Fundraising campaign reaches halfway point
It’s not so much what politicians say, but rather, how, when and to whom they say it. Beaches–East York Councillor Sandra Bussin (Ward 32) made an interesting comment during her brief speech Sept. 15 at a celebratory picnic held at Kew Gardens.
She said that the sprawling series of slides, swings and other equipment that will be installed next year at the uniquely bucolic Kew Gardens will be available to all Toronto residents, and not just those who happen to live within a stroller ride of this blessed area on Queen St. E.
This was a fine thing to mention, not only because much of the bill for the $200,000 is being paid by all Toronto taxpayers, but also because it sends a message to the fun-seekers that the park will surely be enjoyed by toddlers whose parents will have to drive or take the Queen St. E. streetcar to get down here.
Bussin’s comment is worthy of mention because other projects haven’t been met with the same willingness to include. It’s unfortunate a similar openness didn’t exist when a family in North Toronto wanted to replace some rusty playground equipment at Eglinton Park near Yonge St. and Eglinton Ave. W. Instead of kudos, they received criticism for their plans because, the naysayers argued, they technically lived outside of the immediate neighbourhood. (Thank goodness, like the Kew Gardens project, the Eglinton Park project is a go.)
Perhaps Bussin’s comments weren’t interpreted like this anyway — the dozens who came to enjoy the grilled Licks burgers and the well-chosen tunes of Triple Play seemed less interested in politics.
And the kids whose faces were painted to look like fairies and Spider-man who were climbing on the playground equipment out of earshot from the speeches didn’t seem to pay any attention.
And besides, the always-inclusionary residents of the Beach, particularly south of Queen St. E., are used to hosting those from outside their neighbourhood. Just try and find a parking spot on a sunny August Saturday.
The day was held as a supped-up family day for employees and customers of MidTown Saturn Saab Isuzu, the fine people who were on hand with the traditional novelty cheque. The folks at KewPlay, the community-based group that is spearheading, were more than happy to announce that MidTown Saturn’s donation of $25,000 put the fundraising effort just over $110,000.