On the eve of the summer season, Parkdale-High Park MPP Cheri DiNovo hosts her annual levee during which she'll present her Community Activist Awards, June 15 at the Lithuanian Hall.
Fifteen community members, entrepreneurs and activists will be recognized for their hard work and dedication during a reception starting at 7 p.m. They include Business Improvement Area (BIA) members and volunteers, those who "make our community better."DiNovo hosted her inaugural awards last year and said at the time that it became clear to her during her years as a minister that "we always do way too little to recognize those who do way too much."And then, as a politician, she said she tends to see the same faces at most of the functions and events she attends. "They turn up to everything and I think we should honour them," she said last year. "I asked my staff, 'who do you see all the time?'"Neil Ross, chair of the West Toronto Junction Historical Society, is one of the award recipients, who will be recognized at the June 15 reception."This is a great contribution Cheri and her staff are making," said Ross. "I was at last year's levee when Madeleine McDowell, Sarah Doucette and Studio Cycle Group among others were honoured. It's a privilege to follow in such tracks and to volunteer with groups like the Junction Historical Society and the Junction Residents Association who give so much to the community."Local environmental group Green 13's Rita Bijons said she was "delighted" to hear from DiNovo's office about the honour. "It's fantastic," said Bijons. "I regard it as a reward for all of Green 13. It's quite fabulous. It's great to be recognized."Green 13 is in the midst of organizing several initiatives, including an upcoming meeting about heat waves in July. A guest speaker from Toronto Public Health will speak about heat waves, which can be potentially deadly, said Bijons. "Because of climate change the frequency of heat waves is increasing. We've had, what three heat waves already this year?" said Bijons. "We're looking at having someone come to speak about heat waves and what research the city is doing. They've taken a cue from other North American cities."Bijons cited Europe as an example, recalling the heat wave of 2003 that was responsible for ultimately 70,000 people's death. "This is something we should be informed about," she said. "There are measures the community can take. It's a perfect time to get people talking."Mary Breen of Wise Daughters Craft Market at the corner of Dundas Street West and Pacific will also be honoured. "It's very nice to be acknowledged for my role in the community," she said. "I'm really pleased. I'm really looking forward to the event on Tuesday."DiNovo's annual levee takes place at the Lithuanian Hall, 1537 Bloor St. West, Tuesday, June 15 from 7 until 9 p.m.