Cabbagetown News

2012-01-27T16:52:00.007-05:00

A word of caution…

To anyone who’s addicted to coffee bean gambling – Patty’s running Epicure’s annual bean weighing contest again. From now to February 3, you can buy a bag of beans, weigh it and win a second one free! All you have to do is fill your original bag to exactly one pound (454 grams). Many have won in years past (including your humble blog writer). The adrenalin rush is incredible. If you don’t know where her store is located, look for the Casino Rama buses parked outside. She also has homemade gluten-free cookies back in stock. They’re also addictive. 479 Parliament.

Happy birthdays are happening …

Monday, January 30 – Stout Irish Pub
On Monday, January 30th Erin and the staff at Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton) are celebrating Stout’s first birthday. The party happens from 5 to 8 pm. Admission is free. There’ll be tastings of Auchentoshen and Bowmore single malt Scotch whiskey and Jameson Irish whiskey and lots of lovely food from Chef Amanda. Please leave the car at home. Please RSVP at 647-344-7676 or email at erin@stoutirioshpub.ca - there’ll be a very full house. http://www.stoutirishpub.ca/

Friday, February 5 - Hair Lift
Kiki will be celebrating her 40th anniversary on Parliament Street from 2 to 5 pm on Friday, February 5th. Save the date and drop in to Hair Lift (503B Parliament) for a bite of wine and cheese. While you’re there, ask about her new service with hair extensions.

Congratulations Leslie
In Toronto Magazine has just published a glowing review of Eclectisaurus, Leslie Zysman’s store at 249 Gerrard. They’ve described it as a “small but perfectly curated selection of art and objets with just the right amount of eccentricity”. It’s a good story about a lovely store. Check it out here: http://www.intorontomag.com/index.php/living-a-design/shopping/item/228-eclectisaurus

Number 9 welcomes Michael Ignatieff
George says “It was a pleasure to welcome the Honourable Michael Ignatieff in our recording studio recently. Mr. Ignatieff was working on a voice recording for a video presentation to the Liberal Party of Canada. Quite an intellectual and very personable man. A great supporter of music, the arts and education. Currently he’s a highly respected professor at Toronto’s U of T. Number 9 Audio Group is honoured to have had him in our studios.” http://www.number9.ca/michael-ignatieff-at-number-9/ 222 Gerrard

Early warning about the Super Bowl
We already know that Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton), The Ben Wicks (424 Parliament) and the Winchester Kitchen & Bar (51A Winchester) have big screen TV’s and they’re holding Super Bowl parties. The game starts at 6:30 pm next Sunday February 5.

Stout has a pre-game Tailgate Party at 4 pm with ball park franks, chili cheese fries and sloppy joes – all washed down with pints and jugs of Creemore or Trailhead Lager. http://www.stoutirishpub.ca/

At The Ben Wicks, they’re showing the pre-game and the game on two large screens. There’ll be chili and wings and surprise giveaway prizes at half-time. http://www.benwickspub.com/

The Winchester Kitchen & Bar has beer specials, a game pool and the menu includes chicken wings, chili and sliders, all starting at 5 pm. http://www.winchesterkitchen.com/

Kendall & Co
Over the past weeks, Kendall & Co (541 Parliament St on Winchester) have introduced their new window draperies and their custom furniture program to make our homes warm and cozy. For a punch of colour and personal style, their custom monogram pillow is a fantastic accent to any space. Locally made in an array of colours and patterns. Down filled for extra softness to relax after a long day at work. Makes a delightful gift. http://www.kendallandco.ca/

Valentine cards at Labour of Love
Ever since she opened her doors, Regina has turned Labour of Love (242 Carlton) into Cabbagetown’s headquarters for seasonal greeting cards. She’s at it again – she has a selection of fabulously quirky Valentine’s Day cards for you. You’ll have no trouble finding one that says exactly what you want to say whether it be raunchy, romantic, or both. http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/

MJG Gallery
The Landscapes show continues until the end of January at MJG Gallery (555 Parliament). Mark is featuring forty works by various artists grouped around the landscape theme. This week, he’s highlighting Bev Jenkins’ painting “Red Bridge”, oil on canvass, 40” by 30”. The show runs Wednesday to Sunday, 11 am to 6 pm.

Music at The Underdown Pub
The Underdown (255 Gerrard at Berkeley) has a truly remarkable music schedule. They present a different group daily along with regular features like Open Mic with Porter at 9:30 pm on Sundays and Smart Ass Trivia at 8 pm on Wednesdays. You can keep up with this by checking their website at http://underdownpub.com/music On Friday January 27, it’s Kevin Myles Wilson from 10 pm. On Saturday it’s Eejay with One King at 9:30 pm. On Tuesday Eric Underdown and Noah Jones are on at 9 pm. On Wednesday, the Dave and Levi Trio appear at 10 pm, and next Thursday, it’s Jeff Barnes and Noah Zacharin at 9 pm.

The Flying Beaver
Maggie and Heather are also very busy with their highly successful pubaret programs. On Wednesday, they’re hosting a free poker tournament sponsored by the Toronto Poker League (no cover, win prizes.) The Star TV Reunion Party is at 7 pm on Thursday followed by Momo’s weekly karaoke at 9 pm. The Psychic brunch happens on Sunday morning at 11 am.
This week’s special appearances include the Karen Williams comedy benefit for “The Healing Place” on Friday at 7 pm ($20 advance/$25 at the door) followed by Sheri’s Party at 9 pm. On Saturday, Jim and Rosemary Galloway with Reg Schwager present an evening of incredible jazz at 7:30 pm ($15 advance/$20 door) and they’re followed by the Slinky Dance Party at 9 pm. On Sunday, the McComedy Show with Shannon McDonough and Michael McLean is at 7:30 pm ($10/advance/$15 door).
Dinner is available before, during and after the shows. Reservations are appreciated - 647.347.6567. You find all the details at http://www.pubaret.com/

The Winchester Kitchen and Bar
Anesti at the Winchester Kitchen & Bar (51A Winchester) also has regular entertainment. Reviews by our friends in Cabbagetown are always very positive. On Saturday from 10 pm, it’s the Soul Motivators – an eight piece group offering R&B, soul and funk. Check their Facebook page and hear several tracks: http://www.facebook.com/soulmotivators?sk=app_2405167945 Next Friday, the Creekside Strays appear at 10 pm

Swimming at Jarvis CI
Community Matters Toronto is a group of St. James Town neighbours who are contributing to a strong neighbourhood culture by building relationships, linking people to others with common interests and fostering exchanges of knowledge and skills. Recently they spearheaded a successful effort to save the swimming pool at Jarvis Collegiate. For more info about Community Matters Toronto, click on http://www.communitymatterstoronto.org/
They’re offering swimming lessons throughout the next ten weeks in the Jarvis pool. Children’s lessons happen on Thursdays from 5 to 7 pm and Saturdays from 1 –2 pm, women-only swim on Thursday from 7 to 9 pm and a family swim on Saturdays from 2 - 4 pm. They use first class instructors and the kids learn competitive swimming and leadership skills. For more information, call (416) 944-9697.

A two-year dream comes true
The Toronto Kiwanis Boys & Girls Club (Sumach and Spruce) officially reopened on Thursday after a two-year renovation program. We’ll get photos and a story for you for next week. An early report from CTV is available at the link below. http://toronto.ctv.ca/?video=608265

2012-01-20T16:36:00.011-05:00

Good progress toward restoration
456 to 460 Parliament is the site of the old House on Parliament. It was damaged by a fire in the Fall of 2010. Since that time, the owners have been repairing it and preparing for new occupants. They’re planning to reopen the restaurants and the patio in the lower level with small retail above that. The top two floors will be residential. Although the site is still in rough shape, it’s available now for prospective tenants who want to customize its end use. Hilary Browning and Nick Humphries at HomeLife/Realty One (501 Parliament) have detailed plans and they’re handling the rentals. You can contact them at 416-922-5533.

Meet Irish people
On Friday from 5:30 to closing, there’s an Irish Meet-up Party at Stout (221 Carlton). Whether you’re new and Irish or old and Irish or Irish-Canadian or just wish you’re Irish, then come to Stout Irish Pub for a monthly Meet-up Party. If you don’t make it this week, ask Erin for details. Free admission.
Don’t forget that Tuesday is Pub Stumpers Trivia Night from 7:30 pm sharp. And Sunday from 5 pm is prime rib night - prime rib dinner, a loaded baked potato, seasonal veggies, Yorkshire pudding and home-made gravy, all for $19. Listed by NOW Magazine as one of Toronto’s top-20 beer bars. http://www.stoutirishpub.ca/

Almond twists and challal at Absolute
Raj has been baking lots of his featured almond twists. He uses his own recipe with raspberry jam, almond powder and cinnamon. Very popular. He’s also got lots on challah on hand – we had some lately as a toasty bottom on some chicken a la king. Highly recommended. Absolute Bakery, 589 Parliament.

The Underdown’s schedule for this week
The Underdown Pub (263 Gerrard at Berkeley) welcomes Kevin Myles Wilson on Friday (10 pm). On Saturday, it’s the Whitney Rose Band (10 pm) and on Sunday, Open Mic with Porter (9:30 pm.) On Tuesday, Eric Underdown and Noah Jones sing their folk, bluegrass, rock and acoustics from 9 pm. Wednesday has Smart Asss Trivia from 8 to 10 pm, followed by Rita’s Parlour at 10 pm. On Thursday, it’s Jeff Barnes and Noah Zacharin at 9 pm. http://www.underdownpub.com/

Viva Mexico
Omar and Brissett recently opened their cozy little Mexican restaurant at 568 Parliament. The specials are listed on the blackboards along with a bigger list on the regular menu. The prices are very reasonable, brunch costs $7.50 and the entrees range from $9.50 to $13.50. A great spot for both lunch and takeout service. They’re open from noon to 10 pm.

One-stop shipping centre
Hi-Tech Seven Plus (453 Parliament) is now offering Purolator and UPS shipping. They’ve added these services to their DHL and FedEx accounts. They can now reach out right across the world for you and give you all of these convenient shipping choices. While you’re there, ask Nural about servicing for your computer or about new equipment for either your home or business.

Labour of Love
Even though Regina is busy now in the Orient, she’s still managed to feature lovely new jewellery and get a prominent mention in NOW magazine. As she says, the Nebula necklace ($96) by Toronto’s Biko looks a lot more expensive than it really is but “there’s no need to let anyone in on that secret!” To read more, check NOW’s site at http://www.nowtoronto.com/lifestyle/take5-story.cfm?content=184786 Labour of Love, 242 Carlton, http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/

Kendall & Co
Kendall & Co (541 Parliament on Winchester) is introducing a custom upholstered furniture program. Choose from their collections of sofas, love seats, sectionals, chaises, ottomans, arm chairs, dining chairs, bar stools and headboards - locally made with years of professional quality. From contemporary to traditional fabrics and finishings. See some sample designs on their website http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/design/custom/

A reminder – the Landscapes show at MJG
Mark at MJG Gallery (555 Parliament) is continuing the Landscape show until the end of the month. It features works by twelve artists including Mark’s framed photograph, “Alone”. The gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm.

A busy weekend at The Flying Beaver
On Friday, Maggie and Heather have two visiting shows. On Saturday, there are three shows. On Friday, Jessica Kirson appears at 7 pm and Carla Collins at 9 pm. Tickets for both are $20/advance and $25 at the door. On Saturday, Jessica (7 pm) and Carla (9 pm) are back and they’re followed at 10:30 pm by Kendall Partingdon, no cover. Sundays are now time for the FB’s new Boardgame Brunch at 11 am. In the evening, Chris Tsujiuchi is on stage at 8 pm, $10. As always, dinner is available during and after these shows. For lots more information, check it all out the Beav’s website at http://pubaret.com/

There’s musical history at Number 9
The guys at Number 9 were thinking about their customers recently. They realized that their mikes have been used by 50 Cents, Joni Mitchell, Usher and The Bare Naked Ladies. John McDermott and Holly Cole have been there. And this is the anniversary of the earthquake in Haiti. Number 9 produced their CD, World Jazz for Haiti and donated the proceeds to the Canadian Red Cross for their relief work. 89 musicians, dozens of staff and media all contributed to these 23 songs. http://www.number9.ca/our-microphones-have-been-used-by-50cent-usher-joni-mitchell-the-bare-naked-ladies-and-many-more-how-about-you/ 222 Gerrard East.

Parliament Street News
Pete has published (and delivered) several editions of his new newspaper and it’s an encouraging success. He’s focused on the people, neighbourhoods and businesses lining Parliament north from the lake. He’s put out a request for articles, photos and advertising for his next edition. He’d appreciate stories that are 150 to 200 words and a couple of photos to go with them. Contact him at parliamentstnews@gmail.com and check his web site at http://www.pstreetnews.com/

Mnemonic Theatre at the Winchester Theatre
Mnemonic Theatre presents Patrick Marber’s Closer at the Winchester Theatre (80 Winchester). Dan loves Alice and he also loves Anna. But Anna’s married to Larry who has cheated on her with Alice. It’s complicated. Wednesday February 1 to Saturday February 4 (8pm Wednesday to Friday and 2 pm and 8 pm on Saturday.) Tickets are $20 advance and $25 at the door. For a quick preview, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=562LLwlznTE

2012-01-13T17:10:00.009-05:00

Thanks Paul & Robert
Last Wednesday, Paul Dineen retired as the BIA Chair. He’s served for twenty years in that job and this is the end of a very fruitful period in Cabbagetown’s history. Over the past year, he’s asked the Board to find a willing volunteer to take his place.
Along with him, Robert McEnirney resigned as the BIA’s treasurer. Robert had handled that job for almost ten years.
When Paul came into the chair, Cabbagetown was a very different place. Parliament Street was widely known for its rough and tumble character. The Festival was a much smaller annual event. The business area was very local, focused on the surrounding neighbourhood. Today, it’s become much safer, more open to new retail trends and well known across Toronto. Paul played a big part in these improvements and led the BIA to become a dynamic organization in Cabbagetown.
Robert proved to be a very astute money manager. During his time as treasurer, we’ve seen a lot of pressure on our budgets, we’ve brought in landscaping and decorating features for the street, and we’ve paid ever higher fees to the City for the Festival. Despite that, the BIA fees paid by local businesses are virtually the same today as they were in 2002 and the BIA has a healthy surplus in the bank.
Paul will continue to represent us at TABIA. He’s on our Board as an ex-officio member in the newly created role as immediate Past Chairman. Robert will stay as a Board member and a member of the finance committee.
Both men worked very hard to build Cabbagetown. Their contributions have shaped the vibrant, pleasant business area that we now enjoy. We owe each of them our heartfelt thanks.

Welcome Frank and Michael
Our new Chair and Treasurer are familiar faces.
Frank Bernardo Ciddio is our new Chair. He’s well known locally as the first manager at the Stonegrill and after that as part of the management team at the Winchester. His background in the food industry connects him with an important part of the BIA business community. His knowledge of building management, heritage issues and construction will help us as we continue our streetscape improvements.
Michael Haddad is a well-established local lawyer. His practice is located in a beautifully renovated heritage building across from the gas station. He’s well equipped to be our new Treasurer. For the past five years on the BIA Board, he’s been a part of the finance committee that has watched our spending and set new budgets.

Congrat’s Tonya
Tonya Lee Williams will be honoured on January 28 with the Dr Martin Luther King Achievement Award by the Black Theatre Workshop for her significant contribution to the development of Black performing arts. She founded the Reel World Film Festival (438 Parliament) in 2001. Her achievements as an artist have been considerable – two Emmy nominations, winner of two NAACP Image Awards, an ACTRA Award of Excellence, a Harry Jerome Award, an African Canadian Achievement Award, and a Planet Africa award. Find out more about her impressive career as an actress at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tonya_Lee_Williams

MJG Gallery
The Landscape show continues at MJG Gallery (555 Parliament). It includes over forty pieces by various painters including this week’s feature, Alone, by Mark Gleberzon. Wednesday to Sunday, 11 am to 6 pm.

Winterlicious
Don’t forget that reservations are now available for Winterlicious. Two Cabbagetown favourites are taking part – JAMCafé (195 Carlton, 416-921-1255) has a three course prix fixe dinner for $25. And Stonegrill (51B Winchester, 416-967-6565) is offering a three course dinner at $35. Winterlicious runs from January 28 to February 10.
You can find all the details at http://www.toronto.ca/special_events/winterlicious/2012/
Toronto Life magazine just listed JAMCafe as one of the top ten midtown selections for this year’s Winterlicious.

Kendall & Co
Kendall’s new custom drapery program will make your home nice and warm. New colours in a variety of fabrics are now available. Curtains are well-known for being all-season energy savers. By keeping your curtains closed on cloudy, wintry days, you block the cold outside air from entering and on summery days, you keep the hot air out! Check out all your new options in person at Kendall & Co or preview just a selection online http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/design/drapery/ In addition to our custom draperies, ask us about our custom upholstery furniture line and custom pillows. 541 Parliament St on Winchester.

Epicure has cheese
Patty reports that La Sauvagine is back in stock. It’s a creamy cow’s milk oval with a complex, earthy, rustic taste. It’s a #1 seller in Quebec. Patty has it on sale this weekend at $3.99/100 grams. Also back in stock are her favourite veggie samosas. Epicure Shop (473 Parliament)

Save this date
Kiki will be celebrating her 40th anniversary on Parliament Street from 2 to 5 pm on Friday, February 5th. Save the date and drop in to Hairlift (503B Parliament) for a bit of wine and cheese.

Elie is back
After a finishing his business career as an active restauranteur, Elie Benchitrit is back in action. His cooking classes have resumed. Those of us who remember him from Provence Delices will be happy to know that we can join him for his popular lessons from Mondays to Wednesdays from 6:00 to 9:30 pm. For details and contact info, click here: http://www.lecanard.ca/

Save a penny
UforChange are holding a penny drive. Donate your pennies and help to educate and inspire young people to be creative and build better futures. They work with youth aged 16 to 29 through an arts-based program of experiential and intercultural learning. Drop your pennies at 517 Parliament, second floor. http://www.uforchange.org/

Check out this video
Here’s a great escape from today’s snow and slush. The kids at UforChange (517 Parliament) made a video about street performances at the Cabbagetown Festival. Check it out: http://vimeo.com/34789779

Volunteering
The Globe and mail recently ran a lengthy article about the impact of young people who volunteer and try to make a difference in their worlds. It was a revealing picture of their idealism and energy. Many of the people covered by the story are involved with projects associated with Me to We and Free the Children. Check out the story here: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/giving/giving-news/starting-a-charity-at-8-meet-the-generation-taking-action/article2289201/page1/

RBC and Dixon Hall
Jasmina, the Manager at the Regent Park RBC Branch (480 Dundas), is joining with the Dixon Hall Employment Services Centre to host a small business advice and networking event. It happens on Thursday January 19 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Dixon Hall offers complete human resources solutions for small business. You’re invited to learn how RBC and Dixon Hall can help your business. Please rsvp to akanni.frederick@dixonhall.org 489 Queen St E, Suite 300.

2012-01-06T16:54:00.007-05:00

Congrat’s F’Amelia
In her year-end review, Globe & Mail food critic Joanne Kates has listed F’Amelia (12 Amelia) as one of Toronto’s top restaurants of 2011. On Friday December 30, she wrote about F’Amelia’s menu “…impeccable Italiana and charming charcuterie. There are gnocchi like pillows, and tagliolini with perfectly cooked sweet soft clams and mussels in deep, rich garlic-and-chili oil. Rosemary and Parmigiano scent smooth polenta with soft, rich osso bucco. And the pizza! Blasted in the Neapolitan pizza oven for 90 seconds, it comes out crisp and charred, with superb toppings. My personal favourite topping is cold fiore di latte with cold cherry tomatoes covered with a trail of freshly made emerald pesto.” Congrat’s to John, Todd and the staff. http://www.famelia.com/

Time to find new inspiration
Regina had a very busy time over the holiday season. Now, she and Sara, Drea and Michelle are going to take it easy for a while. They’re spending fewer hours in the store and more time discovering new products, designers and inspiration for the months ahead. Their new opening hours are Monday to Wednesday 11 am to 6 pm, Thursday and Friday, 11 am to 7 pm, Saturday 10 am to 6 pm and Sunday noon to 5 pm. Keep up with all of her new announcements at http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/ Labour of Love, 242 Carlton.

MJG Gallery
Mark at MJG Gallery is exhibiting several artists' work, including Cabbagetowner Bev Jenkin's "Poppy Field" through the month of January. It's part of the gallery’s "Landscapes" show. Various medium and inviting price-points! Wednesday to Sunday 11 am to 6 pm. Follow on Facebook under "MJG Gallery". 555 Parliament.

Winterlicious is back
One of Toronto’s most popular food events happens again from January 27 to February 9. It’s a good idea to book early. Reservations are accepted from January 12 (and from January 10 for Amex card members.) All meals are three-course, prix fixe. Two of Cabbagetown’s favourites are taking part:
JAMCafe (195 Carlton, 416-921-1255) has dinner only at $25. Menu at http://www.jamcafe.net/winterlicious-2012
Stonegrill (51B Winchester, 416-967-6565) offers dinner at $35. Menu at http://wx.toronto.ca/inter/se/restaurants.nsf/Winterlicious/0BF4F2BA30AE05768525772F005B1D9A?OpenDocument

Ami at Jet Fuel
Jet Fuel is a Toronto landmark and for many people, it’s a Cabbagetown destination. Ami Spears has been working there for 4 ½ years and she’s been the subject of a blogTO interview. It’s a great look at the way a very busy shop operates and how they keep the loyalty of the people who drop in. 519 Parliament http://www.blogto.com/people/2011/12/get_to_know_a_barista_ami_spears_of_jet_fuel/

Street improvements
Over the summer, an increasing number of businesses and residents contributed to the improvement of Parliament Street. This trend is continuing into the winter and the people doing this work deserve our thanks for their efforts.
Barracuda (527 Parliament) has placed two big fresh winter plantings outside the front door.
Daniel et Daniel (248 Carlton) always has plants and seasonal decorations beside the doorway.
House on Parliament (454 Parliament) has decorated the front edge of the patio.
Peartree (507 Parliament) has continued its great summer splash with lovely winter window boxes.

Cabbagetown People
Most of us recognize the oval blue signs in front of many Cabbagetown homes. They indicate that a person of considerable interest once lived there. The signs are part of a bigger program to research and inform us about our past. As they show, Cabbagetown is much more than just a collection of beautiful heritage buildings. We’ve shared our community in the past with astronomers, soldiers, artists, teachers, social acivists and a host of other notable people. A new directory board has just been placed in Riverdale Park (Winchester & Sumach) to tell you who is part of the program and where they lived. For lots more information, visit http://www.cabbagetownpeople.ca/

Cabbagetown South Association
The 2012 annual meeting for the Association happens on Wednesday, January 11 at 7 pm at the Ontario Restaurant (Dundas Street between Ontario and Milan.) The main purpose for the meeting is to elect the 2012 Board of Directors. Residents in Cabbagetown South are asked to consider sitting on the Board and also to think about smaller roles that they can play to help the Association’s 2012 projects. For more information about the Association, check out their website at http://cabbagetownsouth.ca/

Gretchen and Peter fly our flag in Rome

We haven’t done one of these lovely photos for a while. Thanks to Peter and Gretchen for this great display at the Coliseum in Rome. And it’s also nice to see that Romans love their heritage sites just as much as we do

2011-12-29T14:33:00.011-05:00

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with us

If you’re staying home…
Here are five businesses that will help you to enjoy New Year’s Eve at home.

Simmons Flowers (540 Parliament)

Absolute Bakery (489 Parliament).

Cabbagetown Organics (499 Parliament).

The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament)

St Jamestown Steak & Chops (516 Parliament)

If you’re going out…
For your convenience, here’s a quick listing of the special events and menus planned by our restaurants. In each listing, only the meal prices are shown and all taxes and gratuities are extra.

The Ben Wicks
Regular menu with dinner specials for the evening. No cover charge. DJ John begins the party at 9 pm. For details, click here: http://www.benwickspub.com/ (416) 961-9425. 424 Parliament Street.

The Cobourg
DJ urbansteve will be playing his best from 10 pm to closing. 533 Parliament Street.

F’Amelia
Five course dinner (two seatings: 5 to 7 pm and 7:30 pm onward) with a complimentary glass of Prosecco. For complete menu details, click here: http://www.famelia.com/ $75 per person. Reservations at (416) 323-0666. 12 Amelia Street.

The Flying Beaver Pubaret
A STARDUST evening. Three-course dinner with the McComedy Show (starring Shannon and Michael) followed by DJ Fawn to spin into 2012. For all the evening details, click here: http://pubaret.com/ The Casablanca VIP ticket includes dinner, the McComedy Shop and DJ Fawn, 7 pm to 3 am with champagne at midnight, $70. The Vertigo-B List ticket covers dinner and the McComedy Show from 7 to 10 pm, $60. The Rebel Without A Cause ticket includes DJ Fawn and the After-party from 10 pm to 3 am with champagne at midnight, $20. Ticket prices will increase after December 18. Purchase tickets at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/215609 and at The Pubaret. (647) 347-6567. 488 Parliament Street

House on Parliament
Three or four-course dinners (two seatings: 5:30 and 8:30 pm) with a complimentary glass of Prosecco. Dunc’s Dance Party will break out spontaneously. http://www.facebook.com/pages/House-on-Parliament/116426921766667 Three course dinner at $55. Four course dinner at $65. Reservations at (416) 925-4074. 454 Parliament Street

JAMCafe
Five course dinner highlighting Ontario foods and Niagara wines (two seatings: 6 and 8:30 pm). For complete menu details, click here: http://www.jamcafe.net/ $80 per person. Reservations at (416) 921-1255. 195 Carlton Street.

Peartree
Three-course dinner with appetizers, mains and dessert. Prices range from $19.99 to $24.99. For complete menu details, click here: http://peartree.sites.toronto.com/ Be sure to check out their New Year’s Day brunch specials as well (from 10 am to 4 pm.) (416) 962-8190. 507 Parliament Street.

Stonegrill
Regular service from 5 to 11 pm. No cover charges. For menu details and reservations, click here: http://www.stonegrillonwinchester.com/ Reservations at (416) 967-6565. 51B Winchester Street.

Stout Irish Pub
The party starts at 8 pm, featuring party favours and midnight champagne. For all the details, click here: http://www.stoutirishpub.ca/ Tickets are $10 and they’re going fast so be sure to get yours quickly. Erin is also offering brunch from 11 am to 2:30 pm on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. (647) 344-7676, 221 Carlton Street.

Winchester Kitchen & Bar
Come early to eat and stay late to play. The Shuffle Demons are back. http://www.winchesterkitchen.com/ Dinner & show, $100 per person. Show & party, $40 per person. Reservations at (416) 323-0051. 51A Winchester Street

Brunch and quick eats
Best Breakfast, 432 Parliament, 416-924-5266
Chew Chew, 186 Carlton, 416-924-7583

Johnny G’s, 478 Parliament, 416-928-1358

Takeout and delivery
2-4-1 Pizza, 451 Parliament, 416-241-0241, http://www.241pizza.com/
Gourmet Burger, 482 Parliament, 647-344-5103, http://www.thegourmetburgerco.com/
Peter’s Cajun Creole Pizza, 415 Parliament, 416-368-8099, http://www.peterscajunpizza.ca/
Pizza Pizza. 560 Parliament, 416-967-1111, http://www.pizzapizza.ca/

Wing Machine, 443 Parliament, 416-961-1000, http://www.panzerottopizza.com/splash.html

International foods
Asahi, 200 Carlton (at Ontario), 416-962-6565 - Japanese

Butter Chicken Factory, 556 Parliament (at Amelia), 416-964-7583 – Indian
China Gourmet, 235 Carlton, 416-515-0088 - Chinese
Ginger, 252 Carlton (at Parliament), 416-923-7979 – south Asian
Hamdi, 193 Carlton, 416-929-7355 – north African and halel, http://www.hamdirestaurants.com/
Margarita’s Mexican Fiesta, 229 Carlton, 416-929-6284 – Mexican

Omi, 243 Carlton, 416-920-8991 – Japanese, http://omisushi.weebly.com/
Samsura, 587 Parliament – south Indian and Sri Lankan
Suruthi, 585 Parliament - south Indian and Sri Lankan
Tender Trap, 580 Parliament, 416-920-5147 - Chinese

Thai to Go, 452 Gerrard, 416-515-8424 – Thai, http://thaibyprasai.com/
Young Thailand, 446 Parliament, 416-920-8424 – Thai, http://www.youngthailand.com/

2011-12-23T15:42:00.012-05:00

David Weenen
David Weenen passed away on Sunday, December 18.
We have lost a friend and an active leader in our business community. He was, of course, a very strong supporter of our BIA. He served as our Chair in the early 1990s. He initiated the BIA’s Chairman’s Awards program. He participated in our events, gave us lots of advice and always encouraged people whom he saw as worthwhile. Just two years ago, he resolved differences about design issues between the community and the developer at the TD Bank building. The handsome renovation at the House on Parliament is his most recent work on Parliament Street. Local residents know that there is hardly a single block in the neighbourhood without a "Weenen" sign announcing one of his projects. He was a founder of the mini-marathon held during the Cabbagetown Festival and his home was a popular stop in the annual Tour of Homes.
In November, he held a marvellous party to celebrate his 50th anniversary in his business. He attended a CPA meeting (where he was given their first annual Volunteer of the Year Award) and the BIA's Annual Meeting and he met friends and customers in both places.
On behalf of the Board and Membership, we extend our sympathies to his family for their loss.

Christmas fun on Parliament Street
In the past few weeks, we’ve enjoyed plenty of pre-Christmas events along Parliament Street.

The BIA sponsored winter decorations on the hydro poles along the street.

In early December, we held a party at Parliament and Winchester to launch the LED Christmas lighting on the Winchester building.

During the party, we collected toys to contribute to CP24’s annual Christmas toy drive.

Santa dropped in to Pet Valu (240 Carlton) and to Menagerie Pet Shop (549 Parliament) to take part in photo sessions with Cabbagetown pets.

Along the street, Santa also enjoyed a quick hello with Saturday shoppers.

Santa and Mrs Claus entertained young admirers at Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton)

The Ben Wicks (424 Parliament) was home once again to their wonderful annual musical extravaganza with The Sterling Brass.

Peartree’s Christmas brunch
On Christmas day, enjoy Peartree’s popular brunch from 10 am to 4 pm. They’re offering everything from classic eggs benedict to steak and eggs in an impressive menu. Call (416) 962-8190 for reservations. http://peartree.sites.toronto.com/ 507 Parliament.

Cranberries Christmas dinner
Siva and Ruth are again hosting their very popular Christmas Day dinner at Cranberries (601 Parliament). There are two seatings (5 pm and 7:30 pm). It’s a delicious three-course meal with an appetizer, then a turkey dinner with all the trimmings and finally dessert. All for only $24.99. Reservations are recommended at (416) 925-6330.

Christmas goodies at Epicure
Patty has lots of Christmas desserts on hand – shortbreads, gingerbread, Dufflet’s mincemeat tarts and homemade mincemeat pies. This weekend, buy one of her Gift Baskets and save the tax. Over the holidays, Epicure Shop is closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day. On Christmas Eve, Patty is open from 7:30 am to 5 pm and next week from 8 am to 6:30 pm. 473 Parliament.

Barracuda sale
Barracuda (527 Parliament) is featuring handmade black ceramic cookware and pottery. Both are on sale at 40% off. Their popular line of Mexican glassware is also available at 20% off. And there are extra discounts on wine glasses and carafes. You can buy 4 wine glasses and a carafe at $50 (regularly $80) and 6 wine glasses and a carafe at $60 (regularly $100).

The Heroes show at MJG Gallery
MJG Gallery's "Heroes" show continues through to the end of the month. Buy any original artwork created by owner Mark Gleberzon (up to December 31st) and receive a 20% discount with mention of this post! 416.923.4031. Wed-Sun 11-6. Closed Christmas Day. 555 Parliament St.

Design magic at Kendall & Co
The design team at KENDALL & Co worked their holiday decorating magic to make sure that it’s looking a lot like Christmas in Cabbagetown. Click this link to see how the pros do it: http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/design/christmas-by-kendall-co/Only 2 days til Christmas! Get your last minute gifts and servingware atKENDALL & Co, from fun & novelty to the most spectacular must-haves. Just in time! KENDALL & Co 541 Parliament St on Winchester.

Get ready for New Year’s Eve
For your convenience, here’s a quick listing of the special events and menus planned by our restaurants. Check back with us next week for any late breaking changes. In each listing, only the meal prices are shown and all taxes and gratuities are extra.
The Ben Wicks – regular menu with dinner specials for the evening. No cover charge. DJ John begins the party at 9 pm. For details, click here: http://www.benwickspub.com/ (416) 961-9425. 424 Parliament Street.
F’Amelia – five course dinner (two seatings: 5 to 7 pm and 7:30 pm onward) with a complimentary glass of Prosecco. For complete menu details, click here: http://www.famelia.com/ $75 per person. Reservations at (416) 323-0666. 12 Amelia Street.
The Flying Beaver Pubaret – a STARDUST evening. Three-course dinner with the McComedy Show (starring Shannon and Michael) followed by DJ Fawn to spin into 2012. For all the evening details, click here: http://pubaret.com/ The Casablanca VIP ticket includes dinner, the McComedy Shop and DJ Fawn, 7 pm to 3 am with champagne at midnight, $70. The Vertigo-B List ticket covers dinner and the McComedy Show from 7 to 10 pm, $60. The Rebel Without A Cause ticket includes DJ Fawn and the After-party from 10 pm to 3 am with champagne at midnight, $20. Ticket prices will increase after December 18. Purchase tickets at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/215609 and at The Pubaret. (647) 347-6567. 488 Parliament Street
House on Parliament –three or four-course dinners (two seatings: 5:30 and 8:30 pm) with a complimentary glass of Prosecco. Dunc’s Dance Party will break out spontaneously. http://www.facebook.com/pages/House-on-Parliament/116426921766667 Three course dinner at $55. Four course dinner at $65. Reservations at (416) 925-4074. 454 Parliament Street
JAMCafe - five course dinner highlighting Ontario foods and Niagara wines (two seatings: 6 and 8:30 pm). For complete menu details, click here: http://www.jamcafe.net/ $80 per person. Reservations at (416) 921-1255. 195 Carlton Street.
Peartree – three-course dinner with appetizers, mains and dessert. Prices range from $19.99 to $24.99. For complete menu details, click here: http://peartree.sites.toronto.com/ Be sure to check out their Christmas Day and New Year’s Day brunch specials as well (from 10 am to 4 pm each day.) (416) 962-8190. 507 Parliament Street.
Stonegrill – regular service from 5 to 11 pm. No cover charges. For menu details and reservations, click here: http://www.stonegrillonwinchester.com/ Reservations at (416) 967-6565. 51B Winchester Street.
Stout Irish Pub – the party starts at 8 pm, featuring party favours and midnight champagne. For all the details, click here: http://www.stoutirishpub.ca/ Tickets are $10. Erin is also offering brunch from 11 am to 2:30 pm on Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. (647) 344-7676, 221 Carlton Street.
Winchester Kitchen & Bar – come early to eat and stay late to play. The Shuffle Demons are back. http://www.winchesterkitchen.com/ Dinner & show, $100 per person. Show & party, $40 per person. Reservations at (416) 323-0051. 51A Winchester Street

Two of our favourite places have decided to close for New Year’s Eve. Cranberries will stay open until 4 pm and Merryberry Café is open until 3 pm. Regular lunch service is available at both of them.

Brunch and quick eats
Best Breakfast, Parliament, 416-924-5266
Chew Chew, 186 Carlton, 416-924-7583
Johnny G’s, 478 Parliament, 416-928-1358

For takeout and delivery
2-4-1 Pizza, 451 Parliament, 416-241-0241, www.241pizza.com
Gourmet Burger, 482 Parliament, 647-344-5103, www.thegourmetburgerco.com
Peter’s Cajun Creole Pizza, 415 Parliament, 416-368-8099, www.peterscajunpizza.ca
Pizza Pizza. 560 Parliament, 416-967-1111, www.pizzapizza.ca
Wing Machine, 443 Parliament, 416-961-1000, http://www.panzerottopizza.com/splash.html

International foods
Asahi, 200 Carlton (at Ontario), 416-962-6565 - Japanese
Butter Chicken Factory, 556 Parliament (at Amelia), 416-964-7583 – Indian
China Gourmet, 235 Carlton, 416-515-0088 - Chinese
Ginger, 252 Carlton (at Parliament), 416-923-7979 – south Asian
Hamdi, 193 Carlton, 416-929-7355 – north African and halel, http://www.hamdirestaurants.com/
Margarita’s Mexican Fiesta, 229 Carlton, 416-929-6284 – Mexican
Omi, 243 Carlton, 416-920-8991 – Japanese, http://omisushi.weebly.com/
Samsura, 587 Parliament – south Indian and Sri Lankan
Suruthi, 585 Parliament - south Indian and Sri Lankan
Tender Trap, 580 Parliament, 416-920-5147 - Chinese
Thai to Go, 452 Gerrard, 416-515-8424 – Thai, http://thaibyprasai.com/
Young Thailand, 446 Parliament, 416-920-8424 – Thai, http://www.youngthailand.com/

2011-12-16T16:37:00.008-05:00

Happening this weekend –

Cobourg Christmas party
Friends and fans of The Cobourg (533 Parliament) are invited to tonight’s Cabbagetown Christmas – the best party east of Yonge Street. From 10 pm to closing. DJs Liem Bui and Tophey Caulfeld.

Santa photo opportunity at Menagerie Pet Shop
Once again, Santa is ready to pose with your pet. (Our photo shows him hard at work last weekend at Pet Valu.) This week, he visits Menagerie Pet Shop (549-553 Parliament) on Saturday from 1 to 4 pm. Pictures are only $10. Bring your pets. But be sure to bring your kids too - they’ll love Menagerie’s amazing collection of fish, birds and reptiles. It’s like a visit to the zoo.

Santa stops at Stout too
Santa and Mrs Claus are at Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton) on Saturday from noon to 2 pm. It’s a family event with lots of good activities for your kids. Be sure to bring a non-perishable food item for the food bank.

Sing your favourites
On Sunday, it’s the annual Christmas sing-a-long at The Ben Wicks (424 Parliament). The formal music is provided by the Sterling Brass. The lusty and loud singing comes from you, the audience. It’s a great time. 3 to 6 pm.

Cabbagetown Classical Youth Choir
A Christmas Concert on Sunday from 3 pm at St Peter Anglican Church (188 Carlton). The concert is a fundraiser for the choir. Admission is $20.

Cabbagetown Christmas catalogue

Order your Christmas dinner from Mark
St Jamestown Steak & Chops (516 Parliament) is now taking your orders for your Christmas turkeys. Tell Mark what you need and it’ll be ready by December 22. If you’re planning on alternative menus, check out his hams and his PEI prime ribs.

Beautiful flowers from Simmons
At Christmas, decorations play such an important part in our festivities. Order your table centerpieces for your own home and to take with you as a gift for your hosts. All sorts of fresh flowers are available for delivery in-town, out-of-town, or anywhere in the world. Simmons also has nice hostess gifts too! Open Christmas week, Monday to Saturday from 8:30 to 7:00 pm. 540 Parliament Street, 416.920.6580.

Healthy Whey’s gift of health
Shahina suggests Healthy Whey’s gift certificates (at $10, $20, $25 and $50) to introduce your family and friends to health supplements. She carries a wide variety for adults, children and pets. Popular names such as Genuine Health, Platinum, New Chapter, Flora and Sisu line the shelves. For all the boxers, dancers, cyclists, body builders and competitors out there, she has the Animal Line from Universal Products for nutrition for the serious athlete as well as Optimum Nutrition for strength and endurance. She’s recently added Omega Alpha’s natural pet care products for parasites, joint care, immune support, and stress relief. While you’re shopping, enter the draw to win a $150 gift basket full of pet care supplies. 250 Carlton.

Fashion Wearhouse
Drop in to discover loads of bargains for your Christmas gifts. Denice (a life-long Cabbagetown resident who was born and raised here) can show you their specials and features. She particularly recommends the boots and footware currently in stock. 411 ½ Parliament

Dollar4U
You’ll need lots of last minute supplies to finish your gift wrapping and your decorating. At Dollar4U (405 Parliament), they have a lot of choice at very reasonable prices.

Christmas at Cranberries
Siva and Ruth are now preparing their annual Christmas Day feast. Cranberries (601 Parliament) has served a delicious three course turkey dinner annually and this year they’re doing it again. Understandably with this good food and cheery setting, they get a sell-out crowd, so reservations are needed for either the 5 pm or the 7:30 pm seating. $24.99. (416) 925-6330

For your Christmas table
Epicure Shop’s (474 Parliament) personalized baskets are a famous Christmas gift in Cabbagetown. You select your basket’s contents and Patty will create it for you – gourmet food items, cheeses, coffee and tea, gifts for children, and specialty desserts. On Saturday, one litre bottles of Frantoia Extra Virgin Olive Oil are on sale at $25 (save $7). Mini Pannettone are available, two for $5. And Patty has gourmet hot chocolate back in stock in four different flavours. It makes a great stocking stuffer or hostess gift.

Heroes at MJG Gallery
The “Heroes” show continues at MJG Gallery (555 Parliament). There are 42 paintings based on the theme of Heroes: Real, Fictional & Close to Home, including Stev’nn Hall’s “Lee as Perseus”. It’s all original artwork with prices ranging from $149 to $4200. 11 am to 6 pm, Wednesday to Sunday.

Kendall & Co is all about form and function.
Only 9 days until Christmas! To help you make things easy, check out our updated Online Holiday Guide highlighting our fantastic assortment of festive decorations, greeting cards, gift wrapping, fun stocking stuffers, secret Santa gift exchange, party hostess gifts, and the most spectacular must-haves. You’ll find servingware, glassware, coasters, platters, trays, cheese boards, carafes, wine buckets, wine accessories, ice holders, appetizer/desert dishes, teapots, tea towels, cocktail/dinner napkins, placemats, napkin holders and more, all in a fine selection of locally made and international designs. Beautiful to give and to keep. 541 Parliament http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/shop-holiday/

Beer Tasting at JAMCafe
On Thursday December 22 at 6:30 pm, Av is presenting a beer tasting and matching it with his specially prepared hors d’oeuvres. You’ll sample eight Belgian beers and a food suggestion with each. $30, reservations are recommended. JAMCafe, (416) 921-1255, 195 Carlton.

Special offers at Number 9
Only two weeks (9 business days!) left before Christmas, but there’s still time for you to squeeze in a project or two before the holiday season ends. A few spots are still available in the schedule for recording projects and CD/DVD duplication jobs and the staff will be more than happy to work with you to get your project done in time. Be sure to ask about the #9 Anniversary Sale and about the Price Match Guarantee. http://www.number9.ca/only-two-weeks-until-christmas/ 222 Gerrard.

Riverdale Farm Shop
There’s a big clearance sale happening at the Shop (Winchester & Sumach) this weekend. 70% discounts available on most items. On Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm, fresh fruit pies are on sale at the Farm. There’s also a selection of gingerbread and sugar cookies plus handcrafts and Christmas decorations.

2011-12-09T17:42:00.010-05:00

Soup’s Sale
Every Christmas, Soup (603 ½ Parliament, just south of Wellesley) stages a special sale with intriguing items by artists and artisans. The 2012 edition is happening this weekend. It’s a great time to buy handmade greeting cards, knitware, jewelry, ornaments, pet portraits, handmade chocolate, children’s books and toys and lots more. Saturday and Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm.

Holiday Sale
This weekend, Gerri Orwin (ceramics), Irina Rapaport (jewelry) and Lousje & Bean (designer clothing) are joining together for their Holiday Sale at 133 Seaton Street. It happens on Friday from 1 to 9 pm and Saturday from 11 am to 6 pm.

Christmas supplies at Epicure
Be sure to talk to Patty about your needs for Christmas baskets. She has a wide range available and can customize them for you. This weekend, you can order any three trays from Epicure’s special flyer and receive a free pastry tray as well. For cheese lovers, Patty has five new arrivals: a seven-year old white cheddar, Alpindon from British Columbia, buffalo mozzarella, C’est Bon chevre and Devil’s Rock. Epicure Shop, 473 Parliament.

Santa’s here

It’s time for our annual photo opportunity with Santa and your pet. Bring your dog, cat, mouse, gerbil and hamster to Pet Valu (240 Carlton ) this Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm. Or schedule a visit to Menagerie Pet Shop (Parliament) next weekend on Saturday from 1 to 4 pm. Eric Morse handles the photography and your pictures are ready later that day or on Sunday for your pick-up. $10/each.

HO HO Holiday Lighting Sale
Mi Casa (238 Carlton) is continuing its holiday sales with a special on lighting – Jonathan Adler, Global Views, Arteriors and many more are on sale from 20 to 70% off, including special orders. The sale runs from Friday December 9 to December 18.

Thanks, Guru
Guru operates the Canada Post kiosk at Shopper’s Drug Mart (467 Parliament). His calm manner, friendly style and efficient service caught the eye of Susan Siddely and she decided to acknowledge his good work with a gift of chocolates and a thank-you note. Anyone who has used our Canada Post outlet will certainly agree with Susan.

The Queen at Labour of Love
Here’s a fun gift from Regina at Labour of Love (242 Carlton). Just place Her Majesty in the sunlight and watch her trademark wave begin. For more gift ideas, go to http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/

Keeping the holiday warmth
Kendall & Co (541 Parliament) have been working with their longtime drapery supplier to develop a drapery collection of quality fabrics and styles. Choose from lush faux silk, soft cotton-linen or breezy poly sheer. Top the curtain with either modern grommets, classic pleats or contemporary flat panels. Available in any length and width to dress up those windows and doorways. Complement it with our drapery rods, finials and tie backs. Click on this link for more info: http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/design/drapery

MJG gallery
"Heroes: Real, Fictional & Close To Home" have arrived at MJG Gallery (555 Parliament)! See the show that includes work by artist/owner Mark Gleberzon as well as 16 other artists including painting, photography and mixed media. Wed-Sun, 11 am to 6pm. markaloo@yahoo.com

Save these dates – only a week away

Santa at Stout
Mr & Mrs Claus are visiting Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton) next Saturday December 17 from noon to 2 pm. It’s a family event and your kids are welcome to talk to Santa about their Christmas wish lists. Bring a non-perishable food item as a gift for the Daily Bread Food Bank.

Sterling Brass at the Wicks
Anticipation is building for next week’s annual date with the Sterling Brass at the Ben Wicks (424 Parliament). Don’t miss it – it’s a good time with plenty of carol singing and good company. Sunday December 18 from 3 to 6 pm.

Cabbagetown Classical Youth Choir
The annual concert takes place on Sunday December 18 from 3 pm at St Peter’s Anglican Church (188 Carlton). Admission is $20. This is a fundraiser for the choir’s scholarship fund. For more information, http://www.nscvs.com/

Beer tasting at JAMCafe
On Thursday December 22 at 6:30 pm, Av is presenting a beer tasting and matching it with his specially prepared hors d’oeuvres. You’ll sample eight Belgian beers and a food suggestion with each. $30, reservations are recommended. JAMCafe, (416) 921-1255, 195 Carlton.

Thai to Go
Prasai and Dale have been renovating their restaurant at 452 Gerrard Street for quite a while. Thai to Go is well known across Cabbagetown for outstanding food and good home delivery. Their dining area is now finished and we can stay to enjoy a meal on site. The latest change is a big improvement for the streetscape – their awning has been placed across the front of their new sit-down dining area.

From our Christmas Catalogue

Save your Christmas memories
Jim at Superfoto (434 Parliament) has all the equipment that you need to make paper prints from your digital images. Just drop in and he’ll take you through the steps quickly and easily. He provides one-hour service if you need to leave your card for printing. He’s been in Cabbagetown for 35 years and his service and advice are always reliable. 4” X 6” prints are 29 cents each and 8” X 10” prints are $6.99.

Barracuda has glassware
At Barracuda (527 Parliament), they’re recommending their line of beautiful Mexican glassware as Christmas gifts. The glasses come in eight different colours and they’re available for wine, martinis, highballs, margaritas, water and shot glasses. While you’re there, check out the winter decorations in front. Several businesses have added these touches to their facades and they make our street much more pleasant through grey winter months.

Don’t forget your bike rider
Just because it’s chilly outside, don’t neglect your bike or your bike lover. Kale at Cycle Solutions (444 Parliament) has a lot of handy stocking stuffers – pumps, lights, grips, bells, socks, computers, tool kits and plenty more. You can see all of these choices at http://www.cycle-solutions.com/

And don’t forget your wine maker
Gunnar at Church Street Winery (420 Parliament) always has wine making kits ready for you. Right now, he has a great offer for first time buyers – 30 clean bottles at no charge (a savings of $30). Wine making kits come in a wide range of grapes and wine styles and they cost from $140 to $185. Each one makes 30 bottles of wine. Gunnar will prepare a custom gift certificate for you to meet your budget.

Computers on Parliament Street
If you’re looking for computers and supplies, we have good outlets right here. No need to shop with a big box store – our stores offer competitive prices, lots of choice, convenient nearby shopping and reliable servicing.
Hi-Tech Seven Plus (453 Parliament) has two holiday specials featured now. A new HP laptop with 15.6” LED screen and fully loaded RAM, hard drive, web cam, wifi and genuine Windows 7 Home Premium at only $399, including a free HP laptop bag. There’s also a brand new HP desktop with 1500 GB hard drive, genuine windows 7 Home premium – only $599 with a free keyboard and mouse. For a stocking stuffer, pick up a pair of Logitech speakers at only $39.99

Our Christmas Tree Party
Last Friday, we held an outdoor street party at Winchester and Parliament to light our LED Christmas tree. Danny Marks was our Master of ceremonies and music was provided by the Outputs and by UforChange. People warmed up with hot chocolate and coffee from Tim Hortons and the kids each got packages of candies prepared by Carol Buss at Lennies. For adults, there was a hot toddy to provide warmth and encouragement upstairs at the Winchester Kitchen & Bar. It’s a good start to our Christmas season in Cabbagetown.

The Shop at Riverdale Farm
Save 50% on all inventory at the Shop – handicrafts, toys, books, gift cards, decorations and lots more. Open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm until Christmas. Winchester and Sumach.

They’re back
For the 59th year, Christmas trees are again available at the corner of Spruce and Parliament. Welcome back guys and best wishes for a successful season.

It never fails

Innocent travelers passing through Cabbagetown have frequently fallen into a bewildering experience. They’re set upon by an enthusiastic local geezer who tells them to stand still and hold a flag. It happened again this week to Bob and Gail who wandered into the neighbourhood from Tilden Lake in the Temagami area. Fortunately, they have a sense of humour and they played along.

2011-12-02T15:55:00.018-05:00

It’s happening tonight
Our 2011 Cabbagetown Christmas Party happened on Friday December 2 at Winchester and Parliament. We’ve purchased some lighting to decorate the corner and it was officially turned on. Danny Marks was our master of ceremonies. The Outputs, a marvellous band from the Cabbagetown Youth Centre, along with a performer from U4Change were our featured artists. Free coffee and hot chocolate, plus candies for your kids.

We're happy to report that it was a wonderful success. A good crowd turned out, lots of kids showed us how to sing, and our Christmas season got off to a spirited start.

Labour of Love
Regina’s holding a Customer Appreciation Event to start the holiday season on a light and easy note. Visit her store and enjoy some bubbly and some munchies (from Daniel et Daniel) and you’ll also have first dibs on her newest holiday products. It happens today from 3 to 8 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm, 242 Carlton. For more information, http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/.

An exclusive sale at Mi Casa
Alex is holding a special in-store sale of all Joanathan Adler products, 20% off on lighting, Christmas ornaments and accessories, as well as special orders. The offer is limited to our gang, the readers of our Cabbagetown News blog (and that’s a very good idea - because we’re all such lovely, rich and upscale folks!) Saturday December 3 and Sunday December 4. 238 Carlton. http://www.micasatoronto.com/

Tomorrow – for your family at Stout
Join Erin for her special tree trimming time at Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton). Bring your kids. They can join the reading circle and everyone can enjoy some eggnog and ginger cookies. Be sure to bring an ornament to put on the tree. Noon to 2 pm, Saturday December 3.

Marilyn’s grooming service
Fix up your pet for Christmas. Marilyn offers nail trimming tomorrow from 10 am to 3 pm at Pet Valu (240 Carlton). Only $10. It’s a great price and a very nice convenience.

Congrat’s Merryberry
It’s been a year since Merryberry (559 Parliament) first opened their doors. To celebrate, they’re offering a complimentary beverage for all guests on Sunday. A lot of people in Cabbagetown have enjoyed themselves there over the past year. They had a successful evening in the “One Night” event and a popular, comfy patio at the Festival. They’re home for the weekly BNI business meetings. Lots of young moms are bringing their babies for a Thursday morning gatherings. And they have plenty of catering assignments for George Brown College. That’s a good start for their business. Congrat’s to Cyril, Nimmi and the team for a remarkable year.

More attractions from our Christmas Catalogue

Christmas at Cranberries
Siva and Ruth are now preparing their annual Christmas Day feast. Cranberries (601 Parliament) has served a delicious three course turkey dinner annually and this year they’re doing it again. Understandably with this good food and cheery setting, they get a sell-out crowd, so reservations are needed for either the 5 pm or the 7:30 pm seating. $24.99.

Rose gold at Fair Trade Jewellery
Custom designer Julie Dyck has been busy designing some jewellery for holiday gifts. "We got in some Fairtrade Certified 18K French rose gold that shows an amazing colour. We didn't get much of it. I wanted to make earrings and pendants so that more people could enjoy it." The collection, made entirely from this special gold, includes chain rings, pendants and earrings set with Canadian diamonds. Pieces range from $195-$495. You can stop by any time to view the collection. If you can't decide, Fair Trade has started offering gift cards as well. 523 Parliament. http://ftjco.com/

Food gifts at HomeLife Realty One
Drop off a food gift at HomeLife’s office (501 Parliament) at your convenience through the holiday season. Their food drive is a part of an effort across the company to combat hunger in Toronto. It’s a great idea and you can be part of the campaign easily.

Santa at Pet Valu
One of our most popular Christmas events. Bring your pet – your cat, dog, hampster or rabbit – and get a photo with Santa. At Pet Valu (240 Carlton), they’re ready for you. Santa knows how to bring out the best. Photos are $10. Saturday December 10, 10 am to 3 pm. (If you can’t make it on December 10, Santa will appear the next week at Menagerie Pet Shop.)

Greaves Jam at Epicure
Greaves from Niagara on the Lake have a lovely line of jams and marmalades. If you’re a fan, then get to Epicure for their special this weekend, 3 for $10.99. These little jars make very nice hostess gifts. Patty also has mincement tarts from Dufflets and homemade shortbread and mincemeat pies. 473 Parliament.

JAMCafe has space
Private parties are a popular feature at JAM (195 Carlton). They happily handle small groups and crowds up to 50 people. Menu choices can be designed to your tastes – from cocktails and hors d’oeuvres to full dinner parties. You can customize the menu, the wine list and the music. There’s no charge for anything except your food and drinks. For more information, call Joe at (416) 921-1255 and visit http://www.jamcafe.net/

Number 9’s December Anniversary Specials
It’s time now to do your recording work at Number 9 Audio (222 Gerrard). Book five hours of recording time and get a sixth hour free. It’s a great deal for independent artists and bands on a budget. Plus, from now until December 21st, Number 9 will match or beat the published rate from any competing studio in Toronto. If you’re going to pay the same amount everywhere, then take advantage of their exceptional nine-foot C Bechstein Concert Grand Piano, the best one available in the city. http://www.number9.ca/

Soup’s moving …
Soup (603 ½ Parliament) has sold its building and they’ll be moving soon. That’s a real loss for all of us. Soup is a collection of local designers, web specialists and social activists. Their contributions have been very important for the festival, the Cabbagetown BIA and a list of local businesses who’ve used their services. They promise that they won’t be moving far away and we really hope they can find another home here.

Soup’s last sale
It happens next weekend, Saturday and Sunday, December 10 and 11, 11 am to 4 pm. As always, the sale offers an amazing range of greeting cards, pet portraits, knitware, paintings, natural soaps and skin care, jewelry and lots more. You’ll find plenty of gift items, stocking stuffers and goodies for yourself here. 603 ½ Parliament.

Kendall has something chic and extra special
Their Christmas cards and holiday stationary are a perfect way to say hello to the people you love. They’re made with Nepalese and Tibetan handmade papers in a variety of sophisticated colours. On Sunday, be sure to visit Kendall’s Textile Art & Show sale by the Toronto Spinners & Weavers Guild to support Riverdale Farm – please RSVP to indicate whether you are attending the 1 pm or 3 pm show. 541 Parliament, just east on Winchester.

Save these dates
Meet Santa and Mrs Claus on Saturday, December 17 at Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton). It’s another family day at Stout and your kids are welcome to visit and talk about their Christmas wish list with Santa. Bring a non-perishable for the Daily Food Bank. Noon to 2 pm.

The Sterling Brass will offer their annual Christmas concert at the Ben Wicks (424 Parliament) on Sunday December 18. The combo of their fine instrumentals along with the clear piping voices from the crowd always guarantees a great time for all. 3 to 6 pm.

Cabbagetown Classical Youth Choir are holding their annual Christmas concert on Sunday December 18. It happens at St Peter’s Church (188 Carlton) at 3 pm. It’s a fundraiser with donations going to the choir’s scholarship fund. $20 admission. For more info about the school and the choir, http://www.nscvs.com/

Impulse at TDT
The School of Toronto Dance Theatre presents an ambitious main-stage performance of ensemble works that showcase dancers from each year of the professional dance training program. This is your chance to see tomorrow’s dance stars today. Performances take place on December 1, 2 and 3 and on December 8, 9 and 10. For tickets, call (416) 967-6887 or email tickets@schooloftdt.org. 80 Winchester

The School at TDT survey
Our friends at The School of Toronto Dance Theatre need your help. They want to know about your experience, or lack thereof, with recreational dance. Give them 5 minutes of your time and you could win tickets to a Toronto Dance Theatre or School performance! http://bit.ly/dance-survey

A reminder about Riverdale Farm
On Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm, fresh fruit pies are on sale at the Farm (Winchester & Sumach). There’s also a selection of gingerbread and sugar cookies plus handcrafts and Christmas decorations. On Saturday at 6 pm, drop by for the annual Christmas carol singing.

2011-11-25T17:31:00.016-05:00

Join us to launch our Christmas tree

On Friday December 2 from 7 to 9 pm, you’re invited to the corner of Winchester and Parliament. It’s the official lighting and launch of our 2011 Christmas tree. There’ll be goodies for kids of all ages, hot chocolate and coffee, and musical entertainment by the Outputs and by U4Change. Our headliner and chief dispenser of goodwill and high spirits will be Cabbagetown’s own Danny Marks. Dress warmly – we’ll be outdoors under the stars.
When you come to our event, bring an unwrapped toy. We’re joining with CP24’s toy drive to bring some joy into a child’s life.

Our Christmas Catalogue

Ben Wicks (424 Parliament Street)
The Ben Wicks Christmas Sing-a-Long is THE big annual social event for serious Cabbagetown warblers, a time when everyone sips a pint and melts into the beauty of the music. The Sterling Brass provides the music and the audience joins in with the tunes. Undeniably, this occasion puts even the most determined grouch into the Christmas spirit. Save the date – Sunday, December 18 from 3 to 6 pm. No cover. http://www.benwickspub.com/

Daniel et Daniel (248 Carlton Street)
Long known as Toronto’s premier caterer, Daniel et Daniel also provide very convenient prepared meals for special occasions in your home. They’ve just announced their 2011 Christmas dinner. It includes soup, salad, turkey with traditional stuffing, mashed potatoes and mixed vegetables, a bread plate and poached pear for desert. On orders for ten or more, delivery service is available. $45 each. The final day for orders is Wednesday December 21. http://www.danieletdaniel.ca/

JAMCafe (195 Carlton Street)
JAMCafe now has a new mid-week Prix Fixe menu, available from Tuesday to Thursdays. It includes your choice among three appetizers, three entrees and two desserts plus a glass of wine. It’s a real attraction - $19.95 each. JAM also accepts private parties (up to 60 people for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and 50 people for full course meals.) To reserve, call 416-921-1255. http://www.jamcafe.net/

The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament Street)
Epicure’s personalized baskets are a famous Christmas gift in Cabbagetown. You select your basket’s contents and Patty will create it for you – gourmet food items, cheeses, coffee and tea, gifts for children, and specialty desserts. Prices depend on your selection. Epicure’s baskets make great corporate gifts as well. Save 20% on all orders placed before December 10.

Labour of Love (242 Carlton Street)
Stunning, handmade jewellery is the centre of attention at Labour of Love for this season – like this gorgeous handmade, botanical line by artist Michael Michaud. The choices are constantly changing and updating. There are lots of other holiday choices in stock as well – cards, wrap and gift bags. http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/

Regular News

Grey Cup weekend
Get over to The Ben Wicks (424 Parliament)Enjoy the Grey Cup game on big screen television. You can chomp down Robert’s special chilli or his traditional beef stew along with any item from the pub’s regular menu. Sunday at 6 pm. No cover charge.

Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton) Game-day chicken wings on special for the evening. Erin has several big screen TVs and, of course, plenty of craft beers on draft.

Weekend Sale at Mi Casa
From Friday to Sunday, Mi Casa (238 Carlton) is having a store-wide weekend sale. Everything is available at 20% off, including special orders. It’s a chance for a great bargain. The store is open on Friday to 6 pm, on Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and on Sunday from noon to 4 pm.

For your family at Stout
On Saturday December 3, Erin is having Stout’s 1st Annual Tree Trimming party from noon to 2 pm. At noon, there’ll be a children’s reading circle. Bring an ornament and enjoy some eggnog and ginger cookies.
On Saturday, December 17 from noon to 2 pm, Santa is visiting and he’s bringing Mrs Claus with him. Bring along a non-perishable item for the Daily Bread Food Bank.
Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton)

Cheese at Epicure
Quebec’s Alpindon raw milk cheese is now in stock. It won a 1st prize at the American Cheese Awards. Devil’s Rock is back in stock as well. It’s just been featured in the LCBO’s magazine. Patty also has her homemade gingerbread and shortbreads available for you. Watch for her Holiday Flyer with lots of special offers. It’s being delivered to your home next week and copies will also be in the store. The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament)

Pop some bubbly
Regina is having a customer appreciation event at Labour of Love (242 Carlton) on Friday December 2 from 3 to 8 pm and all day on Saturday December 3. There’ll be bubbly and munchies and (while they last) first choice of the new Christmas arrivals. For more info, check here: http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/

Merryberry is catering
Merryberry (559 Parliament) has recently provided catered meals for the George Brown School of Design (as the picture shows) at a Saturday evening dinner for 150 people. They’ve done a variety of business-related events lately including the Google seminar at the Centre for Education. Cyril reports that enquiries are now arriving regularly. They’re doing it for all sizes of events – from ten to 300 people. They can come to your home or arrange a private function at the Café (for groups up to 30 people.) You can review the menu (and lots of attractive pictures) on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/MerryBerryCafe

Flowers for the Duchess
This week, Simmons Flowers (540 Parliament) provided centerpieces for the luncheon that Ontario’s Lieutenant Governor held for the Duchess of Wessex. This was a sparkling event (read details here: http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/501482 ) It took place in the Lieutenant-Governor’s suite at Queen’s Park. Simmons can provide the same beautiful designs and high quality for your home.

Kendall & Co
Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and ....nope, it isn’t Rudolf but Kendall’s white porcelain reindeer lamp. It can also light up a foggy Christmas Eve and add a warm glow by the Christmas tree, on the mantle or anywhere in your home during those wintry nights. Sunday holiday hours 12-5pm. Check out their updated Online Holiday Guide at http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/shop-holiday/ 541 Parliament St on Winchester.

Christmas toys at Number 9
Christmas is just around the corner and once again Number 9 is launching its annual toy drive in collaboration with the Yonge Street Mission. Not sure what to get? The Yonge Street Mission has compiled an extensive gift guide that you can take a look at right here. As a general note, toys should be for kids 12 and under and cannot promote violent or otherwise adult themes. No toy guns or weapons! Gifts should not be wrapped. Number 9 employees often lean towards donating “classic” holiday toys such as blocks, books and balls; things that any child can enjoy!

Impulse 2011 at the Winchester Dance Theatre
The School of Toronto Dance Theatre presents an ambitious main-stage performance of ensemble works that showcase dancers from each year of the professional dance training program. This is your chance to see tomorrow’s dance stars today. Performances take place on December 1, 2 and 3 and on December 8, 9 and 10. For tickets, call (416) 967-6887 or email tickets@schooloftdt.org. 80 Winchester

Married in the ring
Ibrahim Kamal and Miranda Jollymore got married a week ago in the ring at the Cabbagetown Boxing Club. He’s a professional boxer who’s been competing for Canada since he moved here nine years ago. She’s a retired amateur boxer who now operates a boxing-based charity for at risk kids. They married in the gym where they met three years ago. For a lovely video clip and the full story, click here: http://toronto.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20111120/couple-marry-boxing-ring-111120/20111120/?hub=TorontoNewHome

2011-11-18T17:14:00.010-05:00

Cabbagetown’s Christmas Catalogue
Over the next few weeks, we’ll tell you about holiday gift items and decorations – all conveniently available here in Cabbagetown. We’re asking our merchants to highlight special items in their stores for our catalogue. Here's the best from our Cabbagetown shops. To launch our Christmas Catalogue, we’ve selected four fine home accessory shops and asked them to show us their choices.

Eclectisaurus (249 Gerrard)
Eclectisaurus has a remarkable collection of unique vintage and antique gifts for your Christmas list. This picture shows a Machine Age art deco tea set from England in the 1930s along with a 1970s task lamp, a silver bead necklace and a 1980s Wochtmeister metallic print.

Green’s (529 Parliament)
This small display highlights the wide range of eclectic home décor and design merchandise on offer at Green’s. The serving pieces are silver plate. The brass picture frames in the background are Victorian vintage. The wrought iron table, chairs and Tiffany style lamp are modern.

Kendall & Co (541 Parliament)
Your holiday gift central and your go-to for festive décor, Kendall & Co will make your Christmas gift giving easy, merry and bright. You can hang your coat, hat or dog leash on these whimsical teapot wall hooks. Recommended by CBC television’s Steven and Chris. To see all of their special offers, go to http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/shop-holiday/holiday-guide/

Mi Casa (238 Carlton)
This beautiful store is a wonderful source for your Christmas home furnishing gifts. This year, they’re promoting a Radinka Frosted Table for the holiday season. Tempered glass and steel, 31” high and 18” wide, light weight and easily moved – it’s perfect as a side table in your livingroom. To see more, visit http://www.micasatoronto.com/

OUR REGULAR NEWS

Welcome to Cabbagetown

Gregory Harris is a criminal lawyer who’s just set up practice at 219 Carlton. He’s a graduate from McGill (where he was on the Dean’s Honour List) and he articled at Heenan Blaikie LLP. After being called to the Bar, he decided to focus exclusively on criminal law. You can contact him at 647-522-4404 and at http://www.gharrislaw.ca/

Steve & Chris recommend
In their November 17 program, CBC television’s Steve and Chris use Kendall & Co décor to highlight effective ways to liven up small spaces in a room. You can see their show here: http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/Shows/Steven_and_Chris/Season_5/1367500960/ID=2168450727 If you’re in a hurry, just move the cursor to the 6-minute mark and this segment will appear for you.

Labour of Love
Regina reports that Artech Studio have created beer glasses made from recycled bottles of our favourite brews. They’re great gifts for beer-loving guys (like me!) Check out her blog for more exciting gift ideas: http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/ 242 Carlton.

Christmas sale at the Farm
The Friends of Riverdale Farm operate the Shop at the Farm and every year, they present a marvelous selection of Christmas gifts and decorations. On Sunday, they’re holding their annual preview party and sale. Don’t miss it – there’ll be refreshments and good shopping all day long from 10 am to 4 pm. The Shop will now be open every weekend until Christmas for your convenience. Riverdale Farm, Winchester & Sumach.

CNH exhibit
MJG Gallery (Parliament) is showing a collection of 70 photographs from the archives at Central Neighbourhood House and the Cabbagetown Regent Park Museum. Don’t miss these amazing pictures of life in Cabbagetown and downtown Toronto over the past 100 years. The show been extended to Thursday November 24.

Audio Engineering
Number 9 Audio (222 Gerrard) still has a few spots open in their modular recording course. Each module covers one important aspect about audio recording and every class is a hands-on experience in a real recording studio. Bookings and payments are flexible. For more information, click here: http://www.number9.ca/still-a-few-spots-left-in-our-recording-courses/

Impulse 2011 at the Winchester Dance Theatre
The School of Toronto Dance Theatre presents an ambitious main-stage performance of ensemble works that showcase dancers from each year of the professional dance training program. This is your chance to see tomorrow’s dance stars today. Performances take place on December 1, 2 and 3 and on December 8, 9 and 10. For tickets, call (416) 967-6887 or email tickets@schooloftdt.org. 80 Winchester

2011-11-11T16:45:00.005-05:00

Peartree’s 19th Anniversary
It’s been 19 years since Asokan and Ilongo started their restaurant at Peartree (507 Parliament). Today, it’s one of our most popular stops. Everyone has a favourite table and a favourite dish. To celebrate their 19th anniversary, they’re offering a 19% discount on all food orders until November 30. For menus and lots more information, click here: http://peartree.sites.toronto.com/

Susan Siddeley’s book launch
On Sunday, drop in to The Flying Beaver (488 Parliament) at 4:30 pm. Susan will be launching her latest book, Home First, A Memoir in Voices. Don’t miss this event.

Moms on Thursday
New moms have started to gather informally every Thursday morning at 10:30 am at Merryberry Café (559 Parliament). Cyril is happy to welcome you – no rules, no cover charges, just a relaxed atmosphere and a chance to compare notes and admire your babies together. All moms are welcome.

Funk at the Winchester Kitchen
Every Saturday from 9 pm, the Winchester Kitchen (51A Winchester) presents the great bands that will relive the experiences that we all enjoyed in the old Winnie. This week, the Break Down Band is performing. They’re a Toronto-based dance/funk/hip hop ensemble. These guys know how to have a good time, so come out and enjoy yourself with them. http://www.winchesterkitchen.com/

MJG Gallery Presents
Central Neighbourhood House and the Cabbagetown Regent Park Community Museum have joined together to present fifty memorable pictures from CNH’s work in our community over the past 100 years. They’re on display at MJG Gallery (555 Parliament) from November 17 to 20. Former Toronto mayors David Crombie and Barbara Hall will help to launch the show on Thursday November 17 from 7 to 10 pm. For more info, http://www.cnh.on.ca/news-events/news/100-years-in-the-neighhbourhood

Rose Jordano’s Spa
Throughout November, Rose has a special 10% discount on all her skin care products. These high quality biological, organic lines are imported from France and Belgium. They’re available now at her lovely spa at 252 Gerrard.

Labour of Love
For Christmas this year, take a trip down memory lane. Labour of Love (242 Carlton) has gifts that will last forever and their inventory is being renewed daily. http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/

Online Holiday Guide
Kevin reports that Kendall & Co have published their online holiday guide. It’s now available at http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/shop-holiday/ It highlights their fantastic assortment of festive decorations, greeting cards, gift wrapping, fun stocking stuffers, party hostess gifts, and the most spectacular must-haves. Check back often for more ideas and new arrivals in the weeks to come. 541 Parliament, just east on Winchester.

Centre for Education & Training
The Centre (595 Parliament) held a business breakfast last Thursday to introduce guests to their services. The special speaker was Francois Grisel from Google. It was a fascinating hour-long talk about the powerful data that Google can provide for small businesses. Merryberry catered the event. Congratulations to everyone for a well run occasion.

Number 9 Studios
Save 10% on all of Number 9’s services – studio time, CD/DVD duplication, graphic design, A/V transfers and much more - throughout November. It’s best to put some time aside now for your music projects and avoid all the hectic rush later. Call 416-348-8718 or visit the studio at 222 Gerrard.

Get your Christmas calendar ready
Yes, it may not seem likely but Christmas is only six weeks away. Watch our Newsletter for lots of good information. We’re creating a Christmas online catalogue that will help you find your gift and holiday needs here in Cabbagetown. It’ll be starting next week – so watch this space.

Thanks Daniel
Daniel Koepfler has been volunteering at the BIA office for a couple of weeks and expects to be back for more. He’s a native son of Cabbagetown and a Grade 11 student at Jarvis CI. He’s sorting out the information that we gathered during the 2011 Festival and he’ll be entering that data into our computers. It’s an important job for us – these names and addresses will be added to our Newsletter mailing list.

2011-11-04T16:01:00.008-05:00

Book launch at the Ben Wicks
A week ago, we mentioned that the Ben Wicks (424 Parliament) is hosting a book launch for Kicking Cancer’s Ass. It happens on Saturday November 5 at 8 pm. The book was written for anyone who’s battling cancer. The author, Robert Hawkes, was interviewed by Inside Toronto and they’ve posted their article on their site for you: http://www.insidetoronto.com/what

Welcome Kelly
Very nice changes are coming to our LCBO store (512 Parliament). Kelly Smith is our new store manager and she’s already set lots of plans in motion. She wants to open it up and make it more inviting. She removed the cupboards from the front to let light in from the windows. The cash lines are now wider so people with strollers and buggies can use them easily. The Vintages section is at the back and it’ll be bigger than ever. Watch for new signage, floor cleaning and fresh paint as well. And she’s happy to hear your suggestions about new products to stock in the store.

Breakfast with Google
Business people across Cabbagetown will want to attend a networking breakfast at the Centre for Education & Training (599 Parliament) on Thursday November 10, 8 to 10 am. The guest speaker is Francois-Olivier Grisel from small business marketing at Google. Topics include local consumer behaviour, effective online marketing, attracting clients to your website and increasing your customer base. The Centre will also introduce its services during the breakfast. No cover charge. Please RSVP to skaur@tcet.com

Buffet at Samsara
Last week, Michelle wrote to us about Samsara (587 Parliament) to recommend their buffet. We tried it ourselves this week. It’s a small, clean and recently renovated space. The buffet offers a dozen veggie, chicken, fish and lamb dishes, all fresh and delicious. Lunch is $7.99 (a great bargain) and dinner is $9.99 (another bargain). Not licensed.

Save 10% at Number 9 Studios
From November 7 to 28, you can save 10% on all of Number 9’s services – studio time, CD/DVD duplication, graphic design, A/V transfers and much more. It’s best to put some time aside now for your music projects and avoid all the hectic rush later. Call 416-348-8718 or visit the studio at 222 Gerrard.

Fabulous bargains at Unistar
Jeff has a refurbished Dell 20” desktop computer available now. If you’re interested, get there quickly because he only has one. It’s got Bluetooth, television and dvd capacity, wifi, Windows 7 professional, 2 gb memory and 320 gb hard drive. It’s covered by Unistar’s 3-month warranty. Only $499. There are lots more bargains in store now – desktops, laptops and supplies. 517 Parliament.

MJG Gallery
Meet encaustic artist Laura Culic and enjoy a demonstration of her work on Wednesday Nov 9th, 7-10. $20. Please RSVP as this is limited to 20 people. Life Drawing classes continue on Thursdays from 7-10pm, $35 - RSVP required. 555 Parliament St. 416.923.4031

Labour of Love
Regina has started to gather Christmas gifts, cards and supplies and she says that they’re attracting lots of interest. Don’t delay. She’s got napkins, cards, ribbons, gift tags, wrapping and lots more. Her website has details about the latest arrivals: http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/

Rose Jordano
The Fall season is here. It’s time to prevent your skin from looking dull, dry and flaky. A daily cleaning and moisturizing is very important. Rose has a 10% discount on all her skin care products. She carries high quality biological, organic products from France and Belgium. Don’t miss this special. (416) 964-1794. Feel free to drop in and say hello to her at her beautiful serene salon at 252 Gerrard.

Back in stock at Epicure
Patty has Serrano ham available again and she’s featuring it this week (save $1/100g). And she also has the famous Tontas from Spain on her shelves again. She recommends the new coffees from 23 Degrees Roastery, a Toronto-based company that uses organic and fair trade beans. Her favourite is Mug Shot – it’s great for a mug of coffee or a shot of espresso. The Epicure Shop, 474 Parliament.

Pteros Tactics at Toronto Dance Theatre
Choreography by Christopher House and ten TDT dancers. Performances on Friday November 4 and Saturday November 5 at 8 pm. Get your tickets at just $20 each - just quote “Cabbagetown Rate” when you buy either on the phone (416-967-1365 ext 28) or in person. You’ll want to reserve a seat because the tickets are selling quickly. Go online at http://www.tdt.org/buy/order.htm . 80 Winchester.

DVCRA tree tour
In late October, the Don Vale Cabbagetown residents together with LEAF conducted an educational tree tour of Cabbagetown. The day was a great success. More than 50 people joined Amanda Gomm who discussed the diversity and maturity of our trees and the stresses that they face. The Association will be focusing on these issues over the next year. Anyone who’s interested can contact info@cabbagetowner.com

Save this date
Next Sunday November 13 at 4:30 pm, Susan Siddeley will launch her latest book, Home First, A Memoir in Voices. It happens at The Flying Beaver (488 Parliament.) Don't miss it.

2011-10-28T12:42:00.010-05:00

We’re winners
It’s time to brag shamelessly. Our Cabbagetown News has just been given the 2011 TABIA Communications Award. TABIA (Toronto Area BIAs) is the umbrella association for 72 BIAs across Toronto. It’s a real pleasure for us to receive this honour from people who are our peers and who appreciate the work that goes into a newsletter like ours. Thanks as well to our Board of Management, to the Cabbagetown BIA members and all our readers - your support has helped enormously.
The ceremony took place at St Lawrence Hall last Wednesday. Our award photo is a bit fuzzy, but so what – many people in the Hall were just as blurry by this time!
And here’s a quick reminder. We need your stories. To send us your announcement and pictures, just email us at doug@oldcabbagetown.com

Shop local for your Hallowe’en stuff …
This is the weekend to stock up for the big Monday night rush. Cabbagetown’s Hallowe’en is incredible – houses are decorated, pumpkins appear at every home and hundreds of little kids run from door to door collecting their goodies. For a couple of hours after sunset, the streets are full of magic and life. To help you get ready, here’s list of who’s got what.
Double Take (310 Gerrard) has the mother lode for all costume and decorating supplies. Whatever you want, it’s here.

Start with your pumpkins
There’s a good supply of our favourite Hallowe’en decorations all along Parliament Street
Jamestown Milk (592 Parliament at Wellesley)
Parliament Smoke (609 Parliament at Wellesley)
Fairway Variety (520 Parliament at Winchester)
Mini Mart (460 Parliament just south of Carlton)

Decorations, costumes and candy
Dollar4U (405 Parliament)
The Bargain Store (429 Parliament)
Shopper’s Drug Mart (467 Parliament)

Not one, but two parties at Stout
Hallowe’en will be a special occasion at Stout (221 Carlton) . On Saturday afternoon, Erin is inviting kids of all ages to drop by for a special party. There’ll be loot bags and prizes for the best costumes and the funniest costumes plus a colouring contest and lots of games. Noon to 2 pm.
On Saturday night from 8 pm, there’ll be a grown-up party with costume prizes, iron stein contest, trivia contests and games. Craft beers will include $5 Devils Pale Ale, Pumpkin Ale and Golden Horseshoe. Tickets are $10 and the proceeds go to the Toronto SPCA.
www.stoutirishpub.ca

Hallowe’en at The Ben Wicks
The Ben Wicks is holding its Hallowe’en party on Friday October 28 with live music by Anything Goes. It starts at 8 pm, there’ll be prizes for the best costume, good food and good drinks. Save the date. No cover charge. www.benwicks.com 423 Parliament.

Desserts for little kids (and big ones)
Patty at Epicure Shop (474 Parliament) is loading up with dessert for Hallowe’en. She has cookies from Dufflet and tarts from Phipps and she has lots of her homemade gingerbreads as well.
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Spook-tacular at Labour of Love
To celebrate Hallowe’en, Regina’s displaying jewellery by Elaine Ho. Drop by and browse (if you dare.) For more info, click on www.thelabouroflove.ca 242 Carlton.

10th Absolutely Vintage Clothing Sale
Once again, Leslie from Eclectisaurus (249 Gerrard) is holding her vintage sale, together with her friends Angela McCool and Gadabout. It happens on Saturday (from 10 am to 5 pm) at the Maple Cottage, 62 Laing Street. They’re featuring men and women’s vintage clothing from the 1890s to the 1970s, pls costume jewellery, textiles and accessories. www.eclectisaurus.com

It’s haunted at Daniel et Daniel
The Food Shop (248 Carlton) is full of spooks, ghosts, skeletons, bats and pumpkins – all scary and really delicious. The Food Shop also has a wide selection of cakes and tarts in Fall flavours.

MJG Gallery
Mark is still offering his life drawing classes. Every Thursday from 7 to 10 pm. Classes are limited to 8 people, $35, 416-923-4031 or email markaloo@yahoo.com. MJG gallery (555 Parliament)

Kendall & Co
Limited edition, monogrammed accent pillows have just arrived. There’s only one for each letter of the alphabet, so get yours before it’s too late. They’re locally made from vintage fabrics and stuffed with comfy down. And a quick reminder – the rug sale continues on select styles at 20 to 50% off. 541 Parliament (just east on Winchester)

Pteros Tactics at Toronto Dance Theatre
Choreography by Christopher House and ten TDT dancers. Performances on October 28 and 29 at 8 pm, on October 30 at 2 pm and on November 2 and 3 at 8 pm. Get your tickets at just $20 each - just quote “Cabbagetown Rate” when you buy either on the phone (416-967-1365 ext 28) or in person. Get your tickets online at http://www.tdt.org/buy/order.htm . 80 Winchester.

Special offer at Jordano Skin Care
Throughout October, Rose has a special offer – a free eyebrow shaping with every facial – at her spa at 252 Gerrard. It’s a lovely space – light, airy and very welcoming. She offers facials, pedicures, manicures, waxing, electrolysis, and body treatments. For your appointment, call (416) 964-1794 and visit www.jordanoskincare.ca/services.html for a full list of her services.

Detective Murdoch’s Cabbagetown
The Cabbagetown Regent Park Museum is hosting a fundraising evening with Maureen Jennings. She’s the author of the the Murdoch Mystery series that’s the basis of CityTV’s popular Murdoch Mysteries. The event happens at the Winchester Dance Theatre, 80 Winchester, on Tuesday November 1 at 7 pm. Tickets are $60/ea, two for $100. Generous tax receipts available. For more info, www.crpmuseum.com

Book launch at the Ben Wicks
Cabbagetown author Robert Hawke has written about his fight against cancer. His book, Kicking Cancer’s Ass, is for anyone going through this struggle and he’s having a launch party at the Ben Wicks (424 Parliament) on Saturday, November 5 at 8 pm. He’s posted a short and charming youtube video about his book at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3onCPC5dAWc

Cabbagetown South Association meeting
The last meeting for 2011 is scheduled for Wednesday November 9 at 7 pm at the Ontario Restaurant on Dundas Street between Milan and Ontario. You’ll get an update on all the Community Action Groups.

Breakfast with Google
There’ll be a networking breakfast at the Centre for Education & Training (599 Parliament) on Thursday November 10, 8 to 10 am.. The guest speaker is Francois-Olivier Grisel from small business marketing at Google. Topics include local consumer behaviour, effective online marketing, attracting clients to your website and increasing your customer base. The Centre will also introduce its services during the breakfast. No cover charge. Please RSVP to skaur@tcet.com

2011-10-21T16:08:00.007-05:00

Toronto Arts Foundation 2011 Awards
The Canadian Contemporary Dance Theatre (509 Parliament) has won the prestigious 2011 TAF Arts for Youth award. Their Community Residencies have engaged over 160,000 students and teachers with main stage dance performances aimed expressly at young people. Their appearance at the Princess of Wales Theatre for the Creative Trust Gala, their Asian tours, two appearances at Dancers for Life and five invitations to the Canada Dance Festival were also noted. Actor Graham Abbey made the award to Artistic Director Deborah Lundmark

Bragging rights for the HOP
And while we’re discussing awards and compliments. The House on Parliament (454 Parliament) has been listed as one of Canada’s top ten pubs (and the only one in Toronto) by Crave Online. You can read the article here: http://www.craveonline.com/lifestyle/articles/176176-top-10-canadian-pubs The HOP is also on Facebook and you can find lots of current info and photos on their page.

Saturday is the last day
Melissa Nepton’s Clothing Trunk Show finishes its appearance at Labour of Love (242 Carlton) on Saturday. Don’t miss out – Regina reports that the show has been a big success. Drop in on Saturday because after that, you’ll have to go all the way to Montreal to enjoy it again. For more information, www.thelabouroflove.ca

Coming on Sunday - Cabbagetown tree tour
The Don Vale Cabbagetown Residents have teamed up with LEAF to offer a tree tour of our historic neighbourhood. You’ll see the gentle giants that add so much comfort to our lives. Register in advance at www.yourleaf.org or just join the tour at Carlton and Parliament. $5 donation (or free for members of DVCRA.) Sunday, October 23, 11 am to 12:30 pm.

This weekend at Epicure
Patty tells us that her Montreal roast beef is finally back in stock. As always, it’s good and it’s preservative free. To welcome the beef back, she’s offering it on special for the coming week. For dessert, she has lots of brownies and squares, so she’s got them on special for the weekend. Buy one and get another at half price. The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament)

MJG Gallery
Mark is featuring a special painting every week and the first one is his own “A Chair is…”. Along with his own work, he’s got paintings by Marjolyn van der Hart, Laura Culic, Bev Jenkins and several other artists. He also has lots of original, one-of-a-kind works that cost less than $150. Drop in and browse. For artists, he’s continuing his Figure Life Drawing classes. He supplies the model, easels, chairs and refreshments and guests bring their own paper and drawing media. Space is limited (only eight people) so please RSVP. Thursdays, 7 to 10 pm, $35. 555 Parliament.

Pteros Tactics at Toronto Dance Theatre
Choreography by Christopher House and ten TDT dancers. Performances on October 28 and 29 at 8 pm, on October 30 at 2 pm and on November 2 and 3 at 8 pm. Tickets are $20 to $26. Buy your tickets online at http://www.tdt.org/buy/order.htm or at (416) 967-1365 X 28. 80 Winchester.

Not one, but two parties at Stout
Erin has a long weekend planned for Hallowe’en. On Saturday afternoon October 29, she’s inviting kids of all ages to drop by for a special party. There’ll be loot bags and prizes for the best costumes and the funniest costumes plus a colouring contest and lots of games. Noon to 2 pm.
Then on Saturday night from 8 pm, there’ll be a grown-up party with costume prizes, iron stein contest, trivia contests and games. Craft beers will include $5 Devils Pale Ale, Pumpkin Ale and Golden Horseshoe. Tickets are $10 and the proceeds go to the Toronto SPCA.
Stout Irish Pub, 221 Carlton

Hallowe’en at The Ben Wicks
Robert has announced his plans for a Hallowe’en Party on Friday October 28 with live music by Anything Goes. It starts at 8 pm, there’ll be prizes for the best costume, good food and good drinks. Save the date. No cover charge. www.benwicks.com 423 Parliament.

RBC’s Small Business Seminar
The RBC branch at 480 Dundas has joined our BIA as an associate member. Jasmina, the manager, is organizing a seminar and networking opportunity for business people in our community. Paul de Francesca, the featured speaker, will discuss opportunities to purchase property and also the steps that he took to become a self-employed person. Wednesday October 26, 6:30 to 8:30 pm, Daniels Presentation Centre at 500 Dundas E. Please RSVP to jasmina.zdravkovic@rbc.com

New business hours
Johnny G (478 Parliament) has announced their winter hours. You can enjoy their brunches and specials from 7:30 am to 7:30 pm, Monday to Friday and from 8:30 am to 5 pm on weekends.
Daniel et Daniel (248 Carlton) have extended their hours at the Food Shop to 7 pm on Thursdays and Fridays. Bad news for people trying to diet! Great news for the rest of us.

Kendall & Co
Kendall & Co (541 Parliament at Winchester) have two featured products this week. Their unique grinder is made from naturally fallen branches and can handle peppers, sea salt, spices and coffee beans. You can select yours from three different types of wood. Ceramic grinders provide high quality and good control. They also have selected 2’ by 3’ hand hooked rugs at 25% discounts. Their interior design studio is open from Monday to Friday, 10 am to 6 pm.

Book launch at the Ben Wicks
Cabbagetown author Robert Hawke has written about his fight against cancer. His book, Kicking Cancer’s Ass, is for anyone going through this struggle and he’s having a launch party at the Ben Wicks (424 Parliament) on Saturday, November 5 at 8 pm. He’s posted a short and charming youtube video about his book at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3onCPC5dAWc

Save this date
The Centre for Education & Training (599 Parliament) is hosting a networking breakfast with Francois-Olivier Grisel from small business marketing at Google as the guest speaker. Topics include local consumer behaviour, effective online marketing, attracting clients to your website and increasing your customer base. The Centre will also introduce its services during the breakfast. No cover charge. Thursday, November 10, 8 to 10 am. Please RSVP to skaur@tcet.com

Sweet Creamery has closed
Emilio from Sweet Creamery dropped by the BIA office this week. He’s sorry that his efforts didn’t work at the ice cream store but he’s also grateful for the friendships and fun that he enjoyed during his stay there. He’s asked us to say hello to his friends and customers in Cabbagetown. He’s now the chef at 416 Community Support for Women.

2011-10-14T15:07:00.009-05:00

Cabbagetown tea towels at KENDALL & Co
The first two in this series feature the Bay & Gable and Workmen’s Cottages found all over our fine neighbourhood. They’re designed by Cabbagetowner Steve Yeates. 100% cotton and made in Canada. Fantastic collectible and gift for friends and family. Proceeds go to support the Cabbagetown Preservation Association. New extended hours - now open on Thursday to 8pm. 541 Parliament St on Winchester

Thursday night life classes
Mark Gleberzon at MJG Gallery (555 Parliament) is hosting figure life drawing classes. The next one happens on Thursday October 20th from 7 to10 pm. Mark provides easels, chairs, drawing boards, some refreshments and a life (nude) model. Artists must provide their own paper and charcoal/pastels or pencils. Space is limited to only 6 people. Please RSVP at either markaloo@yahoo.com or 416.923.4031. $35/class.

San Marzano tomatoes
Patty reports that San Marzano tomatoes are among her most popular offerings. She has customers who buy them by the case. She’s offering them on special at $2.50 each (save $1.50/can) and at $25 for a case. They make a great tomato sauce. Patty also has a special offer on her prepared salads – buy one and get a second one at half price. The Epicure Shop, 473 Parliament.

Feel Good Food seminar
A reminder – the Feel Good Food seminar happens at Mylk Uncookies (253 Gerrard) on Tuesday October 25 from 6:30 to 8 pm. It features nutritionist Joy McCarthy. Her seminar focuses on our intimate connection with food and using this connection to your advantage. Topics will cover strategies to nix emotional eating and banish cravings, the best snacks and the ones to avoid during mid-afternoon and late night cravings, key vitamins and minerals. Check out all the program details at http://www.joyoushealth.ca/banish-cravings-emotional-eating-for-good/ $25.

Hallowe’en at The Ben Wicks
Robert has announced his plans for a Hallowe’en Party on Friday October 28 with live music by Anything Goes. It starts at 8 pm, there’ll be prizes for the best costume, good food and good drinks. Save the date. No cover charge. http://www.benwicks.com/ 423 Parliament.

Melissa Nepton at Labour of Love
Regina reports that the opening night of Melissa Nepton’s Clothing Trunk Show was a great success! “Thanks for all your support. We had a blast and hope you did too.” Drop in on Saturday for more of her fine artisan teas. Melissa’s show continues until Saturday, October 22. For more information, http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/ Labour of Love, 242 Carlton.

Congrat’s to Fair Trade Jewellery
Toronto Life has just named Fair Trade Jewellery (523 Parliament) one of the top 200 stylish stores in Toronto in their new Stylebook. Ryan and Robin are justifiably proud of this distinction, calling it a complete (but wonderful) surprise.
When you visit FTJ, you’ll see the vintage floor that they’ve just restored. New showcases and fixtures will arrive within a few weeks. Their new collections of rings, earrings and pendants, made with fair trade certified gold and Canadian diamonds, are fun, affordable jewellery priced from $195.

Special offer at Jordano Skin Care
Throughout October, Rose has a special offer – a free eyebrow shaping with every facial – at her spa at 252 Gerrard. It’s a lovely space – light, airy and very welcoming. She offers facials, pedicures, manicures, waxing, electrolysis, and body treatments. For your appointment, call (416) 964-1794 and visit www.jordanoskincare.ca/services.html for a full list of her services.

A Cabbagetown tree tour
The Don Vale Cabbagetown Residents and LEAF are conducting a tree tour of our historic neighbourhood. You’ll see the gentle giants that add so much comfort to our lives. You’ll learn about the stress that they face and the dangers that are coming in the next few years. You can register in advance at http://www.yourleaf.org/ or just join the tour at Carlton and Parliament. $5 donation (or free for members of DVCRA.) Sunday, October 23, 11 am to 12:30 pm.

Detective Murdoch’s Cabbagetown
The Cabbagetown Regent Park Museum is hosting a fundraising evening with Maureen Jennings. She’s the author of the the Murdoch Mystery series that’s the basis of CityTV’s popular Murdoch Mysteries. The event happens at the Winchester Dance Theatre, 80 Winchester, on Tuesday November 1 at 7 pm. Tickets are $60/ea, two for $100. Generous tax receipts available. For more info, http://www.crpmuseum.com/

The CYC at the Waterfront Marathon
The Cabbagetown Youth Centre is taking part, once again, in the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon on Sunday October 16. Four runners are championing the CYC and they’re the focus of a fundraising effort. Your help is needed as well. Join the crowd at Parliament and Front on Sunday October 16 from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm to cheer on our champions. The neighbourhood group with the best cheering section will win $6000. There’ll be free food and entertainment. For more info, call Brenda at (416) 960-1032 or email brendabrownmcnee@cabbagetownyouth.ca

2011-10-07T15:49:00.005-05:00

Special offer at Jordano Skin Care
Rose has operated her spa at 252 Gerrard for over twenty years. It’s a lovely space – light, airy and very welcoming. She offers facials, pedicures, manicures, waxing, electrolysis, and body treatments. Throughout October, she has a special offer – a free eyebrow shaping with every facial. For your appointment, call (416) 964-1794 and visit www.jordanoskincare.ca for a full list of her services.

Methadone clinic in Cabbagetown South
Towards Recovery are part of a small chain of clinics in southern Ontario and they have announced that their first Toronto location will open at Dundas and Ontario. At a public meeting on Thursday, the clinic and their landlord stressed that this is a legal business with a binding lease that conforms to the area’s zoning. Local residents, police from 51 Division and our City councillor, Pam McConnell are distressed by their arrival.
A public meeting for all Cabbagetown residents will take place next Thursday at 7pm at the Daniels Corporation Presentation Centre (500 Dundas). This is an information session to tell you what’s happening and to plan the community’s response.

Thanksgiving at Cranberries
Cranberries (601 Parliament) hosts an annual Thanksgiving dinner. Over the years, it’s been so successful they’ve decided to extend it to two days. You’ll enjoy butternut squash soup or your choice of a salad, oven roasted turkey with homemade stuffing, a dinner roll, fresh seasonal veggies, mashed potatoes, gravy topped with cranberry sauce (of course), and warm apple pie and ice cream or pumpkin pie with whipped cream. Your three course dinner is only $24.99. Sunday and Monday, reservations not required.

Mark has lots of Thanksgiving turkeys
Mark at St Jamestown Steak & Chops (516 Parliament) has taken us deep into the secret vaults to show off his Thanksgiving turkeys. Whether you’ve placed an advance order or you want to pick one up at the last minute, he’s got what you need. He also has hams, steaks, roasts and other goodies ready for your holiday feast.

Flowers for your table
Simmons Flowers (540 Parliament) can help you celebrate your Thanksgiving with the beauty of the earth as well as its bounty. Merion and Tina remind you that your Thanksgiving table needs a centerpiece of traditional Fall flowers. Visit the store on Thanksgiving Saturday from 9 am to 3 pm or place your order by phone (416-920-6580).

Thanksgiving weekend at Peartree
Over the weekend, Peartree (507 Parliament) are offering a three-course dinner at $21.99. There’s butternut soup, turkey with apple, sage and onion dressing, mashed potatoes, fresh veggies, gravy and cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie for dessert. All of this for only $21.99 in one of our most popular and comfortable restaurants. For your reservations, call (416) 962-8190.

Your favourites are back in stock
Serrano ham is available again at The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament). Also from Spain, Patty has stocked up on chorizo sausages. These are perfect choices for antipasto and charcuterie plates. And she has tortas, savoury for your cheese platters and sweet for your desserts. For Thanksgiving, she has pumpkin tarts and pies and lots of choices for fruit pies.

It’s coming on Thursday
Regina at Labour of Love (242 Carlton) invites you to the grand opening for her Clothing Trunk Show on Thursday October 13 from 4 to 8 pm. Begin building your Fall wardrobe with Melissa Nepton’s beautiful designs. During the event, Regina will also be serving a selection of fine artisanal teas from the Sloane Tea Company. For more information, click here: http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/

Kendall & Co – two special features
Kevin reports that Kendall & Co (541 Parliament) are now stocking Cabbagetown Tea Towels. The first two in this series were designed by Steve Yeates and feature the bay-and-gable and workman’s cottage designs found throughout our neighbourhood. These are great gifts and souvenirs for friends and family. They also have table linen, distinctive serving ware, decorative candles and home accents to make your Thanksgiving home beautiful. They’ve extended their shopping hours and they’re open now to 8 pm on Thursdays. For more suggestions about your Thanksgiving decorations, click here: http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/2011/10/06/how-to-dress-a-thanksgiving-table/

The CYC wants you!
The Cabbagetown Youth Centre is taking part, once again, in the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon on Sunday October 16. Four runners are championing the CYC and they’re the focus of a fundraising effort. Your help is needed as well. Join the crowd at Parliament and Front on Sunday October 16 from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm to cheer on our champions. The neighbourhood group with the best cheering section will win $6000. There’ll be free food and entertainment. For more info, call Brenda at (416) 960-1032 or email brendabrownmcnee@cabbagetownyouth.ca

Feel Good Food seminar
Mylk Uncookies (253 Gerrard) is hosting a Feel Good Food seminar on Tuesday, October 25 from 6:30 to 8 pm featuring nutritionist Joy McCarthy. Her seminar focuses on our intimate connection with food and using this connection to your advantage. Topics will cover strategies to nix emotional eating and banish cravings, the best snacks and the ones to avoid during mid-afternoon and late night cravings, key vitamins and minerals. There’ll be handouts with healthy comfort food recipes. Check out all the program details at http://www.joyoushealth.ca/banish-cravings-emotional-eating-for-good/ $25.

A new Autumn menu at JAM
Av Atikian has announced a new Fall menu: http://www.jamcafe.net/menu. On Sundays, he’s providing free corkage when you bring your own bottle of wine. His appetizers are listed at $7, his main entrees at $18 and his wines start at $22/bottle – all are great bargains. JAM is closed this weekend on Sunday. 195 Carlton, (416) 921-1255

Number 9’s Modular Recording Courses
There are still a few spaces open in Number 9’s modular recording courses. If you want to learn about audio engineering in a professional studio environment, then call now (416-988-0989). All courses are hands-on. They’re taught one-on-one in a real recording studio and the timing is very flexible. For more details, click here: http://www.number9.ca/modular-recording-courses/. 222 Gerrard

A Cabbagetown tree tour
The Don Vale Cabbagetown Residents have teamed up with LEAF to offer a tree tour of our historic neighbourhood. You’ll see the gentle giants that add so much comfort to our lives. You’ll learn about the stress that they face and the dangers that are coming in the next few years. You can register in advance at http://www.yourleaf.org/ or just join the tour at Carlton and Parliament. $5 donation (or free for members of DVCRA.) Sunday, October 23, 11 am to 12:30 pm.

Did you know?
Hockey superstar Bobby Orr once owned a small group of pizza stores. One of them was located at 501 Parliament where HomeLife Realty One now has an office. The Torontoist has a good story about the store and about Orr’s hopes for it: http://torontoist.com/2011/10/vintage-toronto-ads-bobby-orrs-pizza-weekend/

2011-09-30T15:41:00.007-05:00

Thanksgiving at Simmons
Celebrate your Thanksgiving with the beauty of the earth as well as its bounty. Merion and Tina remind you that your Thanksgiving table needs a centerpiece of traditional Fall flowers. Bring in your favourite vase or container before Wednesday October 5 and they’ll prepare a uniquely designed bouquet for you. You can, of course, place your order by phone as well (416-920-6580). Thanksgiving Saturday hours are 9 am to 3 pm. 540 Parliament.

Election Day is Thursday October 6, 9 am to 9 pm
Do you have questions about this? Where do I vote? Who are the candidates? When is it? You can get your answers here: http://faq.elections.on.ca/faq/performsearch.do?type1QuestionId=1 Click on the link, then type your home postal code into the first box and click “search” at the bottom of the page. To talk to a human being, call 1-866-566-9766.
Our Cabbagetown candidates for the big “four” parties are:
Martin Abell, PC - http://martinabell.ca/
Cathy Crowe, NDP - http://cathycrowe.ca/
Mark Daye, Green - http://www.gpo.ca/riding/94/candidate
Glen Murray, Liberal - http://www.voteglenmurray.ca/
And best wishes to our local Returning Officer – Eric Morse. Eric is the official referee who makes all the arrangements and oversees the voting. By now, he’s probably really hassled but doing his characteristically good job.

Start your Christmas wines now
Gunnar at Church Street Winery (420 Parliament) recommends that you get your Christmas supplies into the bottle now. He has a wide range of grapes and styles available including ice wine and port. These are great choices for your table and your gifts. It’s time now – avoid the rush and get your wine into the bottle so it can set and be ready for Christmas.

Congrat’s Jamie and Rob
Jamie MacLean was just given a gorgeous engagement ring from Rob. Great news. It’s even more interesting that she got it from him during their recent trip to Paris. He had it designed and custom made at Fair Trade Jewelry (523 Parliament) and carried it secretly across the Atlantic to make his gift in the fabled Luxembourg Gardens. She says its recycled, fair-mined platinum with a clean Canadian diamond and etched with a trillium to remind them of their Ontario Street home. That’s a very romantic gesture.

More congratulations for We Day
Free The Children holds a day-long event at the Air Canada Centre every year. Over 18,000 young people from schools throughout the GTA and surrounding districts attend. The program is based on the idea that we can all make a contribution to our communities and to other people. Craig and Marc Kielburger were the hosts and the special guests this year included Danny Glover, Mary Robinson and Nelly Furtado. Ms Furtado used the occasion to make an extraordinary $1 million gift for school construction in Kenya. To see a clip of this amazing event, click here: http://www.cp24.com/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20110927/110927_we_day/20110927/?hub=CP24Home

Everybody knows Jet Fuel
Even Andrea Horwath. The NDP leader made a campaign stop here this week to meet other women running under the NDP’s banner. Spiffy buses – and they parked very politely a few doors south of Glen Murray’s Liberal office so his staff didn’t have to look out the window at them throughout their stop. Jet Fuel (519 Parliament) is, of course, one of Toronto’s premier coffee shops and as Ms Horwath has shown, a destination for people of all sorts from across the city.

Beautiful styles coming to Labour of Love
Regina has announced her first-ever Clothing Trunk Show opening on Thursday October 13. She’s highlighting fashions from Melissa Nepton, one of Montreal’s most promising new artists whose work this Fall incorporates a more casual business style with relaxed clean silhouettes and fine materials. For more details, http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/ 242 Carlton.

Tomatoes and crisps at Epicure
Patty has stocked up after the onslaught at the Festival and she’s ready again to bring you great food at great prices. This week’s features include San Marzano tomatoes at $2.49 for a 20-ounce tin and Italian extra virgin olive oil at $12.99/litre, a $4 savings. To the great pleasure of her English customers, she’s now stocking Tyrell chips as well. In fact, the Tyrell bags always show a photo of some distinguished but unknown person – and she’s sure that you can submit your pic’s to them for your own personalized package. The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament)

On the house – for your home
Kendall & Co (541 Parliament) have been promoting their lovely New Zealand fair trade wool rugs. Buy a big one (4’6” by 6’6” or larger) and get a smaller one (2’ by 3’) with it free. It’s a great offer and it ends quickly. Get in to the shop by Friday September 30. Check out their exclusive styles at http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/retail/newest-rug-collection/

Cabbagetown in Rhode Island
Gretchen and Peter Bloom visited Toronto this summer and their friends here – Gillian and Stuart Marwick – made sure that they had a flag to take home with them. Here, they’re displaying it fondly at Newport – apparently just before the arrival of Hurricane Irene. They plan to continue their travels to Rome and they’ll take the flag with them as they go. Our thanks to them and a quick note that this picture joins the other gems that we’re keeping in our special Flag Hall of Fame.

2011-09-23T15:32:00.006-05:00

F’Amelia in the news…
Our newest restaurant, F’Amelia (12 Amelia), has been very favourably reviewed in Post City Magazine. It’s a real bonus for all of Cabbagetown - Post City’s coverage extends well north of us into Leaside, Rosedale and other north Toronto neighbourhoods. Congratulations to John, Todd and the other staff there. For reservations, call (416) 323-0666. Photo courtesy of Post City. Click here to read the full review: http://www.postcity.com/Eat-Shop-Do/Eat/September-2011/First-Look-FAmelia-bringing-northern-Italian-cuisine-to-Cabbagetown/index.php

Two events at JAMcafe
JAM (195 Carlton) hosts a Professional Wine & Cheese Pairing with guest fromager Scott McKenzie. Wedenesday, September 28, 6:30 pm. It’s a guided tasting of fine domestic and international cheeses with expert help on wine pairings from Ontario, Spain and Italy. For lots more detail, check JAM’s website: www.jamcafe.net/events $50 (including tax and gratuity). Reservations are recommended at (416) 921-1255.
Through October, Cabbagetown author Paul Kropp is host at four evening conversations about the Italian renaissance art of Botticelli, Leonardo and Michelangelo. Along with the discussions, you can enjoy Italian wines and matching appetizers prepared by JAM’s Av Atikian. It’s a bargain - $50 for four evenings or $20 per session. October 4, 11, 18, and 25 from 6:30 to 7:30 pm. For reservations, call (416) 921-1255. For more details, visit http://www.renaissance-art.blogspot.com/

Biko is back at Labour of Love
Toronto designer Biko has a new jewelry collection called “Girls Club”. Regina says that it’ll knock off your woolly socks this Fall. It features polished and raw pyrite, oversized tourmaline boulders and slices of naturally faceted quartz and agate, all in her signature juxtaposition of feminine/industrial or soft/hard. Regina is also prepping a clothing trunk show for October so stop by the store to get a catalogue and a sneak peak at the trunk. http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/ 242 Carlton.

Fall rugs at Kendall & Co
Kendall & Co (541 Parliament) has stunning New Zealand wool, fair trade rugs in 4X6”, 6X6” and larger sizes. Purchase any one of them and receive a free 2X3’ rug of your choice. This offer expires at the end of September, so get to the store now. Check out the designs at http://www.kendallandco.ca/fyi/retail/newest-rug-collection/

Small but pleasant fix-ups
We’ve seen several nice improvements along Parliament and Carlton during the summer and now that the Festival is over, I have a chance to mention them and congratulate the businesses.
The Ben Wicks (424 Parliament) did a very nice makeover earlier in the summer. They’ve placed a row of Ben Wicks cartoons around their front wall and added a nifty new sign at the sidewalk. As always, Robert also makes sure that the big Trudeau artwork is kept clean and free of graffiti.
Cabbagetown Organics (499 Parliament) has a new awning. It’s part of the general renovations that the building’s owner has been doing at this address for more than a year. It’s now a very handsome three-story structure with black trimmed windows, brickwork that matches the bank building next door and a pleasant retail façade.
Daniel et Daniel (248 Carlton) have finished their painting and added a new awning. Their neighbours at Reinhart Macmillan (244 Carlton) and The Healthy Whey (250 Carlton) have also been refinished. It’s a dramatic change.
Starbucks (492 Parliament) has a new side patio along Aberdeen. Although it only holds nine seats, it’s a welcome addition. There were several bureaucratic hurdles to clear which Starbucks handled well. They also made sure that the local neighbourhood supports the seating. In Cabbagetown, we’re handicapped by our narrow sidewalks which prevent local restaurants from adding patio space – so even a small area like Starbucks’ patio is important.
We also have nice progress at a couple of other sites. HomeLife Realty will soon finish their work on their office expansion at 503 Parliament. The fire site (and the former home of the HOP at 456 Parliament) is stirring to life as well – the owners have been filing applications for building permits to renovate the basement restaurant area, fix the upper apartments and add new units along the rear lane.

Last minute reminder
Central Neighbourhood House is sponsoring the Jump Back Ball tomorrow night. Tickets are $110. It’s a fundraiser for a valuable community agency and it’s well worth your support. For more information, visit their web site: http://www.cnh.on.ca/

Congrat’s to the Tour of Homes

Helen Coltrinari tells us that the 2011 Tour was a great success. Certainly the selection of homes and the preparations for the big day were well handled. The next big CPA event is the Ghost Tour on Sunday October 30 - watch here for details.

2011-09-16T13:33:00.008-05:00

Thanks, Kelly
Kelly Lang worked over the summer at the BIA Office as our festival organizer. She did an outstanding job. She organized the little tents that sprang up along the street, got the permits for the outdoors patios from the alcohol commission and the City’s health department, set up our Facebook page, recruited volunteers and inspired everyone to join the parade. On top of all of that, she posed with Brenda McNee on our Tee-shirt poster – and we had a complete sell-out of our inventory. Kelly has now returned to Ryerson for her final year and she’s aiming for a career in special events planning – we’re sure that she’ll be perfect for that job. Thanks, Kelly.

Luau at Stout
On Saturday from 4 pm to midnight, Erin is hosting a Hawaiian luau at Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton). There’ll be Hawaiian hula dancers, a best-Hawaiian-shirt contest, hula and limbo dancing competitions and Hawaiian-style pale ale and cocktails all night long. Space is limited – buy your ticket today, $25.

Kendall & Co supports the Tour of Homes
On Sunday, bring your Tour ticket to Kendall & Co (541 Parliament) and enjoy a 15% discount on all regularly priced, in stock rugs, home décor and accessories. There’ll be a free gift for the first 15 customers with a purchase over $50. Kendall also has stunning New Zealand wool, fair trade rugs and when you buy any one of them (4’6’ and 6’6”), you’ll get one free 2’X 3’ rug of your choice (a $110 value.) This offers continues to September 30 and cannot be combined with other promotions.

F’Amelia is open
The food is good, the room is renovated and the atmosphere is welcoming. We’ve heard very good reviews about their pasta and their pizzas from people who have visited over the past week. You can see F’Amelia’s full menu here: http://www.famelia.com/ There’s also a link at that site to help you with your reservations. 12 Amelia, (416) 323-0666

2011 Tour of Homes
The annual Tour of Homes takes place on Sunday from noon to 4 pm. It’s a self-guided tour of six stunning houses in our neighbourhood. People from all across Toronto come to Cabbagetown for this event every year. Proceeds from ticket sales support community groups across Cabbagetown. Last minute tickets are available at the BIA Office (237 Carlton) on Sunday from 11 am. $30

A Taste of the Arts
The Cabbagetown Community Arts Centre (422 Parliament) is hosting a moveable feast – fine food, wine and music set in three historic homes. The Centre provides music and art lessons to children and this event is a major benefit for this program. Thursday September 22 at 7 pm. $125. For more details and tickets, please call (416) 925-7222.

The Jump Back Ball
An evening of great entertainment and fine food with hosts Jojo Chinto and Barbara Hall. The joint will be jumpin’ all night long with funk, swing and jazz in a trip back 100 years. It’s a celebration of 100 years of service to our community by Central Neighbourhood House with a silent auction, sumptuous food, and fabulous cocktails. Tickets are $110 each and the proceeds go to support CNH’s innovation fund. For more details and to buy your tickets, click here: http://www.cnh.on.ca/

Great rates at Number 9 Studio
The folks at Number 9 (225 Gerrard) have just announced two very attractive rate packages for recording artists. If you book a session before October 15, you can get a daytime five-hour block at only $75/hour. This includes the services of a professional recording engineer, access to Number 9’s equipment and a chance to use the beautiful C Bechstein concert grand piano. Evening rates are even better – a five hour block between 9 pm and 2 am is only $325. For more details, call (416) 348-8718 or click on www.number9.ca/great-rates-for-autumn/

Save this date – details to come soon
JAM’s latest tasting evening features high precision wine and cheese pairing with noted cheese expert Scott Mckenzie. Thursday, September 28. 195 Carlton. For more details, check at http://www.jamcafe.net/

We have a winner
Last Thursday, hundreds of people descended on Cabbagetown to enjoy our “One Night” event – a tasting tour of fourteen outstanding local restaurants. Part of the attraction was our special “One Night” lucky draw. Participants filled in a raffle ticket for a chance to win a dinner for two and an overnight stay in one of our Bed & Breakfasts. The lucky winner was selected yesterday. The draw was held on the patio at Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton).
Excitement and passions surrounding the raffle have been running at a fever pitch so we asked James Woollatt of Blink Blink (603 1/2 Parliament) to aim his trusty camera on the proceedings. He’s popped the result onto the world-wide web: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEWsHVqhJHQ
Erin picked Bill Jeffery’s ticket and we’ve contacted him to let him know about his good fortune.

Memories of the Festival
Thanks to Calum at Home Hardware for this fine panoramic view of Parliament Street on Saturday afternoon. The crowds were very friendly and enjoyed the Festival fully. The weather cooperated and gave us a marvelous weekend. All of our events went smoothly. Watch this Newsletter next week – we’re preparing a photo montage and you may be featured in one of our pic’s.

Cabbagetown in Kenya

Many thanks to Cameron who works with Free The Children in Kenya’s Maasai Mara region for this picture of our flag. Last year, Wilson and Jackson (who live there) visited Toronto for the We-Day celebrations. The BIA gave them a flag. It’s now flying at Sikirar School, a K to 4 facility with 275 students. Free the Children has been helping them with such infrastructure needs as desks, furniture and clean water. There are also 100 women in this community who make the beautiful beadwork that’s sold in the Me To We Store (223 Carlton).

2011-09-02T13:09:00.012-05:00

2011 Cabbagetown Festival Highlights

This week, our Newsletter is all about special highlights at the Festival. Next week, we’ll give you a detailed program. Here’s your guide to these events.

The Weather Network has issued a perfect Festival forecast for the weekend – sunny and 23 degrees.

One Night in Cabbagetown

Thursday, September 8. A tasting tour of 14 Cabbagetown restaurants. Buy a ticket (yes – only $10) and go to four different places. If you want more, buy another ticket. These are tastings. If you get hungry or thirsty, you can easily stop to order a bigger dinner and drinks. Get your tickets at participating restaurants or at the BIA office (237 Carlton). For a full list of participating restaurants, times and menus, click here: http://www.cabbagetownfestival.blogspot.com/

Art & Crafts in the Park

Weekend activities start in Riverdale Park (Winchester & Sumach) on Friday from 1 to 6 pm and continue on Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm each day. This is a main event for the Festival - these artists are a big draw into the neighbourhood and the park is a beautiful venue for them. Free admission. For more info and photos, visit http://www.cabbagetownartandcrafts.org/

Cabbagetown Short Film & Video Festival

Friday at 7 pm. Now in its 20th year. The Festival screens over 15 short films gathered from talented producers around the world. Admission is $15. Advance ticket sales are available at the BIA Office (237 Carlton). The Box Office opens at the Winchester Theatre (80 Winchester) at 7 pm and the show starts at 8 pm. For a list of the films and directions to the theatre, go to http://www.cabbagetownshortfilmandvideofestival.com/

Blair’s Run

Saturday at 8:30 am. A major athletic event and a big fundraiser for the Cabbagetown Youth Centre. Several hundred people with their babies, their spouses and their dogs will sign up to run, walk, ride and crawl the 3 km course through Cabbagetown streets. Free gifts, munchies and souvenirs. $10. Registration starts at 8:30 am and race time is 9:15 am.

The Grand Festival Parade

Saturday at 10 am. An amazing collection of outstanding Cabbagetown groups will march proudly from Wellesley and Parliament south to Gerrard, west to Ontario and back north to Carlton. Once again, dogs and their owners are our featured guests. Souvenirs and goodies will be passed out along the way. Music includes the Sandhill Pipes and Drums, Nunca Antes, the ROTC, the 48th Highlanders military band and Toronto Black Watch Pipes & Drums.

The Doggie Beauty Contest

Saturday at 12:30 pm. Pet Valu (240 Carlton). Bring your pal and join the fun. You might have the biggest nose, or the shortest legs or the curliest hair. These are important categories and there’ll be prizes and treats (!) everywhere.

Cabbagetown Festival on Gerrard Street

Saturday. A brand new Festival event. The short section on Gerrard between Parliament west to Ontario is closed and local people are putting on their best for the day. The parade goes through here around 11:30 am. There’ll be good food, drinks and music on the patio at Underdown Pub (263 Gerrard). Mylk Uncookies (253 Gerrard) will offer great pastries and coffee. Eclectisaurus has plans for a sidewalk sale. Cabbagetown Pet Clinic will have pet supplies, food and good advice for you. The neighbours from the area are organizing a big garage sale and local service agencies will have info booths along the street. Don’t miss it.

Artists at the Cabbagetown Festival

Saturday from 11 am to 6 pm. We invite artists living in Cabbagetown to come to Carlton Street and show their work for the afternoon. Some will offer their work for sale. This part of the Festival is very pleasant – there are several restaurants and patios, Daniel et Daniel have tables out front, Pet Valu runs the annual Doggie Beauty Contest and local stores have sidewalk sales. http://cabbagetowntest.blogspot.com/

Rapunzel – unbraided

Cabbagetown Theatre Company, Friday (at 7:30 pm) Saturday & Sunday (noon, 1 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm, 4 pm), Necropolis Chapel (Winchester & Sumach). A Comedy for all ages. Each show is 30 minutes. $5 at the door..

September 11 Memorial, Sunday September 11 at noon. Winchester stage (Parliament & Winchester). Two groups of ex-pat Americans have organized a brief ceremony to mark the 10th anniversary of September 11. There will be brief remarks, featured guests and an opportunity to observe a moment of silence.

A big line-up of performing talents

Local boy, radio personality, recording artist and blues icon, Danny Marks, returns for another Sunday afternoon concert. Danny loves performing with kids and so we recruited the CYC dancers and the Rose Avenue Public School choir to be there with him. Winchester Stage, Sunday afternoon.
Go Freddie Go return to the House on Parliament (454 Parliament) after a couple of years’ absence. They’re joining an impressive list of entertainers appearing throughout the weekend.

On Saturday, the St James Town Steel Drum Orchestra plays at Prospect St, Trish Kerr & the Divas are at Merryberry, UforChange at Winchester, Michael Brennan at Carlton St, Go Freddie Go at House on Parliament, Cabbagetown Steve & Code Green at Spruce St, DJ Suave at Margaritas and the Irish Guys (Stout Irish Pub, Saturday).

On Sunday, Jim Heineman is at Merryberry, Danny Marks at Winchester and the Outputs at Carlton.
In addition, we’ve lined up a big batch of buskers – face painters, balloon artists, clowns, jugglers, singers and magicians – to perform along the street.
Watch for flash dance mobs, martial arts demos, ping pong and lots more.

2011-08-26T16:09:00.008-05:00

Introducing MJG Gallery
Mark Jeremey Gleberzon has opened his new gallery at 555 Parliament. He plans to use this space for his own art, for guest artists and for teaching and social events with Cabbagetown neighbours. Mark has been painting for twenty years and his work has been shown locally at One Of A Kind, Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition, The Artist Project, the Queen Street West Art Crawl and many other venues and he’s shown his work in Ottawa, New York, Chicago and Vancouver. You can see his paintings at http://www.markgleberzon.com/ and he’s on Facebook at MJG Gallery

It’s a Cabbagetown classic
This year marks the 20th anniversary for the Cabbagetown Short Film & Video Festival. Save the date – Friday September 9 at 8 pm, Winchester Street Theatre. Featuring 16 films from around the world and around the corner – from Canada, Israel, Slovenia, Spain, Poland, the UK and the USA. Tickets are $15. Advance tickets at the BIA Office (237 Carlton) and at the box office (80 Winchester) from 7 pm on September 9.

Fixing up Carlton Street
Daniel et Daniel are sprucing up their façade with fresh paint and more new colours. It’s part of a general renewal that they’re undertaking. They’ve already given the Food Shop (248 Carlton) an interior makeover. They’re also adding fresh paint to Reinhart MacMillan (244 Carlton) and Healthy Whey (250 Carlton). New benches and flower boxes are en route as well. All of this matches the appearance that they’ve given to their website, http://www.danieletdaniel.ca/

Hair with Brian
Brian Gibb has been a hairstylist for ten years. He’s an honours graduate from Avola College of Hairstyling and Esthestics. He’s now self-employed and offers his services from the Hair Spa at 440 Parliament. For a full list of his services, prices and experience, please visit his new website at http://www.hairwithbrian.com/ and call 647-838-1244 for an appointment.

K & C Co
Ahmed Ktaech, Kimberley Gignac and Laurence MacSween are the core team at K & Co, our new neighbour at 179 Carlton. They have an experience design firm that creates, imagines and redevelops brand experiences for better customer engagements. Their client list is impressive, ranging from Delisle Youth Services, Second Clothing Company, the TTC, Sears, Modasuite, Zenporium Furnishings and Accessories, the Ontario NDP and the B & R Club. Last year, they contributed significantly to Joe Pantalone’s mayoralty campaign. You can check them out at http://www.kandco.ca/

Michael Caplan at The Underdown
The Underdown Pub (263 Gerrard at Berkeley) has one of the best music programs in Cabbagetown. Someone is featured every night. On Saturday August 27, Michael Caplan is there, singing his Sweet Hurtin’ Songs and accompanied by Steve Grant and Bill Coleman. 9:30 pm to 1 am. No cover.

Vintage and modern at Kendall
Kendall has hand picked vintage finds like these antique work lamps. They add charm and warmth to your home, especially when paired with modern new accents. Kendall and Co also have tickets for the 2011 Tour of Homes. As a special bonus, when you buy your ticket, you can enjoy a special 15% discount on all of their regularly priced accents and accessories. It’s also the store to buy your Cabbagetown Tee-shirt. 541 Parliament, entrance off Winchester.

It’s a busy weekend at The Flying Beaver
Paul Bellini returns with his Flatus Film Festival – see clips that have never before been seen and were never meant to be seen. On Saturday and Sunday, Jessica Kirson, the funniest comic on the planet, is here. On Sunday from 11 to 3, it’s brunch time. 488 Parliament. Info at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/

Double Take at the Cabbagetown Festival
Kathy Webster, the manager at YSM’s Double Take (310 Gerrard), has announced their Festival line-up. They’ll be part of the parade, offering clowns and free balloons along the way. At the store during the day on Saturday from noon to 4 pm, they’re planning a special sidewalk sale with lots of goodies available for just a buck or two. Since 1999, Double Take has earned a reputation as Toronto’s best outlet for gently used clothing, furniture and housewares.

Parliament Street Writers at the Festival
The Parliament Street Writers meet every Monday at 6:30 pm at the Parliament Library (269 Gerrard) to encourage and work with each other along the road to publication. This year, they’re hosting a reading at The Flying Beaver (488 Parliament) during the Festival – Sunday September 11 at 7 pm. Novels, poems, memoirs and short stories are all on the agenda. New members are welcome.

2011 Tour of Homes
Mark this date on your calendars – Sunday September 18, noon to 4 pm. The Tour offers six exciting homes for your viewing. Ticket holders can also receive special discounts and offers from ten local restaurants and businesses. You can buy your tickets ($30) locally at Mi Casa (238 Carlton), Kendall & Co (541 Parliament) and the BIA Office (237 Carlton). Visit the website to learn about other ticket vendors and the Paypal system: http://www.cabbagetownpa.ca/Pages/08NewsEvents.html

Don’t forget to buy a Tee
Brenda and Kelly look terrific in their new shirts. You can too. Drop in to Labour of Love (242 Carlton), Kendall & Co (541 Parliament), Del Ray Cleaners (586 Parliament) and the BIA Office (237 Carlton). They’re available in green and brown, the usual sizes, $15/ea or two for $25.

Welcome, Aurelie
Aurelie Lasserre lives in Switzerland and last week, she visited family here in Cabbagetown. During her trip, she traveled to the shores of Lake Huron and modeled her new Cabbagetown Tee while there. Her new Tee is back home with her now and we’re left with this nice photo as a souvenir of her time with us. We hope she’ll be back soon.

2011-08-19T15:54:00.009-05:00

Congratulations to CCDT
The Canadian Contemporary Dance Theatre (509 Parliament) is one of three finalists nominated for the prestigious Arts for Youth award from the Toronto Arts Foundation. It’s given to organizations that have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to engaging Toronto youth in the arts. The final selection will be announced in October.

Community picnic in Riverdale Park
Our two elected representatives, Glen Murray and Bob Rae, are teaming up once again to host the annual Toronto Centre picnic. It happens on Sunday August 21 from 11 am to 2 pm in Riverdale Park (Winchester & Sumach). It’s a fun time for your family – free bbq’s, free cotton candy and popcorn, face painting, raffles and games. Halal and vegetarian options will be available. Drop by and tell Glen and Bob how you want them to run the country for the next year!

Glass fish at Kendall & Co
These decorative handmade glass fish vessels are incredibly beautiful. You can fill them with long-stem flowers, put bath salts in them at the tub, stash your necklaces in them on your dresser or just let them be accents on a table. Check out the school of fish and other new arrivals at http://www.kendallandco.ca/ 541 Parliament, just west on Winchester.

There’s nothing like a summer wedding
A lovely bride and a shy groom. Warm evening breezes. A welcoming drink and a irresistible buffet dinner. I once attended such an event – and every time the groom had to speak, including during the ceremony, he fainted dead away. Regina at Labour of Love (242 Carlton) has a new line of wedding cards for just such occasions. Go to http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/ to see them all.

The world’s best cheese maker
Quebec’s Alex de Portneuf won this title. He makes the double cream brie that Patty is featuring this weekend at Epicure Shop (473 Parliament). She also has three new varieties of homemade gluten-free cookies available. Good reasons to stop by.

Comedy at Winchester Kitchen & Bar
Michael McLean hosts the new WinJester Bucket of Comedy every Thursday night from 9 pm. This week, it’ll be followed by DJ Dr with dancing and Latin beats. There’ll be special guests, lots of drink specials and great food. No cover charge. 51A Winchester. http://www.winchesterkitchen.com/

Progress at F’Amelia
The new restauarant at 12 Amelia has been undergoing extensive reno’s and the menu is being firmed up rapidly. John reports that the new executive chef is Maurizia Verga and he’ll be preparing six fresh pastas made daily, housemade sausages and charcuterie, fish and beef dishes. They’ve installed a Mugnaini wood burning pizza oven and it’s ready to go. A short while ago, they launched a pizza search – they want your favourite suggestion and if it’s chosen for the menu, they’ll give you a free pizza and name your item after your street. Go to the website to enter the contest – www.famelia.com/namethatpizza

Thanks, Don
Don Taggart from Nettleship Hardware (576 Parliament) has just finished painting the exterior of the BIA Office (237 Carlton). Check it out – he’s done a great job. We had been delayed by lease negotiations in our plans to spruce up our office and so our exterior was getting really run down. Once the new lease was settled, we gave the work to Don. If you need advice about paint or a contact with someone to do the work, call Nettleship. Their specialty is paint and they’re very good at it.

Mylk Uncookies gets reviewed
Toni & Elaine are featured in a recent article in Torontoist.com. Mylk Uncookies is their lovely coffee shop at 253 Gerrard and it’s reviewed very favourably. You can check out the article here: http://torontoist.com/2011/08/finding_raw_and_vegan_comfort_in_mylk_uncookies.php

Flags are available again
People have been asking about buying our flag. We’re happy to announce that we've just received more inventory. They’re back and they’re here for you. (The photo shows Christopher Dew proudly waving it on top of Mount Kilimanjaro – this flag gets around.) Email us at doug@oldcabbagetown.com or call (416) 921-0857

Construction at 456 Parliament
As you can easily see, the building where Grasshopper and the House on Parliament used to be located is now under construction. The owners are repairing the damage done by the fire in October 2009 and they’re preparing to build new housing units at the back. Considerable effort will be made to preserve and improve the historic façade. When details are ready, we’ll publish them here.

Thanks Gina
The new construction at the former Grasshopper is under way. Unfortunately, we’re losing the Grasshopper so this work can be done. Gina has always been a good local business person. Her bar was funky and relaxed and for her customers, it was always a welcoming place. She’ll be traveling to China for a visit and after that, she’ll decide what she wants to do. Best wishes, Gina.

2011-08-12T16:00:00.008-05:00

One Night in Cabbagetown
Last week, we told you about our new tasting event that launches the Cabbagetown Festival on Thursday, September 8.
Here’s another restaurant to add to your list. Cranberries (601 Parliament) will be featuring a beer sample and wings. If you’ve ever had their wings, you’ll know that this is a real attraction. Definitely yummy.
Your ticket for the event is only $10 and it buys a tasting at four spots. Tickets, posters and flyers have been distributed to the participating restaurants. When you visit your favourite place, be sure to buy your tickets.
An important reminder - this isn’t an event for hermits. Don’t go out there all on your lonesome. Get a group. Ask your friends. Take your husband!
The tastings are sampling sizes. Somewhere along the way, you’ll get hungry. When that happens, pause and enjoy a full-sized meal.
For more info, call (416) 921-0857 or email doug@oldcabbagetown.com

More good Festival news
This year, the area from Parliament to Ontario along Gerrard will be added to the Festival. You won’t want to miss their events. Hands On Exotic will be displaying their exotic birds and animals. Cabbagetown Pet Clinic will have supplies for you. Eclectisaurus, Kiden’s Thrifty and the Children’s Book Bank will be on display.
For those who get hungry and thirsty, Mylk Uncookies will have their great coffee and pastries available. The Underdown Pub has a great side patio and good entertainment.
We aren’t going to tell you about the outdoor garage sale or the special drum shows. These aren’t official yet.

Dogs are welcome
Last year, dog owners from Cabbagetown brought their pooch and strutted their stuff in the parade. We had special souvenirs and a neighbourhood dog show at Pet Valu (240 Carlton).
We’re doing it again this year.
Get your pals ready. Book the time – Saturday, September 10, 9:30 am – and come to Carlton and Berkeley to join the parade.

Favourites at Epicure
Patty has two summer time favourites for you this week at The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament). Buffalo mozzarella has just arrived, fresh off the plane from Italy. And her roast beef from Montreal (no preservatives) is on special at $2.49/100g

Cabbagetown artists at the Library
Catherine Tammaro, Inge Vanderneulen and Clayton Langstaff will be showing their art at the Parliament Street Library (269 Gerrard) throughout September. Their opening reception takes place on September 17 from 1 to 3 pm. Their works include photographs, paintings, drawings, mixed media and assemblage.

Dinners at The Flying Beaver
Every Wednesday is Lobsterpalooza – one and a quarter pound dinner for only $19.95. Thursdays are Wing Ding night (only $5.99 for a full pound) and Sundays are mussels specials. On Sundays, from 11 am, try out the super yummy and affordable brunch. 488 Parliament.

Congrats to four restaurants
Last Thursday, the Toronto Star highlighted four of our patios in their series about great spots for an outdoor experience.
The Ben Wicks (424 Parliament) has “an intimate feel…it’s a great place to relax away from the noise on the street”. You should “try the chocolate Guinness cake for dessert.”
The House on Parliament (454 Parliament) is “a cosy pub that makes you feel right at home” and “the pulled-pork sandwich is a must.”
Our new Underdown Pub makes you “feel like you’ve been to the Underdown before even if it’s your first time” and “the bar features local beers on tap.”
The Wing Machine (482 Parliament) offers “a casual dining experience” and “the wings are baked, not fried, so they’re healthier than your average chicken wing.”

Kendall & Co
As the summer winds down, enjoy every last hour of al fresco living with fragrant 3-wick candle vessels. Available in assorted colours. Each 10-oz candle burns for approx 65 hrs. And after the candles go out, pop the lid on and leave it out for another night of revelry. Check them out at http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/2011/08/12/for-summer-nights/ 541 Parliament, Unit C.

Welcome to Cabbagetown

Ana Espinosa (left) teaches at the University of Alicante in Spain. She’s in Toronto to do a study of BIA’s here. Of course, Cabbagetown is on her list. At the end of an hour-long discussion, we gave her a small Cabbagetown flag as a souvenir of her visit. She and her husband Stefan then toured the neighbourhood before setting out to the Distillery area. Patty Junior (right) joined us for the photo op.

2011-08-05T16:44:00.008-05:00

One Night in Cabbagetown
Here it is – our first announcement about the 2011 Festival. A dozen of our restaurants and pubs are hosting a tasting evening.
It happens on Thursday, September 8 from 7 pm onward.
A ticket costs only $10 (yes – only $10!) and it buys tastings at four places. Just show up and present your ticket and you’ll be welcomed in.
Each sample, of course, is a “tasting” size. You’ll want to pause through your travels and enjoy a bigger bite to eat and even a full-sized beverage. Those are separate arrangements.
We have several brand-new restaurants in our neighbourhood. This is a great way to see them in action.
Just to whet your appetite – here’s a list of our plans so far:

Ben Wicks, (424 Parliament) http://www.benwickspub.com/. Sampling of international beers – Czechvar (Czech) beer, Magners Irish Cider and Canada’s own Moosehead premium beer.
Butter Chicken Factory, (556 Parliament), Sampling of Cheetah beer and appetizers.
Flying Beaver Pubaret, (488 Parliament), http://www.pubaret.com/. Bombay Coolers in three flavours and a beer sampling from Great Lakes Brewery. There’ll be a “Beaver Bite” to nibble. Entertainment throughout the night.
House on Parliament, (454 Parliament), http://www.houseonparliament.com/ Vodka and oysters
JAMcafe, (195 Carlton), http://www.jamcafe.net/ Two samples of Rosewood wines with specially prepared matching hors d’oeuvres.
Margarita’s Mexican Fiesta, (229 Carlton), Flautas – a hard shelled taco roll filled with chicken, topped with sour cream with a small side salad.
Merryberry Café, (559 Parliament), http://www.merryberry.ca/. Select one of four different sangrias and a tapas plate.
Peartree, (507 Parliament) http://www.peartree.sites.toronto.com/ Popcorn shrimp with a mango martini.
Stout Irish Pub, (221 Carlton) http://www.stoutirishpub.ca/ Half-pint of Barking Squirrel craft beer. Karaoke from 9 pm.
Underdown Pub, (263 Gerrard St E) http://www.underdownpub.com/ Your destination throughout the night for live music and entertainment. After you’ve tried the other places, make Underdown your last stop and stay until the last chord. Beer sampling and samples from new menu items.
Winchester Kitchen & Bar, (51A Winchester), http://www.winchesterkitchen.com/ Free appetizers. Comedy night.
Young Thailand, (446 Parliament) http://www.youngthailand.com/ Thai appetizers.

There’ll be entertainment at three locations: Flying Beaver Pubaret, Stout Irish Pub and Underdown Pub. You can enjoy the music without a ticket throughout the night until closing time.

Support for Cabbagetown
The Festival is a wonderful place to support our neighbourhood. Events throughout the day bolster the efforts made by volunteers and organizations working in St James Town, Regent Park and Cabbagetown.
Blair’s Run is the biggest and most noticeable. Several hundred sprinters, runners and walkers tear through a 3 km course early on Saturday morning. Friends throughout the area support them. The funds raised here (usually well over $25,000) support our own Cabbagetown Youth Centre (2 Lancaster)
Check out the tents and booths along Parliament Street during the day. You’ll find volunteers everywhere, explaining what their group does. The Kiwanis Boys & Girls Club, UforChange, the dance theatres, our major political parties, churches, community support groups and school organizations all present their programs for you throughout the weekend.
The parade is another showcase for community groups. Everybody is welcome to strut their stuff. It’s a grand stage to use to tell the rest of us that you’re there, serving Cabbagetown.

Festival dates
There’s lots happening during our Festival week. Here’s an advance guide. Book the dates now and watch for more information closer to the events.
One Night in Cabbagetown – Thursday, September 8 (7 pm)
Cabbagetown Short Film & Video Festival – Friday (7:30 pm)
Art & Crafts in the Park – Friday (1 to 6 pm), Saturday and Sunday (10 am to 6 pm)
Blair’s Run – Saturday (8:30 am)
Festival Parade – Saturday (10 am to noon)
Parliament St Festival – Saturday & Sunday (10 am to 7:30 pm)
Yonge St Mission party – Saturday (noon to 6 pm)
Riverdale Farm corn roasts, dance, tours – Saturday & Sunday (all day)
Cabbagetown Theatre Company – Saturday & Sunday (times to be announced)

Regular News

Cabbagetown Tee’s
Our new Tees are now available for you at two local stores – Labour of Love (242 Carlton) and Kendall & Co (541 Parliament). Our friends at Del Ray Cleaners (586 Parliament) are on holidays until next week and when they return, they’ll have a supply as well. Drop in and buy a few for yourself - $15/each.

More summer supplies from Epicure
Patty has a new supply of Kozlick’s Mustard – an all-Canadian product that comes in six delicious flavours. She also has new white cheddar bread sticks from Fred’s Breads – you can enjoy a free sampling throughout this weekend at the store. 473 Parliament.

Cabbagetown South and CNH
This year marks the 100th anniversary of Central Neighbourhood House. To celebrate, the neighbours living around CNH are joining with them to host a street party on Sunday August 14. There’ll be lemonade, watermelon, iced tea, sandwiches and Popsicles. Ontario Street (south from Gerrard) will be closed for the event and artists and artisans will display and sell their goods. 1 to 6 pm

Omi does it again
Omi (241 Carlton) has become a success in Cabbagetown’s restaurant scene and a favourite for everyone who loves John’s Gangster Sushi. Post City blog has just done an excellent review. Click here to read it: http://www.cabbagetownshortfilmandvideofestival.com/history.html

Kendall & Co
Kendall & Co’s designer James Fobert relaxes with Johnny Pearl from Cabbagetown Carpentry after a tough day working on the store’s new signage. They’re enjoying a Buffalo Leather Sadari Double Recliner with matching ottomans. Now available. 541 Parliament, just east on Winchester.

Me to We Store
The Me to We Store (223 Carlton) sells sustainably produced, sweatshop-free fashions. They’re currently featuring lovely Africa Tees by Jessi Cruikshank. This is her third design for Me To We – it pays tribute to the traditional geometric beadwork and brilliant colours of Maasai design. For every Tee sold, Me To We will donate a tree to the Maasai Mari region in Kenya.

Closures on Winchester Street
Toronto Dance Theatre and The School of Toronto Dance Theatre (80 Winchester) are working on their building as part of a long-term renovation that will see these facilities upgraded and improved over the next eighteen months. We’ve been asked to pass along the notice that Winchester Street will be closed next Wednesday from 7 am to 4:30 pm from Metcalfe to Sackville. A crane will be used to install HVAC equipment on the roof. Cars parked here will be towed.

Eric’s antique Tee
Our pal, Eric Morse, serves as the official photographer for the Spitfires Wheelchair International Basketball Tournament with players appearing from Mexico, Japan, the USA and Canada. The event took place last weekend at Etobicoke’s Olympium. Everyone there was exposed to Eric in his splendid Cabbagetown Tee. Those who envy this Tee are out of luck – it’s now available only as an antique on eBay. Eric, however, isn’t available there.

2011-07-29T16:16:00.011-05:00

Lookin’ good
The new patio at Underdown (263 Gerrard at Berkeley) is now open and in full swing. These folks aren’t from Cabbagetown (I believe that Colorado was mentioned) and they found the patio by happy accident. They were wandering our streets enjoying our delights and needed some adult refreshment. Underdown came to their rescue. You don’t have to be from Colorado to enjoy this place as much as they do.

In fact, have you visited Gerrard Street lately?
The retail strip from Berkeley to Ontario is full of intriguing places. You can see exotic birds and animals at Hands on Exotics (251 Gerrard)), get your cat fixed at Cabbagetown Pet Clinic (239 Gerrard), have a coffee or tea or pastry at the ever-popular Mylk Uncookies (253 Gerrard) , donate a book for a child at the Children’s Book Bank (350 Berkeley), buy a case at the Beer Store (227 Gerrard) and get something old and beautiful at Eclectisaurus (249 Gerrard). When you’re finished, you’ll need a drink on the patio at Underdown (263 Gerrard) or a back massage at Cabbagetown Physiotherapy (255 Gerrard).

Eclectisaurus doesn’t want to count
Leslie has to do inventory and she hates counting. So she’s having a sale to cut down the work. There’s vintage furniture, clothing, jewellery, lighting and lots more. Visit Eclectisaurus (249 Gerrard). You’ll save 30% off everything on your purchase (no holds barred – everything.)

Hands On Exotics
This new business (251 Gerrard) features hands on experiences with interesting and rare animals – in a fascinating program of animal therapy and activities. Seth (the owner) lists all sorts of specialties: birthday parties, seniors activities, promotional events, photo shoots and television appearances. He also offers to babysit your exotic animal while you’re away. Visit his website for lots more information – http://www.handsonexotics.com/

Holidays at St Jamestown
Mark and his staff at the butcher shop and the deli (516 Parliament) will be on holiday from August 1 to 8. It’s widely rumoured (but not true, by the way) that he will be hauling his family to New Brunswick on board his motorcycle. Not true! We’re encouraged to stop by this weekend to pick up those steaks, hot dogs, burgers and other goodies that we rely on from him.

Cool chic from Kendall & Co
Kevin sent along this photo of the new line of aluminum ice buckets now available at Kendall & Co (541 Parliament, just east on Winchester). They’re moulded and shaped from recycled metal. It makes us thirsty just from the picture. You’ll see samples in their window at their new store on Winchester.

Wine tasting at JAMcafe
Av is hosting a summertime tasting of eight lovely wines from Rhone, ranging from the exotic flavours of Viognier in the north to the rich reds of Chateauneuf du Pape in the south. He’s adding his own special touch with hors d’oeuvres matched to each wine. For details about the tastings and the menu, click here: http://www.jamcafe.net/events Reservations are recommended - this event will sell out quickly. $50 (including tax and gratuity). Thursday August 11, 6:30 pm. 195 Carlton (at Ontario). 416-921-1255.

More cheese from Epicure Shop
Patty has three new cheeses in stock at the Epicure Shop (473 Parliament). Each one is great on its own. Together, she recommends, they make a great cheese plate. From Thornloe Cheese in northern Ontario’s beautiful Evanturel Township, there’s Devils Rock. It’s a lovely creamy blue cheese. From Prince Edward County’s Fifth Town, there’s Lemon Fetish, made from sheep’s milk with lemon zest and red fife on the rind. Then, of course, from la belle France, there’s Comte, king of the gruyeres, aged 18 months and renown for its use in fondues. Patty is open all weekend, from 9 am to 5 pm on Sunday and 8 am to 6:30 pm on Monday.

Expect the unexpected
Regina at Labour of Love (242 Carlton) has magnetic jewellery. Using magnets and metal chains, they can be easily shaped into new images that are both contemporary and sophisticated. You can see more at http://www.labouroflove.ca/

VivaCity from UForChange
UforChange is a dynamic social agency that uses the arts to create opportunities for young people from St James Town. This weekend, they’re highlighting works by over 100 youth in music, dance, film, drama and a special art gallery presentation. After the show, these young artists will graduate, receive an honorarium and enjoy opportunities to use the program’s resources and to become mentors and teaching assistants. On Friday night from 5 to 8 pm at Ontario Street and James Avenue, just south of Rose Street school, there’s a film festival along with live acts, a mural unveiling and a bbq. On Saturday from 7 to 9 pm, they appear at the Glenn Gould Studio in the downtown CBC Building for a drama, fashion show and live acts. On Sunday afternoon from 2 to 5 pm, it all winds up at 517 Parliament for a multimedia gallery show and live acts. All events are free.

Riverdale Farm reports
Inside Toronto has written a short article describing the submissions made by Farm supporters when they appeared at City Hall. It’s well worth a read - http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/cityhall/article/1049989--riverdale-zoo-supporters-make-their-plea

2011-07-22T15:50:00.005-05:00

TD Bank Group support for the Festival
TD Bank Group has again given generously to the Cabbagetown Festival. Their help makes it possible for us to publicize the event widely throughout downtown Toronto and to add more entertainers and activities to our program. Although this gift comes from the central office, we also want to thank Anthony and his staff at the Cabbagetown branch (493 Parliament) for their endorsement.

Happy Birthday, Labour of Love
On Saturday, Regina will celebrate her first anniversary at her Cabbagetown store (242 Carlton). To make the day special, she’s featuring a jewelry trunk show, a free gift with every purchase and discounts up to 40% off. Drop by and enjoy her party.

Wine tasting at JAMcafe
Av is hosting a summertime tasting of eight lovely wines from Rhone, ranging from the exotic flavours of Viognier in the north to the rich reds of Chateauneuf du Pape in the south. He’s adding his own special touch with hors d’oeuvres matched to each wine. For details about the tastings and the menu, click here: http://www.jamcafe.net/events Reservations are recommended - this event will sell out quickly. $50 (including tax and gratuity). Thursday August 11, 6:30 pm. 195 Carlton (at Ontario). 416-921-1255.

Salad Days at Epicure
For the summer salad season, Patty has a special sale on Italian extra virgin olive oil at $9.99 (save $6, regularly $15.99). And balsamic vinegar at only $3.49. Cool. 473 Parliament.

St Jamestown Steak & Chops
Stock up on your supplies this week because Mark and his staff are taking their holidays from August 1 to 8. Stop in there this week – he has wild BC salmon and wild Ontario blueberries waiting for you. 516 Parliament.

Music at the Winchester Kitchen & Bar
On Saturday night, it’s The Joyful Sinners – their music is a hot gumbo of roots, blues, soul and gospel. You can hear more at www.myspace.com/joyfulsinners On Saturday July 30, iconic New Orleans jazz drummer Tony “Oulaboula” Baziliey teams up with several friends to bring you a night filled with amazing Jazz, Blues and Latin music. For more music, go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZ-0-p1WXXs 51A Winchester

The Flying Beaver
Now open every Wednesday as well as Thursday to Sunday. Wednesdays are Lobsterpalooza night (a full dinner for only $19.95) and Thursdays are Wing Ding days (a pound of wings at $5.) On Sunday, you can enjoy a roast beef dinner with all the trimmings for only $10.95.
Thursday are Beat the Beaver pub quiz. On Friday and Saturday, the hilarious Jessica Kirson is on stage. She’s fresh here from New York City and her appearances on the Tonight Show, CNN and Joy Behar. She’s one of the funniest comics on the planet. Tickets at the Flying Beaver and at http://www.brownpapertickets.com:80/event/184055 . $20 adv and $25 door. On Sunday, Johnny Hastings takes over the room for the first Cabbagetown Comedy night. 488 Parliament

Congrat’s to Gourmet Burger
NOW Magazine has listed Gourmet Burger as one of the top burgers in Toronto. They especially recommend the Aussie burger. Of course, a quick visit to Richard at 482 Parliament will tell you why. You can see more at http://thegourmetburgerco.com/

Movies in the Park
On Sunday July 24 at 9 pm, Toronto Kiwanis Boys & Girls Club are hosting a free movie in Riverdale Park East. The event is a fundraiser that supports the Club. The movie is Rango with Johnny Depp. The Boys & Girls Club is permanently housed at Sackville and Spruce but that building is being renovated so the Club has temporary offices at 599 Parliament.

Riverdale Farm at City Hall
Cabbagetown is home to Renaissance Yoga (391 Ontario) and Matthew Remski is a writer, teacher and therapist there. His articulate deputation at the Parks Committee is typical of the passions that are deeply felt by our community about the Farm. You can watch it here: http://matthewremski.com/wordpress/?page_id=777

Riverdale Farm petition
As we told you last week, Anne Pastuszak has organized a petition to support Riverdale Farm. It’s a phenomenal success. Over 6400 people have signed online. Another 13,300 people have joined the Facebook page, Save the Riverdale Farm. All of this has happened within one short week.
The Parks Committee at City Hall heard submissions on Thursday. Sean McIntyre in Councillor Pam McConnell’s office has reported that the issue has been referred from the Parks Committee to the Executive Committee. This has happened with all of the KPGM reports so far. The Executive Committee will reopen the issue on September 19.
Stay tuned - the problem has not gone away.

2011-07-15T15:50:00.010-05:00

Let’s save Riverdale Farm
When did Riverdale Farm become part of the gravy train? The City’s “Core Services” review has concluded that $1.3 million can be saved if three farm facilities in the parks are shut down. City Council will hear community reactions (on Thursday at 9:30 am in Committee Room 1 in City Hall) and then vote on this issue.
The Farm is an absolutely vital part of our Cabbagetown community. For business people in the BIA, it’s an important draw into the neighbourhood. Daily during the summer, we meet visitors (yesterday it was a family from Manchester England) who want to walk through the area and go to the Farm.
Of course, for residents from Regent Park, Cabbagetown and St Jamestown, the Park and the Farm are part of the fabric of our lives – for picnics, a good gossip with our friends, a ball game and a walk with our dogs.
You can help the Farm and prevent this from happening. Here’s how --
First and very important! If you know someone from outside our community, recruit their help. We need to expand beyond Cabbagetown if we want to succeed.
The Friends of Riverdale farm have set up an emergency Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/pages/Riverdale-Farm-Toronto/101628989895157
Anne Pastuszak is part of the group who’ve been working on improvements to the park. She’s collecting a petition to present to City Council next week. You can get a copy of it by email at annepastuszak@rogers.com
You can phone (416-392-7916) or email Councillor Pam McConnell (councillor_mcconnell@toronto.ca) . She’s working to save the Farm and she needs your help.
Your own voice is your biggest weapon here. You can email the committee directly (pec@toronto.ca) and your submission then is part of the official record. You can go down to City Hall to make a personal submission on Thursday but you have to register by phoning 416-397-7796.
However you do it – be sure to speak up and help our Farm and our community.

I went over to the Farm at lunch time on Friday and I was amazed. The place is full of little kids from all over the city. They’re having a great time. They mingle with the chickens and they get a good look at all the other animals. Here’s a link to a few photos that I snapped on my trip - http://www.flickr.com/photos/65234009@N05/sets/

Congratulations Edwin
Last week, we held a special draw to give away a new Tee shirt to one of our Facebook members. The lucky winner (for him and for us) is Edwin Dumont from the House of Dumont Hair Studio (200A Carlton). It would be very hard to find anyone else who can make our Tee look so sophisticated and rakish.
Click on the Facebook logo on this page and join our group for regular news updates and for a chance to be part of future draws and prizes.

Best wishes to Elie
After a distinguished 32-year career as a chef and restauranteur, Elie has sold his business on Amelia Street. He’ll continue to be part of our neighbourhood as the building’s owner. Provence Delices is part of Summerlicious and once that’s over, he’ll wind up his affairs. For wine lovers, he’s got a special finishing touch – his cellar will be opened at 30% discounts from today until July 24. For fans of good food and fine cooking, there’s also good news – his cooking classes will continue and he’ll still sell his duck confit and his artisanal charcuterie. Contact him at (416) 924-9901, 12 Amelia St.

Auditions for the Canadian Contemporary Dance Theatre
CCDT (509 Parliament) is looking for dancers to perform with Canada’s finest young contemporary dancers. The auditions happen on Sunday July 17 from noon to 2 pm. Dancers must be between 13 and 20 years olf and have at least two years dance experience in both ballet and modern dance. Audition fees are $30. Pre-registration is required either at (416) 924-5657 or through the website at http://www.ccdt.org/

Summerlicious is in full swing
Two Cabbagetown restaurants are taking part. Call for reservations.
Provence Delices, 12 Amelia, 416-924-9901, http://www.provencerestaurant.com/Summer2011menu.pdf
Stonegrill, 51B Winchester, 416-967-6565, http://www.stonegrillonwinchester.com/menu.php?id=4692&menu_id=6245#middle

Me To We current events night
Kate Strachan has announced a new monthly series of community discussion nights on current and hot topics. The first is Tuesday July 19 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at 223 Carlton. The topic is post-earthquake Haiti. There’ll be a W5 dopcumentary video followed by discussions with Free the Children’s country director for Haiti. This will be an amazing opportunity to learn from first-hand observations about Haiti’s progress since the earthquake.

JAMCafe has a summer menu
Av Atikian has announced his new summer menu with attractive new lower prices. They’re featuring elk and water buffalo (from Prince Edward County) and they’re already getting a positive response. As Av tells us, the prices but not the quality have been lowered. Watch, as well, for their announcement about their forthcoming 4th anniversary party. For reservations, call 416-921-1255 and visit http://www.jamcafe.ca/ 195 Carlton.

Good food at Young Thailand
Our secret reviewer, Lila Orbach, came into the office full of praise for the lunch that she had just enjoyed at Young Thailand. Not only was it “very good”, she also found the people “really pleasant” and the room “very comfy and very clean”. Lunch there is only $8.95 – Lila found it a “very good value.” 446 Parliament.

And speaking of good food…
Richard at Gourmet Burger now has scrumptious haddock burger on his menu. As Lisa demonstrates here, it’s covered with beer batter and topped with lemon dill tartar sauce. We also highly recommend that you enjoy your burger inside – the window seats are an amazing place for people watching. 482 Parliament.

Kendall & Co
Kevin at Kendall & Co (541 Parliament, just east on Winchester) is introducing a new line of table linens, placemats and table runners. They’re ideal for outdoor use – UV safe and waterproof fabric. The hand towels and napkins are soft natural linen with accent embroidery. All made locally.

Number 9 at ReverbNation
The studios at Number 9 (222 Gerrard) have been producing lovely music for a while. They’re now part of ReverbNation where you can hear several tunes now and more will be added shortly. Click here: http://www.number9.ca/number-9-is-on-reverb-nation/

Have fun this weekend
On Saturday, Central Neighbourhood House (347 Ontario) is hosting A World of Neighbours Festival in Allan Gardens (Sherbourne and Carlton). There’s food, live music, games for kids, and lots more. It’s all free. Noon to 7 pm.
If you want to know more about CNH and about the Festival, you can listen to a short interview on CBC radio: http://www.cbc.ca/metromorning/episodes/2011/07/15/celebrating-100/

On Sunday, the CRC’s annual festival, Sunday in the Park, takes place at Lord Dufferin School (350 Parliament, just south of Gerrard). They have a barbeque, games, a riddle, prizes and live entertainment. This is always a fun event and well worth a visit. Noon to 4 pm.

It’s too hot to cook…
And the forecast for next week is “hot and steamy”. (Sounds kinda appealing.) Patty at The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament) recommends her prepared meals and salads. Her fresh fruit salad is selling out. And so is her marinated grilled chicken. So be lazy (and hot and steamy) and let Patty cook up something for you.

Abstract art at Labour of Love
Regina at Labour of Love (242 Carlton) is featuring lovely ceramic jewelry from Kari Lynn Bianchi. Each one is handmade from clay and is truly one of a kind. Her jewelry is made carefully and intuitively, a process that can take over three weeks from start to finish. The result is a piece that’s as unique as the person wearing it. To see more examples, go to http://www.labouroflove.ca/

Finishing touches at Carlton and Parliament
This week, we installed two freestanding light poles on the boulevard at Carlton and Parliament. They add a decorative touch and they throw off enough light to add to the safety and comfort of the area at night. One last step will complete the work. We have a bike rack to place along the sidewalk for cyclists’ convenience.

2011-07-08T15:55:00.006-05:00

CCDT’s SolarDance

Michael deConnick Smith and Deborah Lundmark have installed 96 solar panels up on the roof above the Theatre at 509 Parliament. Their project, called SolarDance, started up when the first switch was thrown in late June. The power that’s generated is sold to Ontario Power Authority. They hope to earn up to $20,000 a year. This money will be used to fund dance scholarships for up to 20 students from the Cabbagetown and Regent Park neighbourhoods. There’s a great article in the Toronto Star, http://www.toronto.com/article/691377--bright-ray-of-hope-for-dance-theatre Our thanks to Michael Crabb for this photo. Their Theatre has been renamed. Formerly the Canadian Children’s Dance Theatre, it’s now called the Canadian Contemporary Dance Theatre.

Auditions for the Canadian Contemporary Dance Theatre
CCDT (509 Parliament) is looking for dancers to perform with Canada’s finest young contemporary dancers. The auditions happen on Sunday July 17 from noon to 2 pm. Dancers must be between 13 and 20 years old and have at least two years' dance experience in both ballet and modern dance. Audition fees are $30. Pre-registration is required either at (416) 924-5657 or through the website at http://www.ccdt.org/

Your chance to win
And be the first on your street to own a dazzling new Cabbagetown Tee. Just click on our Facebook logo on the right hand column and then join our Cabbagetown Facebook group. On Monday, we’re selecting one lucky person from the list to win our new Tee Shirt – in either lovely lime green or deep dark chocolate (small, medium, large, XL and even 2XL). For the rest of the world, they’re also available at the bargain basement price of $15. You can order your own at (416) 921-0857 or doug@oldcabbagetown.com

Bumble Bees at Kendall & Co
Back by popular demand at Kendall & Co (541 Parliament, just east on Winchester). The French Bumble Bee line of stemware plus new glasses and bowls. These styles are durable and beautiful, microwave and dishwasher safe. They’re ideal for both your home and cottage. http://kendallandco.ca/

Summerlicious starts today
Toronto’s popular summer food celebration starts on Friday July 8 and runs to Sunday July 24. Two of our restaurants are taking part. Provence Delices (12 Amelia, 416-924-9901) and Stonegrill (51B Winchester, 416-967-6565). You can preview their menus at

http://www.provencerestaurant.com/Summer2011menu.pdf and at

http://www.stonegrillonwinchester.com/menu.php?id=4692&menu_id=6245#middle

Welcome David and Young
The convenience store at Carlton and Parliament has long been a Cabbagetown landmark. It now enjoys new owners, a new name and a new façade. David and Young have been here for ten days and they’ve cleaned up the store and given it a fresh new look. Our best wishes to them for a long and enjoyable stay. Cabbagetown Convenience, 491 Parliament.

Wearable art at Labour of Love
Zohar Kfir is an experimental video artist from Montreal. She digitally prints images from her videos and photography onto silk scarves. Each one is a unique piece of wearable art. Come into Labour of Love this weekend to see more of her work. 242 Carlton

Young singers needed
Daniel Eby is recruiting young singers (from 12 to 20 years old) for the Cabbagetown Community Youth Choir. Participants will have weekly voice lessons and a weekly choir rehearsal. There will also be vocal training for both soloists and choristers. Subsidized lesson fees are available. This is a proud part of the cultural outreach of the Cabbagetown Community Arts Centre (422 Parliament).

Jewelry insurance at FTJCo
Ryan is developing insurance coverage specifically for your jewelry. Drop in and talk to Carey or Ryan about its advantages. When you use these policies, you’re dealing with jewelry specialists and you know that you’ll be sent back to Fair Trade Jewelry for your repairs and replacements. To make these policies even more appealing, FTJCo is paying the premiums for the first year’s coverage on all engagement and custom made items. http://ftjco.com/ Fair Trade Jewelry, 523 Parliament.

Daniel et Daniel’s facelift
The painting and repairs are finished at the Food Shop (248 Carlton). It’s a clean new look that’s captured the familiar charm and still updated the room. It’s worth a visit – and so, of course, are the goodies that they offer.

Anti-virus safety at Unistar
Jeff says that protecting data and cleaning out viruses is a major part of his business at Unistar Computers (517 Parliament). His rescue and maintenance programs start at $75 (and he has a special 15% summer discount). Plus he has security programs starting from $39 and these offer free one-year automatic upgrades. For more info about Unistar and their products, click here: http://www.unistarcomputer.com/

Falafel chips at The Epicure Shop
Things have calmed down for Patty and the staff at The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament) ever since she wrapped herself in the flag for Canada Day. Now she’s back to falafel chips (a great taste to go with humus) and her dips which are all fat-free, cholestrol-free and low in sodium – about as healthy as it gets.

A weekend of festivals and fun…

A World of Neighbours
Central Neighbourhood House (347 Ontario) celebrates its 100th anniversary with their Festival in Allan Gardens (Sherbourne and Carlton) on Saturday July 16. It runs from noon to 7 pm with music, free food and ice cream, dance performances, family activities and a children’s pavilion. For more info, http://www.cnh.on.ca/news-events/news/world-of-neighbours

Sunday in the Park
Our neighbours from Regent Park are hosting their annual summer festival, Sunday in the Park, next week. They have barbeques, games, riddles, entertainment and a special market place. All of this takes place at Lord Dufferin School (350 Parliament, just south of Gerrard) on Sunday July 10 from noon to 4 pm. Find out more at http://www.torontoartscape.on.ca/artists/events/sunday-park

2011-06-30T15:39:00.011-05:00

Canada Day
…and we’re issuing our Newsletter a little bit early. Tomorrow’s a holiday, Will and Kate are in-country, the Pride celebrations are getting hot – so we’re sending out our news and then disappearing to enjoy the fun.

The new Tees are here
Felicia is our first customer. She bought her new Tee to take home to Winnipeg as a souvenir of her year-long stay here in Cabbagetown. Her new Tee will remind her of the homes and gracious streets that she sees while jogging through our neighbourhood. Our thanks, Felicia, and best wishes for your trip home.

Brenda’s back
Brenda in 2008. Everyone will remember Brenda. She was our official first model for our classic Cabbage Tee back in 2008. She visited our office and we got a snapshot that we used everywhere after that. She’s graciously agreed to be our 2011 model to kick off our new campaign and she’s shown here with Kelly who works in the BIA office.

Order your Tee now
Brenda and Kelly show off our new design. Be ready for the summer. Whether you’re going to a cottage, staying home or dropping in to the opera and ballet, you’ll want your own special Tee. They’re available easily at doug@oldcabbagetown.com, at (416) 921-0857 and at the BIA Office (237 Carlton). They’re available in small, medium, large, XL and 2XL in either dark chocolate or lime green. $15

Tees on Facebook
Click on the Facebook logo on the right and join our group. We’re having a draw – you can win. Be the first in your Facebook group to strut about with an elite Cabbagetown Tee. The draw happens on Monday July 11. Join now – don’t miss this rare opportunity.

Congrat’s to Toni and Elaine
A few weeks ago, they were unable to join us for our Chairman’s Awards evening at the Winchester Kitchen & Bar (51B Winchester). When the plaques were printed and ready, we visited Mylk Uncookies for a personal presentation. They received their award for the improvement that their shop has made to the Gerrard Street retail area. If you’d like more info, read this nice review from blogTO: http://www.blogto.com/cafes/mylk-uncookies-toronto And drop in and try the lucuma macaroon, one of their best selling goodies.

Thanks to Drea
Regina wants us to give a big thanks to Drea Scotland. Labour of Love (242 Carlton) received a Chairman’s Award a couple of weeks ago for its fine window presentations. Regina credits Drea for her designs. She handled the last two windows for Labour of Love and Regina says “We couldn’t do it without you!”

Kendall & Co are showing Pride
Cabbagetown artist Gerri Orwin is back at Kendall & Co after her successful presentation earlier in the Spring. Several of her works from her Raku Collection are displayed in the front window on Winchester. To learn more about her, click on: http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/play-with-clay/ 541 Parliament on the NE corner at Winchester

Canada Day at Epicure
Patty’s getting enthused about the weekend. When she came into our office, she couldn’t resist a fetching pose with the flag. She has great supplies for both Pride and Canada Day celebrations. Her Summerfresh Dips have just arrived and she’s offering a two-for-one sale: buy one and get one free. Phipps cupcakes are also back by popular demand. They’ve been voted the “Best in the City!” 473 Parliament

Me To We
Emily at Me to We (223 Carlton) has again joined forces with Epicure Shop (473 Parliament) to offer half-off fair trade coffee on Tuesday July 5. Any size, all day, half-off. It’s a joint effort to promote better choices for a better world. And while you’re out and about, drop in to the Me To We store where they’re highlighting eco-friendly, sweatshop free responsible clothing.

Summer reminders
Patio season is in full swing. Ben Wicks, Grasshopper, JAMcafe, Margaritas, Peartree and Provence Delices are well-established Cabbagetown favourites. We’ve all spent a few hours outdoors in each one, enjoying friends and cool drinks. They’re joined now by Carolines, Flying Beaver, House on Parliament, Merryberry and Stout Irish Pub who are all bringing new twists to our summer habits.

We got a great comment from John and Sarah about their experience this week at the Winchester Kitchen & Bar (51A Winchester) “The food was amazing with great taste and preparation…another fabulous eating place in the ‘hood.”

Summerlicious starts on Friday July 8 and runs to Sunday July 24. Two of our restaurants are taking part in Toronto’s summer food fest. Provence Delices (12 Amelia, 416-924-9901) and Stonegrill (51B Winchester, 416-967-6565). Call now for your reservations.

Daniel et Daniel (244 Carlton) will close the Food Shop for the entire weekend, July1 to 4, for renovations.

2011-06-24T15:42:00.006-05:00

Pride weekend
Two Cabbagetown locations have attracted good reviews in NOW Magazine for their preparations for Pride weekend. Under the heading Pride Bars, Heather and Maggie get top listing for The Flying Beaver (488 Parliament). Caroline’s (554 Parliament) earns a good review under Pride Patios. http://www.nowtoronto.com/guides/pride/2011/story.cfm?content=181403

Summerlicious is here
Toronto’s annual summertime food fest starts up on July 8 and runs to July 24. Two Cabbagetown favourites are participating – Provence Delices (12 Amelia, 416-924-9901) and Stonegrill (51B Winchester, 416-967-6565). Menus for Provence Delices will be available soon. You can see Stonegrill’s menu at http://www.stonegrillonwinchester.com/menu.php?id=4692&menu_id=6245#middle
Both restaurants will be busy – so make your reservations today.

Facebook
Have you noticed the Facebook logo on the right? It’s a link to our page. Click on it and join our group. We’re starting to announce our program for the Festival.

Congratulations to everyone
Last Saturday, UforChange, the Cabbagetown Youth Centre and the BIA joined forces to launch our first annual youth festival. We called it the Cabbagetown Block Party. Young singers and dancers competed through the afternoon under the watchful eyes of Sharon Lee Williams (from Musicent) and Zack Werner (of Canadian Idol fame.) At the end of the day, first prize for singing went to Britta and for dancing to the CYC dancers. Over at Winchester School, teams competed for 3-on-3 basketball championships. Rottis were cooked up under the supervision of Richard from Gourmet Burger. Pizza slices came for everybody, thanks to Pizza Pizza. It was a great start to a good annual event.

Get ready for Canada Day
Labour of Love (242 Carlton) is having a sale to help you get ready for the big 144th birthday party. 10% off all Canadian-made inventory for this weekend only. This includes jewelry, mugs, magnets and housewares and lots more.

Daniel & Daniel Food Shop
The Food Shop (248 Carlton) is being renovated over the July 1st weekend. It’ll be closed from July 1 to July 4 while they paint and do other repairs. Of course, with food like their’s, who ever looks at the walls?

Number 9 cuts a new album
Last week, jazz sensations Sophie Berkal-Sarbit and Bill King recorded a few songs at Number 9 Audio and they’ve shared their beautiful rendition of Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah. Click on the link to listen: http://www.number9.ca/sophie-berkal-sarbit-and-bill-king-hallelujah/ George and the staff at Number 9 have invited the many bands who’re visiting Toronto for our summer festivals to drop by the studio, check out the recording facilities and hear the great sound from the C Bechstein Grand Concert piano. 222 Gerrard.

Kendall has rugs
Kevin at Kendall & Co emphasizes that their rugs never (that’s never) go on sale. Except now. This is the last week to save 20% on all of their indoor and outdoor rugs. These are beautifully handmade, fair trade rugs that will work perfectly in your home, your cottage and your gardens. You can see many of their fine choices at http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/shop/newest-rug-collection/ Visit the new shop at 541 Parliament,. Just a couple of doors east facing Winchester.

Secret recipes
Yummy grilled chicken breast – marinated in Patty’s secret sauce. She won’t give us even the smallest hint about the recipe. If you want to know, you’ve gotta buy some and taste it. It’s a great way to escape cooking when the summer heat is turned on. And she’s just received her latest shipment of Buffalo Mozzarella from Italy. Serve it with her special balsamic vinegar ($3.49/500 ml). The Epicure Shop, 473 Parliament.

Neighbourhood news
The Cabbagetown South Residents Association is conducting a “Safety First” neighbourhood walk. Officers from 51 Division will talk about ways to improve safety and to stop crime with homes, cars, garages and persons. It happens on Wednesday June 29 at 7 pm and it starts at 182 Seaton Street. Click here and then click on Events: http://www.cabbagetownsouth.ca/

The volunteers at the Don Vale Cabbagetown Residents Association have been very busy over the past few weeks. Anne Pastuszak and Lynn Dionne have guided a study of Riverdale Park West for the past eighteen months. Their summary and recommendations are now online. Lindsay Whitfield and Trish Finkelstein are leading a group looking into proposals to change Winchester School and Sprucecourt School. You can see reports about both efforts on the DVCRA web site, http://cabbagetowner.com/

New Tee’s are coming
Our new 2011 Tee shirts have been approved and ordered. They’ll be here within a week. Our past designs have featured flashy and dazzling versions of cabbage designs. (In truth, I wonder whether that venerated veggie ever had such enthusiastic supporters) But now, we’ll be urban, indeed urbane. Sophisticated and proud of it. Watch this space for more news.

2011-06-17T15:18:00.011-05:00

Cabbagetown youth street festival
Join the Block Party - Saturday from noon to 5 pm at Prospect and Parliament. It’s a celebration of youth talent and a great neighbourhood. UforChange (517 Parliament) is hosting a stage at Prospect Street. Twenty acts will compete in a special competition judged by Zack Werner and Sharon Lee Williams. (Noon to 5 pm) The Cabbagetown Youth Centre (2 Lancaster) will organize a 3-on-3 basketball tournament at Winchester School (Rose and Prospect - 9 am to 5 pm). Up to 30 teams will play for the #1 spot. The BIA, Gourmet Burger and Pizza Pizza are helping to organize the event.

More gardens
Our new planter boxes at Carlton and Parliament have just been filled with vines and other colourful annuals. We’re making the final touches to the small boulevard at this corner. Within a few days, two freestanding, decorative light poles and a bike rack will be added on the Carlton Street side. This area collects plenty of sunlight and these gardens are expected to become lush and soft green places as the summer advances.

Do you drink beer?
It’s Ontario Craft Beer week. Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton) is celebrating the amazing beers that our local brewers are creating with a special event every night. There’ll be beers that have been jointly brewed, beer trivias, beer quizzes and even a special event on “Women, beer and chocolate”. Find all the details at http://www.stoutirishpub.ca/ Cheers!

Herkimer diamonds
Regina at Labour of Love (242 Carlton) has a real eye for beautiful objects. Her feature this week are these sterling silver vine-shaped rings mounted with naturally faceted Herkimer diamonds. They’re designed by Joanna Szkiela and there are more of her lovely works in the store now. Check it all out at http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/

Caroline supports Amnesty
By now, it’s clear that Caroline Murphy is always ready to make a contribution to her community. Throughout June, you can contribute to Amnesty International when you buy a medium sized pizza. She calls it the “Taste for Justice” pizza. Her patio is open. Carolines Dining Room and Lounge, 554 Parliament, http://www.carolinesdininglounge.com/

Barracuda has new Mexican glassware
Six different glass styles (glasses for your martinis, wine, highballs, margaritas, shots and water) and carafes in eight different colours. These are now part of their summer stock so drop by and pick out a style for yourself. 527 Parliament

More reactions to Mark’s tasting dinner
Last week, we reported that Mark at St Jamestown Steak & Chops (516 Parliament) hosted a special dinner in his Deli to taste the difference between dry-aged and wet-aged roast beef. The writer of the food blog, Food with Legs, was one of his guests and he’s written a good report on the evening at http://bit.ly/les6J8

Father’s Day on Sunday
Here’s a gift that makes his glass of wine taste even better. It’s engineered to aerate the wine perfectly in the time it takes to pour it. This nifty aerator is available in a deluxe and a boxed version. Check out Kendall’s other barware as well. http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/2011/06/16/for-fathers-day/ And, as many of us have noticed, the store has moved. To celebrate their new location at Winchester and Parliament, they’re offering all of their indoor and outdoor rugs on sale at 20% off, including in-stock and special orders. Kendall & Co, 541 Parliament.

More for Father’s Day
Patty at Epicure Shop (473 Parliament) suggest that you get a nice bulk salad for his barbeque. Buy one and get any Summerfresh dip for half price.

Pop-up stores at The Cobourg
On Friday (from 7 pm to 1 am) and Saturday (from 11 am to 3 pm), vintage treasures come to The Cobourg (533 Parliament). It’s a collaborative effort with The Factory Collective and it features summer dresses, jumpers, florals, sheers and lots more. On Friday, DJs Ian and Jessica are on the decks. On Saturday, there’s savoury treats and champagne at brunch – tickets are $10.

Congratulations Heather & Maggie
The Flying Beaver (488 Parliament) has just been featured in the Toronto Star’s “Buzz on bars”. It’s a great review: http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/article/1009267--buzz-on-bars-the-flying-beaver-pubaret

Cabbagetown South tree walk
We’ve all become much more conscious of the tree canopy and it’s great value for our community. Many of our trees are now older and may be nearing the end of their lives. Our neighbours in the Cabbagetown South Association have organized a walk on Sunday from 1:30 to 3:30 pm to show off the area’s trees and to visit some of the beautiful gardens. Jessica, from LEAF, will be the tour guide and will talk about ways to protect and nurture them. The walk starts at 182 Seaton and concludes with a glass of wine and ice cream. Tickets are $5. To buy a ticket and to get more information, click here: http://www.cabbagetownsouth.ca/ (and then go to Events).

Touching up the mural
Our colourful mural on Corner Discount (491 Parliament) at Carlton and Parliament has become a Cabbagetown landmark. It’s been on the wall since 2005 and since it’s first appearance, it’s been regularly featured on photography sites across the internet. Just this week, its artist, Ryan Dineen, has been back to repair it and touch up some of its faded colours. It’s good to go for another five years. By the way, a couple of prominent Cabbagetown personalities (our lips are sealed!) always deny that they’re the models for its romantic image.

Lookin’ good
It was a perfect afternoon on Friday to lounge in the sun along Parliament Street. Mandi (Cabbagetown Barber Shop) and Goran (Menagerie Pet Shop) took the occasion to discuss world issues and neighbourhood events!

2011-06-10T16:14:00.007-05:00

Chairman’s Awards winners
Our 2011 Chairman’s Awards evening was a success. The winners are listed below. But first, a few upcoming events and announcements …

Cabbagetown Block Party
It happens next weekend, Saturday June 18 from noon to 5pm along Prospect Street west of Parliament and in the Winchester School yard.
It’s a big talent show and basketball shoot-out. A stage will be set up at Prospect and Parliament and kids in two age categories will compete in the talent show. Judges are Cabbagetown’s own Sharon Lee Williams (Musicent, 555 Parliament) and Zack Werner (regularly seen at Jet Fuel and Stout Irish Pub – and on Canadian Idol). Over at the school, 20 teams of girls and boys will compete in 3-on-3 basketball tournament. There’ll be prizes and glory for the winners and lots of fun for everyone.
The BIA is proudly joining the Cabbagetown Youth Centre and UforChange with this program.

A big beef tasting
Last Sunday, Mark at St Jamestown Steak & Chops (516 Parliament) hosted an unusual and very pleasant beef tasting. The challenge was to rate dry aged and wet aged prime roast beef. So, of course, he threw a big dinner complete with olive oil sampling, smoked salmon prepared in his own kitchen, wines from Niagara and Prince Edward County and a lovely cheesecake dessert. He invited about a dozen self-confessed “foodies” who blog about their experiences. Here’s what one of them, Stella, had to say (these are her photos-thanks):
http://www.foodjunkiechronicles.com/2011/06/steak-tasting-at-st-jamestown-steaks.html

Dinner at MerryBerry
Cyril and Nimmi at Merryberry (559 Parliament) keep expanding. Now they’re offering dinner. On Tuesday and Wednesday, they’re open to 8 pm, on Thursday Friday and Saturday to 9:30 pm and on Sunday to 5 pm. Their patio is open at the back, their liquor license is in place, they have great weekend brunches and they’re serving dinners. They’ve been very careful about their progress since they opened, making sure that they have each step under control before advancing to the next one. That’s why they’ve kept such good quality in their food and service.

The Epicure Shop has lots more cheese
Niagara Gold and Comfort Cream have just arrived back in stock from Niagara’s Upper Canada Cheese. They’re both proud products from happy cows. Patty also has her latest shipment of Buffalo Mozzarella. For the summer season, she’s offering her own grilled vegetables and fresh fruit salad. 473 Parliament

Father’s Day
Regina at Labour of Love (242 Carlton) has a nice line of gift items – last week we told you about her movie stars cufflinks. She has more. And she’s brought in a fresh line of Father’s Day cards as well. Check it all out at www.thelabouroflove.ca

We Read
This is an exciting new cooperative program between the Cabbagetown Youth Centre, Free the Children and the Parliament Street Library. Volunteers from Free the Children are mentoring kids (in the grades 1 to 4 age range) who can benefit from a regular reading program. Each child gets a dedicated mentor. The Library is providing the space. The first event was held last Thursday night and it’ll continue every Thursday (5:30 to 6:30 pm) until August 18. To register a child, contact June Charles at june.charles@cabbagetownyouth.ca

Space is filling up
Abraham Diles is the owner of the lovely renovated spaces at 550 and 552 Parliament, across from the gas station. He’s got tenants for some of the space and still has a ground floor location and upstairs offices available. If you’re interested in these spots, you can contact him at (416) 704-2625.

Kendall has moved
They’re in 541 Parliament which is actually on Winchester across from the Tim Hortons. It’s great to have them in this space – it’s a natural for them and good for the neighbourhood to have it filled so beautifully. To celebrate, they’re offering a 20% discount on all their indoor and outdoor rugs. These are handmade and fair trade. For lots more information, visit http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/shop/outdoor-rugs

Number 9’s new C Bechstein Concert Grand Piano
A few weeks ago, we told you that Number 9 Recording Studio (222 Gerrard) had purchased a new piano. They’ve sent us a link to a great video by David Myers playing on it for his new album Genesis on Piano. Click hear to see and listen, http://www.number9.ca:80/genesis-on-number-9s-piano/

And now, the Chairman’s Awards
Every year, Cabbagetown BIA members enjoy a sociable evening together. We gossip, eat and drink moderately, brag about ourselves and give out awards to a handful of members who have achieved noteworthy accomplishments in the past year. On Wednesday night, we got together in the Winchester Kitchen & Bar (51A Winchester) for this year’s edition.
Here’s a list of the 2011 winners and their fine deeds. They’re divided into two groups – those who have made significant renovations and those with outstanding business achievements:

Renovations

Outstanding new building – George Foulidis for the TD Bank building at Carlton and Parliament

Significant major renovations – Tania and Beau for House on Parliament, 454 Parliament

Street beautification – the Prospect Street Garden Team (Dave Johnston represented them) for the new garden at Prospect and Parliament

Excellent neighbourhood improvement – Toni and Elaine for Mylk Uncookies at 253 Gerrard (regrets that a family event conflicted with our evening.)

Business activities

Outstanding new restaurant – Cyril and Nimmi for Merryberry Café & Bistro, Parliament

Exciting new business – Erin for Stout Irish Pub, 221 Carlton

Excellent customer service – Levanna for Menagerie Pet Shop, 549 Parliament

Best window arrangements – Regina for Labour of Love, 242 Carlton

Attracting people to Cabbagetown – Megan (on behalf of Heather and Maggie) for The Flying Beaver Pubaret, 488 Parliament

Business Improvement of the Year – Young Thailand, 446 Parliament (regrets were sent)

Our hosts
Thanks to Anesti, Michael and the staff at Winchester Kitchen & Bar (51A Winchester) for the fine evening. This room works well for medium and larger parties (we had about 85 people there). Private events are an important part of their efforts.

2011-06-03T15:39:00.005-05:00

Garden Tour on Sunday
Ten magnificent gardens are featured on the 2011 Garden Tour. The weather forecast couldn’t be better – a balmy spring day with clear skies. Scattered throughout Cabbagetown, the gardens reflect both modern and classic landscape styles. This is a relaxed event. Although they’ve sold lots of tickets, the crowds disperse and each garden is welcoming for a leisurely visit. Liz Primeau is the special guest gardener. Last minute ticket sales and Paypal redemptions happen at the BIA Office from 9 am to 2 pm on Sunday (237 Carlton).

Cash in your discounts
Your Garden Tour ticket includes specials and discounts at several Cabbagetown businesses. Kendall & Co (541 Parliament), Mi Casa (238 Carlton), and Me To We (223 Carlton) all offer discounts on their merchandise. The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament), Sweet Creamery (521 Parliament) and Starbucks (492 Parliament) have snacks, coffee and ice cream at special discounts. Ben Wicks (424 Parliament), Caroline’s (554 Parliament), Cranberries (601 Parliament), Provence Delices (12 Amelia), Winchester Kitchen & Bar (51A Winchester), Stonegrill (51B Winchester) and Peter’s Cajun Pizza (415 Parliament) have special prices for lunch and dinner when you present your Tour tickets.

What’s going on here?
Signs have appeared in the windows of the empty store on Winchester Street across from the Tim Hortons. This place has been empty for quite a while so the new activity is really welcome. At the BIA office, we’ve been asked regularly about the future of this location and I have to say (despite my motto, “Tell Doug, tell the world…”) that my lips are sealed. On Sunday, all will be revealed. Drop down to the corner on Sunday afternoon and you’ll see for yourself. Winchester & Parliament.

MerryBerry gets another good review
You can read it here - http://www.caterista.com/blog/2011/05/19/torontos-merry-berry-cafe-and-bistro/ Cyril and Nimmi have been busy. Their patio is now open in the back, giving you a nice opportunity to enjoy their fine food comfortably in the open summer air. Don’t forget that their liquor licence approval came through a short time ago. 559 Parliament.

Iced drinks and croissants
Toni and Elaine have expanded their menu at Mylk Uncookies (253 Gerrard). Elaine loves iced tea lattes with almond mylk and Elaine is enjoying the new iced lattes. And they’ve added croissants from Jules Patisserie on the weekends. Scrumptious stuff.

Ready for barbeques and patios
Patty at The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament) has been busy helping the neighbourhood lately. This weekend, she has a special 15% discount on any cheese purchase for people with Garden Tour tickets. Plus you can show your ticket, buy a lunch special and receive a free dessert and drink. For two weeks before this, she offered free trade coffees in partnership with Me To We.
This weekend, she’s jumping into the BBQ season with potato salad, coleslaw, bean pasta salad and Greek pasta. Buy any bulk salad and get another one free.

Reception at Me To We
Last week, staff from Me To We and Free The Children met with neighbourhood residents to introduce the two organizations and answer questions. Free The Children is familiar for most of us – it’s the organization that reaches out across Canada and the world to mobilize young people and assist people living in developing countries. Me To We is its social enterprise arm, earning profits that are then plowed back into Free The Children. Last week’s crowd also had a good look at the beautiful Me To We store (223 Carlton).

Our flowers are now blooming
Once again, we’re proudly adding flower baskets to our street’s appearance. The first of three waves has now appeared, hanging on about 30 poles throughout our neighbourhood. Within a very short time, another batch will fill in the gaps. In the meantime, the three garden planter boxes beside the TD Bank at Carlton and Parliament will be filled. These decorations add to the existing beds that are already planted at Tim Hortons (Winchester and Parliament) and on Prospect Street beside the Butter Chicken Factory. They’re a BIA project that we now plan for every year.

This Tee is now a classic
It’s gone. Off the shelf. Sold out. Our Tee shirt is now history. If you own one, start to save it carefully – no more casual dumps into the laundry basket. It’s irreplaceable. Four years ago, Lindsey Reidt and Chris Kiraly brought it to life. Since then, it’s been seen relaxing at wine tastings in Kelowna, lounging on a Greek patio, wrapped around a pooch in Australia, touring toney villages in France, kicking up heels in Chicago, perched on horseback in Cuba and, of course, everywhere in Cabbagetown. What a success!
Watch this space for news about the next edition.

2011-05-27T15:06:00.012-05:00

A bloomin’ street
Once again, three stores have turned our street corners into gardens.
Fairway Market (520 Parliament) has a big garden centre at Winchester.
Jamestown Milk (592 Parliament) and Parliament Smoke (609 Parliament) have made the corners at Wellesley Street blossom.

One more week
The 2011 Garden Tour happens in just one week’s time. It’s on Sunday June 5 from 10 am to 3 pm. There are ten gardens on the tour and they’ll each be memorable. Author and television personality Liz Primeau is this year’s garden guru. Tickets are a bargain at $15. Several local places are selling tickets: Fairway Market (520 Parliament), Jay’s (360 Gerrard), Kendall & Co (438 Parliament), Mi Casa (238 Carlton) and the BIA Office (237 Carlton). You can also order online with Paypal - www.cabbagetownpa.ca/

Two more days
Friday and Saturday nights are your last chance to enjoy the Paris/Toronto Project at Toronto Dance Theatre. The Globe & Mail has said that this performance is “beauty in motion underpinned by power and strength.” May 27 and 28, 8 pm. You can get your tickets at the box office or online at http://tdt.org/buy/order.htm $26. 80 Winchester.

Get your dinner and dance package
If you’re going to the Paris/Toronto Project, enjoy a three course, prix fixe dinner as well. For $52.95, you get ticket to the theatre and your dinner at Caroline’s (554 Parliament).

Congrat’s to TBS
TBS has had its official store re-launch. The opening happened last weekend and the refurbished store is now ready to go. TBS (formerly The Bargain Shop) now has a bigger range of inventory including lots of convenience items that you often need at the spur of the moment. Our thanks to Colin Grant from The Voice for his photo. Drop by and check out the goodies at 429 Parliament.

Goodies for chefs at The Epicure Shop
Patty’s featuring 4-year-old cheddar from Maple Dale Cheese (one of the last few family owned dairies left in Ontario.) For appetizers, she still has Summerfresh dips on special – buy one and get another one free. And she has flavoured olive oils on special as well at $5.99/bottle, a savings of $5 each – rosemary, basil, lemon and hot pepper. 473 Parliament

Regina’s thinking about dad
For Father’s Day gifts, Regina at Labour of Love (242 Carlton) recommends personalized album cover cufflinks. They’re designed by Toronto’s Barbie Basement Jewellery. Just bring in his favourite album cover and she’ll make it happen before Father’s Day. Check out her website at http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/.

Leslie’s Pop-up is ready to Pop-down
Leslie has been using the empty space next door to display her extra inventory while her landlord sorts out a new tenant. All’s well now and so she has to finish her pop-up. This is the last weekend for her extraordinary sale at Eclectisaurus – you won’t want to miss some of these exceptional bits of vintage and antique offerings, many priced in the $5 and $10 range. She’s put a nice short video on her site so you can get a preview of her stock - http://www.eclectisaurus.com/popup.html 349 and 351 Gerrard.

Kendall’s moving
Kendall & Co have run out of room at the current location. They’re holding a big sale to clear the shelves rather than move their stuff. They’ve reduced their prices by an extra 30% on furniture, indoor and outdoor rugs, lamps, framed art, servingware, home accents and accessories, and outdoor décor. You should get into their store – these are great sales. (438 Parliament across from Spruce.)

Caroline’s Diningroom& Lounge
Caroline Murphy is a big supporter of PWA’s Friends For Life Bike Rally, a multi-day ride from Toronto to Montreal. On May 31 from 6 pm onward, she’s holding a fundraiser to support them. Lots of prizes and a silent auction.
She’s now very busy in her restaurant. Her repairs and reno’s have finished up and she’s into action at full speed. She’s announced that her restaurant is now open all week. She’s hosting brunch on both Saturday and Sunday. All-you-can-eat mussels Mondays ($18) are back. And her comfy backyard patio is open daily. You can see her menu and events calendar at http://www.carolinesdininglounge.com/ 554 Parliament.

Cabbagetown South giant garage sale
From 9 am to 3 pm, the entire area from Sherbourne to Parliament, Gerrard to Shuter becomes a massive garage sale on Saturday May 28. Thousands of items at bargain prices. The Cabbagetown South residents are coordinating the day and you can find out more at http://www.cabbagetownsouth.ca/ When you’re in that area, you’ll need to take a break so stop by Mylk Uncookies (253 Gerrard) for great coffee and baking.

Your reactions please
We’ve discovered that HOP has a twin. Yes, our venerable House on Parliament (454 Parliament) has a secret twin living in the French city of Bordeaux. It’s an English pub in the heart of wine country and it looks like a fun place. We want to contact them and tell them that there’s a great Cabbagetown gastropub with the same name, the same good food and the same fun attitude. We’d like to suggest a “twin” project. Any ideas that you have will be very well received. Contact us at doug@oldcabbagetown.com

Speaking of France…
Our Tee shirt has taken another vacation across the pond. This time to the south of France to Peyre, one of the most beautiful villages in that region. Paul wore the Tee and cuddled up to Sharon, Gina and Marilyn. Thanks to Louise and Joanne for the photo. He says it was a wonderful trip.

2011-05-20T15:55:00.017-05:00

A grand opening at TBS
The Bargain Shop, now called TBS, has remodeled and restocked to give their store (423 Parliament) a facelift and new inventory. This is big news for Cabbagetowners – everyone enjoys TBS prices and now they have plenty of convenience items as well. Stop in and say hello to Akim, the new manager.

The Me to We Store
The Me To We store (223 Carlton) will host an evening reception for the Cabbagetown community on Thursday May 26 from 6:30 to 8 pm. It’s a chance to show off the store and introduce Free the Children. Staff will make a few short welcoming remarks and then there’ll be a mingle with refreshments where you can look around, ask questions and learn more about their programs. The whole emphasis is on a relaxed informative evening so feel free to bring your family and friends as well. Please RSVP at http://www.cabbagetown.eventbrite.com/

Cask beer at Stout
Cask beer is brewed from traditional ingredients and then served directly from the barrel where it’s made. It’s fresh, unfiltered and full of natural beer flavours. Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton) now has it on tap and a fresh cask is opened every five days. Beer lovers should flock to this place.

Play with clay happens on Sunday
Kendall and Co (438 Parliament across from Spruce) are hosting “Promote our local” events and the first one takes place on Sunday afternoon. Two local potters, Gerri Orwin and Winnie Wong, will present samples of their work, discuss their creative processes and share their experiences with you. For more info about the artists, click here: http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/play-with-clay/ These gatherings are meant to be informal, personal discussions. There will be two sessions – at 1 and 3 pm on Sunday – so please RSVP at shop@kendallandco.ca

Don Vale Cabbagetown Residents Association
The DVCRA is holding its annual general meeting on Tuesday May 24 at 7 pm at the Toronto Dance Theatre (80 Winchester). It promises to be a memorable night. The official meeting will take about half an hour. Following that meeting, the special guest speaker, Christopher House, will talk about Toronto Dance Theatre – its history, its current productions and its future. He’s an internationally renown choreographer with a long personal connection to TDT. For more info, http://www.cabbagetowner.com/

Rapture Night at The Flying Beaver.
Saturday May 20 after Carla Collins’ show, you can dance the night away until the world disappears. DJ Garrick provides the tunes. No cover.
Thursdays are Wing Ding night with a pound of wings for only $5 in the pub.
On Friday, it’s time for a Retro Dance Dance Dance Party with DJ Carol.
On Sunday (if the world lasts that long!), there’s a T-Dance with DJ Dallas from 4 to 7 pm. Sunday’s also the time for a roast beef dinner at $10.95.
Tickets for Carla Collins show are $20. Available at the door and at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/175379 488 Parliament.

Supplies for your long weekend
The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament) has what you need to polish up your weekend barbeques. All Summerfresh dips are on special – buy one and get another one free. Meditteranee Yogurt in five flavours is only $2.99 and extra old white cheddar (great for cheeseburgers) is on special for the week.
Patty at The Epicure Shop is teaming up with the Me To We Store (223 Carlton) to feature fair trade coffee. On Tuesday, you can order a small coffee at half price and Me To We will pay the other half. It’s one small way to introduce the Me To We philosophy to us.

Number 9 sold their piano
And then they went out and bought another, just exactly the same. They had a trusted and beloved Bechstein which they sold to a client. Then they hunted everywhere and tested everything. And settled on another C Bechstein Concert Grand Piano for the studio so they can continue to provide the highest quality piano recordings in Toronto. Give it a test run – call (416) 348-7818 to book a short session. 222 Gerrard.

Kendall is bursting at the seams
And they’re about to move to a new location. To make life easier, they’re having a moving sale. They’ve got a “Now or never” attitude – get in to the store to enjoy 30% additional savings from their regular low prices on furniture, indoor and outdoor rugs, lamps, artworks, serving ware, home accents and accessories, outdoor décor and lots more. 438 Parliament (across from Spruce).

The Farmer’s Market is open
The Friends of Riverdale farm have long sponsored a farmers’ market in the park (Sumach and Winchester). It’s back again this year – every Tuesday from 3 to 7 pm. 28 vendors are listed for this year and they’re offering everything from Lake Huron white fish, fine cheese, wild mushrooms, seasonal garden veggies and honey. There’s a knife sharpener, a seedling nursery and pet food supplier.

Cabbagetown holiday getaway
This weekend, enjoy an extraordinary dance performance and have dinner at a great local restaurant. Caroline’s Dining Lounge (554 Parliament) is offering a three-course prix fixe dinner and a ticket for the Paris/Toronto Project at Toronto Dance Theatre (80 Winchester), all for only $52.95. Friday and Saturday May 20-21 at 8 pm, Sunday May 22 at 2 pm and Wednesday to Saturday May 25-28 (8 pm). Performances only, $26.

Stephanie’s flag gets around
Here she is in the midst of St Mark’s Square in Venice Italy. The photo is two years old. She was there for the Venice Biennale and, since it happens again this year, she’s sure that someone from Cabbagetown will be going and will take a flag and Tee-shirt to display again. If you look closely at the picture, you’ll see that the square was flooded. But, as the song says, “our flag was still there…”

2011-05-13T16:12:00.009-05:00

Welcome Kelly

Kelly is a Ryerson student who’s just finished her 3rd year in Arts & Contemporary Studies. She’s joining us at the BIA to work on our Cabbagetown Festival and to help with a list of special events throughout the summer. Two of her bigger projects involve planning for the Festival parade and for the display areas for Cabbagetown artists. If you want to join either of these events during the Festival, contact Kelly at cabbagetownbia@gmail.com

We’re on Facebook
You’ll notice the icon on the right hand side of this page. Please click on it and join our group. You’ll get updates regularly as the Festival program is confirmed. Find out who’s singing on the street corners, where your favourite cold beer can be found, who’s selling special handcrafted jewellery and when our big events are happening. (In case you’re wondering, Kelly set this up – not Doug.)

Caroline’s medium pizza
Every year, Caroline Murphy joins the People With Aids bike rally between Toronto and Montreal. To help with the PWA fundraising, she’s offering a medium Caroline’s Classic Pizza throughout May – all the proceeds from its sale go to PWA. http://www.carolinesdininglounge.com/ (416) 927-1593. 554 Parliament

The 2011 Art Salons Tour
It happens this weekend – on Saturday from 6:30 to 11 pm. It’s a tour of four gorgeous homes where you’ll meet new neighbours, see intriguing art and nibble on scrumptious goodies. At the last stop, you’ll enjoy jazz piano by Mary Ann Hawkes. $50/each - proceeds from the ticket sales support three local residents’ groups. You can get more information and buy your tickets online with Paypal at http://www.cabbagetownsouth.ca/ and at Kendall & Co, 438 Parliament.

Another welcome bit of news…
Merryberry Café (559 Parliament) has just been issued a liquor license. Cyril is serving sangria as his opening specialty throughout this weekend. Other adult refreshments will be added next week. He plans to keep light and tasty beverages like mimosa and sangria on his menu - perfect for the warm weather.

Me To We Yoga
On Tuesday May 17 from 6:30 to 7:30 pm, a one-hour yoga session is open at the Me To We Store (223 Carlton). Lots of space, a small crowd and plenty of one-on-one work with the instructor. $10.

Cheese and chips at The Epicure Shop
This weekend, Patty has two favourite cheeses from Fifth Town in Prince Edward County – Cape Vessy, a cow’s milk hard cheese and Lighthall Tomme, a prize winning goat cheese with washed organic rind. She also has falafel chips made from chick peas, a perfect match with humus. And, conveniently, her humus dips are on sale at $1.19/100 g as well.

Barracuda is full of beautiful pots
It’s Spring and Gerry’s store is chock full of beautiful outdoor pots, containers and accessories. Drop by to see how many different sizes, shapes and colours are available. He always puts samples in front of his store door and this year, he’s had them filled with lovely plant displays by Sheridan Nursery. http://www.barracuda.ca/ 527 Parliament.

Introducing Carey and Marjan

They’re working at Fair Trade Jewellery Co (523 Parliament). FTJCo is open now for regular retail hours – from 11am to 6 pm from Wednesday to Sunday. Carey will be helping with the design work that’s involved with custom-made jewellery (that’s FTJCo’s specialty). Marjan reminds me that the store is still focused on fair trade and recycled precious metals and gems. Private appointments are still available. http://www.ftjco.com/

Stout’s new patio
On Thursday, Erin held her official grand launch and she combined it with the official opening of her new patio. It promises to be one of Cabbagetown’s lovely hidden corners (where all kinds of stuff can happen quietly, or otherwise.) She’s also opened her first cask beer – at this report, we don’t know whether there’s any left but it’s worth a trip to find out. Her regular events are all lined up – Sunday’s ceili and prime rib dinner, the weekend brunch, Pub Stumpers on Tuesday night and Wednesday night with Zack Werner. http://www.stoutirishpub.ca/ 221 Carlton

Kendall’s “Promote Our Local” event
On Sunday May 22 from 1 to 3 pm, Kendall & Co are hosting their first “Promote Our Local” event. It’s an exhibition of works by local potters Gerri Orwin and Winnie Wong. The artists will present their works, talk about their art and share their experiences with you. For more info: http://kendallandco.ca/fyi/play-with-clay/ There are two sessions and there’s no charge. Space is limited, so please RSVP and indicate whether you want 1 pm or 3 pm: shop@kendallandco.ca 438 Parliament, across from Spruce.

Kendall also has Spring cleaning supplies
Sacred Lotus is a locally made, 100% organic line of cleaning products. They do the tough jobs – getting rid of the filth without leaving toxic residues. Available in several aromatic scents – sweet basil lemon, lemongrass pink grapefruit, lavender neroli and rosemary eucalyptus. They’re all available at special 20% introductory prices. Kendall & Co, 438 Parliament across from Spruce.

The Paris/Toronto Project at TDT
There’s a big mix of exciting dance events happening at the Toronto Dance Theatre (80 Winchester). French choreographers Alban Richard and Emmanuelle Vo-Dinh are featured in eight performances: May 19 to 21 (8 pm), May 22 (2 pm), and May 25 to 28 (8 pm). Tickets are $26 regular, $20 for students, seniors and CADA. To purchase online, click here: http://tdt.org/buy/order.htm or call (416) 967-1365.
On Monday May 16, Phillip Szporer will host a discussion on Dancing Perspectives in France with Alban Richard and Emmanuelle Vo-Dinh. It’s a free event. 7 pm, 80 Winchester.

Caroline’s Dance & Dining Package
Caroline’s Dining Room & Lounge (554 Parliament) is offering a Dance & Dining special throughout the Paris/Toronto Project. It’s a three-course dinner plus tickets for the performance at Toronto Dance Theatre. $52.95/each. (416) 927-1593

Cuffed by Labour of Love
Regina wants her male customers to know that they’re appreciated. She has a new line of men’s jewellery from Montreal like these beautiful handcrafted sterling silver cufflinks. And, of course, she has lots of Father’s day cards in stock.. Go to http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/ to see more. 242 Carlton.

Congrat’s to the Prospect Street gardeners
You may remember that people living along Prospect and Rose have built a new garden right at the corner of Parliament and Prospect, next to the Butter Chicken Factory. Last Fall, Margaret and Chris sold daffodil bulbs to their neighbours on behalf of the Canadian Cancer Society. Their garden is now full of yellow blossoms, the results of a lot of hard work. They have big plans for this corner and we can expect more beautiful plants throughout the summer.

The 2011 Garden Tour
Tickets are now on sale. This is a very popular early Spring event and we recommend that you get your tickets as early as possible – they do sell out. The Tour happens on Sunday June 5 (10 am to 3 pm). $15. For more information and to buy your tickets with Paypal, visit http://www.cabbagetownpa.ca/ You can pick up tickets in person at Mi Casa (238 Carlton), Kendall & Co (438 Parliament), Fairway Market (538 Parliament) and the BIA office (237 Carlton).

L’homme de Chouville
We’ve reported before about Ken’s personal Tour de France. He’s completed his journey – biking 3000 km since early March in a circular route around France. He discovered that cows stop and watch him as he rockets past them. People in cafes, on the roadside and in their cars have cheered him along and given him their help when he needed it. He stayed in hotels that are fleabags and others that are gems. He saw Canadian war monuments, beautiful small villages, inspiring city centers and even a restaurant called House on Parliament. He lost weight – and then started to gain it back when his son joined him and insisted on a proper meal. He has regularly called this his personal dream and he’s amazed that he’s achieved it. We give a lot of the credit for his success to his Tee shirt.