Markham Stouffville Review, October 2023
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STOUFFVILLE<br />
Vol.12 Issue 10 <strong>October</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
WWW.STOUFFVILLEREVIEW.COM<br />
WWW.MARKHAMREVIEW.COM<br />
WHAT’S INSIDE<br />
Transforming <strong>Markham</strong> Centre<br />
for a digital future<br />
In the heart of <strong>Markham</strong>, where history meets innovation,<br />
a digital revolution is underway.<br />
Campaign highlights importance<br />
of smoke, CO2 alarms<br />
SEE PAGE 2<br />
Nearly 600 combination smoke and carbon<br />
monoxide alarms will be distributed at no charge<br />
to vulnerable residents and all residents are<br />
encouraged to test their alarms.<br />
SEE PAGE 6<br />
Golf tournament delivers warmth and love<br />
Regional Councillor Alan Ho recently hosted his<br />
9th Charity Golf Tournament — Golf Delivers<br />
Warmth & Love — at the Angus Glen Golf Club.<br />
SEE PAGE 10<br />
Give a bear to show you care with ‘Bear Necessities’<br />
Jazz, country and rock at <strong>Markham</strong> Theatre<br />
The <strong>Markham</strong> Theatre’s <strong>2023</strong>/24 Diamond Season<br />
is already underway as we head toward the fall.<br />
The programming is in full swing and offers a<br />
unique perspective on what the theatre offers its<br />
community.<br />
<strong>Markham</strong> <strong>Stouffville</strong> Hospital Foundation will be relaunching the Bear Necessities program this fall after the COVID-19 pandemic<br />
sent the fundraising initiative into hibernation. SEE PAGE 10<br />
COMMUNITY<br />
LOFT supports low-income<br />
individuals, families<br />
SEE PAGE 7<br />
For the last seven decades, LOFT has been providing<br />
personalized care and services to youth, adults,<br />
and seniors experiencing homelessness, using substances<br />
and/or living with mental health concerns.<br />
SEE PAGE 9<br />
Speed cameras remind<br />
drivers to slow down<br />
Many drivers regularly exceed posted speed<br />
limits, endangering themselves and other<br />
road users. To address this problem, local<br />
authorities have turned to Automated Speed<br />
Enforcement cameras to enforce traffic laws.<br />
Fan Fest attracts super fans<br />
Ready to unleash your inner superhero,<br />
wizard, or Jedi? The Whitchurch-<strong>Stouffville</strong><br />
Public Library is rolling out the red carpet for<br />
Fan Fest, the ultimate playground for fans of<br />
Disney, Harry Potter, Marvel, Star Wars, and<br />
Gaming.<br />
Fresh produce program<br />
expands to <strong>Stouffville</strong><br />
A program that makes fresh produce<br />
available at wholesale prices is now offered<br />
in <strong>Stouffville</strong>.<br />
You don’t have to miss out on local news and<br />
information. Just check out markhamreview.com<br />
and stouffvillereview.com for fresh, original articles,<br />
updated daily. Did you miss a print edition?<br />
Catch up with our replica e-paper, available<br />
anytime on our website.<br />
SEE PAGE 3 SEE PAGE 5<br />
SEE PAGE 11<br />
SUBSCRIPTIONS<br />
& SINGLE TICKETS<br />
NOW ON<br />
SALE!<br />
flatomarkhamtheatre.ca / 905.305.7469<br />
THE MANHATTAN TRANSFER:<br />
FAREWELL TOUR<br />
Saturday, December 2 // 3pm & 8pm<br />
230110 FMT_<strong>Markham</strong> <strong>Review</strong> - 23.24 Season - Manhattan Transfer - NEW SIZE 10x1.75.indd 1 <strong>2023</strong>-07-17 6:53 PM
2 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW COMMUNITY OCTOBER <strong>2023</strong><br />
Transforming <strong>Markham</strong> Centre for a digital future<br />
BY CONNOR SIMONDS<br />
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter<br />
In the heart of <strong>Markham</strong>, where history<br />
meets innovation, a digital revolution is<br />
underway. The city is poised to embark on<br />
a remarkable journey, one that promises to<br />
redefine the very essence of urban living.<br />
With technology as its compass and<br />
sustainability as its guide, <strong>Markham</strong> is<br />
charting a course toward becoming a leading<br />
global smart city.<br />
This ambitious endeavour, spearheaded<br />
by chief information officer Sumon Acharjee,<br />
unfolds within the framework of the<br />
<strong>Markham</strong> Centre Secondary Plan (MCSP)<br />
update, setting the stage for a future where<br />
connectivity, efficiency, and progress seamlessly<br />
intertwine. Welcome to the dawn<br />
of <strong>Markham</strong>’s Smart City transformation,<br />
where the city’s past meets its digital destiny.<br />
In a recent council meeting,<br />
<strong>Markham</strong>’s CIO unveiled a crucial component<br />
of its ambitious plan to redefine<br />
the future of urban living: the Smart Cities<br />
strategy and roadmap.<br />
“The Smart City strategy and roadmap<br />
are essential components in capitalizing on<br />
the power of technology,” Acharjee said.<br />
“The roadmap intends to provide <strong>Markham</strong><br />
with clear direction on the next steps<br />
towards sustainable deployment of Smart<br />
City technologies by identifying opportunities<br />
where Smart City technology can be<br />
utilized and identifying initial priorities for<br />
deployment.”<br />
At the heart of the presentation was the<br />
unveiling of the Smart City Strategy and<br />
Roadmap, a visionary blueprint that promises<br />
to shape the very fabric of <strong>Markham</strong><br />
Centre.<br />
This strategy intends to accomplish<br />
several key objectives: the roadmap will<br />
identify dimensions for a scalable Smart<br />
City approach, ensuring that <strong>Markham</strong> can<br />
adapt to evolving technologies and challenges;<br />
it lays out preliminary opportunities<br />
that will catalyze <strong>Markham</strong> Centre’s<br />
transformation into a thriving smart city,<br />
harnessing digital innovation to improve<br />
various facets of urban life; and the strategy<br />
will provide recommendations for the short,<br />
medium, and long-term aspects of implementation,<br />
guiding <strong>Markham</strong> on a journey<br />
toward a digitally empowered future.<br />
Rick Huijbregts, global lead for Smart<br />
Cities at Stantec, was invited to deliver a<br />
presentation to shed light on the development<br />
of this groundbreaking strategy. His<br />
expertise in the field of smart cities provided<br />
valuable insights into how <strong>Markham</strong><br />
can chart its course towards a brighter, more<br />
digitally inclusive future.<br />
He delineated the five pivotal developments<br />
that underpin a smart <strong>Markham</strong> Centre,<br />
with each factor playing a crucial role in<br />
its digital transformation. These encompass<br />
the establishment of a resilient physical<br />
infrastructure, complete with conduits and<br />
accessibility provisions to facilitate Wi-Fi<br />
network deployment, and the fine-tuning<br />
of last-mile connections to elevate both<br />
micro-mobility and overall transportation<br />
efficiency.<br />
With technology<br />
as its compass and<br />
sustainability as its<br />
guide, <strong>Markham</strong> is<br />
charting a course<br />
toward becoming<br />
a leading global<br />
smart city.<br />
Huijbregts transitioned to his third<br />
point, centred on the implementation of an<br />
Internet of Things (IoT) framework, and he<br />
stressed the importance by stating, “As we<br />
observe the growing proliferation of connected<br />
devices and systems, it is imperative<br />
that we establish a well-defined framework.<br />
This framework will serve as our guide to<br />
ensure a clear and transparent approach to<br />
the digitization of <strong>Markham</strong> Centre.”<br />
Additionally, it involves the establishment<br />
of standardized data protocols and the<br />
safeguarding of data privacy, the construction<br />
of a cohesive digital infrastructure that<br />
spans 5G, wired, and wireless networks,<br />
with a paramount focus on cybersecurity.<br />
Lastly, it entails the development of an<br />
advanced Digital Twin system, offering<br />
intelligent data to facilitate well-informed<br />
decision-making within <strong>Markham</strong> Centre.<br />
The presentation sparked an engaging<br />
committee discussion that delved into<br />
several crucial aspects.<br />
To begin, the concept of digital twins<br />
was explored in-depth, with Huijbregts<br />
shedding light on how they represent an<br />
evolution from 3D modelling and GIS,<br />
offering the potential to revolutionize the<br />
management of urban infrastructure.<br />
Next, the committee expressed interest<br />
in the possibility of establishing a data centre<br />
to analyze sensor-driven data. Huijbregts<br />
acknowledged this as a viable opportunity<br />
within the Secondary Plan, hinting at the<br />
transformative potential it holds for datadriven<br />
urban management.<br />
Furthermore, questions arose regarding<br />
the objectives and partnerships essential<br />
for the Smart Cities initiative. Huijbregts<br />
assured the committee that a comprehensive<br />
roadmap is under development, aiming to<br />
operationalize the plan’s recommendations<br />
and align policies and language with the<br />
overarching vision.<br />
Committee members also sought clarification<br />
on the timeline for obtaining more<br />
detailed information, with a particular focus<br />
on priority items and the initial attention<br />
given to underground infrastructure.<br />
Finally, the progress of an autonomous<br />
vehicle pilot was discussed, with the clarification<br />
that York Region would be responsible<br />
for its conduct. In addition, the city is<br />
actively exploring innovative transportation<br />
solutions, notably through the development<br />
of a micro-mobility strategy. These discussions<br />
and considerations play a significant<br />
role in shaping the future of <strong>Markham</strong>’s<br />
Smart Cities initiative.<br />
This city council meeting served<br />
as a testament to <strong>Markham</strong>’s dedication<br />
to embracing Smart City principles and<br />
leveraging digital innovation for the betterment<br />
of its residents. With the <strong>Markham</strong><br />
Centre Secondary Plan (MCSP) as the<br />
linchpin, <strong>Markham</strong> is taking a significant<br />
step towards realizing its vision of a<br />
technologically advanced and sustainable<br />
urban centre. As the digital age continues to<br />
reshape the world, <strong>Markham</strong> stands poised<br />
at the forefront, ready to lead the charge<br />
in creating a more connected, sustainable,<br />
and efficient urban environment for all its<br />
citizens.<br />
Continuous Memory:<br />
A fusion of language and art<br />
Latcham Art Centre presents Continuous<br />
Memory, an exhibition that brings<br />
together the unique works of artists Max<br />
Lupo and Jose Andres Mora.<br />
The exhibition opens its doors on <strong>October</strong><br />
20, with a reception from 7-9 PM, and<br />
will run until December 9.<br />
The artists offer a perspective on the<br />
intricate relationship between language and<br />
meaning through a variety of mediums,<br />
including technology, interactive sculpture,<br />
video, and complex imagery. Their work is<br />
not just visually impressive but also intellectually<br />
stimulating, inviting viewers to<br />
engage in a dialogue about the essence of<br />
language and its multifaceted interpretations.<br />
The exhibition employs interactive<br />
sculptures and technology to make the experience<br />
participatory. Visitors become part<br />
of the art, contributing to its meaning. This<br />
interactive element adds a layer of depth<br />
and engagement, making this a must-visit<br />
for anyone interested in the intersection of<br />
language, art, and technology.<br />
Don’t miss this unique opportunity<br />
to explore the power and playfulness of<br />
language through art. Admission is free, and<br />
everyone is welcome.<br />
Visit latchamartcentre.ca/exhibitions<br />
for more information.
OCTOBER <strong>2023</strong><br />
COMMUNITY 3 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW<br />
Speed cameras remind drivers to slow down<br />
BY JAY MEILIUNAS<br />
Speeding is a prevalent issue worldwide<br />
and poses a threat to road safety here<br />
in York Region.<br />
Many drivers regularly exceed posted<br />
speed limits, endangering themselves and<br />
other road users. To address this problem,<br />
local authorities have turned to Automated<br />
Speed Enforcement (ASE) cameras to enforce<br />
traffic laws.<br />
These cameras use advanced technology<br />
to capture images of vehicles travelling<br />
above the speed limit. Law enforcement<br />
officials can review these images and issue<br />
fines and citations to drivers who have<br />
violated traffic laws.<br />
Although some may view ASE cameras<br />
as invasive surveillance, they offer several<br />
benefits. One of the significant advantages<br />
is their ability to influence driver behaviour.<br />
Studies show that when drivers know they<br />
are being monitored, they are more likely to<br />
drive safely and abide by speed limits. This<br />
means that speed cameras can positively<br />
impact road safety, reducing the risk of accidents<br />
and fatalities.<br />
Another benefit of ASE cameras is the<br />
revenue they generate. Fines and penalties<br />
associated with speeding offences can be<br />
substantial, and the money collected can be<br />
used to fund other important initiatives and<br />
public projects that benefit the community.<br />
Compared to traditional traffic law enforcement,<br />
these cameras can operate 24/7,<br />
capturing violations without the need for<br />
police officers to be physically present. This<br />
allows law enforcement agencies to allocate<br />
their resources more efficiently, focusing<br />
on other aspects of road safety. In 2020,<br />
more than 30 per cent of fatal collisions on<br />
regional roads in York Region were related<br />
to speeding.<br />
It is essential to remember that responsible<br />
driving and obeying speed limits are<br />
crucial to ensure the safety of all road users.<br />
The use of speed cameras should be seen<br />
as one tool in a broader strategy to promote<br />
road safety and reduce speeding. By working<br />
together, we can create a safer and more<br />
enjoyable driving experience for everyone<br />
sharing the road.<br />
There may be controversy surrounding<br />
the use of ASE cameras, with concerns<br />
about privacy and fairness. However,<br />
studies show that their implementation has<br />
decreased the number of traffic accidents<br />
and fatalities. It is crucial to monitor and<br />
evaluate the use of speed cameras to ensure<br />
they are being used effectively and fairly, in<br />
conjunction with other measures to promote<br />
road safety.<br />
According to <strong>Stouffville</strong> Mayor Iain<br />
Lovatt, there is one active ASE camera<br />
in town. This camera is roaming which<br />
means motorists won’t know where it may<br />
be. There are more ASE cameras on their<br />
way thanks to a recent town council meeting<br />
where it was decided to purchase the<br />
devices. Automated Speed Enforcement<br />
(ASE) warning signs will be in place 90<br />
days in advance of camera activation and<br />
will be replaced with regulatory camera-inuse<br />
signs when activated.<br />
Despite concerns about their use, speed<br />
cameras can be an effective solution to the<br />
problem of speeding if implemented correctly.<br />
They can help make the roads safer<br />
for everyone.<br />
Happy<br />
Thanksgiving!<br />
Hon.<br />
MARY NG, MP<br />
MARKHAM—THORNHILL<br />
905-479-8100 mary.ng@parl.gc.ca maryngmp.ca
4 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW COMMUNITY OCTOBER <strong>2023</strong><br />
<strong>Markham</strong> student wins prestigious Schulich Leader Scholarship<br />
“These students represent some of the<br />
sharpest young minds in STEM and I am<br />
excited to see the game-changing contributions<br />
they will make to society.”<br />
In 2012, business leader and philanthropist<br />
Seymour Schulich established the<br />
scholarship fund worth more than $100<br />
million in 2012 to address the increasing<br />
importance STEM disciplines will have on<br />
future prosperity.<br />
“We are proud to celebrate the continued<br />
success of Schulich Leader Scholarships,<br />
the premiere STEM scholarship<br />
program in Canada,” Seymour Schulich<br />
said. “This group of outstanding students<br />
will represent the best and brightest Canada<br />
has to offer and will make great contributions<br />
to society, both on a national and<br />
global scale. With their university expenses<br />
covered, they can focus their time on their<br />
studies, research projects, extracurriculars,<br />
and entrepreneurial ventures. They are the<br />
next generation of entrepreneurial-minded,<br />
technology innovators.”<br />
Here are the University of Waterloo’s<br />
<strong>2023</strong> Schulich Leaders: Eric Gao (Unionville<br />
High graduate), Evie Bouganim,<br />
Brandon De Lazzari, Mikael Haji, Scott<br />
Hao, Caroline Huang, Mahi Joshi, Manasva<br />
Katyal, Josephina Kim and Ammielle<br />
Wambo Becker.<br />
Every high school in Canada can nominate<br />
one student for the scholarship. There<br />
are 100 scholarships awarded annually for<br />
study at one of 20 partner universities in<br />
this country.<br />
Eric Gao (bottom right) is one of 10 Waterloo students who recently received a Schulich<br />
Leader Scholarship.<br />
A student from <strong>Markham</strong> is among 10<br />
University of Waterloo students who are<br />
recent recipients of generous and prestigious<br />
Schulich Leader Scholarships. The<br />
awards encourage them to study in science,<br />
technology, engineering or mathematics.<br />
Eric Gao, a graduate of Unionville<br />
High School, receives $120,000 to study<br />
systems design engineering at Waterloo.<br />
“Personally, I seek solutions in social<br />
interaction, education, sustainability, and<br />
frugal science,” Gao said. “My main goal is<br />
to build tools that can empower anyone to<br />
use their talents for good regardless of their<br />
circumstances. Pursuing systems design<br />
engineering at the University of Waterloo<br />
will prepare me to leverage engineering and<br />
design to tackle these issues.”<br />
The scholars, known as Schulich Leaders,<br />
receive $100,000 or $120,000 to go towards<br />
their university education. More than<br />
1,400 high school students were nominated<br />
this time, with 100 becoming Schulich<br />
Leaders.<br />
“I am delighted to welcome this year’s<br />
cohort of Schulich Leader scholars to<br />
Waterloo’s campus,” said Dr. Vivek Goel,<br />
president and vice-chancellor of Waterloo.
OCTOBER <strong>2023</strong><br />
COMMUNITY 5 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW<br />
Fan Fest attracts super fans<br />
Ready to unleash your inner superhero,<br />
wizard, or Jedi? The Whitchurch-<strong>Stouffville</strong><br />
Public Library is rolling out the red carpet<br />
for Fan Fest, the ultimate playground for<br />
fans of Disney, Harry Potter, Marvel, Star<br />
Wars, and Gaming.<br />
Designed for kids and families, this annual<br />
event offers attendees a ticket to a world<br />
where fandoms come alive.<br />
It’s a celebration of passion, creativity,<br />
and community. Hosted annually by the<br />
library, this gathering is a haven for fans<br />
to come together and revel in their shared<br />
interests. Whether you’re a die-hard Disney<br />
aficionado, a Potterhead, a Marvel maniac, a<br />
Star Wars sage, or a gaming guru, Fan Fest<br />
has something special for you.<br />
Among the highlights of Fan Fest,<br />
the cosplay contest stands out. Participants<br />
are encouraged to come dressed as their<br />
favourite characters from any of the featured<br />
fandoms. So, whether you’re channelling<br />
your inner Disney princess, donning the<br />
robes of a Hogwarts wizard, suiting up as a<br />
Marvel superhero, wielding a lightsaber like<br />
a Jedi, or stepping into the shoes of a video<br />
game legend, this is your moment to shine.<br />
Let your creativity run wild.<br />
If you pride yourself on your encyclopedic<br />
knowledge of your favourite fandom, the<br />
trivia contest is the perfect platform to show<br />
off your expertise. With questions spanning<br />
all the featured fandoms, this is your chance<br />
to prove that you’re the ultimate fan.<br />
Ever wanted to try out Dungeons &<br />
Dragons, but could never find someone to<br />
run your game? The library team has you<br />
covered. Check out one of the one-shot<br />
sessions with the library’s experienced GM.<br />
Find details about the games and register to<br />
hold your spot through the library website.<br />
Mark your calendars for Oct. 21 and<br />
prepare for an unforgettable day of fandom<br />
fun taking place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.<br />
Visit wsplibrary.ca for more information.<br />
<strong>Review</strong> quarter pg Seminar Ad.qxp_<strong>Review</strong> quarter pg Seminar Ad 9/19/23 12:37 PM Page 1<br />
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6 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW COMMUNITY OCTOBER <strong>2023</strong><br />
Campaign highlights importance of smoke, CO2 alarms<br />
<strong>Markham</strong> Mayor Frank Scarpitti is joined by members of council and <strong>Markham</strong> Fire and Emergency<br />
Services, and Enbridge representatives to promote the Safe Community Project Zero campaign.<br />
Nearly 600 combination smoke and<br />
carbon monoxide alarms will be distributed<br />
at no charge to vulnerable residents and<br />
all residents are encouraged to test their<br />
alarms.<br />
“<strong>Markham</strong> is pleased to once again be<br />
a part of the Safe Community Project Zero<br />
campaign and to receive these lifesaving<br />
devices that will be distributed throughout<br />
the community to those in need,” says<br />
<strong>Markham</strong> Mayor Frank Scarpitti.<br />
<strong>Markham</strong> Fire and Emergency Services<br />
(MFES) teamed up with Enbridge Gas Inc.<br />
and the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety<br />
Council (FMPFSC) with the goal of reducing<br />
fire and carbon monoxide-related deaths<br />
to zero. MFES is receiving 594 combination<br />
alarms through the public education<br />
campaign, which will provide more than<br />
10,000 alarms to residents in 50 municipalities<br />
across the province.<br />
Enbridge Gas has invested $315,000<br />
in Safe Community Project Zero this year.<br />
Over the past 15 years, the program has<br />
provided more than 86,000 alarms to Ontario<br />
fire departments. “Our sincerest thanks<br />
and appreciation goes to Enbridge Gas<br />
for continuing to invest in this project and<br />
providing these devices that prioritize fire<br />
safety,” Scarpitti says.<br />
When properly installed and maintained,<br />
combination smoke and carbon<br />
monoxide alarms help provide the early<br />
warning to safely escape from a house fire<br />
or carbon monoxide exposure. Carbon<br />
monoxide is a toxic, odourless gas that’s<br />
a byproduct of incomplete combustion of<br />
many types of common fuels.<br />
“Properly maintaining fuel burning<br />
equipment is the best way to reduce<br />
potential exposure to carbon monoxide and<br />
an alarm is a critical second line of defence<br />
for protection,” says Ryan Bugg, Team<br />
Lead Construction, GTA East Operations,<br />
Enbridge Gas. “When we implement these<br />
strategies together, we protect our loved<br />
ones from carbon monoxide poisoning, also<br />
known as the silent killer.”<br />
Fire departments can adopt Safe Community<br />
Project Zero to help educate their<br />
communities about the requirement for all<br />
Ontario homes to have a carbon monoxide<br />
alarm if they have a fuel-burning appliance<br />
or an attached garage, notes Ontario Fire<br />
Marshall and FMPFSC Chair Jon Pegg.<br />
“It is the law for all Ontario homeowners<br />
to have working smoke alarms on every<br />
storey and adjacent to each sleeping area,”<br />
says MFES Fire Chief Chris Nearing. “A<br />
smoke alarm is critical for the early detection<br />
of a fire in your home and could mean<br />
the difference between life and death. Fires<br />
can occur in a variety of ways and in any<br />
room of your home.”<br />
Having a working smoke alarm is the<br />
“first key step toward your family’s safety,”<br />
Nearing reminds. All Ontarians are encouraged<br />
to learn more about smoke alarms, fire<br />
safety and home fire escape planning. Visit<br />
savedbythebeep.ca for helpful resources.<br />
A Legacy Unfolding at the Varley<br />
Shantel Miller, Praying for a Lost and Broken Generation, <strong>2023</strong>, oil on canvas, 60.9 cm x 76.2<br />
cm. (Image courtesy of the artist.)<br />
H a p py H a p py<br />
MID-AUTUMN<br />
F e s t ival<br />
F e s t ival<br />
Wishing you a bright and beautiful<br />
Mid-Autumn Festival! May your<br />
celebrations be filled<br />
with joy, mooncakes, and cherished<br />
moments with loved one!<br />
-MP PAUL CHIANG<br />
Member of Parliament<br />
PAUL CHIANG<br />
MARKHAM-UNIONVILLE<br />
https://paulchiang.libparl.ca | 905-470-2509<br />
BY JESSICA GEDGE<br />
The Varley Art Gallery showcases A<br />
Legacy Unfolding, a solo exhibition by<br />
<strong>Markham</strong> resident and artist Shantel Miller.<br />
The exhibition tackles the nuanced<br />
relationship between faith, spirituality and<br />
the church and the ways in which these<br />
are expressed within the artist’s Jamaican-<br />
Canadian community.<br />
On view is a series of figurative<br />
paintings and photographs highlighting<br />
the people and traditions that make up the<br />
Legacy Christian Community Worship<br />
Centre in <strong>Markham</strong>.<br />
Born in Toronto, Miller is a Jamaican-<br />
Canadian visual artist. She received an<br />
MFA in Painting at Boston University and a<br />
BFA in Drawing and Painting from the Ontario<br />
College of Art and Design. In 2021,<br />
she received the Dedalus Foundation MFA<br />
Fellowship in Painting and Sculpture, the<br />
Elizabeth Greenshield Award, the Esther B.<br />
and Albert S. Kahn Career Entry Fund and<br />
is currently the Ujima Boston Project Artist<br />
Fellow for 2022-2024.<br />
As in previous works, Miller centres<br />
the Black body, examining how it moves<br />
through space and exists within it. The<br />
artist describes photography as a tool to<br />
document, while painting is a means of<br />
encountering and expressing what she sees.<br />
The combination of both mediums allows<br />
Miller to simultaneously observe and<br />
reflect on what happens around her.<br />
Miller’s figurative paintings represent<br />
lived and imagined experiences that often<br />
situate the body in moments of vulnerability<br />
and introspection. As part of her creative<br />
process, she uses body language symbolically<br />
to suggest relationships of tension and<br />
intimacy, often depicting interior spaces<br />
with isolated moments of realism, alternating<br />
perspectives, and high-contrast colour<br />
relationships. Working in this way, Miller<br />
negotiates notions of a public and private<br />
self and explores ideas relevant to spirituality<br />
and existentialism in ordinary depictions<br />
of Black life.<br />
Miller will be speaking at a lunch and<br />
learn on Oct. 18 and hosting an artist workshop<br />
on Nov. 25. Registration is required<br />
for both events which will be held at the<br />
gallery.<br />
Check out A Legacy Unfolding at the<br />
Varley Art Gallery from Sept. 16 to Jan. 7,<br />
2024.<br />
For more information, visit varleygallery.ca.
OCTOBER <strong>2023</strong><br />
COMMUNITY 7 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW<br />
Golf tournament delivers warmth and love<br />
Margaret Cancer Centre, and Sinai Health<br />
System Toronto.<br />
In recognition of the exceptional challenges<br />
posed by the ongoing pandemic, Ho<br />
took a moment to pay tribute to the heroic<br />
healthcare workers at the forefront of the<br />
battle against COVID-19. Their unwavering<br />
dedication and resilience, often at the risk<br />
of their health, profoundly inspired everyone<br />
in attendance.<br />
To honour their dedication and service,<br />
the selected beneficiary for this year’s<br />
tournament was “Canadian Doctors for<br />
Medicare,” a non-profit organization advocating<br />
for a publicly funded, equitable, and<br />
accessible healthcare system in Canada. The<br />
tournament raised an impressive $30,000 to<br />
support its vital mission.<br />
Ho expressed his gratitude to all the<br />
sponsors, participants, and volunteers who<br />
made this event a resounding success,<br />
stating. “I am continually amazed by the<br />
generosity and support of our community,”<br />
Ho said. “This year’s tournament has once<br />
again showcased the strength of our unity<br />
and our shared commitment to making a<br />
positive impact. We proudly support Canadian<br />
Doctors for Medicare and their important<br />
work advocating accessible healthcare<br />
for all.”<br />
(l-r): Regional Councillor Alan Ho, beneficiary representative Dr. Bernard Ho, title sponsor<br />
Stephen Wong, Tommy Tam.<br />
Regional Councillor Alan Ho recently<br />
hosted his 9th Charity Golf Tournament<br />
— Golf Delivers Warmth & Love — at the<br />
Angus Glen Golf Club.<br />
Co-hosted by Tommy Tam, President<br />
of the Canadian Golf Teachers Federation<br />
(Chinese Division), and Honorary Chair<br />
Mayor Frank Scarpitti, Ho once again demonstrated<br />
the power of unity in supporting<br />
charitable causes.<br />
The tournament has an illustrious history<br />
of achieving remarkable milestones.<br />
Over the years, this event has been a<br />
driving force behind various initiatives,<br />
including the “<strong>Markham</strong> Longest Dragon<br />
Dance” Guinness World Record attempt. It<br />
has also extended a helping hand during disasters<br />
in regions such as Sichuan, Yunnan,<br />
Nepal, and beyond, actively participating in<br />
post-disaster reconstruction efforts.<br />
Moreover, the funds raised at the annual<br />
tournament have significantly contributed<br />
to healthcare institutions, including<br />
<strong>Markham</strong> <strong>Stouffville</strong> Hospital, Princess
8 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW COMMUNITY<br />
OCTOBER <strong>2023</strong><br />
Assessing the impact and vision of the Yonge North Subway Extension project<br />
BY CONNOR SIMONDS<br />
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter<br />
In the heart of the Greater Toronto<br />
Area, where bustling cityscapes meet serene<br />
suburban neighbourhoods, a transformative<br />
project is poised to reshape the landscape.<br />
The Yonge North Subway Extension<br />
(YNSE) project will extend Toronto’s<br />
Yonge-line subway network northward<br />
into York Region, improving transit access<br />
for residents in the GTA. It aims to boost<br />
economic growth, reduce congestion, and<br />
promote environmental sustainability.<br />
<strong>Markham</strong> Ward 1 Councillor Keith<br />
Irish is a vigilant advocate for the community,<br />
armed with insights and concerns<br />
about the eagerly awaited YNSE.<br />
With a subway station set to sprout in<br />
their own backyard, residents in Ward 1 and<br />
neighbouring areas anticipate a revolution<br />
in transit accessibility. However, Irish’s<br />
voice rises as a crucial reminder that the<br />
journey towards progress may be far from a<br />
smooth ride. As we delve into the unfolding<br />
narrative of the Subway project, we’ll<br />
explore the hopes, fears, and intricate web<br />
of possibilities it weaves for commuters,<br />
local businesses, and the very essence of the<br />
area’s future.<br />
In the mosaic of insights provided by<br />
Irish, scenarios come to life, painted with<br />
both direct and paraphrased quotes from the<br />
councillor himself. These possibilities offer<br />
a glimpse into the multifaceted landscape<br />
that may unfold during the execution of the<br />
Yonge North Subway Extension project.<br />
Irish’s optimism for the Yonge North<br />
Subway Extension project stems from its<br />
potential to revolutionize the daily commute<br />
for residents in <strong>Markham</strong>, Vaughan,<br />
Richmond Hill, and neighbouring areas.<br />
However, amidst his optimism,<br />
concerns loom large. Irish underscores the<br />
projected intensification in the Langstaff<br />
Gateway, Richmond Hill Centre, and the<br />
Yonge Street corridor, essential to the<br />
YNSE’s success. He foresees a daunting<br />
challenge: subway trains possibly reaching<br />
capacity before even reaching the Steeles<br />
Avenue station. While this growth may<br />
be music to the ears of project planners, it<br />
rings an alarm bell for commuters, particularly<br />
those who initially embraced public<br />
transit for its promise of convenience.<br />
Irish’s reservations extend to a worrisome<br />
scenario: “Those with cars will find it<br />
an unpleasant experience and will then use<br />
them instead and negate … the promise and<br />
convenience of commuting by a subway or<br />
GO train to and from York Region.”<br />
Delving into the economic landscape,<br />
Irish emphasizes the substantial intensification<br />
anticipated through fresh developments<br />
along the Yonge Street corridor within York<br />
Region. Here, he points to the unwavering<br />
commitment of both the Province of<br />
Ontario and York Region in constructing<br />
higher-density mixed-use communities centred<br />
around transit hubs. Their grand vision<br />
includes expanding housing and job opportunities,<br />
tightly linked with public transit<br />
accessibility, and reducing the reliance on<br />
personal vehicles.<br />
Irish envisions prosperity for businesses<br />
like grocery stores, pharmacies,<br />
and restaurants, which are poised to thrive.<br />
However, he issues a call to arms for<br />
planners to consider a broader spectrum<br />
of necessities. The creation of complete<br />
communities necessitates infrastructure like<br />
schools, community centres, libraries, and<br />
fire stations, all essential components that<br />
must not be overlooked.<br />
Transitioning to the construction phase,<br />
Irish acknowledges that it’s still too early<br />
to gauge the tangible impact of subway<br />
construction along the Yonge corridor.<br />
While modern tunnelling methods will<br />
dominate certain sections, Irish states that<br />
“there are portions along Yonge Street that<br />
will be constructed using the oldest method<br />
of tunnelling: ‘cut and cover’ (which) involves<br />
the digging of a trench from the road<br />
surface down, the construction of a tunnel,<br />
… then returning the road to its original<br />
state.” This technique will hold sway between<br />
Steeles and Clark stations.<br />
His concern rests with the inevitable<br />
traffic disruptions that will ensue, with vehicles<br />
spilling onto neighbouring residential<br />
arteries in search of alternative routes.<br />
The backbone of this colossal undertaking<br />
is collaboration. Irish underscores its<br />
paramount importance, given the project’s<br />
financing from federal, provincial, and municipal<br />
coffers. Every taxpayer, he asserts,<br />
deserves a voice and influence throughout<br />
the project’s lifecycle. The mounting<br />
pressure exerted by new transit-oriented<br />
development on local infrastructure—roads,<br />
schools, libraries, community centres,<br />
public transit, water, stormwater, and sewer<br />
capacity— demands meticulous planning<br />
and careful execution. Irish is unreserved in<br />
his concern for the impact on the quality of<br />
life for Thornhill residents and beyond.<br />
Concluding on a visionary note, Irish<br />
has “long believed that the effectiveness<br />
of public transit depends on three things:<br />
convenience, speed, and affordability.”<br />
He contends that public transit should<br />
present an alternative that is as convenient<br />
and swift as a personal vehicle while<br />
remaining affordable. It’s an approach<br />
reflective of the unique allure of communities<br />
within the Greater Toronto Area, chosen<br />
by residents who value a distinct quality of<br />
life—one that often necessitates the use of<br />
personal vehicles for everyday necessities.<br />
Striking a harmonious balance between<br />
transit accessibility and the preservation of<br />
these communities’ unique characteristics<br />
stands as a pivotal goal in his vision for the<br />
Inspiring the<br />
next generation of writers<br />
future of transportation in the region.<br />
As we navigate the complexities of the<br />
Yonge North Subway Extension project,<br />
Irish’s insights serve as a guiding beacon,<br />
highlighting both opportunities and<br />
challenges. In this transformative journey,<br />
we must heed his concerns to ensure that<br />
our vision of enhanced accessibility and<br />
economic growth aligns with the unique<br />
character of our communities.<br />
Success hinges on collaboration,<br />
foresight, and adaptability, forging a<br />
transportation landscape that truly serves<br />
the Greater Toronto Area for generations<br />
to come. Irish’s unwavering dedication to<br />
the region’s well-being is a testament to his<br />
commitment to balanced progress.<br />
The City of <strong>Markham</strong>’s Awesome Authors<br />
camp, nestled within the Angus Glen<br />
Community Centre, has long been fostering<br />
creativity and inspiration for young writers.<br />
Local author Chanel Rose Chow’s<br />
writing journey began at this very camp as a<br />
child and later blossomed into a full-fledged<br />
counsellor and supervisor.<br />
Her passion for creative writing ignited<br />
during her formative years spent at the<br />
Awesome Authors camp. Now, she is set to<br />
return to Angus Glen on Nov. 18 as a published<br />
author and a shining example of the<br />
camp’s mission to inspire and nurture young<br />
minds in the realm of creative writing and<br />
self-expression. She will also be leading<br />
storytime, sing-along and crafts on Oct. 7 at<br />
Aaniin Library and on Dec. 2 at Unionville<br />
Library. All three events start at 11 a.m.<br />
Chow’s debut children’s book, titled<br />
The Mouse in Beethoven’s House, is an<br />
educational and adventurous picture book<br />
tailored for children aged 4 to 8.<br />
This enchanting tale follows the adventures<br />
of Melody Mouse, who finds herself<br />
living next door to none other than Ludwig<br />
van Beethoven, the iconic classical composer.<br />
The story takes readers on a journey of<br />
discovery as Melody explores Beethoven’s<br />
world and learns about the magic of music.<br />
Chow attended Pierre Elliott Trudeau<br />
High School where she took Writer’s Craft<br />
and received the Writer’s Craft Award. “I<br />
credit the support of my teachers for helping<br />
foster my passion for creative writing,”<br />
Chow said.<br />
“I started Little Musicians in 2019, an<br />
early-childhood music education program<br />
for the City of <strong>Markham</strong>, which I am currently<br />
still running.”<br />
Drawing from her background as a<br />
music educator with degrees in a Bachelor<br />
of Music and Master of Teaching from the<br />
University of Toronto, Chow crafted The<br />
Mouse in Beethoven’s House with a dual<br />
purpose in mind: to ignite a love for music<br />
and foster a deep appreciation for creativity.<br />
Having once been a camper herself,<br />
she understands the transformative potential<br />
of such experiences. Chow is incredibly<br />
honoured to come full circle and return<br />
to the library that kickstarted her own<br />
journey as an author and is excited to share<br />
her book with the campers and hopefully<br />
inspire them to dream big and pursue their<br />
passions, whether it’s writing, music, or any<br />
form of creative expression.<br />
The Mouse in Beethoven’s House is<br />
set to captivate young hearts and minds, all<br />
while celebrating the legacy of a musical<br />
genius and kindling the flames of creativity<br />
in a new generation. With her debut book,<br />
Chow not only honours her own beginnings<br />
but also sets the stage for countless new adventures<br />
in storytelling and self-discovery.<br />
For further information, visit chanelrosechow.com.
OCTOBER <strong>2023</strong><br />
COMMUNITY 9 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW<br />
LOFT supports low-income<br />
individuals, families<br />
BY ANDREW FUYARCHUK<br />
For the last seven decades, LOFT has<br />
been providing personalized care and services<br />
to youth, adults, and seniors with complex<br />
challenges, including substance abuse and<br />
mental health issues.<br />
A recent late-night drive around<br />
<strong>Markham</strong> confirmed that several people were<br />
living out of their vehicles. This disappointing<br />
but eye-opening outing was followed<br />
by an interview with LOFT community<br />
services.<br />
Coordinator Mary Ann Proulx and Lori<br />
Kerr, Director at LOFT Crosslinks Housing<br />
& Support Services as well as LOFT Street<br />
Outreach & Services Network, describe their<br />
responsibilities, experiences, and impressions<br />
of those they serve in York Region.<br />
Proulx explains that in comparison to<br />
the past, she is seeing more people who are<br />
fully employed living in their vehicles. She<br />
relates, “People who receive government<br />
assistance, as well as low-income individuals<br />
or families, are locked out of the housing<br />
market.” Kerr agrees and explains, “LOFT<br />
offers supportive housing and rental subsidies.<br />
When accessing the competitive/private<br />
market for rental units, rents can be higher<br />
than the market value.”<br />
As a result, there are approximately<br />
16,000 names on the waitlist for social housing<br />
units with Housing York Inc.<br />
“It can take years to acquire a unit with<br />
them,” Kerr says. On average, 300 people<br />
are successfully housed each year.<br />
In addition to housing, Proulx adds that<br />
LOFT provides a street outreach van.<br />
The van provides people who are homeless,<br />
and at risk of homelessness, with food,<br />
shelter supplies, blankets, harm reduction<br />
supplies and clothing. Most importantly, they<br />
build relationships. Proulx relates, “Some<br />
people we meet have experienced trauma. It<br />
takes time to win their trust.” Kerr adds that<br />
the van is staffed by professionals who know<br />
how to respond to complex situations. They<br />
are trained in harm reduction and call upon<br />
other support services as needed, including<br />
EMS for medical concerns.<br />
Both have had many rewarding experiences.<br />
Proulx recalls helping a woman successfully<br />
transition from the street to being in a<br />
shared apartment.<br />
Kerr describes the experience as great,<br />
helping people develop new ways to live<br />
successfully in their community. She says<br />
that for some, this has been an opportunity<br />
for rebuilding family relationships.<br />
Kerr and Proulx agree that their biggest<br />
challenge in <strong>Markham</strong> is the availability of<br />
affordable housing and the need for flexible<br />
support for those in a social housing situation.<br />
Chamber recognizes<br />
local business leaders<br />
At this year’s <strong>Stouffville</strong> Chamber of<br />
Commerce’s Business Awards reception,<br />
two distinctly different individuals with<br />
Special Recognition Awards were highlighted.<br />
Eric Tappenden (Chapel Ridge Funeral<br />
Home) and Kevin Ker (Epidemic Music<br />
Group) are extremely different in personality<br />
and vocation, but they both have a<br />
common passion and commitment to the<br />
<strong>Stouffville</strong> Community and giving back in<br />
their own unique ways.<br />
“The <strong>Stouffville</strong> Chamber of Commerce<br />
is honoured to recognize both of<br />
these individuals for the many years of<br />
positive contributions that they have each<br />
made,” said chamber director Karen Wootton.<br />
“The volunteer judging panel had their<br />
work cut out for them with a record number<br />
of applicants,” Wootton said.<br />
Every submission was reviewed and<br />
scored by each judge with follow-up interviews<br />
being conducted with each of the<br />
finalists. Award categories included Health/<br />
Wellness & Fitness, People & Professionals,<br />
Charity, Retail/Sales & Service, Food/<br />
Beverage & Entertainment and New Business.<br />
The <strong>Stouffville</strong> Chamber of Commerce<br />
presented awards to this year’s winners:<br />
Faceology Spa (Health/Wellness & Fitness),<br />
Data Gives Back (People & Professionals),<br />
Card’s TV & Appliances (Retail/Sales &<br />
Service), Epidemic Music Group (Food/<br />
Beverage & Entertainment), and For Little<br />
Monkeys (Charity and New Business).<br />
“Never before have we received<br />
so many nominations for the Business<br />
Awards,” Wootton added. “We are so fortunate<br />
to have so many fantastic businesses<br />
here in <strong>Stouffville</strong>. We congratulate this<br />
year’s winners and thank each and every<br />
business in <strong>Stouffville</strong> for their contributions<br />
to our community.”
10 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW COMMUNITY OCTOBER <strong>2023</strong><br />
Jazz, country and rock at <strong>Markham</strong> Theatre<br />
BY JEFF JONES<br />
The <strong>2023</strong>/24 Diamond Season at the<br />
Flato <strong>Markham</strong> Theatre is already underway<br />
and the programming offers a unique<br />
perspective on what the theatre offers the<br />
community.<br />
<strong>October</strong>’s shows kick off with SAMA-<br />
JAM > YOU are The Show on Oct. 14 at<br />
2 p.m. This dynamic music participation<br />
show, where each audience member performs<br />
collectively, has sold over a million<br />
tickets around the world and is in <strong>Markham</strong><br />
for one public performance only.<br />
“This is a truly great show and opportunity<br />
for an incredible family outing,” says<br />
Lariviere.<br />
The next offering is on Oct. 18 at 8<br />
p.m. Jazz sensation Hiromi pushes the<br />
boundaries of music from classical to pop<br />
with her newest project, Sonicwonder.<br />
“We are proud to have been Hiromi’s<br />
first presenter in Ontario some years ago,”<br />
says Lariviere, “and we’re excited to be<br />
hosting this exclusive Ontario show in<br />
<strong>October</strong>.”<br />
Hiromi has impressed audiences<br />
all over the world now with a style that<br />
encompasses and eclipses the boundaries<br />
of jazz. This tour features her latest work,<br />
Sonicwonderland, and an electrified 4-piece<br />
band. Her live performances have become<br />
well known for their energy and jaw-dropping<br />
improvisation.<br />
After this, there is An Evening with<br />
April Wine on Oct. 20. This is the legendary<br />
Canadian rocker’s first tour with their<br />
new lead guitarist, Marc Parent. Of course,<br />
Parent has the blessing of the recently<br />
retired Myles Goodwin and the band is out<br />
to prove that the music and legacy of April<br />
Wine is in great hands.<br />
“It’s great to have the guys back,”<br />
Lariviere says. “We did one of the last<br />
shows with Myles and we’re very excited<br />
to bring them back with the new lineup.<br />
Always a great time.”<br />
Oct. 23 brings what is likely this<br />
season’s most recognized personality to the<br />
<strong>Markham</strong> Theatre stage. Howie Mandel is,<br />
of course, a household personality across<br />
all of North America with his successes on<br />
TV with Deal or No Deal and America’s<br />
Got Talent. Beyond these, he’s been a<br />
presence as a supporting character or voice<br />
actor in dozens of other works. What some<br />
may not know is that his first love, and the<br />
thing that propelled him to fame, is standup<br />
comedy.<br />
“He’s a fantastic comic,” says Lariviere.<br />
“We’re very excited to have him;<br />
if you’re looking for a laugh, this is the<br />
show.”<br />
A proud Canadian with stars both on<br />
Canada’s Walk of Fame and Hollywood’s,<br />
Mandel still has family in the <strong>Markham</strong><br />
area and this show represents something of<br />
a homecoming performance for him.<br />
Next up is the Little Pear Garden<br />
Dance Company with the world premiere<br />
of their latest work, Spectrum of Connection<br />
on Oct. 26.<br />
“The ideas and the aesthetic of Little<br />
Pear are excellent,” explains Lariviere.<br />
“We’re both excited and proud to be the<br />
first to host this new work.”<br />
The show is meant to be, in some<br />
ways, a reaction to the pandemic; but<br />
only in so far as the pandemic brought the<br />
future of human connection into focus.<br />
The performance is an exploration of these<br />
connections by one of the most important<br />
dance companies working today.<br />
“It’s just beautiful,” continues Lariviere.<br />
“The costumes, the cast, the movements…anyone<br />
looking for something new<br />
and exciting should definitely check this<br />
out.”<br />
The very next night, Oct. 27, Brass<br />
Transit returns to <strong>Markham</strong> for what is sure<br />
to be another packed blast from the past.<br />
This tribute to Chicago’s early hits and<br />
style features a world-class horn section, a<br />
rocking rhythm section and vocals stacked<br />
sky-high that are sure to transport audiences<br />
back to the freewheeling days of the<br />
seventies.<br />
The last performance in <strong>October</strong> is the<br />
Discovery Gala which features a fixture of<br />
the Canadian music scene for 30 years in<br />
Blue Rodeo.<br />
Blue Rodeo needs little introduction,<br />
in fact, the list of accolades would go on<br />
for a while, but perhaps the most telling<br />
factoid about them is that they have likely<br />
headlined almost every club, theatre and<br />
arena that features music in Canada. Proceeds<br />
from the gala support the future of<br />
the Discovery program.<br />
Each year the Discovery program<br />
provides interactive arts programming<br />
and outreach and inclusive community<br />
engagement throughout the <strong>Markham</strong> area.<br />
Notably this year, the interactive musical<br />
program SAMAJAM>YOU are the Show<br />
is being offered for free to thousands of<br />
school children.<br />
“This month has dance, comedy, family<br />
entertainment, as well as Jazz, Country<br />
and Rock music, from diverse voices and<br />
backgrounds that speak to our entire audience,”<br />
finishes Lariviere. “It is not a month<br />
to be missed.”<br />
Visit markhamtheatre.ca for more<br />
information.<br />
Give a bear to show you care with ‘Bear Necessities’<br />
Bear hugs are putting smiles on patients’ faces at <strong>Markham</strong> <strong>Stouffville</strong> Hospital.<br />
Making a patient’s hospital stay a<br />
little more ‘bearable’ is just a bear hug<br />
away.<br />
<strong>Markham</strong> <strong>Stouffville</strong> Hospital (MSH)<br />
Foundation will be relaunching the Bear<br />
Necessities program this fall after the<br />
COVID-19 pandemic sent the fundraising<br />
initiative into hibernation.<br />
Created in 2016 to provide added<br />
comfort to patients of all ages at Oak<br />
Valley Health’s <strong>Markham</strong> <strong>Stouffville</strong><br />
Hospital, the Bear Necessities program<br />
began by offering cuddly teddy bears to<br />
those who needed their spirits lifted.<br />
In 2018, the program expanded to<br />
include soft sleep sacks for newborns<br />
and plush blankets to keep patients warm<br />
and comfortable.<br />
When you give a ‘bear hug,’ you are<br />
supporting critical, life-saving equipment<br />
and bringing comfort to those who<br />
need it at MSH. Anyone who receives a<br />
‘bear hug’ is reminded that they are not<br />
alone and that the talented hospital team<br />
has the tools they need to ensure excellent<br />
patient care, close to home.<br />
“Participation in the Bear Necessities<br />
program showcases how generous<br />
our community is,” says Marina<br />
von Engelbrechten, MSHF Director of<br />
Community Giving. “By sending a teddy<br />
bear, sleep sack, or blanket, our community<br />
is caring for one another, no matter<br />
the age, while supporting a great cause.<br />
Whether you are a child in the paediatric<br />
clinic or an elderly patient in palliative<br />
care, knowing someone is thinking<br />
of you brings our community closer<br />
together.”<br />
Former patient John Harrison has<br />
supported the Bear Necessities program<br />
every year since the beginning. “It was<br />
a win-win situation,” he says. “A patient<br />
gets something in their time of need and<br />
the funds support the hospital to improve<br />
patient care.” Harrison donates each year<br />
to purchase as many bears to be gifted<br />
to MSH patients knowing it provides<br />
comfort during their time at the hospital.<br />
Bear Necessities are not only available<br />
for patients through a donation,<br />
they can also be purchased as gifts for<br />
loved ones for any special occasion. As<br />
the cold weather arrives and the holiday<br />
season is fast approaching, what better<br />
gift is there to give than the gift of<br />
warmth and support. You can help make<br />
a patient’s stay a little more ‘bearable’<br />
and show someone you care at lifesavinggifts.ca.
OCTOBER <strong>2023</strong><br />
Insulin resistance<br />
11 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW<br />
BY SHANA DANIEL, RHN<br />
Insulin resistance is a condition where<br />
cells in the body become less responsive to<br />
the effects of insulin, a hormone produced<br />
by the pancreas. This resistance makes<br />
it harder for the cells to take in glucose<br />
(sugar) from the bloodstream, leading to<br />
elevated blood sugar levels. It’s often a<br />
precursor to type 2 diabetes and can be<br />
influenced by genetics, obesity, a sedentary<br />
lifestyle, and certain health conditions.<br />
Managing insulin resistance involves lifestyle<br />
changes, such as weight loss, exercise<br />
and a balanced diet.<br />
Elevated blood sugar levels can pose<br />
several dangers to your health.<br />
Consistently high blood sugar can lead<br />
to diabetes, a chronic condition that affects<br />
your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar.<br />
High blood sugar can damage blood vessels<br />
and nerves over time, leading to serious<br />
complications such as heart disease, kidney<br />
problems, nerve damage and vision issues.<br />
High blood sugar can weaken your immune<br />
system which makes you more susceptible<br />
to infections; can slow down the<br />
body’s natural healing processes, leading<br />
to delayed wound healing; over time, high<br />
blood sugar can damage the blood vessels<br />
in the eyes, leading to vision problems and<br />
even blindness; and nerve damage caused<br />
by high blood sugar can result in tingling,<br />
numbness, and pain, especially in the extremities.<br />
Insulin resistance is becoming more<br />
common due to a combination of factors,<br />
such as a sedentary lifestyle and high consumption<br />
of sugary foods which often leads<br />
to excess weight and even obesity.<br />
The increase in obesity rates is<br />
strongly linked to insulin resistance. Excess<br />
fat, especially abdominal fat, can lead to<br />
changes in hormones and inflammation<br />
that contribute to insulin resistance. Lack<br />
of physical activity is a major contributor.<br />
Fresh produce program<br />
A program that makes fresh produce<br />
available at wholesale prices is now offered<br />
in <strong>Stouffville</strong> and Richmond Hill.<br />
York Region Food Network’s (YRFN)<br />
Good Food Box (GFB) program has been<br />
operating in Aurora for more than 15 years<br />
and started serving <strong>Markham</strong> in 2020.<br />
YRFN works with <strong>Markham</strong>’s 19th Avenue<br />
Farmers’ Market to purchase produce<br />
at wholesale prices and passes those prices<br />
along to customers to make fresh produce<br />
more affordable than purchasing the same<br />
quantity of food from a grocery store. Each<br />
GFB costs $18.<br />
In Richmond Hill, the GFB program<br />
will be available at The Community Christian<br />
Reformed Church.<br />
“By providing a pickup location in the<br />
heart of Richmond Hill, we have been able<br />
to see how many people have already been<br />
served through this program and the amazing<br />
work that YRFN has been able to bring<br />
to our community,” says Church Pastor Jack<br />
Klooster.<br />
In <strong>Stouffville</strong>, YRFN has teamed up<br />
with the Hummingbird Hub, The ABLE<br />
Regular exercise helps improve insulin<br />
sensitivity, but a sedentary lifestyle reduces<br />
this sensitivity. High consumption of<br />
sugary foods, refined carbohydrates, and<br />
unhealthy fats can lead to weight gain and<br />
insulin resistance.<br />
Chronic stress and poor sleep patterns<br />
can contribute to insulin resistance, as can<br />
exposure to certain chemicals and pollutants.<br />
Unfortunately for some people, genetic<br />
factors can predispose them to insulin resistance,<br />
making them more susceptible even<br />
with relatively healthy lifestyles.<br />
The time it takes to improve or manage<br />
insulin resistance in the body can vary<br />
greatly from person to person. Some people<br />
may see improvements in insulin sensitivity<br />
relatively quickly, within a matter of weeks<br />
to a few months, by making significant<br />
changes to their diet and exercise habits.<br />
Although water itself does not directly<br />
affect insulin resistance, staying properly<br />
hydrated is important for overall health and<br />
it can indirectly support efforts to manage<br />
insulin resistance.<br />
Adequate hydration is essential for<br />
various metabolic processes in the body.<br />
When you are well-hydrated, your body<br />
functions more efficiently, which can help<br />
support better insulin sensitivity.<br />
Staying hydrated may help support<br />
stable blood sugar levels, as dehydration<br />
can sometimes lead to elevated blood sugar<br />
levels. Drinking water before meals can<br />
promote a feeling of fullness, potentially<br />
reducing calorie intake. Maintaining a<br />
healthy weight is important for managing<br />
insulin resistance and reducing the risk of<br />
type 2 diabetes.<br />
Working with a health professional<br />
in the field of nutrition can guide a client<br />
along their health journey while optimizing<br />
their energy requirements with sound food<br />
choices according to their body’s requirements.<br />
Network and St. James Presbyterian Church<br />
to build a GFB distribution site at the<br />
church at 6432 Main St. with funding from<br />
the Whitchurch-<strong>Stouffville</strong> Legacy Fund.<br />
“It is wonderful to see more partnerships<br />
of social organizations coming<br />
together to provide support, programs and<br />
solutions for many within our community,”<br />
says Hummingbird Hub Executive Director<br />
Laura Cusack. “It’s exciting to see this<br />
grow into a solid support service that can<br />
help so many across a broad demographic<br />
spectrum including support for families, seniors<br />
and young people on a tight budget.”<br />
The GFB program is available on the<br />
first and third Wednesday of each month<br />
year-round. Place orders at www.yrfn.ca<br />
and indicate your pickup location: Aurora,<br />
<strong>Markham</strong>, Richmond Hill or <strong>Stouffville</strong>.<br />
York Regional Forest Accessible Trails<br />
Everybody’s Forest<br />
Visiting the York Regional Forest<br />
is a great way to stay active, enjoy<br />
fresh air and connect with nature.<br />
York Region maintains four trails accessible<br />
to wheelchairs, strollers and other assistive<br />
devices. Accessible trails are wider, clear of<br />
large obstructions and graded for ease-ofmovement<br />
for all visitors. Each trail ranges<br />
between 1.5 to 2 kilometres and loops through<br />
a variety of landscapes.<br />
FORESTRY<br />
york.ca/YRF<br />
Scan here for<br />
more information.
12 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW OCTOBER <strong>2023</strong>