Ian Hamilton's Trio (above) and Michael Brennan (below) are both scheduled to come back this year. Jazz, country, latin, favourites and bebop are all on the menu.
For the past four years, the Cabbagetown BIA has organized Music on Parliament Street. We really enjoy this project. This year, our musicians will perform on the street every Saturday afternoon from 1 to 5 pm until June 30. They'll be at Winchester and Parliament, Spruce Street near No Frills and Gerrard Street near Ontario. This year as well, our schedule is better than ever. 
Donna Green and the Moo'd Swings do country favourites. They're back for the third time - and each visit has been a popular appearance.Starting tomorrow, May 23, we’re offering Cabbagetown’s own Diego Solis who’ll be bringing his Latin rhythms to Winchester Street. We’ll give you announcements each week throughout the Spring. Oh, by the way, we enourage the performers to bring their CDs for sale and to busk – your generosity will be greatly appreciated.
Gossip and unsubstantiated rumours …
There’s news from The Stonegrill – it appears possible that the restaurant has changed hands and will soon reopen. That’s great. It’s an important feature on our restaurant scene. (51B Winchester)
While we’re at it – many thanks to Frank Bernardo. He served as the Stonegrill’s manager from its opening. Frank always opened his doors to community groups. His neighbours knew from the beginning that they were welcome. His programs at the restaurant were innovative and drew people into our area, including his Sunday Jazz series, his special evening menus and his efforts upstairs at Lounge 51.You’ll also want to keep an eye on 521 Parliament (next to Jet Fuel) for the grand opening of our latest addition – a brand new ice cream store called Sweet Creamery. Rumour has it that this place will open during the next week, just in time for the hot weather.
Emilio's whipping up hard ice cream, soft ice cream and gelato. People at the BIA are gonna get fat!Pick up a free book
The Yonge Street Mission (270 Gerrard) and Double Take (306 Gerrard) are again hosting their annual Community Book Fair on Thursday May 28 and Friday May 29. It’s an Extravaganza – a chance to find and enjoy free books. The Fair is open both days at 10 am and in the afternoon; it closes briefly each day at lunchtime.Starbucks (Parliament & Aberdeen) are providing free coffee and they’ve got a collection basket for anyone who wants to donate a book for the Fair.
Reno’s at the LCBO
Alan Berger, our local manager, tells us that repairs on the LCBO building (512 Parliament) are going well. The first step is happening now on the roof and then fix-ups on the mural wall and the front will take place. A new mural and fresh paint on the front are part of the program.
Customer Appreciation Week at Epicure, May 25 to 30 
For the next week, Patty is offering daily specials to thank each of her customers. On Monday, it’s beans – buy one pound of coffee beans and get another pound for half price. Tuesday is pizza – get a slice and your bottle of water is free. Wednesday, wake up to a breakfast bagel with a free cup of coffee. On Thursday, dessert treats are free with every lunch special. On Friday, buy any Summerfresh Dip and get a second one at half price. And on Saturday, it’s a biggie – buy Epicure’s Homemade Pasta Sauce and receive a free box of De Cecco Pasta. (473 Parliament)
Toronto Dance Theatre 
The Berlin/Toronto Project features new works by two Berlin choreographers and TDT dancers. It’s part of an effort by TDT artistic director Christopher House to infuse renewed international experience into Toronto’s dance milieu. Performances take place May 21 and 22 at 8pm, May 23 at 2 pm and May 27 to 30 at 8pm. 80 Winchester. For tickets, online at http://www.tdt.org/ and by phone at (416) 967-1365.
News from Renaissance Yoga & Ayurveda
Matthew and Dennison are traveling west for six weeks and while they’re gone, Scott Petrie will conduct a drop-in class from 6 to 9 pm starting on Thursday May 21. The latest newsletter from RYA gives details about summer activities, as well as the Yoga Festival (that happens from August 21 to 23) and a preliminary schedule for the RYA Fall program – to get more info, contact info@renaissanceyoga.ca (391 Ontario St)
