Ward 40 - Scarborough-Agincourt    (Click here to see the Ward Map)

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We are living in a world of change. Everyday we come across different cultures, beliefs and varying lifestyles. We are challenged to learn, to understand and to accept. But in my opinion our greatest challenge in today’s fast-paced world is preserving the quality of life in the community in which we live.

I believe that communities possessing a sense of identity, common purpose and common standards, create strong, safe and enjoyable neighbourhoods. That is why in every issue of my newsletter I make a special point of featuring people who make a difference in keeping community spirit alive. Thanks to them and everyone else who contributes to the sense of pride in our neighbourhoods.

Christmas Award Winners

In my last Newsletter I told you that over the holiday season I would be on the look-out for the best decorated houses in Scarborough Agincourt. I’m happy to report that the Christmas Lights Awards were a great success and 43 constituents were recognized for their community and holiday spirit. Congratulations!

Here are photos of some of the winners receiving their awards. A list of all the winners will be printed in the fall Community Newsletters: (TIP: take a drive down Reddins Rd. in the Terraview Willowfield community this Christmas and see the fabulous collaboration of neighbours)

2005 Trillium Garden Awards

One of your neighbours won this award a few years back. It’s time for another winner from our communities! Of course, we all win when we beautify our front lawns. (Increasing property values by up to 30%!) To nominate a neighbour, corporation or other property owners in recognition of their lawn garden call the Nomination Hotline at (416) . Deadline for nominations is July 15, 2005.

Neighbourhood Beautification Program

The Toronto City Council wants to make our neighbourhoods beautiful. I’ve got $1500 to help beautify a neglected site in the ward with a clean-up and new plantings. What site would you recommend?

Environment Day

On June 4th, 2005 my annual Environment Day held at Sir John A. Macdonald Collegiate, was a great success thanks to my staff and valuable volunteers. As usual we had the free compost soil available - the most popular attraction - and this year it disappeared faster than I can remember. Once again constituents were able to purchase Green Bins, rain barrels, composters and water efficiency kits. Residents could also drop off unwanted electronics, paint and tires.

Volunteers hard at work.

Happy gardeners picking up free compost.

A Backyard Hockey Rink brings the neighbourhood together

Since 1999 Nancy and Paul Charlton have been inviting neighbours to participate in one of Canada’s greatest traditions - a backyard skating rink. Paul Charlton, a local chiropractor, decided to bring hockey home by building a rink in his backyard. Three years ago their efforts got an honourable mention on Hockey Night in Canada as one of the best backyard rinks in Canada. In 2003 they made the TOP 10 and this past winter were named the Best Backyard Hockey Rink in Canada out of 1500 entries in a contest sponsored by Home Depot and Sportsnet.

This year Paul and Nancy’s efforts were doubly rewarded when a few of the kids on Caronridge Cres. and some of the local "kids at heart", had a chance to face-off with Doug Gilmour when he dropped by for two-hour game. When asked to put on the blades for a short scrimmage, I couldn’t help but be reminded of my childhood growing up in Scarborough and the sense of community it brought every time I participated in, or organized, a neighbourhood game. This is the kind of initiative that builds thriving communities and celebrates our Canadian traditions. I encourage you all to follow in Paul’s and Nancy’s footsteps and next winter dedicate some space in your yard to hockey, pleasure skating or any other winter activity that brings your neighbours together.

A tired but happy gang.

Good try but it didn't stop the puck.