A Night to Remember: The 80s Gala

October 19, 2025

The recent 80s Gala was an unforgettable celebration that radiated energy, nostalgia, and community spirit.

The evening brought together an incredible mix of local leaders, residents, and enthusiasts for a night that truly captured the vibrant essence of the decade. Hosted in a brilliantly decorated venue illuminated with neon lights and retro flair, guests were transported back in time with classic hits, bold fashion statements, and an atmosphere brimming with joy and connection.

Adding to the evening’s excitement was the special appearance of Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw, who joined attendees in celebrating this community-driven event. His presence not only reflected his ongoing support for civic engagement but also underscored the shared values of unity, collaboration, and public safety that strengthen our city.

Also in attendance was City Councillor Brad Bradford, whose signature enthusiasm and commitment to community were on full display. Engaging warmly with guests, Councillor Bradford embraced the nostalgia of the night—chatting with attendees, dancing to the timeless beats of the 80s, and taking photos with guests showcasing their most iconic retro attire.

The gala was more than just a night of fun—it was a shining example of how community events can bring people together, celebrating the past while inspiring a stronger, more connected future.

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Spider Jones’ Empowerment Centre

By Toronto.com Article By Andrew Palamarchuk • February 12, 2020

Godwin Larbi was slashed, stabbed and robbed multiple times while growing up in the Chalkfarm Drive area. “It was a little rough,” he says. “You always had to make sure that you had a couple of friends with you. You never go anywhere by yourself.” Larbi, who moved to Chalkfarm when he was four, said he was slashed during an altercation at age eight or nine, robbed three or four times during his high school years, and was stabbed multiple times during an attempted robbery at age 20. “(My) close friends got shot, stabbed, kidnapped,” he said. “Three friends (were) murdered.” Larbi, now 28 and still a Chalkfarm resident, works with neighbourhood children and youth in the hopes that they won’t go through what he endured in the area. Larbi is the youth co-ordinator at Spider’s Web Youth Empowerment Centre, which offers a range of after-school programs for young people aged six to late teens at 160 Chalkfarm, one of four residential highrises that make up the Chalkfarm complex, located northwest of Jane Street and Wilson Avenue. Larbi describes the centre as a “safe haven” where children and youth can “be themselves and not be ostracized.” The centre, which has been operating for the past nine years, provides homework help, healthy snacks, physical activities, field trips, computer access, and mentorship. It is run by Believe to Achieve, an organization founded by retired Canadian champion boxer Spider Jones. “We empower young people to deal with challenges. We teach them life skills. We teach them how to take responsibility,” Jones said. “This is not a glorified babysitting service. These children learn discipline here. We help them with their homework. We help strengthen their minds so that the lure of the streets will never get them.”