The Idler has been, well, idle for a while but is happy to be back since there is so much to share this issue.
She shoots, we all score
Women’s hockey in Canada has been around since the late 1800s, so the title of an upcoming documentary film is certainly apropos. It’s Been A Long Time Coming shares the real stories of Leaside Wildcats at all levels. The documentary film was produced by two graduating students in the sport media program at TMU. The filmmakers met with six Wildcat minor hockey players, two players on the senior team and two coaches. They are also planning interviews with a former Wildcat and current PWHL player, and Jayna Hefford, vice president of operations for the PWHL. Emma May Beckett and Rylee Cawthorne met in their camera class in second year. Rylee, who grew up on the west coast, and Emma, who hails from Collingwood, bonded over their love of hockey. Combining their love of hockey and film, plus responding to the recent launch of the first professional women’s hockey league (the PWHL), they conceived their final short film project to “make a positive impact in women’s sports and to inspire female athletes of all ages.” Look for the film’s premiere in the spring of 2025.
Just vote!
A lot has been going on in Leaside lately with the municipal by-election a red-hot issue for many in Don Valley West. Sixteen candidates have joined the ballot to fill the council position left open from the death of Jaye Robinson. Some readers have asked why Leaside Life does not publicly endorse a particular candidate. The New York Times, Toronto Star, Globe and Mail and many other trusted publications have been known to throw their editorial weight behind a chosen candidate. Does Leaside Life not have an opinion? This issue represents our 150th issue and since our founding, we have chosen to take a neutral stance and not endorse candidates. We believe our role is to provide a forum for information and idea-sharing and to encourage our readers to get involved, engage with the candidates and form their own opinions. With typical voter turnout in municipal elections often falling below 40%, we encourage you to vote on Nov. 4th.
Jim Rosenthal recognized for 50 years of volunteerism
Leasider and SAHIL resident Jim Rosenthal was recently awarded the 2024 June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award for Volunteerism for his contributions to Kennedy House. This award is in memory of the late author and journalist June Callwood, and recognizes the leadership, innovation and contributions of individuals, volunteer administrators and volunteer organizations who support their communities and help build a stronger Ontario. “Jim is a founding member of Kennedy House, and he has served at-risk youth for 50+ years. From the start, he has fostered a profound sense of community. Kennedy House provides meals and shelter, employment direction, educational and life skills to over 14,000 young people. Community work is work that never ends. But Jim’s compassion, kindness and leadership are just endless.”
A Leaside tradition continues
The 28th Annual Rotary Community Corn Roast, held this past September at Trace Manes Park, was, by all accounts, a resounding success. With more than 70 volunteers including support from other Rotary Clubs and students from Leaside High School, the event attracted over 1,200 visitors. A special thanks to the winner of the 50/50 draw who generously donated half of the winning prize to the Rotary Foundation.
Ernesto Rubini, R.I.P
This past May, the Idler shared the story of Ernesto Rubini, who was battling a rare form of leukemia. Sadly, Ernesto, who for over 40 years coached and mentored soccer in the Thorncliffe, Flemingdon, and Leaside communities, died this past August. In his obituary, Ernesto, who himself donated blood more than 100 times, encouraged those who could to continue donating blood.
It takes a community; happy 150th issue!
Finally, a little pat on our own back. This issue represents the 150th issue of Leaside Life. A special thanks to our committed team of contributors, both past and present, our loyal advertisers, many of whom have been with us for all 150 issues, and you, our readers. Our goal has always been to foster a deeper sense of community by engaging readers with hyper-local stories about the people, businesses and organizations calling Leaside and Bennington Heights home. Thank you for sharing the journey with us. Here’s to 150 more!