Farmers Market Today

Just a reminder that today is the Farmers' Market in the parking lot that sits south of Bloor between Borden and Lippincott. I had a chat with the local organizer of the Market since I had heard rumblings that the farmers would not sell produce before 3pm even if they were set up to do so. His explanation had to do with fairness and likened it to showing up early to a garage sale. We all know how annoying the "earlybirds" can be. He also noted that the 4hour time frame, 3-7pm was fixed and that aspect was out of his control. The crowds are encouraging and organizers are hoping to double the number of buyers by next year. If you are interested in volunteering, they are very much in need of help; look for the white tent along Borden next time you are at the market for more information. The Market runs through the end of October.

Bishop Allen Academy-Seaton Village

Looks like we have a new high school in the neighbourhood; Bishop Allen Academy on Markham south of Barton. For those of you with grade six students, note that they are a grade 7-12 Catholic high school with options for French Immersion. Nice to see activity in that long abandoned building.

From their site:
About Bishop Allen Academy (BAA)

Bishop Allen is an excellent educational setting for the highly motivated, success-oriented student who enjoys learning. Our challenging academic curriculum includes enriched credit courses beginning in Grade 9 and Advanced Placement courses leading to the Advanced Placement diploma in senior years. Our large Gifted program focuses on academic achievement, leadership development and community service. Many Bishop Allen graduates are awarded scholarships to universities in Ontario and outside the province. Educational services are available for students who need support to learn within an inclusive environment.

Bishop Allen Academy is proud to be one of only two secondary schools in the Board to offer the Early Immersion French Program at the secondary level. The Middle Immersion (Extended) French program is also offered. Upon graduation, students will be eligible for either the Immersion French Certificate or the Extended French Certificate from the Toronto Catholic District School Board.

Bishop Allen also offers a rich Co-Curricular Program, which includes Vocal and Instrumental Music, Visual Art and Drama. As well, our varsity athletic teams have built a solid reputation for their many championship seasons. Our school motto is GAUDETE IN DOMINO – Rejoice in the Lord. At Bishop Allen Academy we strive to be a welcoming community that daily celebrates our calling to rejoice in the Lord.

Fire at Bedford and Bernard

There was a fire this afternoon at Bedford and Bernard; from The Toronto Star:

Neighbours Flee Fire
Stacey Askew
Staff Reporter

About 150 people in the immediate neighbourhood were forced to flee today when fire broke out in a house on a street near the intersection of Davenport Rd. and Avenue Rd.

The fire engulfed an early 20th century home on Bedford Rd. at Bernard Ave. around 1 o'clock this afternoon.

The house was being renovated. About half an hour after the fire began the home's roof fell in.

Police say there have been no injuries.

Garbage Bins

Now that most of us have sorted out the Blue Bin dilemma; how to wedge that large wheeled monster of a bin between the house or where to put it on the front lawn/porch. Behold, we now have Gray Bins on our doorstep. If, like me, you received the incorrect size for you household, there is a number you can call, 416-392-BINS or stop by the City of Toronto garbage/recycling bin site for more information and a list of FAQs.

Basement Apartment For Rent

There's a one-bedroom basement apartment up for grabs on Albany south of Barton and north of Bloor -- one block from the Bathurst subway station.
It has a galley kitchen, a living/dining area, a separate bedroom and a three-piece bathroom.
Monthly rent is $850 and includes all utilities and shared use of the in-house laundry facilities.
The landlord is willing to paint to suit and its available as of October 1st.
Please call 416.516.4600 to arrange a viewing.