A Cabbagetown SamplerCabbagetown photographer Eric Morse has just sent us a link to his remarkable collection of pictures about our community. They span the past ten years. In remarkable detail, they show our homes, businesses, parks, events and, most of all, ourselves. Click on the link and then click on the “slide show” button: http://www.photoshop.com/users/emorse If you want to buy one of Eric’s limited edition prints, email him at esmorse@sympatico.ca
Zack at Stout
Zack Werner is making weekly appearances at Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton). He’s the host at Stout’s Blues Jam and he brings his friends along to add to the night’s excitement. Last Wednesday, Zack was accompanied by drummer Kevin Barbe (left), guitarist Steve Costello (right) and his friends Darcy, Mikka, Erin and Anne. Wednesday, from 9 pm, no cover charge.Weatherproof rugs at Kendall
These rugs are good for both indoor and outdoor use. They’re available in sizes from 2X3 feet to 8X11 feet and they boast beautiful floral designs. They’ll bring colour and life to your rooftop deck, outdoor patio, doorstep and cottage. For more info, click on http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/shop/outdoor-rugs/ This week only, Kendall also has a special sale on all their hand blown glass stem ware and bar wares. 438 Parliament across from Spruce.Fresh fish at JAM
JAMcafe (195 Carlton) has joined with Hooked, “the knowledgeable fish store,” to supply their daily fish dishes. This guarantees that their menu lists the best food that’s sustainable, ethical and fresh. JAM has also started their daily lunches from 11:30 to 2m pm from Tuesday to Friday.Coming to The Flying Beaver
Heather has released her schedule for her shows over the next few days. Tonight, Friday March 25, she’s featuring Scott Freethy in his musical comedy, Scott & the City. On Saturday, it’s comedy with Karen Williams. Looking ahead to next weekend, Carla Collins presents her comedy show on Friday and Saturday. Tickets are available at the bar or by credit card online at Brown Paper Tix. Please call ahead for your dinner reservation, (647) 347-6567.The Flying Beaver (488 Parliament) is open from Thursday to Sunday. Heather and Maggie are highlighting good food, good service and a sweet cabaret room.
The best of times, the worst of times
Regina at Labour of Love (242 Carlton) has been on a roller coaster this week. On Wednesday, she suffered a break-in. The thief managed to cause considerable damage to her doors but there wasn’t anything worth the effort inside the store. As usual, the repairs from the vandalism were the worst cost.Later on that same day, her first in-store workshop – on gift wrapping techniques - was a great success. Nine people braved the winter storm and enjoyed their session. More are planned for the future. See more pictures here: http://thelabouroflove.ca/
Patty’s getting ready for Easter
Drop in to The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament) to see her amazing little Easter Lunch Box filled with goodies for the holiday (only $4.99) You can also enjoy some of Epicure’s own special roast beef, made in Montreal and cooked without preservatives.Buildings for rent
The two Victorian buildings at 550 and 552 Parliament have been under construction for some time. The work is mainly finished and now they’re available for rent. The first floor space (about 1000 square feet in each) is available for commercial use. The second and third floors can be live and work spaces. There’s a walk-out on the third floor from each unit. Parking is available. For more information, call Abraham Diles at (416) 704-2625.Summer patios are coming
Congratulations to Starbucks (490 Parliament) and The Underdown (263 Gerrard). Both have just received the green light from the City to set up outdoor patios on their boulevards. These patios will be fairly small but they’re welcome nevertheless. We really need more places where people can gather on our street corners and these spots are ideal. A poll asking for residents’ reactions was conducted by the City among the nearby neighbours who voted in favour of both of projects.As Spring unfolds, more patios will be coming to the new House on Parliament (454 Parliament), Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton) and Merryberry (559 Parliament). And, of course, there are established favourites at The Ben Wicks (424 Parliament), Grasshopper (460 Parliament), JAMCafe (195 Carlton) and Margarita’s (229 Carlton).
A tribute to Elizabeth Harris
Peter Reynolds was a long-time friend to Elizabeth. She taught his son at Sprucecourt. So when she wanted a slide show done a few years ago about the Riverdale Farmer’s Market, Peter was happy to help, He’s sent us the link to his show as his tribute to her and to her remarkable impact on our community. http://www.peterreynolds.ca/farmers/publish_to_webA busy Cabbagetown weekend
Saturday (from 11 am to 2 pm) is Scrabble day at Central Neighbourhood House (349 Ontario). This is their third annual team event. There’ll be fun and prizes and a chance to raise funds for CNH’s tutoring program. For more details, http://www.cnh.on.ca/
On Earth Day, Saturday March 26, join your friends for a walk through Cabbagetown South, highlighting the area’s finest Victorian homes. Robin Burgoyne from Caerwent House Stories will be your leader. The event starts at Seaton and Gerrard at 8:15 pm. For more info, http://www.cabbagetownsouth.ca/
On Sunday, March 27, Central Neighbourhood House (349 Ontario) is part of the 33rd Annual Toronto Storytelling Festival. From 1:30 to 4 pm, there’ll be stories for children, bilingual storytelling, and a session on informal story sharing. Admission is free.
The Don Vale Cabbagetown Residents Association will unveil their new website on Wednesday, March 30 at the Winchester Kitchen & Bar (51A Winchester). It’s a good chance for you to see the new site and meet the people in your association. If you can’t attend, click on http://www.cabbagetowner.ca/
Hurry up and buy your brick. Art & Crafts in the Park are sponsoring a fundraiser to repair the sidewalks in Riverdale Park. Your donation of $100 or $150 will purchase a specially engraved brick with your name on it. For all the details, http://www.cabbagetownartandcrafts.org/.
Be a cookie baker. The Friends of Riverdale Farm need a volunteer for a few hours each week to bake their scrumptious oatmeal chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin cookies. Your cookies will be sold in the Farm as part of the Friends’ efforts to create a warm welcome for all the visitors. Call Kate at (416) 961-8787.Gotcha
Here’s Colin Grant, the publisher of Cabbagetown’s local newspaper, The Voice. We caught him walking around on Friday afternoon and decided that we’d take his photo – a fair trade since he’s taken hundreds of pictures of our neighbourhood over the years. We’re asked regularly for his contact info. You can reach him at voclara@yahoo.ca or (647) 838-2126. The Voice is always happy to receive your announcements and even, your advertising.Ken keeps on wowing ‘em in France
Ken Caskenette has reached Rennes in his bike tour around France. He had his photo taken in a comfy café. To my regret, several of the nearby folks are ignoring the blinding beauty of that Tee shirt wrapped around his svelte body – there’s no accounting for taste.
Michelle tells us that Foxy (251 Gerrard) will close its doors this week. She still has clothing, summer dresses, shoes, handbags and accessories to clear. Everything’s on sale now at 75% off. On Saturday from 9 am, she’s having an indoor contents sale of furniture, house wares, art stuff, lighting, books and lots more. So drop by and enjoy one last shop! We’ll miss her lovely, funky store.
This week’s version of Toronto Life’s electronic edition has a nice blurb about our new restaurant. The photo shows their appetizing gnocchi dish. 51A Winchester 
PearTree (507 Parliament) has just announced their new menu for the Spring. Among our Cabbagetown restaurants, PearTree is a very popular mainstay. We know and enjoy their food and their very comfortable rooms. Each day, they’re offering two entrees at prices ranging from $11.99 (for pasta dishes) to $14.99 for steaks. Seafood and chicken dishes are listed at $12.99 and $13.99.
This year’s graduating class from the School will perform an evening of small ensemble works by Susanna Hood, Lucy Rupert, Conrad Alexandrowicz, Christopher House and Jose Limon. This is your chance to see tomorrow’s contemporary dancers. March 30 to Aopril 2, 8 pm. $19 general admission; $15 students, CADA and seniors. Box office at (416) 967-6887. 
This pair of comfy leather Black Swan chairs has just arrived at the store (438 Parliament across from Spruce). They’re matched here with an owl umbrella stand and Fido’s water and kibble bowl set. The Kendall special for this week is 40% off their entire series of French glassware (while quantities last), available in bumble bee or dragon fly motif and dishwasher and microwave safe. For photos and more information, click here: 
Patty’s feature item this week is a 4-year-old white cheddar, on sale at $3.49/100 g (save $1.50/100 g). It’s a good price for a delicious cheese. Over the weekend, you can also buy a brownie, date square, butter bar or lemon macaroon and get another one for half price. Yummy. 473 Parliament.
When you visit Toni and Elaine at their bright new coffee shop at 253 Gerrard, you’ll see an interesting notice at the tip jar on the counter. They’re donating your tips to their neighbour, the Children’s Book Bank. It’s a very nice gesture and a typical effort in this very friendly strip of neighbourhood shops where everyone wants to support each other.
Regina at Labour of Love (242 Carlton) is holding a raffle for an Easter egg basket full of treats. Thebasket will also have a copy of “Everything is going to be okay”, a delightful little book full of photographs and inspirational messages. She’s pleased to announce that her first in-store workshop is now a sold-out event. Drop by the store to find out more. 
Officially, this event is the launch for the Don Vale Cabbagetown Residents’ new web site and logo. (But these aren’t the kind of people to waste a good party opportunity.) So save the date and drop in to the new Winchester Kitchen and Bar at 7:30 pm on Wednesday March 30. Meet your neighbours, learn what the DVCRA does for you and find out about their new site. And have a drink. For more info, 
Join your neighbours in Cabbagetown South when the lights go off for Earth Hour. It’s a free tour highlighting the area’s finest Victorian homes. Gather at the corner of Seaton and Gerrard at 8:15 pm on Saturday March 26. Bring a candle or a lantern, walk the dog, chat with your friends and see your home in a brand new way. Your guide is Robin Burgoyne of Caerwent House Stories (
The Friends of Riverdale Farm need a volunteer (for two or three mornings a week) to bake cookies at the Farm’s Gift Shop in the park. You’ll be baking oatmeal chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin cookies. They’re sold along with hot chocolate, coffee, tea, cider and sandwiches to make visitors’ experiences even more pleasant. If you’re willing to contribute your time and skills, call Kate at 416-961-8787.
The fundraising campaign to purchase new sidewalks in Riverdale Park is now reaching its conclusion. This is your last chance to buy a brick and have it engraved with your name, the name of a loved one, a pet’s name or any other inscription that you may choose. Your brick will be placed along the sidewalk’s border where it will be a permanent memento of your generosity. A $100 donation buys a 4” by 8” stone with two lines of text and $150m buys an 8” by 8” stone with four lines. For more photos and a donor’s form, go to 
Caroline’s (formerly Big Mamma’s Boy, 554 Parliament) is closed every Monday through March. These renovations are creating the improvements that Caroline Murphy has designed. You can see a lot of these changes already – just drop in any day for a drink and a chat in her cozy new lounge area on the first floor.
Sunday is the big St Paddy’s Parade in downtown Toronto. Drop in afterward and continue your celebrations at another of Erin’s ceilis at Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton).
On Wednesday March 23 at 6 pm, Regina is hosting a workshop on creative gift wrapping for Easter and beyond. The fee is $10 and that includes two sheets of specially made Canadian paper. Labour of Love (242 Carlton), 
Robert has decided to bring Ireland to Cabbagetown in a big way next Thursday. He’s hosting The One Shot Band (they were at The Wicks once before to everyone’s approval) from 8:30 to 11:30 pm. And he’s bringing out a very Irish menu: Guinness onion soup, mussels with ale, grainy mustard and herbs, salmon fish cakes and house-cured corned beef brisket with cabbage and lentils. Of course, the goodies and the desserts on the regular menu are ready as well. Everything is individually priced. No cover charge. 424 Parliament.
Caroline Murphy is definitely Irish – just listen to that sweet lilt for a moment and you’ll believe it yourself. At Caroline’s (formerly Big Mamma’s Boy, 554 Parliament) she has a special menu for the evening. Start with leek and potato soup with rolled oats or the house salad, carry on to corned beef, cabbage and creamy mashed potato or Guinness stew with creamy mashed potato and then finish up with potato pastry apple pie or flourless chocolate cake. Reservation recommended so call (416) 927-1593.
Yes indeed they’re on the list for big-time St Patrick’s Day celebrations. Erin has green beer in pints ($5) and pitchers ($15) and Shamrock jello shots ($3). She’s bringing champion Irish dancers and a Ceili to keep you entertained. Throughout the day and into the evening, there’ll be complimentary Irish stew and mini fish and chips. You can enjoy all of this outside on her new heated patio or inside beside the bar and the fireplace. On Friday, you’ll have a hangover, so skip work and come in to Stout for a sure-cure all-day brunch. 221 Carlton.
Don’t let the photo fool you. Even though Heather and Maggie are obviously busy with pre-opening renovations, they’ve already started to move. Their Friday night show, for example, is already almost sold out – even though the doors still aren’t open! They’re creating a place where you can sit, eat, drink and enjoy a show while the staff do everything possible to make you comfy.
Two Canadians, Henry Woodward and Matthew Evans, invented the light bulb in a foundry located on Adelaide Street in Toronto. To celebrate this iconic design, Kendall & Co (438 Parliament across from Spruce) is offering a series of retro filament bulbs in four different patterns. Each is made in the traditional way. Their vintage shapes and warm glow make any lamp look beautiful.
Me To We has been chosen for the second year as the official supplier of JUNO apparel. They’ll create a line of socially and environmentally responsible clothing and accessories including cotton Tees, canvas tote bags and bamboo scarves. Since this is the 40th anniversary for the Canadian music awards, the designs will reflect that history. You can browse the collection at 
Foxy Boutique (251 Gerrard) still has its final sale underway. With Spring just around the corner, Michelle has cute sandals, retro pumps and wedges. There are summer dresses for as little as $10, blouses and printed shirts. You can accessorize your perfect ensemble with bold handbags, belts and jewellery.
Bob Rae (our federal MP) and Glen Murray (our provincial MPP) have teamed up to organize special tax clinics at their Parliament Street office (514 Parliament). Two sessions will be held (Saturday March 12 and Saturday March 26 from 10 am to 2 pm) and staffed by volunteer CGAs. The work is free but there are some income limits required for eligibility. Please call 416-972-7683 or 416-954-2222 to book your reservation.
Wow, I’ve been hearing that Patty’s new donuts are really good. We mentioned them last week and the happy comments have been coming in since then. You can get fresh ones three times a week on Monday, Thursday and Saturday. There’s jelly, creamed filled and chocolate ones. This week, she’s also featuring her own imported extra virgin olive oil from Calabria in Italy - $19.99/litre. As always, she’s got amazing choices of the finest cheese – two-year old white cheddar is now $3.29/100g and she also got the award-winning Lighthall Tomme from Fifth Town in Prince Edward County. 473 Parliament.
And don’t forget – Saturday March 26 is the big Scrabble contest. Be sure to register ahead of time. 416-925-4363 and ask for Amanda or Angela.
Cabbagetowner Ken Caskenette is living his lifelong dream. He’s riding his bike 1800 km around the circumference of France. And he’s taking his Tee shirt along so those lucky people will know where his heart really lives. We’ll bring you plenty of photos as he advances. This one (he couldn’t get anybody to snap a photo when he needed it) is on a bridge in Carcassonne in the south.
It’s been a busy week at the new Winchester Kitchen & Bar (51A Winchester). On Tuesday and Wednesday, they held Grand Opening receptions. The BIA Board enjoyed an evening there on Tuesday and came away with high praise for the hors d’oeuvres and the ambiance of the room. It’s great to have this amazing room back in business. Drop by and check it out for yourself.
Every Wednesday night, Zack Werner is organizing and hosting a Blues night. He’s featuring Steve Castello with his fabulous blues guitar. Other musicians are invited to join and jam. Drop by for a pint of Ontario Craft Beer and take in some of the best blues in Toronto. 221 Carlton.
House on Parliament (454 Parliament) has successfully moved and settled in to their new building, right next door to the old spot. Reviews are now arriving and they’re very complimentary. Here’s a sample from NOW Magazine who continue to be impressed by the fine food and warm atmosphere created by Tania, Beau, Duncan and their friends. 
Join Leslie for Eclectisaurus’s 9th Absolutely Vintage Sale on Saturday, March 5. It happens from 10 am to 5 pm at the Maple Cottage, 52 Laing Street (south of Queen, one block east of Leslie). There’s clothing from the 1890s to the 1970s, costume jewelry, textiles, curios, accessories and lots more. Eclectisaurus is that lovely store at 249 Gerrard.
If all that music at Stout gives you the blues, invite a friend over and have some tea. Kevin at Kendall & Co has a brilliant new tea set with eco-chic napkins, tea ware, creamer and bowls. And he’s highlighting their stylish serviettes for cocktails, lunch and dinner. 438 Parliament (across from Spruce).
Rummage through the bins and stuff as many bags as you want for only $10 each. On Saturday, Michelle is having a rummage sale with art stuff, books, prints, sewing, tools, jewelry and lots more. It’s all gotta go ‘cuz she’s closing her doors in three weeks. So drop in, say hi and have fun. Foxy Boutique, 251 Gerrard.
The Ben Wicks (424 Parliament) has The One Shot Band ready to go on the day itself. They’ve been to The Wicks before and their rock’n roll wowed everyone in the place. They’ll be bringing plenty of Irish tunes along with those favourites for their second visit. The kitchen is busy preparing an Irish menu for the evening – stay tuned and we’ll tell you more next week. 
Caroline’s (formerly Big Mamma’s Boy) at 554 Parliament is getting ready for an authentic Irish evening. Caroline has big plans for a special home-cooked prix fixe. Menu details next week. 
Erin at the Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton) believes in the big picture. She’ll be partying on the big Parade Day (Sunday, March 13) and on St Patrick’s Day itself. And, since you’ll need to take time off work after all that, drop in on Friday to cure your hangover. For Sunday March 13, she’s hosting another of her Ceili’s – a traditional Irish musical session - and she’ll have green jello shots and green beer at amazing prices. More details for St Patrick’s Day itself will be coming in next week’s Newsletter.
Anne Thomas is a Montreal-based graphic designer and she’s developed a fascinating line of house wares. Her clean, refreshing style and sense of humour make this a perfect fit for Regina at Labour of Love (242 Carlton). Check out her cotton shopping tote with its thermo grocery bag insert – buy one and get another one free.
Patty has a new line of old fashioned donuts – the kind you had when you were a kid. These aren’t massed produced deep fried globs – they’re authentic chocolate, Bavarian cream or jelly donuts. She expects a new shipment on Saturday so get there early because she’s been selling them out every time they arrive. And while you’re there, pick up some spinach dip on two-for-one special and get some DeCecco bucatini pasta for only $1.79 (save $1 on each package.) 473 Parliament
Justin Skinner at Inside Toronto has written a detailed review of the new show presented by the Cabbagetown Regent Park Museum at 51 Division (51 Parliament). Drop by and take it in. 
Central Neighbourhood House (349 Ontario) has the cure – their third annual tournament happens on Saturday March 26. We’re giving you advance notice so you can gather up your team (four people), collect some fundraising pledges ($25 per team member) and get some practice. No doubt, it’ll be a cutthroat competition.
Reports are still arriving about the successful family day that Central Neighbourhood House created at Riverdale Park on Sunday February 13. Congratulations to everyone involved in the planning. Many want you to repeat it again next year.
Questions keep arriving about the plywood pillar with the wrinkled banner beside the doorway into Ginger. It’s a construction site that’s been caught up in discussions with the City of Toronto. The building owners, the Rose & Thistle group have asked for final permits. Toronto’s Heritage Services want to see some restoration of several heritage features on the structure. Discussions are going well and we should see progress soon, thanks to the goodwill of everyone involved. The BIA and the Heritage Advisory Committee have supported these discussions. In the meantime, the Salvation Army is now open on the third floor and Dance Umbrella of Ontario are just getting settled on the second floor.