Wednesday February 5, 2025
CampTO Registration Opens Today
Registration for summer CampTO opens today with focus on camp food program for 31,000 kids .
Mayor Olivia Chow and Councillor Rachel Chernos Lin (Don Valley West) celebrated the upcoming opening of summer CampTO registration and introduced a new CampTO Food Program that would provide more than 31,000 campers with a daily nutritious snack.
As included in the Mayor’s 2025 budget, which will be considered by Toronto City Council on February 11, the CampTO Food Program would be in place this summer at 45 CampTO locations in Neighbourhood Improvement Areas or free centres across the city. The snacks provided would be served mid-morning and include a variety of healthy and nutritious foods.
CampTO summer programs offer a wide variety of camp experiences for kids and youth ages four to 16. CampTO runs from early July to late August in neighbourhoods across the city, with opportunities to stay active, learn new skills, build friendships and create fun memories. More details are at toronto.ca/CampTO.
How to register for CampTO summer programs Registration for CampTO summer programs opens at 7 a.m. today.
The fastest and easiest way to register is online using the City’s new recreation and booking system at toronto.ca/OnlineReg. Residents are encouraged to create an account in advance so that they are ready for registration opening.
For anyone needing help with registration for these programs, the following community centre locations will be open on Wednesday, February 5 from 7 a.m. until noon: –
Centennial Recreation Centre, 1967 Ellesmere Rd. –
Dennis R. Timbrell Resource Centre, 29 St. Dennis Dr. –
Driftwood Community Centre, 4401 Jane St. –
Ethennonnhawahstihnen’ Community Centre, 100 Ethennonnhawahstihnen’ Ln. –
Malvern Community Recreation Centre, 30 Sewells Rd. –
Masaryk Cowan Community Centre, 220 Cowan Ave. –
Memorial Pool and Health Club, 44 Montgomery Rd. –
Regent Park Community Centre, 402 Shuter St. –
Wellesley Community Centre, 495 Sherbourne St. –
York Recreation Centre, 115 Black Creek Dr.
Residents who need help preparing for registration can call 416-396-7378, Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The call centre will be open for extended hours on Tuesday, February 4, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on registration day from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Thursday January 23, 2025
Lee and Me
By niece Margaret Foxwood
My Aunt Leonie was my sponsor when I immigrated to Canada in 1968.
A DANCER ALL HER LIFE: Dancing and music were her life-long passion – she danced before she could walk, and a cage of canaries added music and colour to her life in Toronto. At that time she was involved with the flamenco scene, not only dancing at a professional level but also making her own authentic costumes.
ROAD TRIP ACROSS CANADA: Lee’s talented guitarist, Terry, and I joined her in 1969 for an unforgettable trip across Canada in a converted Ford Econoline. Luggage was restricted to a small holdall each, together with a couple of cooking pots and a hibachi.
Lee had no regard for folks’ background or appearance but simply rated them by how they lived their lives. In Prince George we visited the sister of Charles, a First Nations flamenco musician who was a valued member of Lee’s group in Toronto.
WHITEHORSE VISIT: Ever the newspaper editor, Lee was made welcome by the press officer in Whitehorse, in those days an isolated and undeveloped but strategic place.
YUKON ORGANICS! Lee’s interest in organic food led her from weekly contact with the Farmers’ Market in downtown Toronto to a German expat in the wilds of the Yukon who had succeeded in growing a tiny patch of vegetables in the half-inch of soil above the permafrost.
TORONTO CITIZEN: From the 50s of the last century to the present day, Leonie contributed a great deal to the development of Toronto.
UNIQUE: She lived life her way to the end. There will never be another Lee.
Thursday January 23, 2025
Flock Together for the Great Backyard Bird Count.
Find birds in your community and share the joy
Ithaca, NY—Share in the joy of birds during the annual Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) and help make your community stronger for you and the birds. Bird and nature lovers everywhere unite in the effort to tally as many of the world’s bird species as possible over these four days. Combined with other bird counts, GBBC results help create a clearer picture of how birds are faring—whether individual species are declining, increasing, or holding steady in the face of habitat loss, climate change, and other threats.
The 28th annual Great Backyard Bird Count is taking place February 14 through 17, 2025.
“The GBBC continues to bring together millions of people every year,” said David Bonter, co-director of the Center for Engagement in Science and Nature at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. More than a half-million people participated during the 2024 GBBC—double the number of participants in the past five years. They reported 7,920 species of birds from 200+ countries and subregions.
“Participating in the Great Backyard Bird Count is an easy and great opportunity to bird with your friends and neighbors,” said Brooke Bateman, senior director of Climate and Community Science at the National Audubon Society. “More and more we see how birds can bring communities closer all across the world. The more we enjoy birds together, the more likely it is that we take steps to protect them and the places they need.”
“This free annual event also acts as a stepping stone for people looking to contribute to our understanding of bird populations around the world,” says Jody Allair, director of communications at Birds Canada.
“Joining your community to count birds means that we can track the long-term changes in bird populations,” says Bonter, “and we wouldn’t be able to do that without you. The world is changing fast, and birds often reflect the impact of environmental change first.”
To take part in the 2025 GBBC, each participant or group counts birds for any length of time (but for at least 15 minutes) and enters the birds they can identify at each site they visit. That could be their backyard, but it could also be a park, a wilderness area, apartment balcony, or a neighborhood street.
Anyone can participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count. Sue MacCallum, a long time participant says “Disabled, I can only count in my yard. Though fewer in number, my birds are of equal importance during this global celebration! My highlight is when local counters drop in, eager to share how their sightings are inspiring them to learn more about birds!”
First-timers should make it a point to read complete instructions on the GBBC website where they will also find helpful birding tips and birding app downloads. The GBBC website also features a new map for marking local GBBC community events. Birders can join up to help celebrate birds in their hometown. https://www.birdcount.org/community-map/
You’re also invited to tune in to a special webinar about how to participate in the GBBC. Register for one of two free events happening on Thursday, February 6, at 7:00-8:00 p.m. Eastern Time or Wednesday, February 12 3:00-4:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Register:https://dl.allaboutbirds.org/2025gbbcwebinar.
The Great Backyard Bird Count is a joint project of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, National Audubon Society, and Birds Canada and is made possible in part by founding sponsor Wild Birds Unlimited.
Monday January 14, 2025
City of Toronto expands Administrative Penalty System to include automated road safety tools
Starting today, the City of Toronto is expanding its Administrative Penalty System (APS) to to make it easier, more convenient and accessible to dispute Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) and Red-Light Camera (RLC) violations. Vehicle owners who receive an ASE or RLC violation that occurred on or after Monday, January 20 can dispute the violation online at toronto.ca/aps.
In 2017, the City, as part of its commitment to customer service improvements, introduced APS to enable motorists to dispute parking violations through an administrative review process instead of a court-based system. Since its implementation, APS has streamlined the dispute process for parking violations, offering timely, fair and efficient resolution.
Following the City’s successful introduction of APS for parking violations and its commitment to road safety in the Vision Zero Road Safety Plan (www.toronto.ca/visionzero), the City is now expanding APS to include RLC and ASE violations. Both RLC and ASE are important tools in the Vision Zero plan, which prioritizes the safety of Toronto’s most vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, people cycling, school children and older adults.
How to request a screening review
Vehicle owners who receive a RLC or ASE violation that occurred on or after Monday, January 20 can request a screening to dispute a violation.
All screenings are conducted online unless a request for accommodation is approved. Decisions on screening reviews will be sent via email to the vehicle owner.
Similar to parking violation disputes, reviews will be conducted by a City screening officer who can affirm, vary or cancel penalties and is authorized to give people additional time to pay the penalty fee.
If the vehicle owner is not satisfied with the penalty review decision, a second and final review can be requested with the Administrative Penalty Tribunal (APT), an independent adjudicative body consisting of public panel members. These members are appointed by Toronto City Council and provide a second, independent and final decision in a violation dispute.
Payments can be made online, by mail or in-person at seven City locations. More information about APS, including where payments can be made in-person, is available on the City’s website: www.toronto.ca/aps.
Tuesday January 14, 2025
City of Toronto launches full list of CampTO summer programs online
From traditional day camp experiences to sports, arts, indoor, outdoor and nature-based activities, the City of Toronto is excited to offer an extensive lineup of summer programs for children and youth ages four to 16.
With more than 30 types of camp programs at more than 140 locations, residents can now better prepare for next month’s city-wide registration by viewing the City of Toronto’s summer camp program list on the City’s CampTO webpage here.
CampTO will be available from early July to late August in neighbourhoods across the city, with opportunities to stay active, learn new skills, build friendships and create fun memories.
The City continues to offer CampTO Plus at community centres and at Toronto History Museum sites. These specialized camps include a focus on areas such as arts, circus, creative writing, sports, magic, nature, drama, dance, science and French. Adapted and inclusive programs for participants with special needs or a disability will also be available. More information can be found on the City’s webpage here.
Counsellor-In-Training (CIT) programs are also being offered this summer, providing participants between 13 and 16 years of age with an introduction to the fundamentals of being a Camp Counsellor. Participants will learn about program planning, working with campers in an interactive environment, and will experience a supervised practical placement in a City summer camp.
Create a new account and wish list to prepare for registration
Last November, the City officially launched a new registration and booking system for recreation and cultural activities, fitness or sports memberships and passes, and select facility bookings. Most residents will need to set up an account in the new system, even if they had one in the old system. Family and client numbers are no longer used. Clients will login to the new system using email and password.
Residents are encouraged to explore the new system, create their new account and make a wish list before registration day.
There are several resources available to assist in using the new system including.
- Printed how-to postcards at community recreation centres
- Public Help Sessions in-person and online throughout January.
Additional resources available online include tutorial videos and step-by-step instructions to guide residents on what they need to do in the new system, from creating and updating an account, creating a wish list, completing program registration and more.
Residents can access the new system and find many helpful resources on the Online Registration and Booking page here.
Registration online, in-person or by phone
When registration for CampTO summer programs opens at 7 a.m. on Wednesday, February 5, the fastest and easiest way to register is online.
For anyone needing help with registration for these programs, the following ten community centre locations will be open on Wednesday, February 5 from 7 a.m. until noon:
- Centennial Recreation Centre, 1967 Ellesmere Rd.
- Dennis R. Timbrell Resource Centre, 29 St. Dennis Dr.
- Driftwood Community Centre, 4401 Jane St.
- Ethennonnhawahstihnen’ Community Centre, 100 Ethennonnhawahstihnen’ Ln.
- Malvern Community Recreation Centre, 30 Sewells Rd.
- Masaryk Cowan Community Centre, 220 Cowan Ave.
- Memorial Pool and Health Club, 44 Montgomery Rd.
- Regent Park Community Centre, 402 Shuter St.
- Wellesley Community Centre, 495 Sherbourne St.
- York Recreation Centre, 115 Black Creek Dr.
Residents who need help preparing for registration can call 416-396-7378, Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The call centre will be open for extended hours on Tuesday, February 4, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on registration day from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Thursday January 2, 2025
Charlie Johnstone appointed as the new CEO of Variety and Variety Village.
Variety – the Children’s Charity of Ontario is pleased to announce the appointment of Charlie Johnstone as the new CEO of Variety and Variety Village. Charlie officially assumes his role on January 6 at Variety Village.
A highly experienced and respected leader in sports marketing, Charlie most recently served as President and CEO of two of Canada’s most unique events: The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and the Honda Indy Toronto. In these roles, he successfully developed strategic and financial initiatives that stabilized the organizations and facilitated long-term growth.
Charlie’s skill set includes securing over $50 million in corporate sponsorship support, more than $25 million in government funding, and generating nearly $10 million for various children’s charities across the Greater Toronto Area.
A graduate of the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University, Charlie focused his studies on the intersection of sports marketing, business, health, and recreation.
“I am energized and motivated by the opportunity to join Variety Ontario,” Charlie stated. “I look forward to leveraging my extensive career in sport and recreation to benefit both our programs and patrons. Collaborating with the staff, volunteers, business partners, and Board of Directors, I am committed to ensuring the continued growth and success of the organization for the communities we serve.”
“Variety’s team is excited to welcome Charlie as the new CEO,” said Jordan Assaraf, Board Chair. “Charlie’s passion for making a positive impact aligns perfectly with our values. Over the last ten years, we have gained significant momentum, but there is still work to be done. I am confident that Charlie will lead us into an exciting future.
Join us in welcoming Charlie to the Village!
Thursday January 2, 2025
Scarborough Family Doctors Recognized for Outstanding Care and Dedication
Life with a family doctor means access to comprehensive care for Ontarians and their loved ones
Family doctors in Scarborough are being recognized by patients and the Ontario College of Family Physicians for the outstanding care they provide and their dedication to the community.
Dr. Richard Kalnins of Port Union Medical Centre in Scarborough is among those being recognized. One of his patients, Susan Horner, credits him with helping her to create lifestyle changes in order to control her diabetes and blood sugar. Ms. Horner says:
“Dr. Kalnins is an outstanding family doctor and I feel so thankful that he is my physician. He is thorough, caring and always ensures I understand what is going on with my health. He has been particularly supportive with managing my diabetes and has taught me the importance of an appropriate food plan, exercise and setting goals for myself. This has resulted in me losing over 100 pounds and being in better control of my blood sugar. I feel like a new person and I’m so happy to have Dr. Kalnins leading my health care. He truly deserves recognition for the kind of care he provides to his patients.”
Ms. Horner nominated Dr. Kalnins to be recognized as part of a campaign to highlight the essential role of family physicians. The Ontario College of Family Physicians asked Ontarians a simple question: ‘Tell us how your family doctor has gone above and beyond for you.’ The response was overwhelming and heartfelt, resulting in more than 750 family physicians, including 10 in Scarborough, being honoured.
“What we heard from patients in all corners of the province, including in Scarborough, is that family physicians are there for patients, providing care when they need it most,” said Dr. Jobin Varughese, President, Ontario College of Family Physicians. “We are thankful for the dedication and care that family physicians show to patients.”
Another patient in Scarborough, Batyr Nuryyev, is sharing how his family doctor. Dr. Travis Sutherland, of Victoria Health Centre, has supported him with several serious concerns. He says: “I am thankful for the care that Dr. Sutherland has provided to me regarding my stomach issues as well as a skin infection. He has always listened to my concerns and made me feel comfortable. I am grateful to have him!”
The Ontario College of Family Physicians also heard from Ontarians who do not have a family doctor – and want one. There are 2.5 million Ontarians without access to a family doctor.
“Family physicians are the foundation of our health care system, and every Ontarian should have access to one,” said Deepy Sur, CEO, Ontario College of Family Physicians. “We can get there by ensuring family physicians have the right supports in the right place to allow them to continue to provide patient care.”
The Ontario College of Family Physicians is calling on government and healthcare leaders to continue taking steps to prioritize patient care by increasing access to family doctors. By reducing unnecessary red tape and ensuring family doctors have the right supports to stay focused on patients, Ontario can retain the family doctors we have now and recruit for the future. Visit LifeWithADoctor.ca to learn more.
Monday December 9, 2024
Birchmount Bluffs Neighbourhood Centre Seniors Glee Club
By: Maryse Ristuccia
Every Thursday afternoon, for going on three years, a group of young at heart seniors get together at Birchmount Bluffs Neighbourhood Center to sing. Some have sung in choirs before, some have never sung, some have musical training and others have no idea about notes or keys. All these seniors came to see what Glee Club for Seniors was about, organized by Priya Hawkins, the Senior Active Living Program Co-ordinator, and they decided to keep coming back.
The group has discovered the many benefits of singing, especially singing together. It helps keep the memory working well, it helps the brain through learning something new, and it helps sinuses and respiratory systems work well. Besides all the physical and mental benefits, the Glee Club is a great opportunity to socialize, make new friends and connect with others in the community. An often overlooked need for seniors who may be on their own or lack friendly companionship. This group of dedicated senior singers recognize the many benefits from their weekly Glee Club attendance and just keep returning.
There have been changes over this time period. A couple of accompanists have come and gone but in 2024, they were led by Dorothy Currie, a wonderful musician and a leader, that always emphasizes the fun aspect of singing together. Anyone in the group can suggest a song that they would like to do and all in the group are encouraged to not worry about mistakes just have fun singing or to take a chance and sing a solo.
Several times a year the Seniors’ Glee Club goes out to entertain at nursing homes or community programs. Their performance is a real treat for the residents of Retirement Suites by the Lake and Chester Village. Not only do the residents enjoy the music but the Glee Club feels a great sense of satisfaction bringing a smile to the residents’ day. Especially when they see the residents sing along.
Three years together, three years of friendships and laughter. Some singers came and decided it wasn’t for them but now the group has a solid base of about 15 people, including two male singers, and they just keep having more fun and getting better and more confident in singing and performing. We are optimistic that the program will continue at BBNC as there are so many positive aspects of BBNC Seniors’ Glee Club.
Wednesday December 4, 2024
Music of the Season at Common Good
Hardiman Bacque will host Music of the Season in support of Feed Scarborough on Sunday December 22nd from 2pm-5pm at Common Good Brewery 475 Ellesmere Rd. Admission is FREE! Family and dog friendly! Live music including your holiday favourites, great local beers and seltzers, plus soda pop, juice and plenty of snacks for the kids (and grownups too). Or bring your own snacks! Video arcade games, board games, and more… Bring non-perishable food items with you, or make an online donation at the event. Tax receipts available. Come celebrate with family and friends and let’s support a hunger-free, resilient Scarborough!
Friday November 29, 2024
City’s First-Ever Early Registration for Senior Programs Announced
From the Office of Councollor Paul Ainslie
I was pleased to announce, with Mayor Olivia Chow, the implementation of my recommendation to City Council in October. This recommendation addressed the various challenges seniors were facing when registering for local community services and programs. The improvements include designated priority times and dates for senior registration.
“With early registration for our older adult programs, we’re improving the registration process, making it more equitable and eliminating challenges. A separate registration time ensures fair opportunity to access programs and services,” said Councillor Paul Ainslie. Early registration begins this Tuesday, November 26 at 10 a.m.
Registration for all winter recreation programs in Etobicoke York and Toronto and East York opens on Tuesday, December 3 at 7 a.m., and for North York and Scarborough on Wednesday, December 4 at 7 a.m.
To assist residents in navigating the new system, the city is offering various forms of support. This includes free in-person help sessions at local community recreation centres and seniors’ centres, as well as virtual help sessions and online video tutorials. More information can be found on the City’s webpage here.
I want to thank all the residents in Scarborough-Guildwood who brought this issue to my attention. Senior access to services and programs is crucial for fostering an inclusive and supportive community. Ensuring that seniors can easily participate in various activities and access essential services helps promote their physical and mental health.
Friday November 15, 2024
Oliver Twist …"please sir can I have more" - Ferral Cats in the Bluffs
Written by Maureen Rose Everatt
The following is a true, yet harrowing story just like
the story of Oliver Twist, a novel by Charles Dickens. Oliver Twist 2024.
Feral cats living in the Birch Cliff Community need more, and if they could speak, they would ask for more help. Just like the novel, humanity needs educated on their suffering, and find out how to help, and how to give more…
I am attempting to gives a snapshot of suffering, and like in the novel, humanity has the capacity to “wake up” to the suffering around us and how to take action. I too am one of those people, I am an animal lover, every animal I have taken in has been abandoned, or in need of specialized care physically or mentally. I thought I knew it all. I didn’t know I would face a reckoning, and my awareness of the suffering of animals would not only enlighten me, but it would also break my heart and compel me to take action to help.
To be honest, I never paid much attention to feral cats, I knew they were out there, and nice people fed then, and that was all. Things dramatically changed in January of 2024. My sister-in-law was hospitalized and asked me to look after her colony of three feral cats.
I had assumed the cats were well cared for; she fed them several times a day. Her husband, my brother had built Katz dinners, or wooden above the ground houses for the food, so they could eat in poor weather. Additionally, he had built several warm sleeping homes, built from rubber-made containers, lined with cat-safe nontoxic Styrofoam, and lined with straw (not hay). She had contacted the Feral Cat Coalition the cats were captured, spayed or neutered for free, including receiving a rabies vaccine. Then returned the cats to my sister-in-law.
I was naively confident that all is well in the world of the feral cat, Boy, was I wrong.
The care of these cats unexpectedly continued for 8 months. During that time, two of the cats “disappeared” they could have been eaten by coyotes, which is often the fate of feral cats, or hit by a car, I don’t know, but either way, the death was horrific.
My heart was broken. The oldest cat, who was named Whitie, but I renamed him to Oliver Twist, because he was streetwise and cunning, couldn’t]t be caught. I tried everything, a fishing net, a raccoon trap, spending hours on the property after giving vet prescribed sleeping pills. However, I couldn’t catch him. The property was sold, and I had to hope that like most feral cats, he had more than one home he visited for food.
During the 8 months, I saw firsthand the life feral cats live, and it’s not pretty. The street wise feral cats soon learned that I would show up every day at the same time, and with food. I soon was joined by feral cats that were “owned” by residents, but not let in the home, and underfed. The owners did not get vaccinations or have the cats spayed or neutered, and not concerned if kittens were produced. More than 20 cats showed up who were living in or around the many commercial buildings across the street. All were hungry,
I observed female cats constantly pregnant and giving birth to two litters a year, some kittens survived, but most didn’t. The feral cats are incrusted with dried blood due to extensive and painful flea bites and have protruding bones due to intestinal worms. They are hungry, often not vaccinated, and suffer daily from respiratory infections, skin liaisons , tumors on their tongue, and battle wounds that never heal. I recall that several years ago one of my sister-in-law’s feral cats showed up missing her tail, with a leaking open wound. Thankfully, she was responsible and gave the cat antibiotics and the wound healed.
I want to end on a positive note. The little orange kitten I found, like the novel by Dickens had a happy ending. I took the cat to Scarbrough Animal Hospital, and she was examined and treated for fleas, and worms. I then looked for a home. Thankfully, a kindhearted soul took her in. The last time I heard the new owner, let’s call him Danny, had ordered her furniture from Amazon, and she was wearing a “diamond” studded collar. She went from sleeping in the cinders of a dirty shed in the depth of a cold winter, to the life of a princess (oh that’s a different story).
So how can you help?
We can help by donating funds to the Feral Cat support through Scarbrough Animal Hospital is doing some fund raising now, and you can drop by anytime to give $3 to $5 dollars.
I want to send thanks to the Birch Cliff community and Scarbrough Animal Hospital who have taken on the plight of animals in need. Last year they raised $700.00 dollars to a dog rescue center, and of course being very community minded, part of the finds raised will go to Feed Scarbrough Food bank on Kingston Rd.
Monday November 11, 2024
Images from Remembrance Day Ceremonies at Cenotaph and RCL Br. 258 Highland Creek
Thursday November 7, 2024
Leaside H.S. defeats Birchmount Park C.I. to win TDSSAA Tier 2 Football Championship
Tuesday October 29, 2024
Leaside H.S. defeats Newtonbrook C.I. 30 - 0 Moves on to TDSSAA Championship Thursday November7 1pm at Birchmount Stadiaum
Friday November 1, 2024
Birchmount Park C.I. defeats Lawrence Park C.I. 31 - 8 Moves on to TDSSAA Championship Thursday November7 1pm at Birchmount Stadiaum
Tuesday October 29, 2024
2 Alarm house fire at 7 Coltbridge Ct. Scarborough. 2 Alarms - 14 Trucks responding - 3 residents in the house. 1 taken to Scarborough General Hosp with very minor injuries. Called in 6:58 am Tuesday October 29
Saturday September 21, 2024
The Bicol Community celebrating the 100th anniversary of Our Lady of Peñafrancia;
Our Lady of Peñafrancia (Spanish: Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia) is an image of the Blessed Virgin Mary. A Marian image is permanently enshrined in the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Peñafrancia in Naga, Camarines Sur.
Spain
The devotion to Our Lady of Peñafrancia originates from the province of Salamanca, Spain.[1]
In the 1400s, Simón Vela, who came from a rich family, gave up his inheritance to become a laybrother of a Franciscan convent in Paris. He journeyed to the mountains of Peña de Francia in Salamanca after hearing a voice instructing him to look for a sacred image of Mary. The name of “La Peña de Francia” probably refers to the immigrants who came from France in the 11th and 12th centuries.
The statue had been hidden with other images and church bells to prevent them from falling into the hands of Moors/Saracens.[2] In 1434, Vela found the image of Our Lady of Peñafrancia buried under a rock on the mountain of Peña de Francia.[3]
When miraculous healings began to be reported Vela built a chapel to house the image. Later a larger church, the Santuario de Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia, was built on the plains at the top of Peña de Francia that was given to the Dominicans to administer. In the fifteenth century, they built the church, the convent and a hospice to accommodate pilgrims. The tower was built in 1767.[4] The image was canonically crowned in 1952.[2]
The Philippines
In 1712, Miguel Robles de Covarrubias, a seminarian studying at the Universidad de Santo Tomas in Manila, and the son of a Spanish official from Peña de Francia fell seriously ill.[5] He had a holy card of the image found by Simón Vela, and placed it on whatever part of his body greatly pained him. This gave him relief from his suffering. In gratitude, he built a small church of nipa by a brook near the Pasig River, which enshrined the circa 1690 canvas copy of the painting. The painting is located at the Archdiocesan Shrine of Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia de Manila in Paco.
Covarrubias was ordained to the priesthood in Ciudad de Nueva Cáceres (now Naga City), where he became parish priest at the cathedral. He had a local artisan carve a statue replicating the painting of the Virgin, and built a stone church to house the statue.[2] Many miracles were attributed to the intercession of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, which popularized the devotion with both natives and immigrant Chinese.
The devotion spread outside the Diocese of Nueva Cáceres, which then comprised not only the Bicolandia, but also Tayabas (now Quezon), Marinduque, Laguna, and up to Palanan, Isabela along the Cordillera Central range.
When Francisco Gainza arrived in Naga in 1863 to take possession of the See of Nueva Cáceres, one of his priorities was spreading of devotion. On September 1, 1864, Gainza initiated the Traslación Procession on the Friday before the Feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary, where the image was brought from Our Lady of Peñafrancia Shrine to the cathedral for a solemn novena, then on the afternoon of the ninth day, a Saturday, returned through the “Traslación por el río” (now called the Fluvial Procession), for her feast on Sunday.[2]
Canonical coronation
On 20 September 1924, the image was canonically crowned by the Apostolic Delegate, Monsignor William Piani, at Naga Cathedral. As part of preparations for the coronation, there was a contest for Best Musical Composition. The winning piece, Himno a la Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia, was composed by the Spanish priest Máximo Juguera, and became the Anthem of the Coronation and the feast itself.
In 2024 the Archdiocese of Cáceres celebrated the centennial of the image’s canonical coronation. The theme of the celebration is ¡Se siempre la Reina! (Be always the Queen!), from the concluding verse of the Juguera’s hymn.[6]
Theft of the image
On August 15, 1981, at around 4:30 in the morning, the caretaker of the Peñafrancia Shrine discovered that the image of Our Lady of Peñafrancia had disappeared. The police reported that the culprits sawed the iron grills at the back of the church and took the image. The identity of the thieves remained a mystery; with the leading theory that they were selling to a black market of valuable items. The manto and the steel bar which held the image were found on the cemetery grounds of Peñafrancia Shrine without the image. In May 1982, an antique dealer and also a Peñafrancia devotee, Francisco Vecin, acquired information suggesting a man in Mabini St. of Malate, Manila, was selling the image, with it allegedly in the hands of a friend at that time. He reported to Florencio Yllana that the lost image was located in Cebu. On September 3, 1982, the image was turned over to Francisco in a sealed box. The image was returned in Naga on September 8, 1982, the Feast of the Nativity of Mary. Following the theft, officials opted for the production of a replica to be used in the 1981 Peñafrancia celebrations. Today, the original image is enshrined in the Peñafrancia Basilica, which forms part of the basilica complex along Balatas Street in Naga City, which was built to accommodate the rising numbers of devotees from the Bicol region, as well as nationwide starting in the late 1970s. The replica is used in all of the major processions.
Monday September 16, 2024
A Scarborough Philharmonic Twilight Event at the Clark Center for the Arts in the Guild.
To raise awareness about the Scarborough Philharmonic Orchestra (SPO), and help cement Scarborough’s remarkable contribution to the arts, the SPO Outreach Committee is hosting a special Twilight Event on September 19th, from 7 – 9 pm.
The SPO delivers first-class performances from amazing musicians. The orchestra is led by conductor Ron Royer who has a wealth of experience working with Orchestras, Musicals, and on Movie scores. He is dynamic and interesting and has a way of capturing the audience with his vibrant introductions and moving performances. He leads the orchestra with panache!
To help put Scarborough culture on the map, you only need to purchase a $25 ticket! The event includes two short performances by the SPO quartet, complimentary snacks AND a cash bar. And we do actually mean cash – we don’t have the technology to take debit or credit. For the next event, we’ll have all modern technologies in place!
Our goal on the 19th is to promote annual subscription sales. Subscriptions include 5 concerts for the price of 6! The best part is, if you purchase a subscription at our event on the 19th, the $25 ticket for the Twilight Event will be reimbursed, on the spot! Please click on the attachment to see the program, and click below to order tickets.
If you are unable to attend the event, please consider purchasing a subscription from the website. And if you aren’t in the mood for that big of a commitment, please join us at an individual concert this season!
Monday September 16, 2024
Calling all gardeners! City of Toronto opens applications for its Fall PollinateTO Grants
Applications are now open for the City of Toronto’s PollinateTO grants!
PollinateTO offers grants of up to $5,000 to support community-led initiatives that result in the creation or expansion of pollinator habitats on public and private lands in Toronto. A priority will be placed on funding projects in Toronto’s Neighbourhood Improvement Areas.
Projects eligible for funding include those that create new pollinator habitats, expand or enhance an existing garden by adding pollinator-friendly plants and/or convert a lawn area, boulevard or hard service into a pollinator garden or rain garden.
The grants are a component of the City’s Pollinator Protection Strategy adopted by Toronto City Council in 2018 to support more than 360 species of bees and more than 100 species of butterflies and other pollinators in Toronto. Many species are in decline due to loss of habitat, climate change and other stressors. Pollinators support healthy and resilient ecosystems that help clean the air, capture carbon, stabilize soil and absorb stormwater.
Since 2019, PollinateTO has supported more than 190 community-led projects, resulting in the creation of 500 gardens and an estimated 25,500 m² of pollinator habitat.
Applications are open until Monday, October 21 and are available on the City’s website: www.toronto.ca/pollinateTO.
The City is hosting PollinateTO information sessions where interested applicants can learn more about the program. Dates include: – Thursday, September 12 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. – Tuesday, October 1 from noon to 1 p.m. – Thursday, October 10 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Residents can register to an upcoming information session by visiting the City’s PollinateTO webpage: www.toronto.ca/pollinateTO.
Monday September 9, 2024
Fall into Fun: City of Toronto releases fall recreational program listings
Get ready for autumn with an exciting lineup of fall recreational programs. The City of Toronto’s fall recreation program listings are now available online to help residents prepare for registration next month. From swimming lessons and fitness classes to art workshops and cooking classes, there is something for everyone.
Don’t miss out on the chance to stay active, make new friends and enjoy the season to the fullest. Registration for fall recreation programs – that begin on Saturday, September 28 – opens on: • Tuesday, September 10, 7 a.m. (Etobicoke York, Toronto and East York) • Wednesday, September 11, 7 a.m. (North York and Scarborough) Residents can visit the City’s Fall Recreation webpage to learn more about fall programs and registration information and dates for their local facility: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-recreation/program-activities/fall-recreation-programs/.
The City is proud to offer thousands of recreation programs for all ages, skill levels and interests. Approximately 16,000 registered courses with nearly 157,000 spaces will be offered in arts, fitness, sports, skating and swimming programs.
The quickest and easiest way to register for recreation programs is online. Registration by phone will also be available by calling 416-396-7378 from 7 a.m. on registration dates. For in-person registration support, five community centre locations will be open on the following dates, from 7 a.m. to noon:
In-person registration on Wednesday, September 11 • Centennial Recreation Centre, 1967 Ellesmere Rd. • Dennis R. Timbrell Resource Centre, 29 St. Dennis Dr.
Residents who require help preparing for registration can call 416-396-7378, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. In addition, the City will offer extended hours on Monday, September 9 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. The call centre will be open for extended hours on registration days from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The City’s recreation programs are popular, and many have waitlists. If registrants are unable to attend their program, they are asked to contact their local community centre or call the customer service line at 416-396-7378 to cancel their registration so that a spot can be offered to someone else.
Discounts and free recreation programs
Many community centres offer free recreation programs including leisure swimming and drop-in programs for children, youth and older adults. Participants 60 years and older receive a 50 per cent discount on the regular price of adult recreation programs excluding private, semi-private and small group lessons. More information about free programs and other subsidies for recreation programs is available on the City’s Free & Lower-Cost Recreation Options webpage: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-recreation/how-to-use-our-services/how-to-register-for-recreation-programs/free-lower-cost-recreation-options/.
Welcome Policy annual credit
The Welcome Policy credit can be used to register for City recreation programs including fall recreation. Those receiving social assistance (Ontario Works) and living in Toronto are pre-approved to receive this credit and should speak to their caseworker or apply online. Toronto residents with family income that meets the criteria may also apply. More information on the criteria and how to apply can be found on the Welcome Policy webpage: https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/employment-social-support/child-family-support/welcome-policy-recreation-fee-subsidy/
Thursday May 16,, 2024
Celebrate the Victoria Day long weekend with family friendly activities
The City of Toronto is once again offering a wide range of fun activities and attractions for residents and visitors to enjoy during the Victoria Day long weekend.
Victoria Day Fireworks at Ashbridges Bay Park
The City’s fireworks display will be held at Ashbridges Bay Park on Monday, May 20, at 10 p.m. The show will feature beautiful fireworks and a spectacular finale. Ashbridges Bay Park is located on Lake Shore Boulevard East at the foot of Coxwell Avenue and is accessible by public transit. Attendees are encouraged to use public transit and leave personal vehicles at home. Information about TTC schedules, routes and expanded long weekend service is available on the TTC’s webpage: www.ttc.ca/.
Important reminder about fireworks
Fireworks on Victoria Day and Canada Day are allowed until 11 p.m. without a permit for residents on private property. Fireworks are not permitted in City parks or on beaches, balconies, streets, parking lots or property that is not owned by the person setting off the fireworks.
Fireworks should be handled and supervised by adults 18 years of age or older. People under 18 years old are not permitted to discharge fireworks. Those setting off fireworks must be mindful of their surroundings and not discharge fireworks where they may be a nuisance or pose a risk of fire, injury or damage to any person or property.
The City’s bylaw enforcement officers and Toronto Police Services will be patrolling various parks and waterfront areas to ensure compliance with the Fireworks Bylaw. The misuse or illegal sale of fireworks can be reported to 311 by phone or by submitting a service request at www.toronto.ca/311. In the event of a fire, call 9-1-1.
Safe fireworks disposal
Those choosing to set off fireworks on their own private property must also safely dispose the fireworks as improper disposal can cause fires in waste collection vehicles and at facilities.
To dispose of used or unused fireworks, completely submerge the fireworks in water and soak them overnight. Put the soaked fireworks in a plastic bag to keep them from drying out and dispose of them in your Garbage Bin. Never put used or unused fireworks in the Blue Bin.
More information about fireworks rules, safety tips and proper disposal is available on the City’s fireworks webpage: www.toronto.ca/fireworks.