DeMar DeRozan is out and Kawhi Leonard is in (however reluctantly) after the Toronto Raptors completed a blockbuster multiplayer trade involving both All-Star players, Danny Green, Jakob Poeltl and a protected 2019 first-round draft pick.

Official: We've acquired Kawhi Leonard & Danny Green from the San Antonio Spurs for DeMar DeRozan, Jakob Poeltl & a 2019 protected first-round draft pick.

More » https://t.co/074JddI7afpic.twitter.com/kESo1ldLdz

— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) July 18, 2018

Spurs fans may be happy to part ways with Leonard, but Raptors fans are just straight up heartbroken to see DeRozan leave for San Antonio.

y’all... i’m sad now pic.twitter.com/wO7JwvvFsV

— 🙂 (@jonatha_tan) July 18, 2018

The 28-year-old Compton, California native is more than Toronto's all-time leading scorer (though he is that, for certain): He's the face of the modern Raptors franchise and a valued member of the community, known for his work with local youth and mental health advocacy.

Looking forward to Year 3 of my Youth 🏀@ProCamps this September in The 6! Click below for details & to sign up #WeTheNorth.https://t.co/urynfdQKuX

— DeMar DeRozan (@DeMar_DeRozan) June 3, 2018

"During DeRozan's tenure with the team that drafted him in 2009, the perception of the city and the franchise changed dramatically for the better and the All-NBA guard from Compton drove that shift more than any player the club has ever had," wrote Sportsnet analyst Michael Grange.

Two new Players Tribune pieces going up soon.

DeMar DeRozan: Dear Toronto, I love you, thank you for everything I'll never forget you I put the city on my back forever. I promise to always hold you in my heart.

Kawhi Leonard: Dear San Antonio, I used to live there.

— az (@the_Zubes) July 18, 2018

"DeRozan wanted to be a Raptor for life and did nearly everything possible to prove that commitment on the floor, where you could always find him given his status as a modern-day NBA ironman," Grange continued.

"He showed up to work. In nine seasons he was never late for a team function."

They're clearing out the DeRozan jerseys in Toronto...

(🎥 IG/binkysmalls) pic.twitter.com/lOUC9yzIvZ

— theScore (@theScore) July 18, 2018

Fans are mad, but they're not blaming DeRozan for the move.

Raptors fans know it wasn’t DeMar’s fault 🙃 (submitted by @zachreid._) pic.twitter.com/6AP23RE9JJ

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) July 18, 2018

In fact, the NBA guard has been inundated with love on Twitter, all day long, from fellow pro athletes such as Blue Jays pitcher Marcus Stroman...

Man. Loved everything about @DeMar_DeRozan’s game and passion for the city. Going to miss showing up to the ACC, watch him go for 40 with the smoothest mid-range game in the league. Wishing you nothing but the best my brother. Respect everything you represent and stand for!

— Marcus Stroman (@MStrooo6) July 18, 2018

The same can't be said for Raptors GM Masai Ujiri, who just last month fired head coach Dwane Casey after a franchise-record 59-win season.

pic.twitter.com/31KbY5hz3i

— Evan (@itsTOZZE) July 18, 2018

Some fans say they're swearing off basketball altogether in light of the news — though can they really call themselves "fans" if they'd rather watch hockey for literally any reason at all?

When you find out the @Raptors traded your favourite player 😅😢pic.twitter.com/MPRCfFmdmy

— Jeanylyn Lopez (@jeanylynlopez) July 18, 2018

Others are calling upon the City of Toronto to retire DeRozan's jersey or erect a statue in his honour, which would be pretty cool.

Dear fans of Toronto,
It’s time you guys build a statue of @DeMar_DeRozan Regardless of what happens. He deserves it. 🇨🇦

— Terrence Ross (@TFlight31) July 18, 2018

Toronto Twitter is just DeRozan everything right now.

All of Toronto should change their profile pics to @DeMar_DeRozanpic.twitter.com/ZWwKXsjxB1

— Josie Dye (@josiedye) July 18, 2018

DeRozan's best dunks...

(2013) This Demar Derozan dunk needs to get talked about more.

Nasty. pic.twitter.com/2wMHRPwRNw

— Timeless Sports (@timelesssports_) July 18, 2018

DeRozan's funniest comedy sketches...

The real reason DeMar DeRozan got traded pic.twitter.com/4ld8MK7l3T

— JzoSports (@JzoSports) July 18, 2018

DeRozan's beautiful bromance with best friend and fellow baller Kyle Lowry...

Brothers to the end. The Kyle Lowry-DeMar DeRozan was a lot of fun. Sad to see it go.

via @theScorepic.twitter.com/afVeGzAWWi

— Chris Walder (@WalderSports) July 18, 2018

DeRozan even got a shout-out from Drake.

To my brother @demar_derozan I want to say 10 million thank you’s on behalf of YOUR city. You are a fixture in Toronto forever and you gave everything you had. Through your leadership we had the most exciting years in franchise history. I am grateful to have witnessed your combination of skill, persistence, and loyalty from the same seats every night. Thank you for being an incredible captain and an even better friend. To Kawhi...we look forward to a this new chapter and we welcome you to the most intense and supportive city in NBA basketball!!! You have always been a poised clinical warrior and I can’t wait to see how Toronto inspires your fight. Let’s Go Raptors.

A post shared by champagnepapi (@champagnepapi) on Jul 18, 2018 at 12:24pm PDT

10 million thank you's, indeed. We love you DeMar, wherever you are.

Toronto's most iconic green-bottled craft beer brewery Steam Whistle is expanding with a spin-off brand called Von Bugle Brewing. 

Steam Whistle has only made one beer for the past 18 years (their premium Pilsner) meaning this is their first new brew since 2000 – just under a different name. 

A post shared by Von Bugle Brewing (@therealvonbugle) on Jun 19, 2018 at 3:18pm PDT

Von Bugle Brewing opened up at 249 Evans Avenue in Etobicoke in May, and its Munich Lager – a cold fermented and long-aged dark beer – is already available on taps around Toronto like Rodney's Oyster House and Craft Brasserie. 

Our Czech Brewmaster Marek Mikunda enjoying his Von Bugle Munich Lager fresh from the tanks. #vonbuglebrewing

A post shared by Von Bugle Brewing (@therealvonbugle) on Jun 12, 2018 at 4:32pm PDT

Marek Mikunda, Von Bugle's brewmaster, is a former Steam Whistle OG and has returned from Czech Republic to lead Von Bugle with his European brewing expertise. 

Building a bar is hard work 🍻 #builditandtheywillcome

A post shared by Von Bugle Brewing (@therealvonbugle) on Jul 12, 2018 at 3:25pm PDT

The new brewery will also be equipped with a bar, which judging by a recent IG post, is still in the works. 

Go Go Gadget, mass consumption! The hotly-anticipated Costco store at Coca-Cola Canada's former headquarters campus in Toronto is finally, at long last, ready to open. 

"Costco Wholesale Canada is pleased to announce the official opening of its first membership warehouse club in Thorncliffe Park," reads a press release from the company.

Here is what a Costco progress pic looks like 😉 Costco Thorncliffe Park coming soon!
Beat the rush—sign up at the membership trailer onsite. pic.twitter.com/FQ1o415ECh

— Costco Canada (@costcocanada) May 2, 2018

A ribbon cutting ceremony with such dignitaries as former Ontario premier Kathleen Wynne and Don Valley West MP Rob Oliphant is slated to take place next Tuesday just before the store opens at 8 a.m.

While originally meant to launch in February of this year, the project was delayed by what appeared to be weather-related construction woes at 42 Overlea Boulevard.

Thank goodness that's all behind us now. I hope your mom has room in the pantry for more paper towel and Dunkaroos!

It's an eclectic day for events in Toronto. Protesters gather to read the controversial 2015 sex-ed curriculum outside of Queen's Park and St. Lawrence Market is throwing a big summer party. Elsewhere, movies, music and more food round out the rest of this fine Thursday.

Toronto restaurant openings highlight the latest food news in Toronto and gives a preview of what's coming soon. Find us here every Thursday morning.

Open now

• M’eat Resto Butcher, a "neighbourhood butcher shop and meat-forward restaurant," is now open at 806 Queen Street East in Riverside.
• Paradise Grapevine, a wine and beer bar with a sweet back patio, has taken over what was formerly Menalon Restaurant at 841 Bloor Street West in Bloorcourt.
• Stray, a "cocktail-based snack bar," with "everything motorcycles" has opened at 532 College Street (just east of Euclid Avenue) in Little Italy.
• Chinese restaurant Noodle & More (from the owner of Dumpling & More) is now open at 402 Bloor Street West in the Annex.
• Another Chinese spot, Greedy Duck, has also opened at 316 College Street in what used to be a Teashop 168.
• Jodie's Joint, a hemp-themed community cafe in what was formerly Casa Coffee, is now open at 235 Augusta Avenue in Kensington Market.
• Basil Box has opened a new location at Royal Bank Plaza at 200 Bay Street in the Financial District.
• May Flowers, a full-service floral studio and cafe all under one roof, is now open at 1020 St. Clair Avenue West (at Appleton Avenue).
• Brampton's MexiCados Burritos & Bowls has opened its first Toronto location in the former Belmonte Raw space 1022 Queen Street East in Leslieville.
• Vista Eatery, an eclectic dining spot from chef Daniel Janetos, is now open at Ontario Place.
• The Yard, from the same team behind Hogtown Smoke, has taken over what was formerly Whitlock's at 1961 Queen Street East (at Kenilworth Avenue) in the Beaches.
• Waffle brunch spot Starving Artist now has a new location at 467 Danforth (at Logan Avenue) in Greektown.

Recently reviewed

• Aniq
• Beer Batter Fish N' Chips
• Milkcow
• Koi Koi Sake Bar
• Big Trouble Bar
• Fortunate Fox
• PappaRoti
• Fargo's Snack Bar
• Pam's Roti
• Station Cafe

Opening soon

• Alma, a restaurant from chef Anna Chen (Figo, Famiglia Baldassarre, Buca Yorkville), opens tomorrow in what was previously Karelia Kitchen at 1194 Bloor Street West (between Brock and Pauline) in Bloordale.
• Copenhagen Vegan Cafe is set to open this summer at 1312 Queen Street West in Vegandale (a.k.a. Parkdale).
• Montreal's Ramen Misoya will be opening a Toronto location soon at 646 Queen Street West (at Palmerston).
• Brazillian sweets shop Mary’s Brigadeiro is opening its first store soon at 1912 Danforth Avenue.
• Village Pizza has applied for a liquor license at Henderson Brewing at 128A Sterling Road in the Junction Triangle.
• Oliver & Bonacini will soon be opening Parcheggio Ristorante and Beauty Barbecue & Smokehouse in the former Origin North space at Bayview Village Shops at 2901 Bayview Avenue.

Closed

• San Francesco on Queen Street West has closed and a second location of Cluck Clucks will be taking over the space.

Other news

• Maison Fou has moved to new digs at 791 Dundas Street West (between Palmerston and Markham).

Have you seen restaurants opening or closing in your neighbourhood? Email tips to editors@blogto.com.

A rowdy group of apparent Torontonians are being slammed today for conduct most unbecoming of soccer fans (at least in Canada) during last night's MLS game in our nation's capital.

Ottawa Fury FC has confirmed that "TFC supporters" set off fireworks and flares at Ottawa's TD Place Stadium on July 18. One of said supporters even went so far as to throw a flare on the field mid-game, sparking panic and fury all over the venue.

Why everyone hates Toronto. pic.twitter.com/D1nJ5qLT7o

— apt613 (@apt613) July 19, 2018

"Upon seeing smoke and fire, which appeared to be more serious than they were, fans in other parts of the stadium notified Ottawa Police and Ottawa Fire," wrote the football club in a statement late Wednesday, noting that emergency services were quick to respond.

"TFC has apologized for the behaviour of the members of the supports group responsible for igniting the fireworks."

Toronto FC fans start fire in stands at tonight's game. @torontofcpic.twitter.com/pGfK3t05db

— Jon Hansen (@piblogger1) July 19, 2018

Those responsible for the incident were sitting in a section of the stadium normally used by away fans when they ignited the explosives.

The fireworks are said to have "flared and boomed for a short time" before security guards arrived to extinguish the blaze. Members of the group were then immediately escorted out of the stadium.

Thanks to @martyn_bailey for sending across this video that was passed on to him by another fan at the stadium. That's a pretty scary bang. #TFCLivepic.twitter.com/nUjFOl0LAJ

— Oliver Platt (@plattoli) July 19, 2018

Fortunately, nobody was hurt on account of their actions. Not physically, anyway.

Ottawa Police have launched an investigation looking into how these people managed to smuggle fireworks into the Canadian Championship semi-final match, as all were subjected to bag checks and security scans before entering the stadium.

Toronto FC fans starting fires... #CANCHAMPpic.twitter.com/1JeqQep3zr

— Kathryn Jean (@msconduct) July 19, 2018

TD Place itself says it will be stepping up security to prevent such incidents in the future.

Toronto ended up winning the game 1-0, but this particular faction of fans lost any respect they may have had left (which wasn't a lot, judging by how other fans both at home and away have described their antics.)

Toronto FC really has to fix this problem. They have been allowing these Antifa Id1ots to be their fans behind the net in BMO Field. They need to ban people from wearing masks in public everywhere! People wearing masks in public don’t have a good motive. https://t.co/BQLGt0FMrp

— Mohammad Gul (محمد گل) (@MohammadGul7) July 19, 2018

Summer in Toronto is ripe with festivals of all kinds but recently three of the more noteworthy ones have fallen by the wayside.

A note from reps for the Budweiser County Fair, set for this upcoming weekend at Fork York National Historic Site, sent word yesterday that it had been cancelled.

Last year's inaugural event proved a success, but this year saw the event cancelled due to "unforeseen circumstances." An alternative event was created at the nearby Rock 'n' Horse Saloon with much of the same performance lineup. 

The smaller Hop Chow food and beer block party also said that it would not be returning this year and a new festival over on Ontario Place—Harold's Fish Festival—has been postponed.

What's going on with Toronto events? First Budweiser County Fair was canceled & now HopChow, this is turning into a shitty summer.

— Kelly (@WackyWorldofK) July 10, 2018

Taste of Manila—the city's biggest annual celebration of Filipino culture—announced yesterday that it would not be returning for a fifth year.

"We had to cancel because of the usual financial reasons," said representative Teresa Torralba.

"Our income from the vendors and sponsors are not enough to raise our basic expenses of $250K. These include the rising City of Toronto fees for services, Toronto Police and more. Most of all, we've never had any grants at all."

The city divides events up into categories based on type, length, expected attendance, value of city services and measured benefits, in addition to the various permits and fees required to host a public event.

It also affords grants via an application process submitted one year prior to the event. Last year the city received 358 applications before whittling it down to 42.

"We made do of what we had," said Torralba.

This former 1903 train factory now houses some pretty spectacular condos including this two-storey unit, which features a bright open concept layout and tons of character.

The beautiful hardwood floors, open riser staircase, 16-foot ceilings, exposed ducts, a heritage brick feature wall and warehouse windows make this place a sight to behold.

The kitchen has lots of storage space and sleek stainless steel appliances.

I really love the open riser wood staircase that leads to the second level of the condo.

Upstairs the master bedroom overlooks the living room, which doesn’t offer the most privacy. The other bedroom is spacious and has a cool vaulted ceiling.

The upstairs bathroom reminds me of every single Marriot hotel bathroom I’ve seen. I’m not sure if it’s the tile, the bathtub or what, but it definitely needs an update.

On top of the bathroom the neighbourhood, while up and coming, is mostly residential and industrial though the nearby Galleria Mall is about to be redeveloped.

Specs

• Address: #318 - 1100 Lansdowne Ave.
• Price: $749,000
• Bedrooms: 2
• Bathrooms: 2
• Parking: 1
• Walk Score: 84
• Transit Score: 83
• Maintenance Fees: $565.39 monthly
• Listing agent: Marlon Deogracias
• Listing ID: W4186251

Good For

Someone who sees the potential of the unit and the neighbourhood. With a bit of elbow grease this condo could be even more stunning and if you just wait a few years this neighbourhood will be filled with trendy restaurants and shops.

Move On If

You want any outdoor space. There are units in the building which do have patios but this isn’t one of them.

The new head of Ontario's anti-racism directorate is being slammed as "inexcusably racist" this week for stating that he wore a bulletproof vest to do a police ride-along in Toronto's Jane and Finch neighbourhood.

"I went out to Jane and Finch, put on a bulletproof vest, and spent 7 o'clock to 1 o'clock in the morning visiting sites that had previously had bullet-ridden people killed in the middle of the night," said Michael Tibollo, a Progressive Conservative MPP for Vaughan–Woodbridge, during question period at Queen's Park on Wednesday.

"The police need tools to work with. They're doing an incredible job ensuring that our streets are safe."

Tibollo, who is also the province's Minister of Community Safety and Corrections, was responding to a question about whether or not his party wants to bring police carding back in Toronto.

This morning, the NDP MPP for Brampton North @KevinYardeNDP asked the minister appointed to oversee Ontario's Anti-Racism Directorate about ending discriminatory carding.
His answer is appalling. Share if you agree. #onpolipic.twitter.com/vlDMBNtMdQ

— Ontario NDP (@OntarioNDP) July 18, 2018

He didn't give a direct answer about the controversial practice, which allows officers to randomly and arbitrarily stop and question anyone, but he did recount a recent trip he'd taken to one of Toronto's most reputedly "dangerous" hoods.

Jane and Finch is a predominantly black, traditionally lower-income neighbourhood that's known, among other things, for its high rate of violent crimes. It is considered a "priority area" by the City of Toronto.

Tibollo went there with Ontario Premier Doug Ford and members of the Toronto Police Service earlier this month as part of a larger, city-wide push to address gun and gang violence.

I had the opportunity to travel around 31 Division and learn about the great work of our police force. We are committed to work with our Police to ensure safe neighborhoods free of guns and gang violence. Glad to have Premier Ford join me and hear his concerns as well.@ONsafetypic.twitter.com/4fpGUfTdhD

— Michael Tibollo (@MichaelTibollo) July 8, 2018

Straightforward as his intentions might have been, Tibollo's comments about wearing a bulletproof vest that day (which is standard practice for any police ride along, by the way) was immediately criticized by political opponents.

"Conservative minister Michael Tibollo's comment this morning about wearing a bulletproof vest at Jane and Finch is inexcusably racist," said NDP leader Andrew Horwath on Wednesday afternoon.

"Anyone who would say something so divisive has no credibility to continue to oversee Ontario's Anti-Racism Directorate."

Conservative minister Michael Tibollo's comment this morning about wearing a bulletproof vest at Jane and Finch is inexcusably racist. Anyone who would say something so divisive has no credibility to continue to oversee Ontario's Anti-Racism Directorate. #onpoli

— Andrea Horwath (@AndreaHorwath) July 18, 2018

"It is unfortunate the Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services made remarks that stigmatize an entire neighbourhood in such an unfair light," wrote Green Party MPP Mike Schreiner similarly.

"Comments such as these reinforce unhelpful stereotypes that perpetuate racism."

The saddest part of @MichaelTibollo statement, is that so many people across Ontario have this same negative view of Jane Finch. The low expectations and stigma affects our young people emotionally, and mentally. My student advisory council speaks on this all the time. Enough.

— Tiffany Ford (@TiffanyFordTO) July 18, 2018

Many members of the community appear to agree, and have been speaking out against Tibollo's comments on Twitter since news of them first broke.

"We would encourage Michael Tibollo to be mindful of the language he uses when addressing issues of race and marginalization," wrote an account dedicated to York Region District School Board students.

"You hold the lives of young people in your hands now, Minister. It is a tremendous responsibility."

Shame on you @MichaelTibollo Your stunt not only hurt a community, it opens the door for every racist, xenophobic wing nut to infest this province. We are better than that. If that is how you plan to conduct yourself...resign! You will not take us down this path #NotInMyProvince

— Kevin Frankish (@KevinFrankish) July 19, 2018

Tibollo responded to the allegations against him on Twitter, writing that any attempts to spin his bulletproof vest comments were merely "petty partisan politics."

This only seemed to befuddle critics even more.

And here I thought you were the Minister of Community Safety. As well as the minister responsible for the Anti-Racism Directorate.

And yet, you neither respond to the community, nor apologize for your racism.

This is truly awkward.

— Andray (@andraydomise) July 18, 2018

Horwath actually demanded that Tibollo apologize for his "racist" remark during a public meeting on Thursday morning, telling him that "you don't build trust with racist slurs."

An apology is not what happened.

An unrepentant @MichaelTibollo blasts the NDP for not supporting "our men and women in uniform." #onpolipic.twitter.com/X1mQgcBZ93

— Robert Benzie (@robertbenzie) July 19, 2018

Now, in light of the situation, Jane Finch Action Against Poverty (JFAAP) is calling upon Tibollo to resign as Community Safety and Corrections Minister, as well as from his post heading Ontario’s anti-racism directorate.

"Residents of Jane-Finch Community have been experiencing gun violence like many other neighbourhoods across Toronto and the GTA," reads a press release from JFAAP.

"What makes Jane-Finch and other low-income and racialized neighbourhoods distinct is an ongoing systemic violence perpetuated by different levels of government through years and years of disastrous planning, neglect, discrimination, high unemployment, diminishing public schools, unsafe and unaffordable housing, a broken public transit system, lack of affordable healthy foods and an overall economic apartheid that has been undeniably documented and proven."

I grew up in Jane &Finch then Rexdale I ALWAYS felt safe but more importantly the only people who ever made me feel unsafe in my own hoods were the police, especially under TAVIS It was my community &we all looked out for each other @MichaelTibollo is a racist & ignorant #ONpoli

— 🇨🇦Leena 🇮🇳🇵🇰🇸🇬♥️ (@CrazedIndianW) July 19, 2018

"Thousands of residents of Jane-Finch, from over one hundred cultural backgrounds, proudly live in the neighbourhood, without bulletproof vest or fear of each other," the statement continues, "knowing that the most brutal violence imposed on them has been caused by poverty and racial discrimination reproduced by all levels of government, and years of austerity and rich-loving/poor-bashing policies."

The group says it is seeking both Tibollo's resignation and an apology from the provincial government following yesterday's comments to the legislature.

And I lived and worked there for years -- and would live there again! Me a 69 year old white woman....carrying a purse....shopping, walking, jogging! without a fucking bullet proof vest @MichaelTibollo#MichaelRibolloMustResignNow

— (((Sandra))) (@sandraelleni) July 18, 2018

"Instead of scapegoating and stereotyping our community, stop cutting community programs and services, stop providing more tax breaks to the rich and corporations so they can become even richer, stop destroying our public schools and creating more precarious employment and stop justifying more policing in our neighbourhoods," advises the organization.

"FAAP calls on all community based organizations and concerned individuals in the Jane-Finch community and our allies across the City to strongly stand against these kinds of blatant racist attacks on our community and demand social and economic justice for all."

The weekend upon us and events in Toronto have a lot in store. A huge block party is going down on King Street and a new pizza festival over at Ontario Place. Elsewhere, there's enough music, markets, film and food to keep you busy over the next few days.

It seems beer is at the forefront of the hottest trends these days. 

First it was beer yoga– the ingenious activity that lets you drink while exercising – and now it's all about beer bread: the ancient method of making bread with beer. 

Beer and bread have an ancient history that goes way back to its origins – there's a reason why they call beer liquid bread – so breweries have been leveraging that relationship in real time by partnering with some of Toronto's many bakeries to create their own beer bread recipes.

Henderson is working with the bakers at Drake Commissary to turn their leftover barley grains into organic bread in an attempt to upcycle their spent grain – a tasty alternative to turning it into compost or animal feed. 

Meanwhile Muskoka Brewery has been partnering with the ever-popular Ace Bakery for the last year running beer bread baking classes at Loblaws around the city.

Other restaurants are opting to make their beer bread inhouse, like Beerbistro, the beer-centric restaurant that uses the St. Ambroise Oatmeal Stout by Montreal's McAuslan Brewing to make their own flatbreads. 

Co-owner of the Bloordale Village beer spot Burdock Brewery Matt Park says that their transition into bread beer-making was an obvious route. 

"For us, it's a natural fit," he says.

According to Park, the Bloordale Village brewery's recent introduction  of a dry Irish stout – they don't usually brew many dark beers – inspired the chef to add a new sourdough beer bread to the menu two months ago. 

With a full bakery onsite, Burdock typically has three to four sourdoughs available for sale in their bottle shop already. Now they've begun substituting water with their new stout to bake full loaves of sourdough bread, which they sell for $6. 

Park says the stout adds a bit of colour and sweetness to their bread, and adds a different dimension to the brewery's offerings. "It's pretty cost effective for us," he says. 

Beer bread isn't usually too difficult to make, and judging by the number of new breweries popping up in Toronto, it wouldn't be surprising to see more menus featuring beer bread as an option. 

The same pro-life website that earlier this year encouraged everyone to boycott Sweet Jesus ice cream (because blasphemy!) is now accusing the Toronto Public Library of using drag queen storytellers to "indoctrinate kids and sideline Christians."

"In Toronto, drag queens have been brought in to read stories like My Princess Boy to children and pitch the tenets of transgenderism," reads an article published Thursday by LifeSiteNews.

That article, written by pro-life activist and author Jonathon Van Maren, references a months-old Globe and Mail piece about new LGBTQ kids programs from the Toronto Public Library.

Drag queens at public libraries: the new strategy to indoctrinate kids and sideline Christians https://t.co/ScoDF0JkKU

— LifeSiteNews.com (@LifeSite) July 19, 2018

Something called "Drag Queen Storytime," in which talented community volunteers take time out of their busy lives to teach children about diversity and acceptance, upset Van Maren (among others) enough to speak out against not just TPL but public libraries all over Canada and the U.S.

You see, programs in which drag queens read stories to kids aren't new — they've existed in cities like New York and San Francisco for years — but they are gaining in popularity as both parents and children rave about how fun and beneficial the experiences are.

"I think it's important for kids to understand that boys don't have to play with trucks and girls don't just have to play with dolls," said Scott Robins, chair of the Toronto Public Library's LGBTQ kids programming, to the Globe in January.

"We want to be at the forefront of this."

Pride doesn't end with Pride Month, this summer join us for Drag Queen Storytimes across the city. Celebrate literacy and diversity with books, songs, and lots of laughs! https://t.co/rpuD5P231Opic.twitter.com/tkQ8rxjj7m

— Toronto Public Library (@torontolibrary) July 9, 2018

LifeSiteNews sees things a different way.

"LGBT activists are determined to teach their ideology to children, and have focused their efforts on infiltrating the public school system, influencing the sex education curriculum, and ensuring that the concepts such as gender fluidity are taught from the earliest possible age," wrote Van Maren in his article on Thursday.

"Now, it seems, they have successfully managed to insert themselves into the children's programming of public libraries right across Canada and the United States—with the enthusiastic approval of the library staff," he continued.

"Drag queens and children's stories about transgenderism are in—and so, again, at yet another venue—Christian parents must be out."

They're out to destroy children in Australia too: "Many accused the library of using taxpayer’s money to “spread propaganda” and “sexualising children” by choosing a drag queen to host an event that will be attended by people of all ages." https://t.co/ZgbIhBO7YY

— Ken Ham (@aigkenham) July 18, 2018

"The more influence and power they have in pushing the homosexual/transgender ideology on straights, the more they want," wrote one commenter on the LifeSiteNews piece.

"I think it's actually about grooming children for the sexual practices they indulge themselves in. Opening up a whole pool of fresh fish for the small number of deviant sharks to feast on."

Another commenter remarked that "the whole thing is satanic" because, you know, makeup or something (?).

"Unfortunately, this type of reaction doesn't surprise me, however, it is completely overshadowed by the amount of love, and respect that these programs receive, not only in Toronto, but all over the world," says East Toronto Drag Queen Storytime co-founder Dani Stover.

"I had a teacher come up to me one time, in happy tears, saying that this would not be possible years ago, and it's true," she continues. "I am consistently in awe of how respectful, thoughtful and interested these kids are in learning about gender expression, and acceptance."

Those interested in checking it out with their own kiddos can find performance Artist Jezebel Bardot this Saturday, July 21, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at TPL's Northern District.

The top beaches in and around Toronto offer the ultimate summer escape from city life. It's been a tough year with the closing of the Island beaches, but there are many sandy retreats located within a quick jaunt of Toronto's highly urbanized areas. Your summer beach day trip awaits.

Here are our picks for the top beaches in and around Toronto.

In Toronto

Cherry Beach

The water at Cherry Beach is some of the coldest in the Toronto area, but this is a great beach for watching windsurfers skim through the water or to have a barbecue on the grassy area. The old lifeguard station is one of the city's most photographed sites.

Bluffer's Park can almost seem tropical in the heart of summer. Photo by dtstuff9.

Bluffer's Park

While people are being warned to stay off the top of the Bluffs, the beach is now partially open and supervised by lifeguards. There's not quite as much sandy area thanks to high water levels, but it's still one of the most ample in the city (and already very busy on weekends).

Marie Curtis

Surely the most under-appreciated of Toronto's official beaches, Marie Curtis Park is a breath of fresh air if you're used to crowds that flock to Woodbine and the Scarborough Bluffs in the summer. It's a relatively short stretch of sand, but it's nicely secluded from the rest of the city.

Woodbine is almost back to full life after spring flooding in Toronto. Photo by scott3eh.

Woodbine

It might get busy, but that's part of Woodbine Beach's appeal. It offers some excellent people watching opportunities as well as a sandy waterfront and some gorgeous skyline views.

Beyond Toronto

Kelso Conservation Area

Kelso Lake is a human-made reservoir that helps to control flooding of the nearby Sixteen Mile Creek. It's also a popular place to swim as its relatively small size leads to warm water temperatures throughout the season. The conservation area maintains a sandy beach and picnic areas.

Christie Lake

Christie Lake can get busy on mid-summer weekends, but it still feels like a hidden place tucked away in a conservation area in Dundas, Ontario. In the past the water was chlorinated to keep bacteria levels down, but that practice ended five years ago when it became clear that the lake didn't require such treatment. It's now much nicer!

Cobourg Beach might be cool to swim at before mid-July, but it's got great sand. Photo by Will.

Cobourg Beach

If you want to get out of the city, but don't feel like doing much driving, Cobourg is a great option. It's only an hour and a half away, but still features a beautiful beach and a lovely lighthouse.

Fifty Point Beach

Tucked away near Hamilton, 50 Point Beach offers a stunning view of Toronto in the background, but also a lovely protected beach that never gets super busy based on the other options in the area (e.g. Beach Park). Water temperatures here are consistently some of the warmest in Lake Ontario.

Sibbald Point

Sibbald Point is still in York Region and it's not too far from Toronto. This beach on Lake Simcoe is a great spot if you're looking to extend your trip up north by camp out for a night (or two).

Wasaga is still the ultimate people-watching beach in the province. Photo by Richard Braeken.

Wasaga

While you may have to dodge rowdy youths at Wasaga, a trip to one of the world's long freshwater beaches is definitely worth it. Along with gorgeous white sand, the water here is generally warm because it's pretty shallow, making it easy to go for a dip or lounge around in Georgian Bay.

Southampton

Southampton's on the shore of Lake Huron and includes lots of beaches for all of your summer needs. It's about two and half hours away from Toronto, but a bit longer with traffic.

Grand Band

It can also get quite rowdy at Grand Bend, but you should head here if you're looking to party as you enjoy beautiful Lake Huron. With plenty of patios, bars and restaurants, it's easy to have fun here during both the day and night.

Ontario beaches don't get much nicer than Sauble. Photo by O.Ng.

Sauble Beach

Brave the three hour journey to get to Sauble Beach and reward yourself with an afternoon relaxing on a white sandy beach. Sauble's also on Lake Huron, but it's not quite as raucous as Grand Bend.

Balm Beach

This beach on Georgian Bay, near Penetanguishene and Midland, feature sandy shores. While away a few hours in the sunshine and stay for the night because Balm Beach hosts concerts on certain nights throughout the summer.

Sandbanks

Sandbanks Provincial Park is a must-see if you're heading to Prince Edward County for a weekend trip. Along with the wineries and cideries nearby, this area features gorgeous beaches that'll transport you out of Ontario for a little while.

You can see Buffalo's skyline from the parking lot, but its the fine-grained sand and warm water that really make Crystal Beach special. Photo by Brian.li.

Crystal Beach

This white sandy beach on the shores of Lake Erie gets very busy, but that just gives it a party vibe reminiscent of American beaches much further south. Don't go here if you're looking for peace and quiet, but do seek it out if you want to meet people and take in the spectacle.

Turkey Point

Lake Erie has the warmest waters of the Great Lakes thanks to its relatively shallow depth. Turkey Point is nowhere near as busy as Wasaga or Grand Bend, but the swimming is great and the cottage rentals far cheaper than Muskoka. You can also head to the provincial park for the day.

Long Point

Over 40 kilometres in length, it's amazing to walk out as far as you can for a look at the shanty cottages,wildlife, and glistening waters of Lake Erie. The Provincial Park is the main place to explore if you haven't rented a cottage, and it features about two kilometres of fine sandy beach, which never seems to get overpopulated.

Port Stanley can get very busy on summer weekends. Photo by Port Stanley Tourism.

Port Stanley

Port Stanley is a cute harbour town on Lake Erie with a big sandy beach that attracts a decent number of tourists over the summer months. The temperature of the lake is a major plus (it's comfortably swimmable by the end of June) and attractions like the old 1940s steam train provide extra-beach activities.

Port Dover

Port Dover is as chill as busy Beaches come. Located immediately south of the the town, it's marked by a scenic lighthouse and very warm waters in late July and early August. Be forewarned, it's not a huge beach, so if you want your preferred spot, you'll have to arrive in the morning.

Sand Hill Park

This hidden gem on the shores of Lake Eerie is like Sandbanks but better. The size of the sand hills is surreal, but the best part is trying run down to the water before inevitably tumbling into the soft sand. You can camp overnight here, but it's best as a day visit.

Willow Beach

This underrated beach is near Sibbald Point Provincial Park but is typically less busy. At less than an hour drive from Toronto (in low traffic), it's an amazing sandy escape with great swimming come July. There's also lots of picnic tables for when you get peckish.

A cottage escape without the cottage: Balsam Lake beach. Photo by simplychelsetta.

Balsam Lake

It'll take you only about two and a half hours to get to the Kawarthas from Toronto. Once there, you'll get to enjoy a sandy beach as well as a provincial park that features lots of shady campsites.

Port Burwell

Port Burwell is another gem of a beach on Lake Erie that boasts fine-grain sand, almost remarkably warm water temperatures in the late summer, and all the amenities of the eponymous provincial campground. You get a really good breeze here, so overheating shouldn't be a problem.

Bass Lake

This is an underrated beach that's only about a one and a half hour drive from Toronto in light traffic. The sandy beach here is natural and thousands of years old. In addition to great swimming, there are canoes, kayaks and paddle boats available to rent.

The psychedelic looking 1950's-era grocery store turned "choose-your-own-adventure playground" opening in downtown Toronto this summer is coming under some scrutiny right now thanks to a liquor license application for the same address.

Friends of Kensington Market — a 5,000+ member strong Facebook page — put out a call to action on Thursday afternoon for locals to file a formal objection to what it called a "a 622-seat bar" in the mixed residential neighbourhood.

"Fairland Funhouse's arts focus is only a temporary pop-up," reads the message. "The permanent venue is a 622-seat bar called Liquor Donuts. This enterprise is owned by a corporate entity and is a concept tied in to a 2014 movie." 

"Kensington Market is being used as a promotional tool for a major corporation," it continues. "Object here."

The post links to an Alcohol and Gaming Comission of Ontario website where members of the public can search all pending Liquor Sales Licence Applications by location.

Indeed, an entity called "LD Eats" has applied for a license at 241 Augusta Avenue, where artists and workers are already setting up Fairland Funhouse, a yet-to-open music venue and experiential art maze that people can already buy tickets for.

The application doesn't show anything about a 622-seat bar or restaurant, at least not publicly, but a press release announcing the space earlier this month does make mention of what "LD" might mean.

"Disguised as an underwater ballroom, the mainspace can accommodate over 200 guests and features Toronto's delicious new pastime - Liquor Donuts," it read.

Serious question: is a funhouse really a funhouse without doughy treats? Let us know 👇🏻👇🏽👇🏿 :::::: #fairlandfunhouse #framedtoronto #torontofoto #1toronto #thelast6 #torontosworld #inside_to #mixtoronto #curiocityto #torontopixel #torontomind #nowtoronto #narcitytoronto #thankyoutoronto #enjoytoronto #6ixcollective #torontolife#lovetoronto #torontoart #6ixwalks#nowtoronto #visualizetoronto #hypetoronto#6ixfix #snapshareTO #6ixGrams #DailyHiveToronto #torontolife #lovetoronto #kensingtonmarket

A post shared by Fairland Funhouse (@fairlandfunhouse) on Jul 14, 2018 at 8:00am PDT

The release also noted that Fairland Funhouse is being produced as part of a partnership between Universal Music Canada and the newly-launched arts collective Monda Forma.

As for the "concept tied in to a 2014 movie" part of the Friends of Kensington Market Facebook post, a business called Liquor Donuts is featured in the 2014 Canadian cult horror-comedy movie WolfCop — but this could all just be a coincidence.

A bar named after something from a famous movie or TV show wouldn't exactly be unheard of, like, anywhere on earth — and accounts tied to both Fairland Funhouse and LiquorDonuts.com suggest that the latter will be opening soon in Kensington Market.

Happy 🇨🇦 day! A day of rest and celebration 🍾 before the work starts on flagship location in the ❤️ of #kensingtonmarket that will kick off with and incredible #art #music #experience over the summer #fairlandfunhouse 🤡🎉🍭🛎 To stay #intheknow follow #instagram #liquordonuts and sign-up with your email www.liquordonuts.com 🥃🍩 . . . . #donuts #liquor #vinyl #food #newrestaurant #record #music #canadaday #canada #donut #toronto #popupshop #vinyl

A post shared by J. Joly (@j_dot_joly) on Jul 1, 2018 at 9:42am PDT

It seems more than anything that Liquor Donuts will be the permanent tenant of the old Fairland supermarket in Kensington Market after the funhouse summer art and music experience moves on.

What any of this has to do with Wolfcop (and its near-identical Liquor Donuts logo) has yet to be determined. I suppose we'll find out soon enough!

UPDATE — Fairland Funhouse has issued the following statement via Monda Forma's Jonah Brotman:

"241 Augusta Avenue will eventually transform into Liquor Donuts, a music-themed donut shop that serves craft beer inspired by the fictitious venue in the 2014 cult classic Wolf Cop and recently released sequel Another Wolfcop. Scheduled to launch in its final form in January 2019, the venture will feature a permanent multi-use gallery space, record pressing and studio/production space in the basement. The venture is independently owned by Canadian film producer J. Joly and with partners that include Chef Daniel Janetos. 

When the Toronto-based collective of artists behind Fairland Funhouse were looking for a venue with character and a sense of community to house their dream for an art maze by local artists, the 1950s grocery store in Kensington market seemed like a natural fit. The Liquor Donuts team offered the space indefinitely with the opportunity to soft launch their new concept by opening a pop-up in the funhouse lobby. 
 
The numbers seen in the liquor license application were simply a reflection of capacity calculations based on square footage set by the AGCO. Ultimately, the owners will work with the Toronto Fire Department inspector to arrive at a safe number. The motivation was to provide flexibility depending on the residency and cultural events booked.

The artist collective and Liquor Donuts team have met with and continually seek guidance from Kensington BIA, KMAC (Kensington Market Action Committee), Kensington Jazz Festival and Councillor Cressy and local residents and business owners to ensure the future of 241 August Avenue aligns with the spirit and values of Kensington Market."

It's finally Friday and events in Toronto today know the feeling. A new pizza festival is on at Ontario Place and homegrown electro duo Zeds Dead are taking over Echo Beach. A free outdoor movie screening is going down and there's a big party at the ROM. 

If you ever wanted to have cottage living but still be pretty much in the city then this house would be it. This spectacular home on the Scarborough Bluffs has all the serenity of nature but all the convenience of Toronto.

The three-storey five-bedroom, four-bathroom home is full of character. The main rooms are spacious and bright.

I especially like the bay window in the dining room.

The French Country kitchen adds to the rustic vibe. This is one of my favourite spaces in the whole house with a gorgeous picture window and a walk out onto the back deck.

The master bedroom is on a floor of its own and has a fabulous walk out balcony with a great view of the property.

The master en suite bathroom isn’t the most lavish. It’s only a three-piece and doesn’t seem to have a lot of storage space.

But the bathroom on the second floor does have a lovely soaker tub.

The second floor also has the rest of the bedrooms, which are adequately sized and have plenty of light.

On the third floor, there’s a den, which could make a great office space or a play area for the kids.

But clearly, the best bit of this entire house is the backyard. There are 4.09 acres of land that look out over the lake, there’s a pool, a lavishly landscaped garden, and a huge patio. It’s pretty much the perfect place to spend a summer.

The Essentials

• Address: 7 Lakehill Crescent
• Type: House
• Bedrooms: 4 +1
• Bathrooms: 4
• Size: 60 x 905.57 feet
• Realtor: Digalakis + Brown Real Estate
• Hit the market at: $2,395,000
• Sold for: $2,225,000

Why it sold for what it did?

The house is sitting on four acres of land and it’s overlooking the lake. Plus the house is cute and there’s a pool.

Was it worth it?

Of course it is! There are condos in downtown Toronto that are essentially glorified shoeboxes that go for $2 million! Here you get a plot the size of a small farm and a five-bedroom home.

The wait is over for Jollibee fans in search of a second GTA location, which means the wait is just beginning for anyone who wants to actually eat there.

Toronto's most lineup-worthy fast food import opened its highly-anticipated new restaurant inside Mississauga's Seafood City Supermarket this morning.

Of course, fans of the Filipino chain were already waiting outside as of 1 a.m. Thursday night, if not earlier. 

Jollibee Mississauga Opening

A post shared by Jose Jacinto Juan (@josjacjua) on Jul 20, 2018 at 3:27am PDT

Hundreds of people are in line outside the Heartland Town Centre in Mississauga as of 9 a.m. on Friday morning, along with the brand's friendly honey bee mascot.

2018-July 20- Passed by this AM- Jolibee Heartland Mississauga Grand Opening

A post shared by ELINO DELAPAZ (@elinodelapaz) on Jul 20, 2018 at 4:18am PDT

Jollibee was expecting this no doubt, after what happened when it opened its first Toronto location (in Scarborough) three months ago.

We aren't seeing tickets for the queue just yet, but transactions are being limited to $60, maximum.

Heads up to all our customers. There's a limit per transaction. Thanks for posting!! @timothy_dayao . . . . . . . . . . #saugaeats #jollibee #jollibeecanada #jollibeemississauga #jollibeetoronto #jollibeescarborough #tasteofmississauga #mississauga #mississaugaeats #torontoeats #toronto #canada #yyz #toronto #torontocanada #torontoeats #TOeats #yyzeats

A post shared by Jollibee Mississauga (@jollibeemississauga) on Jul 20, 2018 at 2:42am PDT

Customers can currently purchase two Jolly Crispy Chicken buckets, 10 Yum Burgers (with or without cheese) and 10 of Jollibee's famous Peach Mango Pies before hitting the limit, which sounds pretty good to me. 

Order #1 - 7am Grand Opening! #jolliebee #jolliebeecanada #jolliebeemississauga

A post shared by Brandon Morgan (@brandonmorgantv) on Jul 20, 2018 at 5:17am PDT

The dedicated fans at Seafood City today won't be the first to try Jollibee Mississauga, however.

Y'all want some fried chicken??? #jollibee #jollibeemississauga #ohbaby #getinline

A post shared by Chris (@vanzamman) on Jul 19, 2018 at 10:17am PDT

A pre-opening event on Thursday saw staffers roll out a gigantic (I'm talking HUGE) bucket of fried chicken for guests to snack on while their bee danced around all cute-like.

He really is a great mascot, by the way. I don't know what bees have to do with spaghetti and fried chicken, but just look at him go! 

Sneak peak at the brand new @jollibeemississauga! 🍗🍝🍔 Officially opens July 20 at 7AM!

A post shared by Heartland Town Centre (@heartlandtowncentre) on Jul 19, 2018 at 10:45am PDT

The first 100 people to spend $20 or more at the new Jollibee in Mississauga today will get a free stuffed bee toy, according to the company.

As for how to get one of those giant Jolly Crispy Chicken buckets, I have no idea, but something tells me they probably cost more than what you can spend with a $60 limit.

Welcome to Mississauga ... Jollibee! ❤️ #tasteofthephilippines #childhooddelight #chickenaddiction #cantgetenough #jollibeemississauga

A post shared by Ivy (@iveehg) on Jul 19, 2018 at 2:10pm PDT

It's summertime in the city and food events in Toronto this week are all about it with a big barbecue, a block party and a beer festival. A new pizza festival takes over Ontario Place while some babes gather to bask in each other's babely glow.

The best live music venues in Toronto prove that the space music lovers congregate are here to stay. Some of these places have been around for decades, hosting international rock stars as well as our own indie darlings. Old or new, these are the spots to head for a weekend night that will leave your ears ringing in the best way possible.

Here are the best live music venues in Toronto.

Heads up if you're thinking about planning a waterfront picnic in Toronto's west end sometime next month: Maybe don't.

Toronto Public Health announced earlier this week that a potentially toxic type of blue-green algae has been detected in Humber Bay and around Mimico creek.

Called cyanobacteria, the plant-like substance forms naturally in ponds, rivers and lakes from time to time. You can easily see blooms of it in the water, but shouldn't get close.

"Some species of blue-green algae have the potential to produce toxins that are harmful to the health of humans and animals," reads a press release from the City of Toronto, noting that exposure can cause headaches, fever, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes and mucous membrane irritation in humans.

This is not blue green algae, this is more like toxic sludge. Killing all the wildlife & marinelife...We need your help to help get us heard❤️🙏🏻pic.twitter.com/gf6AyyJoQR

— Heide Horvath (@HeideHorvath) July 16, 2018

"Adverse health effects are mainly caused by drinking and coming into contact with water that is contaminated with blue-green algae toxins," the public health agency says.

Fortunately, it's easy to avoid the stuff: just don't go into or drink the lake water. What can't be avoided is the smell, which can apparently get pretty gross as the algae blooms age.

TPH said on Wednesday that, while fresh blue-green algae smells like fresh-cut grass, "they may start to smell like rotting garbage" later in the summer, particularly when it's hot. 

NEWS RELEASE: Toronto Public Health issues warning concerning blue-green algae blooms in Humber Bay East. More info: https://t.co/ppILSlXIjw

— Toronto PublicHealth (@TOPublicHealth) July 17, 2018

People in other areas of North America affected by blue-green algae have called the smell "foul" and "offputting," likening it to sewage or an overflowing septic tank.

"Some of the really bad smells may come from decomposing critters, like mussels that are carried ashore tangled in the mass of vegetation," reads an explainer from Wisconson Natural Resources  Magazine. 

"These decomposing little animals can smell even worse than the algae, just as we've all observed when cleaning out a refrigerator – the smells of rotting meats and other proteins are usually stronger than the odors from decomposing fruits and vegetables."

Gross.