and parks.


When: Saturday, November 16, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Where: North York Central Library, 5120 Yonge St.

CITY OF TORONTO UPDATES

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WOMEN4CLIMATE TORONTO


Are you looking to advance your climate action initiative? Apply now for the Women4ClimateTO Mentorship Program! Gain valuable mentoring, training and networking opportunities to accelerate your project.


Applications from those interested in becoming a mentor are also welcomed. 


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CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE - 311 - TORONTO AT YOUR SERVICE


The City of Toronto is conducting the 311 Awareness and Usage Survey to gather feedback from residents, businesses, and visitors regarding their familiarity with the 311 Toronto service. The survey aims to understand the current 311 Service accuracy and clarity of our customer communication. Improving communication within the system will ensure that 311 Customer Service Representatives and our digital channels provide accurate information, ultimately enhancing the overall customer experience. 


The survey will be live from November 4th to December 4th, 2024. Please take a moment to provide your feedback and help the City improve 311 services. 


Please visit the city webpage for more information.

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NOISE BY-LAW INFORMATION SESSION


The City is hosting two virtual public information sessions where participants will have an opportunity to learn more about recent changes made to the Noise Bylaw, ask questions and engage with a panel of staff.


You can register for one of the sessions below:

The City is hosting these sessions to inform the public about updates to the Noise Bylaw that came into effect in June 1 and September 1, 2024, summarize updated noise data and data trends, and give residents an opportunity to provide feedback on the bylaw and engage with staff. 


If you have any questions, please e-mail MLSFeedback@toronto.ca.

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VACANT HOME TAX DECLARATION 2024 - 2025


On November 1, the Vacant Home Tax (VHT) declaration period opened for residential property owners.


Beginning on November 1st, homeowners are now able to declare the 2024 occupancy status of their property in three ways:

  • through the online declaration portal at toronto.ca/VacantHomeTax 

  • by calling 311

  • by visiting a Tax and Utility counter at City Hall or a civic centre. (North York Civic Centre - 5800 Yonge St)

If you experience trouble when trying to submit your declaration of occupancy status, you can call 311 or send an email to our office with details of your issue and the following information:

  • Property owner’s full name

  • Property owner’s phone number

  • Property address (including postal code)

  • Assessment roll number

  • Details of the issue or problem

Q: What qualifies as a “vacant” home? 

A: A house or condo is considered vacant if it is not the owner's principal/main residence or the principal residence of someone they permit to live there, or if it was not occupied by tenants for more than six months during the calendar year. 

 

A property may qualify for an exemption from the Vacant Home Tax if certain conditions apply. If the property is the owner’s main residence (where they reside and conduct their daily affairs, receive mail, pay bills, etc.) it can remain unoccupied and would not be considered vacant. 

 

Q: What are the exemptions to the Vacant Home Tax? 

A: Vacant Home Tax exemptions include properties that meet the following criteria: 

  • Property undergoing major repairs or renovations 

  • Legal transfer of ownership occurred within the taxation year 

  • Owner(s) is/are in an extended, long-term care facility (can be claimed for two consecutive years) 

  • Registered owner passed away in the taxation year or the two previous taxation years (can be claimed for three consecutive years) 

  • Property is required as a secondary residence by the owner or their spouse for full-time employment purposes 

  • Property is required as a secondary residence by the owner, their spouse or dependent for medical treatment in Toronto 

  • Property cannot be occupied due to court order 

  • Property was newly constructed and never occupied or sold and was actively listed for sale during the taxation year (can be claimed for two consecutive years) 

Q: How can homeowners who need to make their declaration in another language get help? 

A: Homeowners who need assistance making their declaration can call 311 which offers service in more than 180 languages. 

 

Q: What support is available for seniors or those with limited computer access? 

A: Homeowners who do not have easy access to a computer can declare the occupancy status of their property by calling 311. Or they can make a declaration at a Tax and Utility counter at Toronto City Hall or a civic centre. Homeowners can also have a family member or friend complete the online declaration for them.


In addition, the City is offering dedicated in-person assistance to submit a VHT declaration at drop-in sessions on select dates


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TTC ANNOUNCES FINAL DAY TO USE OLD TTC TICKETS, TOKENS, AND DAY PASSES


The TTC has announced Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, as the final day that TTC tickets, tokens, and day passes, will be accepted on the transit system.


Starting Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, the TTC will only accept fares paid using a physical or digital PRESTO card, PRESTO Ticket, debit or credit card, including those stored in an Apple or Google Wallet. Cash payments will still be accepted in station fare boxes, and, on buses and streetcars. Customers can also use cash to purchase PRESTO cards and tickets from Fare Vending Machines in subway stations.


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TTC 2025 ANNUAL SERVICE PLAN SURVEY


The TTC needs your insights for the 2025 Annual Service Plan, focused on improving local and overnight routes, construction detours, and the Community Bus Network. 


Help shape the future of transit in Toronto by sharing your feedback through our survey: 2025 Annual Service Plan (ttc.ca) or request a hard copy at khly@thirdpartypublic.ca or 437-800-1882.

COMMUNITY UPDATES

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NORTH YORK COMMUNITY RESOURCES BOOKLET


The North York Community Resources Booklet is now available! This comprehensive guide provides essential information on local services, programs, and support in our community. Whether you're looking for health resources, legal aid services, or housing supports, you’ll find everything you need in one place.


Click Here for the English version.


Click Here for the Farsi version.


Click Here for the Chinese version.

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SILK ROAD CANVAS


Mark your calendar for November 9th and join Orkid Gallery and Provia Events for a vibrant celebration of cultures from the ancient Silk Road! 


This unique event at Lansing United Church brings together artists, musicians, and representatives from various countries to showcase the rich cultural exchange that connected nations for centuries. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a living tapestry of art, music, and tradition that once served as a vital artery for dialogue between cultures.

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PUBLIC REALM OPEN HOUSE


Do you dream of a beautiful Yonge Street? You are invited to the Yonge North York BIA Open House to share your feedback on the Proposed Public Realm Master Plan and ask any questions you may have. Details will be provided about the vision for our Business Improvement Area (BIA) and will showcase proposed design strategies and public realm improvements. Your input is invaluable.  


Registration is not required and admission is free!


Agenda:

6-7:00 PM Displays, Discussion and Free Family-Friendly Collaborative Collaging Activity 

7-8:00 PM Opening Remarks by Yonge North York BIA and Councillor Lily Cheng, Presentation and Q&A


When: Monday, November 11th, 6:00PM - 8:00PM

Where: Yonge Sheppard Centre, 4841 Yonge Street, Ground Floor Near the Entrance to Winners.

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LEARN4LIFE REGISTRATION OPENS NOVEMBER 13TH


Looking for something fun to do this fall? The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) offers a wide range of Adult General Interest and Seniors Daytime classes through the Learn4Life program. These classes provide an excellent opportunity to learn new skills, stay active, and connect with others in your community. 


Led by expert instructors, Learn4Life offers courses in Arts, Business, Computers, Cooking, Crafts, Dance, Finance, Fitness, Languages, Music, Sports, Sewing, and much more! 


Registration opens on November 13th. 


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LIVE LOUNGE AT THE NOVOTEL NORTH YORK


Discover North Toronto’s newest indoor live music venue, Live Lounge at Novotel! Located in the heart of Willowdale, just off Yonge Street. Experience great music, and good vibes, in the company of friends at our chill venue located at the Novotel, 3 Park Home Ave.


Unwind and enjoy some fantastic performances by talented musicians while enjoying a variety of food & drink from the Trio Restaurant and Bar. Whether you're a music enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, this event is perfect for everyone. Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience live music in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.


Willowdale Arts Collective has partnered with T.U. Jazz Fest to bring live performances from emerging musicians and award-winning artists.


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NYSC ACTIVE LIVING FAIR


Join the North York Seniors Centre Active Living Fair!


This year’s theme is "A Journey to Wellness". Get ready for a day filled with:

  • Multicultural refreshments
  • Informative presentations
  • Prizes to be won
  • Many vendors to explore

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to learn, connect, and have fun! 


Date: November 19

Time: 10 AM - 2 PM

Admission: FREE!


Tell your friends and drop by for an unforgettable day of wellness!

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WE LOVE WILLOWDALE CHRISTMAS MARKET


NeighbourLink North York's 4th We Love Willowdale Christmas Market is Saturday, November 30th at Mel Lastman Square!

The Artisan Market will take place from 2-8pm and the Festive Tree Lighting, Presented by the Yonge North York BIA, will take place at 6:30pm.

At the market you’ll find:
- 50+ artisan vendors and small businesses
- Live Entertainment & Community Sing-a-Long 
- Food Trucks (including Beaver Tails) 
- Hot Chocolate 
- Family Photo Booth ‍️
- Kids Activities from Sunnyside Up Camp
- Santa and Mrs Claus 

- Cram A Cruiser Food Drive - bring a non-perishable food item!

You're encouraged to RSVP each attendee from your group for the market. General RSVP (13+) is a suggested $5 donation! You can also donate in person at the event! Funds raised through donations from the public go directly to supporting our neighbours this holiday season through NeighbourLink's food bank, senior, youth and newcomer programs!

You can learn more about the market and RSVP at www.neighbourlink.org/christmas

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LANSING UNITED'S ADVENT MESSY CHURCH


Lansing United Church is hosting an Advent Messy Church on November 30th from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM!


Messy Church is an informal and fun way to remember the Christmas story, be creative, live into the season, and enjoy some pizza with your community!


All ages are welcome.


Please RSVP by calling 416-221-1722 or emailing lansingunited@lansingchurch.com.


To learn more, please contact Rev. Brad Inglis at 416-268-7592 or minister@lansingchurch.com.

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CAMERON PUBLIC SCHOOL'S 2024 HOLIDAY MARKET


You are invited to Cameron Public School's Holiday Market School Fundraiser! 


Join in on Thursday, December 5th, from 6:00-9:00 PM at Cameron P.S. for a fun-filled evening with activities the whole family can enjoy, and of course shopping with over 40 local vendors. Admission is $5.00 per person (children 10 and under are free). 


Come out and support our fabulous school, and vendors. Bring your friends and neighbors, and help spread the word! 


If you are a local business, and would like to provide an item or service as a donation for a door prize, please email Lisa at epsholidaymarket@gmail.com.

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WINTER CHARITY DRIVE


As the holiday season approaches, the warm-hearted community of Willowdale is thinking of those who may be facing challenges this time of year. One of our caring residents, Elle Mollaei, has initiated a Christmas Drive, and what better way to contribute than by donating winter clothing for all ages. 
Join us on December 10th to make a difference in our neighborhood by giving the gift of warmth to those in need.
When: Tuesday, December 10, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Where: Lansing United Church, 49 Bogert Ave., M2N 1K4

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