Hi All, Here is a list of upcoming free webinars for Toronto small businesses. There's some interesting topics - please take a look - specifically the one that provides help when applying for the various government funding programs. Again, these are free - you just need to register. Thanks, Susan Stay informed with online webinars & events COVID-19 Reopening Guidance for the Retail Sector (Free)Thursday, May 28, 11:00 a.m. - RegisterThursday, June 4, 11:00 a.m. - Register Thursday, June 11,…

Good Morning All, Please see the information below re: the CECRA and CEBA programs. Please keep me updated as to whether your landlord is applying. We'd also like to get feedback from those who do apply as to the ease or challenges of the application process. Again, as I don't have email addresses for all of our landlords, I ask that you please forward this email to your landlord. Thanks, Susan The Application Portal for the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent…

Good Afternoon All, This morning Mayor Tory issued a press release detailing plans to expand the City's Active TO program - this includes, among other things, the installation of bike lanes throughout various areas of the City and yes, on the Danforth from Victoria Park to Broadview. Attached is the full release and below is a link to the release. Unfortunately the plan comes without any details. Please know that your Board of Directors and myself are working to get…

Hi Folks, I'm very sad to report that one of our valued BIA members has announced their closure this afternoon. After 20 years, Pealac Rugs at 815 Broadview Avenue is closing. Nima and his wonderful store has been a mainstay in our BIA. Nima and his family not only have a business in our BIA but are also local residents. Nima has been trying to work things out in terms of rent but has not been able to come to…

Good Morning All, This has been a busy week as we've seen a few of our retail members slowly and safely open their doors. Today I wanted to remind you of the current rules - there's a lot of guidelines and it's easy to miss something. Social Distancing & Gatherings: - This morning Mayor Tory reminded people that we are still maintaining the 5 people rule for gatherings and those 5 people all need to live in the same house.…

Good Afternoon All, As you know, every morning I watch the PM's daily briefing on CTV News and then update all of you; and, every morning while waiting for the PM CTV interviews Dr. Abdul Sharkawy. Dr. Sharkawy is an Infectious Diseases Specialist with the University Health Network here in Toronto. I find his daily CTV interviews very helpful and easy to understand. Today Dr. Sharkawy was asked how to properly wear a mask now that Dr. Tam has recommended…