Welcome to the WKRA

And the Winners Are...!

2013-04-24T23:20:00.000-04:00

Nadine and Elia are the winners of the My Trash, Your Treasure Photo Contest!!

REMINDER - Spring Clean-up Saturday 10:30am at Spring Garden Park & My Trash, Your Treasure Weekend!

2013-04-18T21:22:00.005-04:00

Community Clean-Up Day
Saturday April 20th, 2013 10:30AM
Join us in cleaning up Spring Garden Park for the Toronto Community Clean-Up Day. Meet your neighbours at the "secret park" located at the east end of Springbrook Gardens on the creek. Garbage bags are provided. BYO gloves! We will be accepting donations for the WKRA commemorative tree during this event. You can also purchase Panago pizza certificates for $10 with proceeds going to the WKRA tree. Join the executive of the WKRA as well as MP Bernard Trottier!!
The event will be cancelled if it is raining.
**Please supervise children near the creek as water levels may rise during the rainy weather**

Spring My Trash, Your Treasure Contest!!
Saturday April 20th, 8AM until Sunday April 21st at 8PM
This year we are looking for the biggest and best pile of reusable goods going to the curb to find a new home! Send us a photo of your trash on its way to be treasure and we'll pick the best one. The winner will receive a free Panago pizza certificate.
Send photos to info@thewkra.com before April 23rd; winner will be announced in May. What do you do for the My Trash, Your Treasure weekend? Put your reusable items on the curb to find a new home. Please label items such as electronics as working, to be fixed, for parts only etc.. Need something? Take a stroll through the neighbourhood and find that treasure you've been seeking! Help us keep useful items out of landfill.
Please remove all items by 8PM on Sunday. If your items are not weatherproof, put them away until the sun comes out!

WKRA April 2013 e-news

2013-04-02T23:41:00.000-04:00

Spring is in the air. Let's work together to clean up what winter left behind.

2013 SPRING EVENTS

Spring My Trash, Your Treasure Contest!!

Saturday April 20th, 8AM until Sunday April 21st at 8PM
This year we are looking for the biggest and best pile of reusable goods going to the curb to find a new home! Send us a photo of your trash on its way to be treasure and we'll pick the best one. The winner will receive a free Panago pizza certificate. Send photos to info@thewkra.com before April 23rd, winner will be announced in May.
What do you do for the My Trash, Your Treasure weekend? Put your reusable items on the curb to find a new home. Please label items such as electronics as working, to be fixed, for parts only etc.. Need something? Take a stroll through the neighbourhood and find that treasure you've been seeking! Help us keep useful items out of landfill. Please remove all items by 8PM on Sunday Community Clean-Up Day Saturday April 20th, 2013 10:30AM Join us in cleaning up a local park for the Toronto Community Clean-Up Day. Meet your neighbours at the "secret park" located at the east end of Springbrook Gardens on the creek. Garbage bags are provided. We will be accepting donations for the WKRA commemorative tree during this event. You can also purchase Panago pizza certificates for $10 with proceeds going to the WKRA tree.

WKRA Commemorative Tree

The WKRA would like to plant a commemorative tree in Fairfield Park to acknowledge the efforts of our neighbourhood to save and improve this space. This tree will have a plaque and will be maintained by the city so that residents can look back and take pride in the initiative of our community to preserve this space for our children and future generations. So far, we have raised just over $100 and we would like to reach our goal of $642 before September 2013 for the fall planting. If you would like to make a donation of $5, $10 or $20 please send us an email. Another option to support the tree fund would be to purchase a Panago Pizza certificate for $10 valid for the purchase of a medium pizza (value up to $16.75). All proceeds will go to the WKRA Commemorative tree fund. Cash or cheques payable to the WKRA will be accepted. DROP MAIL BOX For your convenience we have a drop mail box located inside Fairfield Seniors' Centre near the reception desk. To obtain the WKRA membership form or the Fairfield Park donation form, please email us. Remember to tell your friends and neighbours. Membership for 2013 is free.

Free Front Yard Trees

Urban Forestry Services plants trees on City owned street allowances fronting residential properties for free. If you would like to have a free tree planted on your front yard, please click on the website to get more information on which trees are available and information on how to order your tree. It only takes 5 minutes to order a tree that will last for generations! Send us an email if you have any questions. http://www.toronto.ca/trees/pdfs/FreeTree_Final.pdf.

Community Reminders

Just a reminder to pedestrians when walking on the roadway where there are no sidewalks, one should walk facing the traffic.
Remember that our parks are for everyone to enjoy, please pick up after your pets when using our many greenspaces.

Community Meeting: Full Day Kindergarten

2013-03-11T20:14:00.003-04:00

Trustee Pamela Gough invites you to a Community Meeting concerning Full Day Kindergarten Addition

March 18, 2013 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

at Norseman JMS

105 Norseman Street

(Gymnasium)

Parents and residents of the Norseman PS community are encouraged to attend a public community meeting regarding the new Full Day Kindergarten (FDK) Program coming to Norseman in September and the three room addition being planned to accommodate the program. This is your opportunity to receive information about the status of the new FDK addition and provide input regarding the project. Board staff will be present to answer questions.

Please join us on March 18 at 7:00 p.m.

Child minding is available upon request. If you require child minding, please notify the school office before March 7, 2013 at 416-394-7880.

Still Feeling Congested?

2013-02-25T20:36:00.001-05:00

PANEL DISCUSSION: March 4, 2013, 6 - 8 p.m.

Decongesting Toronto: Building a great city by changing the way we move

Jane Mallett Theatre, at the St Lawrence Centre for the Arts, 27 Front St East

Moderated by the CBC’s Matt Galloway Keynote speech by Larry Beasley, former Co-Director of Planning for the City of Vancouver Panelists: Larry Beasley

Jennifer Keesmaat, Chief Planner, City of Toronto

Carol Wilding, President & CEO of the Toronto Region Board of Trade

Councillor Peter Milczyn, Chair of the Planning & Growth Committee

Councillor Michael Thompson, Chair of the Economic Development Committee

Space is limited: register today at http://feelingcongested.eventbrite.ca

Feeling Congested?

2013-02-23T04:20:00.000-05:00

Councillor Milczyn has would like our residents to know about the upcoming City Planning meeting: "Feeling Congested? Toronto Talks Transportation".

In addition to the four scheduled City-wide meetings planned by the City Planning Department, Councillor Milczyn felt that it was very important to have a local meeting for Ward 5 and Etobicoke residents. He as arranged for an additional meeting to be held on:

DATE: February 25, 2013

LOCATION: Etobicoke Civic Centre, Lower Level Meeting Rooms (elevator available)

TIME: 6:30 to 8:30 pm

It is encouraged that you extend the invitation to your neighbours, family and friends as the transportation situation of our city is important and impacts everyone.

Councillor Milczyn looks forward to seeing you at the meeting and getting your feedback on this important issue.

For more information, please visit the wesbite at http://feelingcongested.ca/#home

Family Skating

2013-02-23T00:48:00.000-05:00

Bernard Trottier MP is hosting a family skate at the Mastercard Centre on Saturday February 23rd from 2:15pm - 4:15pm. He would love to meet some of the residents.

DATE: Saturday February 23, 2013
LOCATION: Mastercard Centre, 400 Kipling, Etobicoke
TIME: 2:15pm - 4:15pm

WKRA February 2013 e-news

2013-02-03T16:43:00.000-05:00

We are excited to announce that the WKRA has been successful in its application for a Live Green Toronto Capital Projects Fund grant of $53,442!

FAIRFIELD PARK UPDATE

The Fairfield Park Improvement Project Committee applied for a grant with Live Green Toronto in November 2012. We are delighted to announce that we received the grant for $53, 442! This grant will provide funding to plant deciduous and coniferous trees, shrubs, perennials, native tree nameplates, tree tender training and bike racks. We are currently working together with Live Green Toronto, Toronto Parks and Trees and the City of Toronto to move forward with these plans which are part of the approved park concept.

Councillor Peter Milczyn has also secured $275,000 from section 42, Parkland Contributions in the Ward. The approved park concept has now been included in the 2013 Parks and Recreation budgets so that they can tender and prepare all the required technical drawings and design plans. Construction and implementation may be able to commence in late 2013 but is scheduled for spring 2014.

If you would like to make a donation to the Fairfield Park Improvement Project, please send us an email. Tax receipts are issued for all donations of $20 or more.

Fairfield Park Natural Ice Rink Update

Recently, the WKRA asked some residents if there was an interest in creating a natural ice rink at Fairfield Park. We were delighted to get a great response. Unfortunately, we were told by the City that there is no winter water service at Fairfield Park. We have looked into the matter and have made a request to have winter water service for next winter. If you are interested in getting on our volunteer list for November 2013, please send us an email and we will keep you up to date with the advances in this project.

WKRA membership contest

The WKRA is always looking for new residents to join our membership. Together with our residents, the members of the WKRA have come a long way with saving and improving Fairfield Park, holding fun events and keeping our neighbours up to date with local happenings. Best of all membership is free for 2013! As a current WKRA member, you can help increase our membership by letting your friends and neighbours know about us. For the month of February we are having a contest for any current member who signs up one or more new members. Both the current member and new member have a chance to win a gift certificate for a medium pizza at Panago.

It's simple, just email us to inquire for a membership form. Let your neighbours know to add your name as the referring member and we'll pick a winner at the end of February. Winners will be announced in the March e-news.

DROP MAIL BOX

For your convenience we have a drop mail box located inside Fairfield Seniors' Centre near the reception desk.

WKRA COMMEMORATIVE TREE

The WKRA would like to plant a commemorative tree in Fairfield Park to acknowledge the efforts of our neighbourhood to save and improve this space. This tree will have a plaque and will be maintained by the city so that residents can look back and take pride in the initiative of our community to preserve this space for our children and future generations. So far, we have raised close to $100 and we would like to reach our goal of $642 before March 2013 for the spring planting. If you would like to make a donation of $5, $10 or $20 please send us an email. Another option to support the tree fund would be to purchase a Panago Pizza certificate for $10 valid for the purchase of a medium pizza (value up to $16.75). All proceeds will go to the WKRA Commemorative tree fund. Cash or cheques payable to the WKRA will be accepted.

FREE FRONT YARD TREES

2013 SPRING EVENTS

Spring My Trash, Your Treasure

Saturday April 20th, 8AM until Sunday April 21st at 8PM

Do your part for the planet to celebrate Earth day!!
Put your reusable items on the curb to find a new home. Please label items such as electronics as working, to be fixed, for parts only etc..
Need something? Take a stroll through the neighbourhood and find that treasure you've been seeking! Help us keep useful items out of landfill.
Please remove all items by 8PM on Sunday

Community Clean Up Day

Saturday April 20th, 2013

Join us in cleaning up a local park for the Toronto Community Clean Up Day. Let's get our parks looking sparkling clean for all to play in. Garbage bags are provided. Park location to be announced.

Pedestrian Safety

Just a reminder to pedestrians when walking on the roadway where there are no sidewalks, one should walk facing the traffic.

WKRA December 2012 e-news

2013-01-20T22:55:00.002-05:00

WKRA DECEMBER 2012 e-news
We are excited to announce an update on the Fairfield Park Improvement Project from Councillor Peter Milczyn's office. We would like to thank all of the residents who came out this summer for our Fairfield Park Fundraising picnic as well as our many sponsors and donors who helped make this event a success. Please see the list of prize donors on the WKRA blog and consider shopping at these local businesses this holiday season.
Let's make this Christmas really green by increasing our neighbourhood tree canopy. Find out more below on how to get a free tree planted in your front yard in 2013.
The WKRA is always looking for new members, please let your neighbours and also new residents to the area know about the WKRA. Membership for 2013 is free.

FAIRFIELD PARK UPDATE
As most already know, in 2010 the City purchased the greenspace, which was declared surplus by the Toronto District School Board, and our City Park - Fairfield Park was extended to include the greenspace to the north of the existing park. This larger and expanded park for the Norseman Heights/Springbrook Gardens area and all residents within the boundaries of the WKRA was great news.

Councillor Milczyn has since secured funds (from section 42, Parkland Contributions in the Ward, and from funds secured specifically for Ward 5 parks) totalling $275,000.00. The WKRA is very happy to announce that these funds have been received and also have been included in the Parks Department Capital Budget Submissions for 2013 and 2014.

Peter Milczyn hosted three community meetings (June 16, 2011; November 3, 2011 and on March 28, 2012) to discuss this with area residents, to find out what improvements YOU wanted, and come up with a final conceptual plan.

That plan has now been included in the 2013 Parks and Recreation budget so that they can tender and prepare all the required technical drawing and design plans. Construction and implementation might be able to commence in late 2013 but is scheduled for spring 2014. The Councillor and the WKRA will monitor this and provide updates to area residents as the construction is scheduled.

We are all very excited about obtaining the extra greenspace, and now having the funding available to see playground upgrades installed as well as pathways and other features. The WKRA continues with fundraising efforts to augment the monies secured by Councillor Milczyn.
If you would like to make a donation to Fairfield Park Improvement Project, please send us an email. Tax receipts from the City are issued for all donations of $20 or more.

Congratulations to our residents who have generously contributed $6,240 through individual donations and our fundraising picnics. Your support of this project is the key to its success!

WKRA COMMEMORATIVE TREE
The WKRA would like to plant a commemorative tree in Fairfield Park to acknowledge the efforts of our neighbourhood to save and improve this space. This tree will have a plaque and will be maintained by the city so that residents can look back and take pride in the initiative of our community to preserve this space for our children and future generations. So far, we have raised close to $100 and we would like to reach our goal of $642 before March 2013 for the spring planting. If you would like to make a donation of $5, $10 or $20 please send us an email. If you are part of group which includes residents of the WKRA, please consider collecting a small donation from each member to present a donation to the WKRA. Another option to support the tree fund would be to purchase a Panago Pizza certificate for $10 valid for the purchase of a medium pizza (value up to $16.75). All proceeds will go to the WKRA Commemorative tree fund. Cash or cheques payable to the WKRA will be accepted.

FREE FRONT YARD TREES
The WKRA would like to see our streets become even greener next spring and you can do your part in helping this important need in our community. Urban Forestry Services plants trees on City owned street allowances fronting residential properties for free. If you would like to have a free tree planted on your front yard, please click on the website to get more information on which trees are available and information on how to order your tree. It only takes 5 minutes to order a tree that will last for generations! Send us an email if you have any questions. http://www.toronto.ca/trees/pdfs/FreeTree_Final.pdf

Top 5 reasons why you should have a front yard tree:

Trees cool houses in summer which reduces hydro costs for air conditioning.
Trees filter air pollution, trap dust, and generate oxygen.
Trees beautify our streets.
Trees increase property values.
Trees provide habitat (food and shelter) for native pollinators, birds and mammals.

QBIA Christmas Tree Lighting, December 8th 3:30 PM, Queensway Park

(Official tree lighting at 4:00 pm)

Come and celebrate the holidays by lighting the first QBIA 20 ft community Christmas tree.

Special guests include Santa Claus who will be bringing with him many yummy treats for the children!

Directions:
Avon Park Drive and The Queensway
(Behind The Beer Store)

Bring your skates! (Weather permitting)

Brought to you by Councillor Peter Milczyn and the Queensway BIA

Pedestrian Safety
With darker evenings upon us, just a reminder to pedestrians when walking on the roadway where there are no sidewalks, one should walk facing the traffic.
This will allow you to see oncoming traffic and increase your safety.

The WKRA would like to wish you a safe and happy holiday season!

NEWS ALERT! Staying Safe

2012-10-14T22:55:00.003-04:00

Several break and enters have taken place in the Etobicoke area. The victims include women and men and the incidents generally occurred during the early mornings. The police would only describe the suspect as a six-foot tall male with a slim build. A task force had been posted in the area but residents are being urged to take preventive measures:

activate alarm systems in their homes if they have them
check to ensure their homes' doors, windows and garages are locked
check on their neigbours' safety
report any suspicious activity or evidence of a break-in, to police immediately

The objective is not to create panic in the neighbourhood, but for residents to be safe and "... be cognizant of their homes. Be aware of their homes. Be aware of their house. Check their windows at night to make sure they're locked. Make sure their garage is locked. Keep a phone by the bed."

CONTACT POLICE
Anyone with information is urged to call police at 22 Division at 416-808-2200, Toronto police Sex Crimes unit at 416-808-7474, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637)
More information will be posted as it becomes available on 22 Division's website at http://www.torontopolice.on.ca/d22/. Residents may also post information to the website.

Source: Etobicoke Guardian; Thursday September 20, 2012 edition

A Big Thank You to Everyone!

2012-08-14T20:41:00.000-04:00

On Saturday July 28th, the WKRA held the Fairfield Park Fundraising Picnic and saw the community come out in support of improvements of Fairfield. The weather was breezy and sunny making it the perfect day. Events were well run .... BBQ by Enbridge, face painting by Lisa, music by Charlie and our very own "pick-a-prize" raffle and the "Reduce, Re-READ and Recycle" table.

We would like to thank our sponsors Councillor Peter Milczyn, Mantella Corporation and Enbridge; we could not have done it without your generosity! And much thanks to the support of the many local businesses, families and friends who donated prizes for our raffle. Altogether we were able to raise over $1,800 to put towards the park improvement plans.

2012 WKRA Annual Community Picnic

2012-06-02T23:47:00.003-04:00

You are invited to join your friends and neighbours at Fairfield Park on

Saturday July 28, 2012 12PM to 3PM for the

Fairfield Park Fundraising Picnic!

Join us for...

*musical entertainment by Charlie!

*BBQ-sausages, hamburgers, hot dogs!

*refreshments (Be green! Bring your own drinking bottle)

*face painting by our favourite face painter, Lisa!

*Make a donation and take home a book at our "reduce, REREAD, recycle table
(Drop off gently used children's books and novels at the Fairfield Seniors' Centre).

*Learn about the Commemorative Tree Program to plant a tree at Fairfield Park.

**VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!!

Please send us an email at info@thewkra.com...

-If you cannot attend and would like to make a donation to the Fairfield Park Improvement Fund

Everyone welcome!!

Picnic sponsored by Councillor Peter Milczyn, Mantella Corporation and Enbridge

Become a member of the WKRA at the picnic or email us at info@thewkra.com

Watch this blog for more details!

www.thewkra.com

PUBLIC NOTICE: Overcrowding at Norseman Junior Middle School

2012-05-15T22:36:00.000-04:00

It has been brought to our attention, from the "Overenrolment Subcommittee Members" at the Norseman Junior Middle School, that there will be a meeting at Norseman School, regarding overcrowding at the school. See below the information provided us...

In 2013

Norseman School will reach 140% capacity

Not everyone has a child in Norseman but the condition and appearance of the school highly impacts every homeowner in the neighbourhood. Real estate values are closely tied to the reputation of the local school.

Facts:

· Norseman JMS has been over 100% capacity since 2001, currently 120%.

· External portables were added to contain the extra classrooms. This was intended to be a temporary solution; even more were added a few years later.

· Our area is rapidly growing with housing development and the entry of young families. The enrollment projections at Norseman show no signs of stabilizing.

· A school council sub-committee has been formed to explore a long-term solution that will benefit the entire community.

Our concerns:

1. Since 2001, Norseman has been the most overcrowded school in Ward 3 with no sign of decrease, will the solution be long-term or are immediate budget concerns a higher priority?

2. Full Day Kindergarten numbers do not present a temporary challenge at Norseman. Where will you build new classrooms when the kindergarteners advance to primary and middle school classes?

3. What are the benefits and confines of building an addition to the current building? Is it a long-term solution?

4. What are the benefits and drawbacks of reconfiguring the current building, with no addition, are there any square footage requirements per student?

5. How will higher enrollment affect the shared areas; the gym (and its use as a lunch room), drama/dance, art, music rooms, computer lab? Will all students have less access to these areas?

6. Castlebar School, at 70 Chartwell Rd, was a local junior school from 1968 to 1981. There is an opportunity to utilize the building, as a satellite-campus. Is there a bias against this option?

7. Could the Chartwell school be a middle school satellite for Norseman? A previous Norseman area junior school at 60 Berl Ave. was converted into Karen Kain School for the Arts, a middle school.

8. Or is there potential to re-establish 70 Chartwell Rd. as a junior school? Does the building better suit kindergarten through grade three?

9. Does utilizing 70 Chartwell Rd. now allow the board to move back into one building if ever needed? Does reconstructing the current building allow for any such recourse in the future?

10. What is the deadline to make a decision and begin work? Will we be informed in time to voice further concern?

Trustee Pamela Gough and Superintendant Jane Phillips-Long will attend a meeting to address concerns

Tuesday May, 22^nd6:30pm

http://www.facebook.com/NorsemanJMSParents

In the school library

All are welcome

WKRA APRIL 2012 e-news

2012-04-14T21:41:00.001-04:00

Spring is here and with it brings Earth day and Community Clean Up Day. Please join us this year in cleaning up Lora Hill Park on Saturday April 21st at 10:30AM. Bring your gloves and a broom so we can get the park looking great! Bring the kids to play afterwards.
Thanks to all of you who attended the Fairfield Park Open House and shared your thoughts about this community space.

We are currently raising funds for Fairfield Park and at this time we have a special fundraiser for a WKRA commemorative tree to be planted in Fairfield Park. Please donate a toonie for the tree! Donations will be accepted at all WKRA events including the Community Clean up Day at Lora Hill Park.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES

Starting Tuesday April 17 at 7PM
WKRA Weekly Walks
Join your neighbours for a 35 minute walk in the neighbourhood every Tuesday until October. Meet at the south-east corner of Fairfield Park on the pathway at Lothian and Leland. We are currently looking for 1-2 volunteers to lead the walks. Also, if you live in another area of the WKRA and would like to start a walking group, please let us know and we will add the meeting place on our website. Everyone is welcome! Adults, kids and dogs! Bring the whole family!

Saturday April 21st 10:30 AM-11:30 AM
Community Clean Up Day
Join us in cleaning up Lora Hill Park for the Toronto Community Clean Up Day. Bring your gloves and a broom so we can put the sand back where it belongs! Let's get the park looking sparkling clean for all to play in. Garbage bags are provided.
Please note that Bernard Trottier will be in attendance!
* Bring your toonies for our WKRA Commemorative Tree Fund to be planted at Fairfield Park this year.

Saturday April 21 8AM-Sunday April 22 8PM
Spring My Trash, Your Treasure (Spring)
Put your reusable items on the curb to find a new home. Please label items such as electronics as working, to be fixed, for parts only, etc..

Need something? Take a stroll through the neighbourhood and find that treasure you've been seeking! Help us keep useful items out of landfill.

Let us know if you are putting items out and we'll add your street name to the list on the WKRA website.
Please remove all items by 8PM on Sunday

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
The WKRA is seeking volunteers for the following positions, please send us an email if you are interested in volunteering your time. Your help is appreciated!
-1-2 people to lead the Tuesday walks once or twice a month.
-5-7 people to help at the July 28 picnic including help with food service, membership, raffle tickets and face painting.
-2-3 people to help to organize and collect items for the picnic raffle.

IMPORTANT NOTICES

Commemorative Trees
Would you like to have a commemorative tree at Fairfied Park or Lora Hill Park? Click below for details on how to order a tree and commemorative plaque for the spring or fall planting. Let us know if you would like to see a copy of the Fairfield Park concept to see where you would like your tree planted.
Deadline for spring planting is April 15th.
City of Toronto Commemorative Tree and Bench Program

2012 Membership
Membership for 2012 is FREE! In order to keep you up-to-date, as a member, we ask that you complete the attached membership form. The WKRA runs on the strength of volunteers yet does incur costs to maintain the association, therefore voluntary membership fees are welcome. Information on how to make a donation to the WKRA is on the membership form.

As plans move forward with the Fairfield Park Improvement Project, we are also accepting donations towards the project. Please print the attached FPIP donation form, as well as the Donor Declaration Form to make a donation. Tax receipts will be sent to you from the City of Toronto for donations over $20.
All forms can be dropped off in the WKRA mailbox located in the Fairfield Seniors' Centre just south of the gym.

Safety Alert!

Pedestrians walking on a two-way roadway where there are no sidewalks should walk facing the oncoming traffic. This will allow pedestrians to be aware of the oncoming traffic and take any action to avoid a potentially dangerous situation.

Please forward this message to your friends and neighbours who reside within the boundaries of the WKRA

2012-03-02T11:19:00.002-05:00

WKRA MARCH 2012 e-news

The Fairfield Park Improvement Project meeting was postponed last month. The new date is March 28th at 6:30. Read on to learn about our upcoming events. We are always looking for new members and we are seeking residents who are interested in the upcoming WKRA Election for positions as Executive and Board of Directors.

Thursday March 22nd 7PM-9PM Fairfield Seniors' Centre Gym

WKRA Annual General Meeting and Election

Find out what's new in the neighbourhood and any plans for the area. Councillor Peter Milczyn will be in attendance to answer your questions. The current WKRA executive will hold an open election for the 2012 Executive and Board of Directors. Please read below if you are interested in a position with the WKRA.

Wednesday March 28th 6:30PM- 8PM Fairfield Seniors' Centre

Fairfield Park Improvement Project Open House

Please join Councillor Peter Milczyn and City Of Toronto Landscape Architect, Erik Hess, for an open house to learn about and approve the latest changes in the Fairfield Park Improvement Project. The plans for Fairfield Park are to make this recreational space one for all people: a place for fun, exercise, exploration and native habitat. The plan includes open sports space, walking paths, play structures, exercise equipment, seating and tables, a shade structure and native plants and trees. This is truly a park for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy. We encourage you to bring your neighbours!

2012 WKRA Election

The following positions are open for members of the WKRA executive and Board of Directors. If you are interested in seeking a position you must:

- be a member of the WKRA for at least one year prior to 2012

- be a resident within the boundaries of the WKRA

- be at least 19 years of age (with the exception of the Youth Director)

- submit a one page maximum blurb about yourself; please include the position you seek, how long you have lived in the neighbourhood, your pertinent skills and why you should be elected. Include one reference.

Positions available

(Voting Executive)

PRESIDENT

TREASURER

V.P. of COMMUNICATIONS

V.P. of MEMBERSHIP

V.P. of PUBLIC RELATIONS and EVENTS

(Non-Voting Board of Directors)

Community Police Liaison Committee (CPLC)

Web Master

Youth Director (age 14-18)

Director-at-large (3 positions)

Voting executive are expected to attend 8-10 meetings annually and Non-voting members are expected to attend 4-6 meetings annually. Elections will take place bi-annually.

FEBRUARY 2012 E-NEWS

2012-02-09T09:22:00.002-05:00

The WKRA is looking ahead in 2012 to see developments taking place at Fairfield Park. Please read the email below and mark your calendars for the Fairfield Park Meeting and the WKRA AGM. We are always looking for new members and will be seeking residents who are interested in the upcoming WKRA election for positions as Executive and Board of Directors. Email us at info@thewkra.com with any questions.

2012 Membership News

Membership for 2012 is free!
If you have received this email you are a member of the WKRA and will receive regular emails informing you of upcoming events and news from the neighbourhood. In order to better serve you, as a member, we ask that you complete a membership form. The WKRA runs on the strength of volunteers yet does incur costs to maintain the association, therefore voluntary membership fees are welcome. Please send us an email to receive information on how to make a donation and receive a 2012 membership form.

As plans move forward with the Fairfield Park Improvement Project, we are also accepting donations towards the project. Please send us email to find out how you can make a donation. Tax receipts will be sent to you from the City of Toronto for donations over $20.

Please forward this email to your friends and neighbours who reside within the boundaries of the WKRA.

This meeting has been postponed-Please watch the blog for the new date.
Fairfield Park Improvement Project Open House
Fairfield Seniors' Centre
Please join Councillor Peter Milczyn and City Of Toronto Landscape Architect, Eric Hess, for an open house to learn about and approve the latest changes in the Fairfield Park Improvement Project. In order to move forward with this project to create a recreational space for all residents, it is necessary to approve the plan for the park. Bring your neighbours!

Wednesday March 21st 7PM-9PM WKRA Annual General Meeting and Election

Find out what is new in the neighbourhood and any new plans for the area. Councillor Peter Milczyn will be there to answer your questions. The current WKRA executive will hold an open election for the 2012 Executive and Board of Directors, please read below if you would like to seek a position with the WKRA.

2012 WKRA Election

The following positions are open for members of the WKRA executive and Board of Directors. If you are interested in seeking a position you must:

- be a member of the WKRA for at least one year prior to 2012

- be a resident within the boundaries of the WKRA

- be at least 19 years of age (with the exception of the Youth Director)

- submit a one page maximum blurb about yourself; please include the position you seek, how long you have lived in the neighbourhood, your pertinent skills and why you should be elected. Include one reference.

Positions available

(Voting Executive)

PRESIDENT

TREASURER

V.P. of COMMUNICATIONS

V.P. of MEMBERSHIP

V.P. of PUBLIC RELATIONS and EVENTS

(Non-Voting Board of Directors)

CPLC- Community Police Liaison Committee

Web Master

Youth Director (age 14-18)

Director-at-large (3 positions)

Voting executive are expected to attend 8-10 meetings annually and Non-voting members are expected to attend 4-6 meetings annually. Elections will take place bi-annually.

Toronto Hydro Townhall

2011-11-24T22:57:00.000-05:00

Date: November 28/2011

Location: Etobicoke Civic Centre

Time: 6:30 - 8:30

The goal of the meeting is to share information with customers, discuss ongoing capital works projects and provide an opportunity to speak directly with Toronto Hydro staff.

A variety of issues that will be discussed include:

time of use rates and conservation programs
smart meters and billing
power outages
workforce renewal

It would be greatly appreciated if you can kindly help ensure that residents are aware of this meeting by spreading the word.

Additional information can be found directly at torontohydro.com/townhallsessions

City Museum Closures Looming

2011-11-19T22:30:00.000-05:00

For many of us, Montgomery's Inn has always just been part of our community. That quaint little stone building on the corner at Dundas and Islington. With the new Ford mandate, they are looking at closing a series of city operated museums and that includes our neighbourhood Montgomery's Inn.

The Toronto Star writes about the museum closures looming and features Montgomery's Inn:

http://www.thestar.com/news/article/1086286--museum-fans-have-message-for-ford-hands-off

As the Star's staff reporter, Trish Crawford puts it, "The tavern, its wooden floor worn into a deep groove at the entrance by hundreds of weary travellers, was a community hub where men and women mingled to discuss the news of the day.
Today, that news would be that Montgomery’s Inn may face the axe, along with three other small museums, Market Gallery, Gibson House and Zion Schoolhouse."

Montgomery's Inn is an important piece of our community.

If you are interested in helping us preserve a part of our community and city, check out the petition: http://togethertoronto.ca/campaigns/museums/

Have your voice be heard for Toronto's Parks!

2011-11-17T23:31:00.001-05:00

In 2010, City Council approved the development of a City-wide Parks Plan based on seven guiding principles: parks and trails as city infrastructure, equitable access for all residents, supporting a diversity of uses, nature in the city, environmental stewardship, place making and community engagement. The Parks Plan will guide acquisition, development, management and operation of the system of public parkland in the City of Toronto over a five-year period

Because you care about Toronto's Parks, we are asking for your input into the Parks Plan.

Be heard!

Attend one of four public consultation meetings or complete the online survey.
Please help us spread the word about the on-line survey and public consultations. Download or print the consultation flyer.

PLEASE JOIN the WKRA at this NEIGHBOURHOOD MEETING hosted by Councillor PETER MILCZYN

2011-10-24T22:11:00.001-04:00

Subject: Fairfield Greenspace - follow-up to to work with the community to plan future improvements to this space and discuss community fundraising initiatives

When: Thursday November 3rd, 2011 @ 6:30pm

Where: Fairfield Senior's Centre, 80 Lothian Avenue
======================

On June 16^th, 2011, I hosted a neighbourhood meeting to get input from everyone in the area, find out what the community’s needs for this park are, and get your thoughts on potential future improvements. At this meeting residents put forward their wish list for the park. As you may recall this greenspace is just north of Fairfield Park and was officially purchased by the City from the TDSB last year (after they declared it surplus to their needs and were going to sell it).

At this last meeting Park Planning Staff advised that they would put together a concept plan along with costs for the various upgrades.

This plan in now available and will be available on November 3^rd for the community to review.

Please take the time to attend this meeting, see the plans, and provide your comments. ALL input is appreciated. Please feel free to contact my office if you require any information prior to this meeting or can't attend.

Don’t forget to register to receive my monthly Ward e-News at www.petermilczyn.com for information on local events, community meetings, City news, and what’s happening in your ward.

(brought to you by the WKRA on behalf of Councillor Peter Milczyn)

VOTE! on October 6th, 2011

2011-09-23T08:15:00.001-04:00

The up coming Provincial Election is fast approaching. All Residents of the WKRA area will have received their voting cards in the mail by now.

Check your voting card for the voting poll which you are registered for and consider early advance polls if you aren't available on October 6th; information is found on the back of your card.

Remember to vote! Take your whole family and let your voices be heard!

More information about voting can be found on the official website: http://www.elections.on.ca/en-CA/

September events

2011-08-04T09:28:00.000-04:00

WKRA Community Garage Sale Event

Saturday September 17th

( In support of Habitat for Humanity)

It's as easy as 1-2-3!

1. Hold a Garage Sale at your home

2. Let us know what time and where so we can add it to the blog. Advertise your sale.

3. Make a donation to Habitat for Humanity at http://www.torontohabitat.on.ca/

Fall My Trash, Your Treasure

Sunday September 18th 8AM to 8PM

Put your reusable items on the curb to find a new home. Please label items such as electronics ie working, to be fixed, for parts only.

Need something? Take a stroll through the neighbourhood and find that treasure you've been seeking! Help us keep useful items out of landfill.

Please remove all items by 8PM on Sunday

WKRA Fairfield Park Fundraising Picnic!

2011-06-24T09:45:00.001-04:00

Please join us for the WKRA's next event!!

Saturday July 23rd from 12-2PM

at Fairfield Park.
80 Lothian Avenue

Join your neighbours in celebrating the purchase of the Fairfield Greenspace and help raise funds to make the park even better!

There will be *Panago Pizza, *Hot Dog BBQ, Magician- Tricky Ricky, *Face Painting, *Renewal Reflexology, **Raffle and more...

*Donations greatly appreciated!!

**See prize list in the sidebar

If you would like to volunteer your time at the picnic, please send us an email at info@thewkra.com
Membership Sign up available at picnic.
Donations to Fairfield Park Improvement Project accepted by cash or cheque. Tax receipts for donations of $20 or more.

Special thanks to Councillor Peter Milczyn for his sponsorship.

Meeting regarding Fairfield Greenspace

2011-06-08T14:50:00.000-04:00

Please join Councillor Peter Milczyn, the members of the West Kingsway Ratepayer's Association and Parks Staff to discuss your ideas and work together a plan for improving your local park. Input as to what you would like to see on these lands is important. .This meeting is being held on:

Date: Thursday, June 16, 2011

Time: 6:30 to 8:00 pm

Place: Fairfield Seniors Centre

80 Lothian Avenue

If you are not a member of the WKRA, please consider joining. We will have membership forms and information available at the meeting. Annual membership fee is $10. We will also be accepting donations to the Fairfield Park Improvement Project

UPCOMING EVENT...
July 23rd from 12-2PM.
Fairfield Park Fundraising picnic! Join us for fun, food, games, entertainment, raffle and more. We are currently looking for volunteers to help make this event a success!

2011-04-21T09:48:00.000-04:00

WKRA Green Event!!

Brought to you by the West Kingsway Ratepayers’ Association

My Trash, Your Treasure

From Saturday May 7th at 8am

to Sunday May 8th at 8pm

Put out your large reusable items on the curb to find a new home. Please label items ie: good condition, to be fixed etc.

Need something? Take a walk and find that treasure you’ve been searching for. Help us keep useful items out of landfill!

Please remove items after 8pm on Sunday.

Send us an email at info@thewkra.com to become a member.

Annual household membership $10.