Residents encouraged to fly the flag for East York

Campaign by East York's Hall of Fame aims to sell flags and nominate current and former residents who are 'doing great things'

East York’s Hall of Fame is inviting residents to show some community spirit by supporting the organization’s first flag campaign.

The event took place Nov. 15 at the Rise & Dine Eatery on St. Clair Ave. E., with Ontario Premier and Don Valley West MPP Kathleen Wynne and Beaches-East York MPP Arthur Potts in attendance.

Councillor Mary Fragedakis, MPP Arthur Potts, East York Hall of Fame president Justin Van Dette and Premier Kathleen Wynne wave the East York flag. // (COURTESY OF JUSTIN VAN DETTE)

“At the heart of a strong province are strong communities, like East York,” Wynne said. “I can’t wait to see families showing their neighbourhood pride by flying the East York flag outside their homes.”

The flags are almost sold out. (Small flags cost $12; large ones are $60.) A second order has already been placed.

Justin Van Dette, 38, started the East York Hall of Fame a year ago after attending an event for the Leaside Sports Hall of Fame.

“I was blown away by the strong sense of community in the room,” Van Dette said. “How positive it was to witness celebrating the success of individuals in the community.”

Meredith Jacobs, 39, is a local resident who is eager to see the community’s spirit come back to life.

“I think people often forget that East York is a big part of Toronto. It is one of the friendliest communities within the city,” Jacobs said. “The residents deserve to be celebrated.”

The East York Hall of Fame sell flags in an effort to build the spirit of the community back up.

Meanwhile, Van Dette hopes the community will also come together to nominate residents for the Hall of Fame.

“East York has a long and special history in Canada, and it is important we celebrate that pride,” he said. “So many of our current and former residents are doing great things, and the East York Hall of Fame intends to recognize those individuals.”

Nominations close Dec. 31. They can be made online or by completing a form at local community centres in East York.

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Posted: Dec 12 2017 6:27 pm
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