The Spring Flowers Are Here
Fairway (520 Parliament) is loading up with all the plants, soil and gardening supplies that you’ll need for your early plantings. Dom tells us that his pansies are very hot right now – and he has plenty of them for you. As you can see, he has lots of choices to help you take advantage of our remarkable Spring weather.

Advance notice for Cabbagetown artists
You’re invited to display your art at our annual Festival on Saturday, September 11. We know that you want lots of advance notice to prepare your materials, so this is your reminder that you’re welcome to attend. There’s no fee. We successfully started these displays at last year’s Festival and the artists who attended told us that they had a fun time and even sold some of their pieces. We’re repeating it again in 2010. For more info, email doug@oldcabbagetown.com

Singing at The Cobourg
Last week, The Cobourg (533 Parliament) hosted their second annual sing song event. The $10 cover charge was collected as a fundraiser to support one of our local agencies. By all accounts, it was a great success. On Tuesday, John Jay (below, left) proudly donated $870 to UforChange (517 Parliament), a new group working with youth from St James Town.
Introducing UforChange
This project for St James Town youth integrates art, culture and human rights to grow communities and improve livelihoods. It’s federally funded and supported locally by the Wellesley Institute, Cabbagetown Community Arts Centre and LIFT. We’ve had great success in Cabbagetown with agencies that draw on young people’s energy and skills. We wish everyone well at UforChange. You can learn more at http://www.u4change.ca/

Breakfast on the Go
At The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament), Patty wants us to remind you about her very successful breakfast specials. She opens at 7:30 am during the week and 8 am on Saturday – so she’s ready when you need her. Her Original Breakfast Bagel Melt is a fresh egg with melted cheddar on a bagel or English muffin. The Big Guy has two eggs, cheddar or swiss on a nine-grain bun or an onion bun. There are lots of other choices, including vegetarian. You can add bacon or ham for only $1 and enjoy a medium tea or coffee with any breakfast for just a loonie.

Kendall & Co Design + Decor
Kendall, Kevin and their associates are very busy at their new store location. Last weekend, their open house was a huge success – many thanks to everyone who visited. This week, they’re continuing their Grand Opening with a special sale offering 30% discounts on chandeliers and fine furniture. Quantities are limited. 438 Parliament.

Cabbagetown Organics
At Cabbagetown Organics (499 Parliament) this week, they’re continuing their sale on Seven Generations Baby Diapers at $17.99/package. While you’re stocking up on these supplies for the kids, get some Kettle Brand potato chips for Mom and Dad. They’re new in the store and on sale at 2 bags for $5.

Changes at Big Mamma’s Boy
Caroline Murphy has joined chef Michael Guenther at Cabbagetown landmark, Big Mamma’s Boy (554 Parliament). After a quick burst of energy doing some repairs and small clean-ups, the doors are back open and business is continuing. Michael still emphasizes local sources for his food purchases, gluten free choices, great pizzas and outstanding meals at great prices. You can still get lots of menu information, pizza lists and details about their future events at http://www.bigmammasboy.ca/

Tomorrow’s the day…
Eclectisaurus is holding their annual Vintage clothing sale. They join forces with Gadabout and Angela McCool. The event takes place on Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm at 52 Laing Street (south of Queen, just east of Leslie.) There’ll be other goodies on sale as well as clothing. In fact, if you’ve been to Eclectisaurus (249 Gerrard), then you know that this sale has to be worthwhile.

More lunch details
Last week, both JAMCafe and The Ben Wicks announced new extended hours so they could open for lunch. Now we’ve got concrete details for you:
The Ben Wicks (424 Parliament) opens daily at noon. Brunch happens on Saturday and Sunday from noon to 3 pm. Through the week, you can enjoy Classic Pub fare, salads, wraps and burgers. I’ve had a beef burrito and recommend it highly.
JAMCafe (195 Carlton) opens at 11:30 am and offers lunch to 2 pm from Monday through Friday. Everything is fresh and available for dining room service or for takeout. The menu includes daily soups, salads, Jamburgers, shrimp, saute veggies, smoked salmon and chicken piccata.

Lookin’ good
Hector Clouthier (right) is leaving Cabbagetown. We’ll miss him. He’s been a charming presence during his stay here and he’s represented us well at events as diverse as the Boston Marathon and the Calgary Stampede. In fact, this weekend, he’s in Boston again for another run in the 2010 Marathon. He’s headed back to his hometown, Pembroke, to prepare himself for a different kind of “run” in the next federal election. Watch out Ottawa, this guy is dynamite.