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Drake confirms 'Scorpion' will be a double album

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Well, it's official: this Friday, Drake will be gracing the world with not one, but two new albums— sort of.

The Toronto-based recording artist and actor confirmed on Instagram Thursday that the rumours about his highly-anticipated forthcoming release Scorpion are true. He's about to drop a double album.

Fans, of course, had been suspecting as much since cryptic OVO billboards started popping up around the city last week.

One billboard in particular all but gave the news away. "A SIDE, B SIDE" reads the ad. What else could that refer to?

👀🦂🎢

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Champagne Papi spilled the beans himself by posting a track listing for his fifth studio album on Instagram Thursday afternoon (but not until after after a well-connected source confirmed the rumours on Joe Budden's podcast.)

"Yes. It's a double album," said OVO Mal on the podcast Wednesday. said "It's a double album. It's an R&B and a rap album."

Can we assume, then, that one side will be rap and the other R&B? No, because it's dumb to assume. 

I guess we'll all find out either way tomorrow when the album finally drops.

🦂

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These are the most affordable neighbourhoods for condos in Toronto

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It's no secret that Toronto condo prices are ridiculous, but even in a city with a market as hot as ours, there are some areas where buying a condo will cost you slightly less.

Using data from the Toronto Real Estate board,  a new report released by Zoocasa maps the most affordable neighbourhoods in Toronto by condo price. Included in this map is the average income required to afford a condominium in the area. 

Here are the six most affordable neighbourhoods for condos in Toronto: 

West Hill, Centennial Scarborough

Bordered by Rouge River to the east and Lake Ontario to the south, West Hill and Centennial Scarborough in TREB's E10 district are the furthest thing from land-locked. Condos in these neighbourhoods, on average, as of May 2018, cost $253,822. An income of $40,547 is required to afford the average condo in this area. 

West Hill in Scarborough boasts the beautiful East Point Park that has bike trails; baseball diamonds; a pond and, of course, looks out over Lake Ontario. Just on the edge of Centennial Scarborough, aka Port Union, sit Scarborough institutions The Amazing Ted's Diner and Shamrock Burgers for some god ol' fashioned eats. 

Malvern, Rouge

North of Highway 401 and east of Markham Road in TREB's E11 district sit the Malvern and Rouge neighbourhoods. Here, the average condo price, as of May 2018, is $332,969. An annual income of $53,189 is required to afford a condo here. 

Near the Toronto Zoo in Scarborough, you'll find an abundance of places to get you moving with the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre and many ravines and parks — including Rouge Park, of course.  

Rexdale-Kipling, West Humber-Claireville

In TREB's W10 district are the affordable neighbourhoods of Rexdale-Kipling and West Humber-Claireville. The average condo price in these neighbourhoods, as of May 2018, is $346,796. An annual income of $55,397 is required for the average place. 

Here, you'll find the famed Samosa Sweet Factory, the Claireville Conservation Area, the Humber Arboretum and the Humber River running throughout. 

Below is a map generated by Zoocasa of the 20 cheapest Toronto districts to buy a condo in. 

affordable condo neighbourhoods

A graphic depicting neighbourhoods ranked by affordability. Courtesy Zoocasa.

Mascot Brewery in Toronto is closing

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Today in sad news for patio lovers (read: all people with souls), Mascot Brewery is shutting down in Toronto's entertainment district to make way for (you guessed it!) a luxury condo and hotel development.

Like Maison Mercer before it, Mascot Brewery is being booted from its current home by Nobu Residences— a two tower, 49-storey, Robert De Niro-backed project scheduled for completion in 2022.

Downstairs, Odd Thomas is in the same boat.

It's not all bad news, though. 

Mascot says it will reopen down the road, sometime this fall, though it has yet to announce exactly when or where. The bar will also be hosting a two-day-long rooftop bash this weekend.

"Yes, this is the end for our 31 Mercer location, but not the end for Mascot Brewery," writes the popular hangout in its closure announcement. "Due to redevelopment on the Mercer block, we'll be relocating and shutting these doors at the end of this month."

When one door closes, another opens. Yes, this is the end for our 31 Mercer location, but not the end for Mascot Brewery. Due to redevelopment on the Mercer block, we'll be relocating and shutting these doors at the end of this month. We are stoked to announce our move which will allow us to keep growing and continue to push our limits. More info coming very soon! We want to thank everyone who has taken interest in us over the years and we cannot be more appreciative of your support. Whether you've made us part of your regular rotation when going out, came by for dinner, just stopped in for a drink, been a part of our events, or are big supporters of our beer, we see you and thank you. With that being said, this one's for you - we're throwing one last party this weekend up on the Beergarden and Odd Thomas! Join us this Friday and Saturday for one last dance with @stfdjs, @tribealexander, @djmkutz + more and be a part of this historical moment for Mascot! Once again, thank you. It’s been real ✌️💛

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The post goes on to promise that more info is coming "very soon!" and to thank its many supporters. 

"With that being said, this one's for you - we're throwing one last party this weekend up on the Beergarden and Odd Thomas!" writes Mascot Brewery.

"Be a part of this historical moment for Mascot! Once again, thank you. It's been real."

10 things to do in Toronto today

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Events in Toronto today are for the hungry, with Rib Fest back to take over Centennial Park and the start of the new Scarborough Night Market. Big hats and fancy dresses are happening at the Queen's Plate and it's the first Indie Friday of the season.

Events you might want to check out:

Friday Night Live at the ROM (June 29 @ Royal Ontario Museum)
This week's edition of FNL has hot beats and good eats on deck, plus a look at the new exhibition Spiders: Fear & Fascination.
Indie Fridays (June 29 @ Yonge–Dundas Square)
YDS's free concert series of showcases highlighting emerging artists spanning all summer, kicking off with DJ Shub, DATU and hey! dw.
Ralph (June 29 @ The Great Hall Toronto)
Toronto's own Ralph has been getting noticed for her synth-pop stylings that mix disco and smooth soul for some sensuous vibes.
Herbie Hancock (June 29 @ Sony Centre for the Performing Arts)
Jazz legend Herbie Hancock arrives as part of the TD Jazz Festival to perform songs from his decades-long career catalogue.
Westwood (June 29 @ Multiple Venues)
Dame Vivienne Westwood: punk, icon, provocateur gets her own documentary chronicling her storied career in fashion.
Xpace Cultural Centre Summer Opening Reception (June 29 @ Xpace Cultural Centre)
This artist-run space is launching its summer programming with a series of exhibitions that cover a diverse range of cultural topics.
Queen's Plate Festival (June 29 - July 1 @ Woodbine Racetrack)
Dress your best for this weekend-long festival of horse racing, big hats and performances by country singer Brad Paisley.
Scarborough Night Market (June 29 - July 1 @ Agincourt Mall)
The flavours of Hong Kong hit Toronto in celebration of Canada Day with food, music, shopping and free outdoor movies all weekend long.
Toronto Rib Fest (June 29 - July 2 @ Centennial Park)
Arguably one of the largest rib fest celebrations of the year, some of the biggest names in the rib game serve up some of the best ribs in the country.
Frontrunner (June 29 - July 6 @ Bad Dog Comedy Theatre)
An unscripted comedy extravaganza is going down as comedians compete in an improved showcase to decide who is the champion.

Toronto Food Events: Rib Fest, Scarborough Night Market, Free Bingsu, Giro d'Italia

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Events in Toronto this week give you the opportunity to get your paws on some free bingsu, and Rib Fest takes over Centennial Park. The Scarborough Night Market kicks off with three days of festivities and Regent Park is serving up some goodies.

Events you might want to check out:

Scarborough Night Market (June 29 - July 1 @ Agincourt Mall)
The flavours of Hong Kong hit Toronto in celebration of Canada Day with food, music, shopping and free outdoor movies all weekend long.
Toronto Rib Fest (June 29 - July 2 @ Centennial Park)
Arguably one of the largest rib fest celebrations of the year, some of the biggest names in the rib game serve up some of the best ribs in the country.
Duke Eats Food Festival (June 30 @ 1290 Finch Avenue West)
Among all the food to be had, this huge outdoor festival boasts Indigenous markets, cultural showcases and live entertainment.
Beer.Diversity. (July 7 @ Black Creek Community Farm)
Ren Navarro believes that beer should be for everyone, and looks to discuss diversity in the beer industry while sipping on some brews.
Free Korean Bingsu (June 30 - July 1 @ Dear Fro)
Pick yourself up some Korean bingsu on a hot summer day, courtesy of Dear Fro as they launch two new flavours for the season.
Taste of Regent Park (July 4 - August 29 @ Toronto Regent Park)
Regent Park shows off its food and culture with a catered tasting series featuring an affordable produce market, activities, music and more.
Giro d'Italia (July 5-15 @ Multiple Venues)
Fifteen Italian resultants come together for a culinary experience with specials on menus meant to show of yummy regional Italian fare.
BurgerFest (July 13-15 @ Campbell House)
This is the year of the burger and a festival dedicated to the meaty creation is coming along with a beer garden, music, games and activities.
Summer Wine Jam (August 23 @ Berkeley Church)
Summer wouldn't be complete without a wine jam and this one features over 75 wines, pairings, tunes and good vibes into the night.
Food Truck Festival (August 3-6 @ Woodbine Park)
Woodbine Park is set to fill up with food trucks form all over the city. Take your pick from a ton of food options and crack a cold one to match.
The Famous Canadian Beer Run (September 15 @ Ontario Place)
A five-kilometre run is going down through Ontario Place, capped off with a beer festival. If running isn't your thing, there's yoga, live music and food to be had.

Sold! Unique Toronto home sells for $1.55 million

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This house gives me modern church vibes, with all the windows and the white stone exterior. It also might give off that aesthetic because the house dwarfs the two bungalows on either side, making it seem larger than life.46 stephen drive torontoInside, the custom-designed home is modern and filled with tons of sunlight courtesy of all the windows and skylights.

46 stephen drive torontoThe kitchen reminds me of the kind you usually see in condos. It’s a shame it’s not bigger but the open-concept floor plan makes the home perfect for entertaining.

46 stephen drive torontoThe bedrooms are spacious and the bathrooms are modern with spa-like features.

46 stephen drive torontoThere’s plenty of extra room in the basement: the rec room looks like it would be the perfect place to make a practice dance studio if your kids were into ballet.

46 stephen drive toronto The backyard, while looks a bit desolate since the photos were taken in the winter, looks like it would transform into quite the nice little garden in the summer. The big tree providing adequate shade to enjoy evening meals on the patio.

46 stephen drive torontoThe only thing about the place that isn’t ideal is the location. It’s next door to the Humber Treatment Plant in Etobicoke, near Park Lawn Road and The Queensway.

46 stephen drive toronto​​​​​​​The Essentials
  • Address: 46 Stephen Drive
  • Type: House
  • Bedrooms: 4
  • Bathrooms: 4
  • Size: 33 x 105 feet
  • Realtor: Axxess Real Estate
  • Hit the market at: $1,625,000
  • Sold for: $1,550,000
46 stephen drive torontoWhy it sold for what it did?

This house used to be a tiny bungalow and now it’s a brand new custom-designed three-storey home. If it was in a different neighbourhood it would likely go for much more.

46 stephen drive torontoWas it worth it?

If you think about the cost of making this home what it is today I’d say it’s worth every penny.46 stephen drive toronto

The top 5 new snack bars in Toronto

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The top new snack bars in Toronto know that when it comes to keeping the party going, nothing goes better with drinking than food. Whether one of these newly opened hangouts is your second, third, or fourth stop of the night (or whether you quit counting) they all provide the fuel needed along your journey at any point in the evening.

Here are my picks for the top new snack bars in Toronto.

SoSo Food Club

Satisfy your appetite during an outing along Dundas West with dan dan noodles, spicy chicken salad and dumplings at this Chinese spot from the folks behind Otto’s Bierhalle. Hungry for more? Order the mapo tofu made with an entire lobster.

Founder

The skewers are my favourite at this new Dundas West place, especially a catfish that imitates unagi, but they also wow with green curry fried chicken. Give this unassuming gem a try, especially if you find yourself turned away from the many other packed restaurants and bars in the area.

Dumbo

There’s far too much staring at a phone screen going on in Toronto bars that are supposed to be all about coming together face-to-face, and this Parkdale bar wants to put a stop to it with a phone checking system. Share quesadillas, avocado toast, dips and sliders for under $10 with your drinking buddies as you get to really know them.

Mum’s the Word

Snacks take on an island flair at this corner spot in Little Italy that’s been crying out to become a casual bar hangout. They also do coffee during the day and brunch on weekends.

Paris Paris

Turn the phrase “rosé all day” into a reality at this all-day wine bar on Dundas West from the people behind Superpoint. Wine and double cheeseburgers, together at last.

Extreme heat warning issued for Toronto ahead of long weekend

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This weekend is going to be hot — a legitimate Heat Warning kind of hot, according to the City of Toronto. 

In a new press release issued today, the City of Toronto's Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Eileen de Villa, re-affirmed that there is, in fact, a heat warning and it will remain in effect "until further notice" —  and they're not quite sure when it will let up. 

Humidex values will be in the mid 40 C range by this afternoon.

To get out of the extreme heat, the city operates swimming pools, beaches and air-conditioned shopping malls, in addition to 180 air-conditioned community centres and libraries around the city. 

Where is this weather coming from? Is it a result of the thunderstorms? Or is it Drake's fault?


The Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Toronto

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The best gluten-free restaurants in Toronto offer celiac-free menus or helpfully offer substitutions to offending ingredients. If you’ve got an allergy or intolerance, there’s plenty of places in the city taking gluten-free meals to the next, delicious level.

Here are the best gluten-free restaurants in Toronto.

6 - Planta

This Yorkville spot includes elevated wheat-free menu items like crispy tater tots made of cauliflower and a veggie hot pot served in a coconut.
7 - Hibiscus Cafe

Famous for their 42-ingredient salad, everything at this Kensington eatery is completely gluten-free, vegan and organic. There’s zero risk of finding any gluten here: the whole menu is yours to try.
11 - Sorelle and Co. (Yorkville)

Grab some smoothie bowls and grilled cheese sandwiches – completely gluten-free – from this pretty Yorkville spot. It’s an elegant place to munch on some avocado toasts and baked goods too.
3 - Khao San Road (Charlotte St.)

This Thai fave in the Entertainment District has a whole separate menu dedicated to vegan and non-glutenous dishes, meaning you can enjoy your beef khao soi noodles without the worry of glutenous sauces like soy and the occasional fish sauce.
4 - Kupfert & Kim (Spadina)

Everything on this menu is gluten-free, even their oats (which are naturally free of gluten, but often get processed with wheat and barley). With locations scattered around the Financial District, this brand is basically synonymous with healthy eating: grab an Oaxaca bowl and revel in healthiness.
5 - Fresh on Eglinton

A separate “gluten allergy friendly” menu at this favourite with locations around the city is extensive, meaning you’re not missing out on anything tasty while being guarded against any accidental reactions. Items include full bowls, tacos, and sweet potato fries.
9 - District Eatery

Located on King West, this hangout equipped with a great rooftop patio offers gluten-free snacks like kale and yam on gluten-free crostini and bowls heaped with quinoa and healthy veggies.
10 - Impact Kitchen

One hundred percent gluten-free, you can get all sorts of meals and treats throughout the day here, made fresh in this Corktown kitchen. One plus here is that they offer meat options too because not all celiac avoiders are exclusively vegetarian.
8 - The Beet

This cute Junction spot isn’t purely wheat-free or vegetarian even, but there’s one gluten-free dish here absolutely worth visiting for: the mac and cheese. Doused in Quebecois cheddar sauce, these gluten-free noodles are here to remedy all those times you've been denied the dish.

The top 10 events in Toronto this July

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Top events in Toronto for July 2018 are ones you'll probably be hearing a lot about — or in the case with the Hondy Indy, actually hearing. Ontario Place is flipping burgers and serving up beer while Lole White tours for another year, there's also lots of free stuff happening this month.

Events you might want to check out:

Electric Island (July 1 @ Hanlan's Point)
Round two of this electro concert series on the Islands kicks off with a special Canada Day celebration featuring Anna, Jackmaster, Jade and more.
Toronto Fringe Festival (July 4-15 @ Multiple Venues)
Theatres across the city play host to a variety of plays by upcoming and established playwrites on the fringe of the performing arts scene.
BurgerMania (July 6-8 @ Ontario Place)
It's the first ever BurgerMania where burger vendors from all over the city come together for a patty smackdown.
Vans Warped Tour (July 17 @ Budweiser Stage)
Vans Warped Tour comes to an end after 24 glorious years of raucous partying and music with performances by Sum 41, Bowling for Soup, and The Used.
Honda Indy (July 13-15 @ Exhibition Place)
Revving, screeching and zipping takes over Toronto for two days this month as the Honda Indy returns with beer gardens, food, activities and more.
Kevin Hart (July 21 @ Air Canada Centre)
Funnyman Kevin Hart lands in Toronto for the night to bring the laughs and real talk as part of his The Irresponsible Tour.
Bastid's BBQ (July 22 @ 525 King St W)
A full day of barbecue and tunes is returning to King Street with grub, and live performances courtesy of DJ Skratch Bastid.
Lole White Tour (July 26 @ Exhibition Place)
Wellness and community come together for this huge, all-white, travelling outdoor yoga event taking place in the glow of the summer sunset.
Toronto's Festival of Beer (July 26-29 @ Bandshell Park)
Beers, brews, brewski's, cold ones and suds are all on tap at this festival dedicated to the crispiest ciders and boldest blonds.
Hop Chow Fest (July 28 @ Propeller Coffee)
Bloor and Lansdowne is set to be block party ground zero this month as Hop Chow returns with a full day of food, music, drinks and more.

Drake just revealed that he has a son

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The music video for Hotline Bling finally all makes sense. Drake doesn't just floss like a dad on the dance floor — he's actually someone's dad.

Toronto's very own dropped his fifth studio album, Scorpion, last night (in case you haven't heard) and it is a doozy. A double doozy.

Drake goes hard and deep on the 25-track Double LP, alluding to everything from breaking out of his record deal with Young Money to getting punched by Diddy and hooking up with The Weeknd's ex, Bella Hadid.

The biggest bombshell, however, comes in the form of an apparent confession that Pusha-T was right all along: Drake does have a secret son named Adonis.

"... I wasn't hiding my kid from the world, I was hiding the world from my kid," raps the Canadian artist on a track called "Emotionless."

The alum's final track, "March 14," is even more explosively revealing.

"She's not my lover like Billie Jean, but the kid is mine. Sandi used to tell me all it takes is one time. Shit, we only met two times. Two times, and both times were nothing like the new times," he raps.

"Now it's rough times. I'm out here on front lines just tryna make sure that I see him sometimes," Drake continues. "It's breaking my spirit. A single father, I hate when I hear it. I used to challenge my parents on every album. Now I'm embarrassed to tell them I ended up as a co-parent."

Yeah. This goes on and on, with the artist at one point appearing to confirm that one of his tattoos is in honour of his son's birthday, October 11.

The child's mother is rumoured to be former adult film star Sophie Brussaux , but Drake does not mention anyone in particular by name on the new album.

Perhaps the young prince will make his way into a music video or Champagne Papi's Instagram feed at some point. Unlikely, but who knows?

For now, concern yourself with the new album, which features such esteemed guests as Paul Anka, Jay Z, Nicki Minaj, Future, Ty Dolla $ign, Statik Major and a posthumous Michael Jackson.

Scorpion is available to be streamed on Apple Music now.

Doug Ford officially sworn in as premier of Ontario

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The Honourable Doug Ford — controversial Etobicoke businessman and brother to late former Toronto mayor Rob Ford — is now officially Ontario's top dog.

Ford, who secured a majority win for his PC party during the June 7 general election, was sworn in by Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell at Queen's Park shortly after 11 a.m. on Friday morning.

"I, Doug Ford, swear that I will duly and faithfully and to the best of my skill and knowledge execute the powers and trust reposed to me as premier and president of the council and minister of intergovernmental affairs of the province of Ontario, so help me God," said the new Premier as he took his Oath of Office in the Ontario legislature.

The ceremony, which puts the PCs in power for the first time 2003, proceeded with the swearing in of Ford's 21 cabinet members, a full list of which is currently being widely circulated and scrutinized online.

Hundreds are now gathered outside Queen's Park, where Ford is expected to make a speech "for the people."

Many of those present are Ford supporters.

Some are not.

Ford is set to reaffirm his oath of office in the presence of Lt.-Gov. Elizabeth Dowdeswell on the steps of Queen's Park before delivering his speech.

It is not yet known what Ford will say during this speech, but we do know, based on what he said prior to being sworn in, that his first acts as Premier will be to scrap the province's cap-and-trade system, carry out a hiring freeze, and maybe try to get subways extended out to the suburbs, somehow.

You can watch the entire show right here:

Metal detectors are coming to City Hall

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Visiting Toronto City Hall will soon feel a lot more like passing through an airport, according to enhanced security measures that were passed by Council on Thursday night. 

According to a staff report on the enhanced security measures at Toronto City Hall, council approved baggage security screening, walk-through metal detectors and the installation of a "physical security measure" to replace the ropes that currently surround the Council Chamber.

"Toronto City Hall is the seat of municipal government, corporate head office for Canada's largest city, and one of the most distinctive, symbolic, and iconic buildings in the City of Toronto," reads the report. 

"Unfortunately, these attributes may also make Toronto City Hall a target for serious threats and some key measures required to mitigate these threats are not currently present."

Expense-wise, the cost will amount to $365,000 in four additional security staff and hours.

Baggage screening will cost $162,000 to implement. The installation of the walk-through metal detectors will cost $85,000. These measures are set to come into effect sometime this summer. 

Mystery heroes rescue blind man from subway tracks in Toronto

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Not every shocking incident involving Toronto's transit system is a bad one — though, if not for a few brave travellers, this definitely could have been.

Three men are being hailed as heroes today after rescuing a passenger who'd fallen onto the tracks at Broadview Station Thursday afternoon.

In a a now-viral Facebook post, witness Julie Caniglia explains that she heard a faint voice calling out "help, help me please" upon arriving at Broadview Station.

Upon looking out from the platform, she and another passenger saw a man lying on the tracks with a walking cane. The man was blind, according to Caniglia, and had been injured in his fall from the platform.

"Without hesitation the man you see in this picture, in the animal shirt, jumped into the tracks to pull him out," she wrote on Facebook with a photo showing the injured man surrounded by three others.

"Thankfully, two other men showed up to help as well and this story has a happy ending," she continued. "Please pass this photo around, these men need to be recognized as good Samaritans. If they hadn't reacted so quickly, the outcome would have been horrific."

The man who'd fallen was rushed to hospital with minor injuries, according to TTC officials, but those who had saved him were gone by the time the agency's chief superintendent arrived at the scene — just like actual superheroes.

The TTC says that, at the time of the incident, another customer on the platform was quick to push the blue button that cuts off power to the deadly third rail, which could electrocute anyone who touches it.

Still, the unknown man in the animal print shirt risked his life to save another by jumping onto the tracks of an active subway line.

Nearly 3,500 have now commented on Caniglia's post in less than 24 hours, many to praise the rescuers and ask that they come forward for recognition.

This has not yet happened, a huge fan base is already waiting if and when they reveal themselves publicly.

Either way, the story is cheering a lot of people up during an otherwise trying time for Toronto.

"Just when you thought the world was a bad place, hope returns," commented one person on Facebook. "Thank you."

"As a subway operator on Line One, I know from personal experience how fast a situation like this can deteriorate," wrote another. "I know too the dangers these guys were exposing themselves to by helping this man. A brave and kind act."

Nobody is complaining about King Street anymore

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King Street has got lots going for it. It's the largest surface level transit route in North America, and it's home to a bunch of great bars, restaurants, theatres, tech companies, and now, art installations too.

We'll check in with some local businesses to see how the King Street pilot project is working out for them now that summer is here, plus the latest local news and fake news quiz on our Only in Toronto podcast.

People and places featured in this episode include:

Articles referenced in this episode include:

More reading on the King Street Transit Pilot:

Ways to subscribe to the Only in Toronto podcast.

You can also listen to the Only in Toronto podcast on Alexa. Just ask Alexa to play the podcast Only in Toronto.


Satirical Honest Ed's signs highlight how unaffordable Toronto is

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They may be dead ringers for the iconic sales signs at Honest Ed's (RIP) but, as the man who created them warns: "these showcards are literally too good to be true."

dishonest eds signsToronto artist Christopher Rouleau — the same designer behind those brilliant lettered meat signs and maps — just launched a new series of prints that are equal parts cute and cutting.

Called 'Dishonest Signs', they present a critique of modern culture in the nostalgia-inducing, Reubenesque (as in Wayne Reuben) aesthetic of showcards from Honest Ed's, which closed at the end of 2016 and has since been demolished completely.

Rouleau calls the finished product "a cheeky commentary about consumer trends and rising costs in the city of Toronto."

dishonest eds signsSeveral pieces from the set skewer food trends — particularly those that inspire people to wait for hours to get one snap for Instagram.

dishonest eds signsAnd those that have developed a reputation for being overpriced.

dishonest eds signsAt least three of them point to the skyrocketing cost of tickets to see professional sports teams play at home.

dishonest eds signsNot to mention superstar musicians.

dishonest eds signsAre they unrealistic? Sure, but the outlandish dishonesty of what these signs advertise is precisely what makes them smart — and also kind of sad.

dishonest eds signs

All of the work has been hand-painted with One Shot enamel paint and will be for sale at Pixel & Bristle at the Drake Underground this Saturday, if you're interested. They come in 12x16 signed originals, or in a set of postcards.

If you order them online, it'll cost you $25 for six postcards plus shipping. Sign of the times, I guess — but still less than two orders of avocado toast at a nice brunch spot.

10 things to do in Toronto today

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Events in Toronto today give you the chance to spend your Saturday eating free bingsu, dancing it out to the Biebs, partying under the Gardiner or filling up at the DUKE Eats Festival. The possibilities are endless!

Events you might want to check out:

Duke Eats Food Festival (June 30 @ 1290 Finch Avenue West)
Among all the food to be had, this huge outdoor festival boasts Indigenous markets, cultural showcases and live entertainment.
Sorry: Justin Bieber Dance Party (June 30 @ Sneaky Dee's)
If you can think of a better way to ring in Canada Day than with our most iconic pop star signing what could very well be the national anthem, I'd like to hear it.
Sunnyside 20 (June 30 @ Sunnyside Pavilion & Cafe)
Sunnnyside's weekly beach party returns for another night under the stars with dancing, drinks and DJs Chus + Ceballos.
80's & 90's Video Dance Party (June 30 @ Remix Lounge)
What would a long weekend be without a retro dance party? This one shines a light on new wave legends Depeche Mode in their prime.
Beer.Diversity. (July 7 @ Black Creek Community Farm)
Ren Navarro believes that beer should be for everyone, and looks to discuss diversity in the beer industry while sipping on some brews.
Tell Em Boobs Bye (June 30 @ Comedy Bar)
Non-binary comedian Chantel Marostica joins fellow comedians to roast Marostica’s boobs during this fundraiser for surgery.
The Devil at Your Heels (June 30 @ The Royal Cinema)
Follow the journey of Canadian stunt driver Ken Carter as he raises the money needed to build a rocket-car for the stunt of a lifetime.
Finnfellas (June 30 @ Buddies in Bad Times)
It's Goodfellas meets Austin Powers in this comedy cabaret about two detective brothers, a criminal and a sassy police chief.
Free Korean Bingsu (June 30 - July 1 @ Dear Fro)
Pick yourself up some Korean bingsu on a hot summer day, courtesy of Dear Fro as they launch two new flavours for the season.
CITE Opening Weekend (June 30 - July 1 @ The Bentway)
One of the city's newest public spaces starts the season off by with a two-day party and a summer-long celebration of skateboarding arts and culture.

This quirky Toronto convenience store sells chips and Elvis busts

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There's a corner store in Cabbagetown that's taking 'convenience' to the next level by offering the thing you never knew you needed: Elvis busts. 

Located at 526 Parliament Street, just south of Wellesley, Fairway Market looks like your typical neighbourhood go-to, the place you hit up after work for cat food and a pack of smokes.elvis busts torontoOr so it seems, until you spot the row of Grecian sculpture-style Elvis heads mounted on pillars in the convenience store window.

Hidden at the very back of Fairway between shelves of Lays chips, potable plants and Bounty paper towel rolls, there's around ten of these stoic beauties all lined up in single file, gazing out onto Parliament Street.

Many questions will run through your head once you've discovered these oddities, the most pressing of which will likely be, "But why?" 

elvis busts torontoThe owner of Fairway Market, Domingo Han, doesn't know why. 

"It's a weird mix of people buying it for jokes, for their home, I couldn't really tell you," he says. 

According to Han, his family has owned the convenience store since 1974 and has been stocking the gypsum plaster busts of the cultural icon since he was a little kid. 

elvis busts torontoSelling at around $60 apiece (there's also a variety dogs and cats for $25), Fairway sells over a hundred of them a year. 

"They're always in demand," he says. "I wouldn't have them if there wasn't." 

He tells me the busts – which are actually piggy banks, surprise – are made by an old Italian man named Franco who delivers them from Woodbridge in a little truck four or five times yearly. 

elvis busts torontoHe doesn't speak much English, and he's hard to get a hold of, but the two will occasionally jump on the phone when stock is running low. 

As the crafstman gets older, however, its less likely that he'll go on making the busts much longer. Han predicts it'll be a few more years until Franco calls it quits. 

"Once he says that's it, that's it." 

elvis busts torontoAnd with that, something in me switches. There's something urgently sad about the idea of this weird kitschy product going deadstock forever. Maybe I do need this plaster Elvis bust with the Corinthian pillar, maybe it's all I've ever needed. 

Suddenly my hands are going for my wallet, the impulse item is calling. Like Elvis said, it's now or never

elvis busts toronto

The 5 most expensive condos for sale in Toronto right now

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The most expensive condos for sale in Toronto right now are worth the price, to someone. Take a walk on the wild side and search properties from highest price to lowest, and these are what you'll find. 

Here are the most expensive condos for sale in Toronto right now. 
most expensive condos toronto

For all the money that was put into designing this place, they really went with those curtains? 

50 Yorkville Avenue, #5401 ($13,900,00) 

For a cool $13 million you can live at the corner of Bay and Yorkville in this very modern abode. One one level (not even two for that price?) you'll get two (plus one) bedrooms, four bathrooms, a foyer, a laundry room, a library and two all-purpose rooms to do whatever with. 

most expensive condos toronto

Live just like grandmother in this beige haven. 

175 Cumberland Street, #1707 ($9,995,000)

Steps from Avenue and Bloor and high in the sky is this almost $10 million condo — decked out in beige, beige and more beige. Here you'll be able to sleep comfortably knowing you have six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, an exercise room and a foyer. 

most expensive condos toronto

With that many chairs, you'll always be expected to host the dinner parties. 

16 Harbour Street, #5401 ($7,250,000)

Now here's something worth the money; this condo, steps from the Centre Island ferry docks, boasts a private indoor "sky pool" with a spa attached. For a cool seven-and-a-quarter million you get two floors of condo, an internal elevator, three bedrooms, five bathrooms and six total parking spaces to yourself. 
most expensive condos toronto

Live your best life with easy access wine racks. 

183 Wellington Street East, #4704 ($6,750,000)

Other than the fact that you can brag about living at The Residences at The Ritz-Carleton across from Simcoe Park, this condo doesn't offer many in-suite extras. Well, besides the wine racks right near the kitchen. Avoid the public with direct elevator access, and sleep soundly in one of three bedrooms. 

most expensive condos toronto

So many seats for a single family dwelling. 

118 Merchant's Wharf, #Ph12 ($6,450,000)

Enjoy the ultra-posh convenience of having an in-suite elevator to get between the two floors of this penthouse pretty much right on the water in the new Bayside development neighbourhood. This suite has two terraces, six balconies, a private outdoor pool, three bedrooms and five bathrooms. 

How to book a fire pit in a Toronto park

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Toronto parks are good for more than just tossing the ball around or lounging in the sun. In addition to sports facilities, our parks are also home to fire pits, the latter of which allow city dwellers to soak up a bit of the country vibe with nightly camp fires. It's not too much of a pain to book one and it's pretty affordable, too.

Here's what you have to do to book a fire pit. 

Getting a permit

In order to use the fire pits a permit must be obtained. During the spring, summer and early autumn months, it's relatively simple to book a fire pit.

To make a permit request, you need to physically pick up a telephone and dial the customer service permit call centre (416.396.7378, select option 2, call from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday).

You tell the customer service rep which fire pit you're interested in (see our list below), they check to see if it's available, permit and insurance are issued with payment and signature due at time of booking.

Now that was for booking a "designated fire pit," to book a "non-designated fire pit" it's a bit trickier. A "non-designated fire pit" is a facility with a fire pit that has not been pre-approved by Toronto Fire Services. 

Call the customer service permit call centre, they'll forward you the Toronto Fire Services Form & Parks Protocol Form to complete. Once that form has been approved by Toronto Fire Services, someone from the customer service permit call centre will contact you and issue a permit that'll you sign and pay. 

The cost

The cost of renting an approved pit depends on the size of your crew. It's $26.96 for 25 people or fewer, and $88.42 for 26 or more. An unapproved pit is $88.42 regardless, plus an undisclosed additional fee. 

Insurance is mandatory, and it's an extra $27 to $54, depending on the crowd. All not including HST. 

So is this a seasonal thing?

The regular fire pit permit season is May 1 to October 30, weather permitting, but you can book select fire pits year-round.

Parks with pits
  • Ashbridges Bay Park 
  • Campbell Park
  • Carlton Park* 
  • Christie Pits Park*  
  • Corktown Common 
  • Derrydowns Park 
  • Dovercourt Park* 
  • Downsview Dells Park 
  • Dufferin Grove Park 
  • Earl Bales Park 
  • Etienne Brulé Park
  • G Ross Lord Park 
  • Greenwood Park* 
  • Home Smith Park 
  • Macgregor Playground  
  • Morningside Park 
  • Northwood Park 
  • Orchard Park* 
  • Perth Square Park 
  • Stephenson Park* 
  • Taylor Creek Park 
  • Thomson Memorial Park 
  • Toronto Island Park - Centre Island 
  • Toronto Island Park - Hanlan's Point 
  • Toronto Island Park - Olympic Island 
  • Toronto Island Park - Snake Island 
  • Wallace Emerson Park 
  • Wilket Creek Park 
  • Withrow Park* 

*can be booked year-round, depending. 

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