We’re in the middle of an amazing growth spurt.
Over the past few weeks, every day seemed to bring an announcement of another newcomer settling into our neighbourhood. Me to We opened their dazzling store, Mylk Uncookies is charming Gerrard Street shoppers, Underdown Pub has music every night, Merryberry is wowing brunch and lunch munchers – all of these within the past few weeks. Looking back just a few weeks further, we’ve welcomed Labour of Love, Butter Chicken Factory, Kendall & Co, the TD Bank, Athena, Rainbow.
Our latest arrival is Stout Irish Pub, described below.
From our offices, we can see several more projects coming very soon.
Each new business brings fresh designs and new shopping experiences to our streets. Nice stuff, all of it.

Stout Irish Pub

Erin Gamelin’s new pub has opened with a great buzz. Featuring “comfort food with class”, local sources and Ontario craft beers, Stout combines a traditional pub atmosphere and the feel of a home away from home. The site has been completely rebuilt and beautifully furnished. There are big fat leather chairs, dark wooden floors, red brick walls and a lovely fireplace. Toronto Life has written a good review at http://www.torontolife.com/daily/daily-dish/opening-daily-dish/2011/01/21/introducing-stout-irish-pub-the-cabbagetown-tavern-with-a-serious-beer-list and there are already very favourable comments appearing on the food-and-drink blogs http://greatcanadianpubs.blogspot.com/2011/01/stout-irish-bar-toronto-on.html For menu details, lots of photos, hours of business and more, go to http://www.stoutirishpub.ca/ 221 Carlton.

Sharon’s last weekend
In the middle of all this new growth, it’s sad to report that Sharon’s will close after this weekend. Stop in to her store for a last goodbye and see if there’s a goodie that you want to take away with you. She still has some store fixtures for sale – a magnificent jewelry case, an oriental display case, various chrome clothing racks and some miscellaneous office equipment. 503 Parliament

Patty loves Valentines
So she has a store full of goodies for the big day. This week, she’s featuring homemade ginger cookies and Dufflet’s whoopee cookies. (with yummy strawberry cream filling). There’s also a jar full of Valentine jujubes that you can win – just fill in the entry card and you’ll be in the draw. She also wants to remind you that her special for today is homemade tomato sauce with DeCecco pasta at half-price. On Saturday, she has her original breakfast bagel melt for only $1.99 and on Sunday, you can buy a brownie or a square and another one at half price. 473 Parliament.

All of You Wellness Centre
Don Edwards is the director of the Wellness Centre that’s opened at 179 Carlton. He and his staff provide mental health services for better living - individual and group psychotherapy, relationship life and career coaching, couples and family therapy, mediation, parenting coordination and clinical hypnotherapy. The initial consultation is free and they offer student and special needs rates. 416-972-6622

One Hundred Years at Central Neighbourhood House
CNH has been a vital part of Cabbagetown life for a century. During this time, they’ve supported our families, immigrants, street people, new mothers and seniors. They’ve given hope to the poor, direction for young people and opportunities for newcomers. You can see an amazing slide show about their history at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQQ7sEyjkwA
This year, CNH is coming to the neighbourhoods that they’ve served to celebrate their birthday. In February, they want Cabbagetown to laugh in the face of winter at their Riverdale Park Winter Festival. On Sunday February 13 from noon to 3pm, there’ll be sleigh rides, games, hot chocolate, free hotdogs and toboggan rides for everyone. There’ll be music by local artists including Cabbagetown’s acclaimed children’s entertainer Jack Grunsky. Keep this date – more details to come.

Wales, Ireland, Scotland and Kentucky in a glass
Caroline at Big Mamma’s Boy is a whiskey expert. She’s bringing us the benefit of her knowledge on February 7 at 7 pm, hosting a tasting evening with whiskies and a four-course, prix fixe meal. Her theme is UK/Ireland meet bourbon – it should be a great evening. Reservations are recommended (416-927-1593). $65/each.
She’s also giving advance notice that Valentine’s reservations are now available. BMB is hosting a prix fixe dinner that promises to be perfect for couples and groups. $35/each.

Square dance tickets
Tickets are now available for the special Cabbagetown Square Dance that’s happening on Saturday February 26 from 6 to 10 pm in the Parish Hall, St Simon the Apostle Church, 525 Bloor Street. Whiskey Jack and Al Calhoun are featured performers. Reaching Out Through Music provides opportunities for children in St James Town to experience music regardless of their age or ability. The Square dance benefits the project. Tickets are $10/each and they’re available at the BIA office, 237 Carlton, 416-921-0857.

Our flag flying in Africa
Patricia sent us this photo of two Maasi junior elders displaying our flag in Amboseli Park in the south eastern part of Kenya. Thanks everyone – a very nice souvenir.