This week, the City of Toronto hosted Walk21, an international conference examining ways to improve the pedestrian realm on our streets. This year’s theme is “Putting Pedestrians First.” The conference reflects a recent shift in thinking at City Hall, where the once-dominant car is now being asked to take a back seat to the needs of pedestrians, transit-riders and cyclists. … Read More
Revue Cinema to Reopen on October 4
After 16 months of hard work and heroic fundraising efforts, the Revue Cinema will repoen its doors on October 4. The historic theatre, built in 1912, had been one of the oldest, continuously operating movie houses in Canada until its closure in June 2006. A group of community activists and film-lovers worked tirelessly to save the Revue, which was purchased … Read More
29-Storey Tower Proposed for Dundas and Bloor – Your Input Sought
A 29-story condominium tower has been proposed for Dundas and Bloor, on the site of Joe Mercury’s. This project may set an example for new buildings along Roncesvalles, which has been designated for denser development under the City’s Official Plan. A public meeting has been scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 20, to gather public input on this important project. The meeting … Read More
Roncesvalles Reconstruction Likely Delayed Until 2009
City staff has warned the BIA that the major reconstruction of Roncesvalles, still officially planned for 2008, will most likely be delayed until 2009. This is because a reconstruction of this scale will probably require an Environmental Assessment, and also because the project has become more complex with new features being added, such as curb extensions, rebuilt sidewalks, additional trees … Read More
Canada’s Rising Piano Stars to Perform During Polish Festival
The Roncesvalles Village BIA, Copernicus Lodge and the Canadian Chopin Festival are pleased to present Canada’s Rising Stars, who will perform during the 2007 Polish Festival, September 15 and 16. These young and talented pianists have won several awards worldwide, and we are proud to have them play at our festival. Location: Copernicus Lodge, 66 Roncesvalles Ave. September 15 12:00pm … Read More
The Legacy of Col. Walter O’Hara
Today’s Toronto Star features an interesting article about Col. Walter O’Hara, whose legacy lives on in the names of several Roncesvalles area streets. Read “Soldier’s story forever etched in city streets” IMAGE (right): Col. O’Hara’s beloved West Lodge
The Local to Host Revue Cinema Benefit – August 25
Following a successful Open House last Saturday, the Revue Film Society will be having a fundraising party, to be hosted by The Local pub, located just next door. This “Revue Revival” party will take place on August 25 at 2pm until close. From the Society’s website: The benefit concert will help the Revue Film Society toward its fundraising goal of … Read More
Two (or Three) Proposals for Roncesvalles
A key streetscape priority for the BIA and the community has been the creation of bumpouts, or extensions of the sidewalk onto the street (click here to view an example). These would become new public spaces, allowing for new uses such as patios, benches, gardens or public art. It is hoped that such bumpouts would become part of the major … Read More
Signs of Uniqueness Seen Hanging Along Roncesvalles
Photo: Piotr Bazlerz Hanging Signs create a unique sense of place along Roncesvalles Recent efforts to save the Sam the Record Man sign have reminded us of the place-making powers of signage. A few weeks ago, NOW Magazine highlighted 18 other unique signs that serve as minor landmarks in their neighbourhoods. On Roncesvalles, we too have our share of … Read More
Pharmacy Shoppe Closes After 30 Years
After over 30 years of service, Andrew and Christine Musial have retired, closing the Pharmacy Shoppe at 179 Roncesvalles. Thank you to them both for three decades’ worth of excellent service and commitment to the community. Good luck and best wishes! Guardian Drugs (137 Roncesvalles) has acquired the Pharmacy Shoppe business. We are told that all prescription records have been … Read More