With Coucillor Gary Crawford
City Councillor Gary Crawford alongside Mayor John Tory; at Blantyre Pool August 23. The pool was closed after a crack was discovered. Staff worked around the clock to repair the pool in a couple of days during the citywide heatwave.
By Gary Crawford
Hello residents of Scarborough Southwest!
It’s that time of year again… back to school! Whether your little ones are going back to in person learning or online I’m wishing them all good luck with the school year ahead. Please remind your children to wash their hands regularly, wear a mask and pack sanitizer in their book bags. With the rise of COVID-19 variants it is crucial that we all do our part to curb the spread of COVID-19 this fall.
This ongoing pandemic has affected everyone’s mental health. Being cooped up can be discouraging, why not take this time to explore a new hobby or revisit an old one. Check out a local patio, go apple picking, visit a park, get outside and enjoy the weather while it’s still warm. My outlet is painting and drawing, I have had a passion for art ever since I can remember. Especially during the pandemic, I find myself drawing more. It has allowed me to escape when I feel overwhelmed. I love to explore the beautiful scenery this province has to offer. I sit outside with my morning coffee and sketchbook and listen to the birds chirping around me while I draw. Just a reminder to take good care of your mental health especially as the weather cools off and we begin to stay inside more.
The pandemic has been particularly hard on small businesses. Support local and small businesses in your community whether it be getting takeout from a local restaurant you’ve been meaning to try, or visiting the Scarborough Farmers’ Market at Oakridge Park. The market takes place every Thursday evening until October 7th from 3:30pm-7:30pm at 3459 Danforth Ave. They have a large variety of locally sourced goods, artisan treats, fresh produce and much more!
I hope you all soak up the sun and enjoy the last long weekend of summer. Hopefully by this time next year we will back to normal life. Thank you to all the frontline workers who continue to work tirelessly to get us through this pandemic. Vaccines save lives and are what will help get us through this difficult time. Please get vaccinated if you have not already done so. We are making major progress, over 75% of Toronto residents are now fully vaccinated. It is important to continue to stay vigilant and continue to follow the recommend COVID-19 guidelines. Stay optimistic and remember there is light at the end of the tunnel.
As always please feel free to contact my office with any comments or concerns. We will do our very best to assist you! Wishing you all a very relaxing, fun, and happy Labour Day!