Good Afternoon All, First, I hope that everyone is managing as best they can during this extremely difficult time. For the past few days your Board of Directors and myself have been working with our representatives from our 3 levels of government and TABIA (Toronto Association of BIAs). The emergency efforts that the governments have announced are a start but there are things that need to be quickly addressed. It is my strong belief that we need to look after…

Good Afternoon All, I know that this has been a hellish week for everyone. The first part of the week has been dealing with closures and partial closures and major concerns about finances - paying rent, salaries, bills. Your Board Chair, Albert Stortchak, and I had a phone conversation with our MP Julie Dabrusin this morning to discuss the financial situation that our business members are facing. We feel there are 2 important paths: the first being immediate financial assistance…

Good Evening All, This is a follow-up to my earlier message - as you know things evolve and change rapidly each day. This afternoon Toronto's Medical Office of Health, Dr. Eileen de Villa, has strongly recommended that all bars, dine-in restaurants, nightclubs and theatres close effective 12:01am Tuesday, March 17/20. She is encouraging food businesses to provide takeout and delivery options. The full statement is attached to this email for your review; and below is the link to this afternoon's…

Good Afternoon All, Oh behalf of your BIA Board of Directors and myself, we wanted to reach out with a few updates as follows: 1. The Premier has not asked that bars and restaurants in the province close at this time. I know that tomorrow is St. Patrick's Day and normally a very busy day for our bars and restaurants. It is up to each owner to decide how they feel it is best to proceed for their particular business.…

Hello All, Below please find the latest update from Councillor Fletcher and the City of Toronto per the media conference held at 5pm today. Thanks,Susan March 13th, 2020Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update Dear Friends,I want to ensure you are receiving up to date information about the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation in the City of Toronto. I know many of you are concerned, so I will be updating you regularly.Please monitor the Toronto Public Health website at toronto.ca/coronavirus for the latest information, resources and…

Good Morning All, I have a few things for you today as follows: 1. COVID19 Information: The City has set up a website that provides information on the virus. The site is updated regularly and is a good source of credible information. They have also provided guidance for businesses. o For sector specific guidance documents for businesses and workplaces please see COVID-19 Workplace Info Website: www.toronto.ca/coronavirus. You can also call Toronto Public Health at 416-338-7600, Monday to Friday from 8:30…