Taste of Lawrence celebrates Scarborough’s diversity

By LINCOLN DEPRADINE
As a six-term Toronto councilor, Michael Thompson has chaired committees and initiated ideas to benefit the city, including his constituents in Ward 21, Scarborough Centre.
Thompson, an economics graduate from Concordia University, has led the formation of local community associations, spearheaded the creation of the Wexford Heights Business Improvement Area in Ward 21, and conceived the idea of the “Taste of Lawrence” street festival.
Taste of Lawrence, according to Thompson, “celebrates Scarborough and its diversity”.
The three-day weekend event, now in its 20th year, has attracted as many as 250,000 people, who are treated to cultural performances and local and international cuisine.
This year’s festival is being held July 5 – 7 on Lawrence Avenue, between Warden Avenue and Birchmount Road.
“Soak up the sights, sounds and flavours from around the world,” urged Taste of the Lawrence organizers, inviting participation in this year’s festival.
“As Scarborough’s largest street festival, it boasts the most enticing flavours from every cultural community in the GTA; over 150 street vendors, live entertainment on two stages, midway rides, kid workshops and so much more.”