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<figure id="figure-8hx8tzbxz9m0l0979f" class=""><img id="8hx8tzbxz9m0l0979f" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/21Opvxho8dWgQDp2gTszn8GtXRa1rXpDUBv0Y9kLZKpVZeEHadt14ytT5JZy4erO.png" alt="Diverse Identity Design" title="Diverse Identity Design" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/21Opvxho8dWgQDp2gTszn8GtXRa1rXpDUBv0Y9kLZKpVZeEHadt14ytT5JZy4erO.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>It all began with a mysterious late-night text from on of our neighbours:<span style="font-family: var(--head-fontFamily); font-size: calc(32px * var(--head-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--head-fontStyle, normal); font-weight: var(--head-fontWeight, 500); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-family: var(--head-fontFamily); font-size: calc(32px * var(--head-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--head-fontStyle, normal); font-weight: var(--head-fontWeight, 500); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">"Potluck this Sunday—what are you bringing?"That message spread through the neighbourhood like wildfire! What started as a simple potluck quickly turned into a full-blown celebration of our community, our friendships, the end of summer, and for some families, the start of the new school year.As more people were added to the group, the excitement grew, with everyone claiming their dish for our late afternoon barbecue potluck. There was plenty of back-and-forth, showcasing some real creativity—and a bit of friendly competition. A couple of neighbours had the same idea for an appetizer, which quickly escalated into an Iron Chef-style showdown.<figure id="figure-on9ms4r7jm0mgrm66"><img id="on9ms4r7jm0mgrm66" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35D033SmNMj1hsy5DHQICzihl9ZM1QV8IzkWo3tbfVr9jN0c0sSGLoEdKR2QewSM.jpg" alt="Young multiracial group stacking hands together- Happy diverse friends united at community table having fun- youth Millennial students giving strength motivation- Human resources teamwork concept" title="Young multiracial group stacking hands together- Happy diverse friends united at community table having fun- youth Millennial students giving strength motivation- Human resources teamwork concept" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35D033SmNMj1hsy5DHQICzihl9ZM1QV8IzkWo3tbfVr9jN0c0sSGLoEdKR2QewSM.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>By Sunday afternoon, we all started gathering, and as the barbecue warmed up, the drinks began to flow, and the food kept coming. More and more neighbours joined in, and before we knew it, we had to add more tables to accommodate the spread. This wasn’t just a typical barbecue; it was a feast. The harvest table featured everything from someone’s favourite roasted cauliflower to South African sausage, and one family’s signature barbecued ribs and cornbread.<figure id="figure-kt1y9rphk9m0mgti5k"><img id="kt1y9rphk9m0mgti5k" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1akgmmXEv8DpoWq4jIOSwHP90EA8PKR4r0QPl8cQH0X4b4nKMGI0AHZ9vYT5zPKQ.jpg" alt="A typical American subdivision of new homes in a planned community, in the suburban area of Spokane, Washington, USA." title="A typical American subdivision of new homes in a planned community, in the suburban area of Spokane, Washington, USA." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>The afternoon felt more like a family reunion than a barbecue. Things got a bit wild when the water balloons came out, turning what was supposed to be a lighthearted game into a survival-of-the-fittest battle. <figure id="figure-96xeaojk2hm0l080wf"><img id="96xeaojk2hm0l080wf" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1ajN4E6mZ9mxupY09PI9WLvW3PD9OjnZcuskZEIcRi7RaMMgE0azI3WJxUGD8sff.jpg" alt="Diversity Inclusion And Equality Concept - Paper People Silhouettes On Hands" title="Diversity Inclusion And Equality Concept - Paper People Silhouettes On Hands" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1ajN4E6mZ9mxupY09PI9WLvW3PD9OjnZcuskZEIcRi7RaMMgE0azI3WJxUGD8sff.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>I’m not sure who was more into it—the kids or the adults—but there was definitely a mix of fear and excitement on both sides. As the day stretched into the evening, more neighbours joined in, and what started as a simple idea grew into an unforgettable day that we’ll all want to repeat.To all the families with kids heading back to school, we wish you a successful, healthy, and happy new year!

End Of Summer Potluck

We're lucky to have some great produce stores nearby, like Raise the Root, and in the warmer months, the Leslieville Farmers' Market is just a short walk away. Many of us have also discovered a green thumb, thanks to the perfect growing conditions on our rooftop spaces. If you spend some time on a rooftop deck, you'll see how much sunshine they getᅳjust right for growing vegetables.One of our residents has gone beyond the usual tomatoes and lettuce, managing to grow blueberries, strawberries, zucchini, and even onions over the past few seasons. The harvests have been so bountiful that sharing crops with neighbours has become a common thing around here. Some residents even swap their homegrown produce with each other, which adds a bit of fun and surprise to what might show up next.It's not uncommon for a neighbour to knock on your door with a jar of homemade pesto or a Mojito mixed with mint from their own garden. We recently asked one of our residents for a recipe, and they happily shared their crowd-favourite chimichurri sauce, made with parsley they grew themselves.

Home Harvest at TOC

<h3>Meet Samson, our neighbourhood bulldog!</h3><figure id="figure-9mu9bf5vcglzxlcw3j" class=""><img id="9mu9bf5vcglzxlcw3j" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1eNRIwWbP51yCtthfXvalDuWaQ57158QTdXFMw5wRKlTl5m46jq3NnTXsqFrtjQ6.jpg" alt="Happy diverse people holding lgbt rainbow flag outdoors - Diversity concept - Soft focus on Asian woman young woman face" title="Happy diverse people holding lgbt rainbow flag outdoors - Diversity concept - Soft focus on Asian woman young woman face" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 55%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="55%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1eNRIwWbP51yCtthfXvalDuWaQ57158QTdXFMw5wRKlTl5m46jq3NnTXsqFrtjQ6.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 55%;"></figure>I’ve had the pleasure of looking out my front window and watching this old soul of a husky-bulldog leisurely strolling across our lawns. His slow, deliberate pace reminds me of my grandfather walking through the park with his hands clasped behind his back, perhaps reflecting on the war or musing about how kids these days are going nowhere. He brings a ton of joy to our community, though not so much to our cat, Simba, who sits on the window sill watching him intently through the glass, wishing for a chance to go out and play with Samson.I chatted with his family and asked a few questions about Samson. Here’s what they shared:Birthday: November 12, 2010Origin Story: Initially, Abby wanted a bulldog and her Dad (Jason) delivered! Samson joined the family Christmas of 2010Favorite thing to do: Socializing with the neighbours and roaming their lawnsNicknames: Booboo Baby Bear, Handsome SamsonFavorite food: TurkeyWhat do you think he dreams about? TurkeyIf he could speak, what would he say? “When’s dinner?”

Featured Pet: Handsome Samson

<h3>They're Back!</h3>It was just two years ago that we said goodbye to the McGaugh family, who lived with us for many years at Towns on Curzon (525). They came to Canada for work, and we always hoped they would settle down here and make it their permanent home. However, shortly after the pandemic, the family decided to move to Boise, Idaho, where they now raise their two beautiful daughters and their cat, Ziggy.For those who remember the McGaughs, a few things likely come to mind. First, their tabby cat Ziggy, who was often seen prowling around the community, ever watchful of any intruders. And then there was the joy of their second daughter's birth, which brought a touch of light to our community during the darker days of the pandemic.<figure id="figure-eg8uzl9764lzczwr3v"><img id="eg8uzl9764lzczwr3v" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2epIlMCamgLe79Rf8Aw5MKF0ht7LnMZ4d9VCXKHbgtundAAgygL9DtMEOZbo2g9C.png" alt="Group of multigenerational people smiling and laughing outdoor - Multiracial friends of different ages having fun together - Main focus on senor women face" title="Group of multigenerational people smiling and laughing outdoor - Multiracial friends of different ages having fun together - Main focus on senor women face" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 30%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="30%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2epIlMCamgLe79Rf8Aw5MKF0ht7LnMZ4d9VCXKHbgtundAAgygL9DtMEOZbo2g9C.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 30%;"></figure>This week, we were thrilled to welcome the McGaugh family back to Curzon. We spent quality time reconnecting with our cherished Curzon expats, sharing stories and catching up on their lives. It felt like a reunion with old friends, reminding us of the strong bonds we all share here, where every child feels like a part of the whole community.<figure id="figure-4xou057n06lzczswhw" class=""><img id="4xou057n06lzczswhw" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/28ChE35fZxG2sFEVArCStjelv0vnxzLtyD09MTDYdZ2n7CQcinjkNH1YUaCFczhw.png" alt="Young multiracial group stacking hands together- Happy diverse friends united at community table having fun- youth Millennial students giving strength motivation- Human resources teamwork concept" title="Young multiracial group stacking hands together- Happy diverse friends united at community table having fun- youth Millennial students giving strength motivation- Human resources teamwork concept" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/28ChE35fZxG2sFEVArCStjelv0vnxzLtyD09MTDYdZ2n7CQcinjkNH1YUaCFczhw.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Welcome back, McGaugh family!We've missed you, and we hope you'll come visit us again soon.

Welcome back McGaughs!

<figure id="figure-fv1uvf8j3tlz8vfxrs" class=""><img id="fv1uvf8j3tlz8vfxrs" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12uRYMwUeMdMweHl8x7kfoeAtgWKE2qjI7eHjUb2Ksa6mAIVtEpX6aFCGhPLLs7R.jpg" alt="Collage of colorful paper hands as symbol of diversity and inclusion." title="Collage of colorful paper hands as symbol of diversity and inclusion." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12uRYMwUeMdMweHl8x7kfoeAtgWKE2qjI7eHjUb2Ksa6mAIVtEpX6aFCGhPLLs7R.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Nodo Leslieville offers a delightful Italian dining experience in Toronto's vibrant Leslieville neighborhood, just steps away from Towns on Curzon. This proximity makes it a favorite among residents. The restaurant is known for its cozy atmosphere and attentive service, featuring a menu rich with Italian classics and inventive dishes.On a recent visit, we discovered this gem while searching for a last-minute Italian spot and were pleased to find a table for four with just a short ten-minute wait. We started with the Focaccia, which was exceptionally fluffy and flavorful, setting a perfect prelude to the meal. For the main course, the Duck Pappardelle stood out with its light yet flavorful sauce and perfectly elastic noodles. The minced duck added a rich, savory depth without being too heavy.The restaurant's rustic charm and warm décor provide an ideal setting for a memorable dining experience, making it perfect for a date night or casual gathering. The popularity of Nodo Leslieville often means a wait, but the delicious food and inviting ambiance are well worth it​.nodorestaurant.ca (416) 792-4196 1192 Queen Street East Toronto, ON M4M 1L6

Resto Review: Nodo Leslieville

<h3>Leslieville's Secret Park</h3>Living at Towns On Curzon offers residents the unique advantage of being just down the street from the <a data-mce-href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leslie_Street_Spit" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leslie_Street_Spit">Leslie Street Spit</a>, also known as Tommy Thompson Park. <img id="12g22377ugdlzd4cytb" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17v1AjYpF0hmp9MSuZp1Bcb5NVZGXdbXUD3YS42Xk2vcUGeHWC5pokEzSBsbMNi3.jpg" alt="Business people, huddle and diversity, team with banner and low angle, smile in portrait with mission and trust. Mockup space, bokeh and strategy with support, collaboration and corporate group" title="Business people, huddle and diversity, team with banner and low angle, smile in portrait with mission and trust. Mockup space, bokeh and strategy with support, collaboration and corporate group" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17v1AjYpF0hmp9MSuZp1Bcb5NVZGXdbXUD3YS42Xk2vcUGeHWC5pokEzSBsbMNi3.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;">This urban oasis, described as a "strange but wonderful work in progress," offers a serene escape from city life. Unlike typical parks, the Spit is a dynamic landscape made up of construction waste, providing a fascinating blend of nature and industry. The park is a haven for solitude, bird-watching, and even swimming.<img id="zc9cb4fkhblzd4dghu" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2cMVr8cGcc8ibrbv8pydRFZAFpaeVwpQ4p7MOX7LmVo2bIZT61UDc2C0x2IrUnxt.jpg" alt="Group of multigenerational people hugging each others - Support, multiracial and diversity concept - Main focus on senior man with white hairs" title="Group of multigenerational people hugging each others - Support, multiracial and diversity concept - Main focus on senior man with white hairs" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2cMVr8cGcc8ibrbv8pydRFZAFpaeVwpQ4p7MOX7LmVo2bIZT61UDc2C0x2IrUnxt.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;">The park's ever-changing wetlands, abundant wildlife, and unique beaches composed of water-smoothed bricks and tiles provide endless exploration opportunities. Whether you're walking along evolving paths or enjoying the creative play with children, the Leslie Spit offers a sense of discovery and tranquility. The stunning views of the Toronto skyline further enhance its appeal, making it a hidden treasure just minutes from home.

Blog

End Of Summer Potluck

Home Harvest at TOC

Featured Pet: Handsome Samson

Welcome back McGaughs!

Resto Review: Nodo Leslieville

The Spit: Urban Oasis