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Vegan protestors eat fake human meat in Toronto

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At least two dozen animal rights activists took to the streets of Toronto this weekend with a disturbing, yet incredibly powerful message: There's no such thing as "humane" meat.

Direct Action Everywhere Toronto, the local arm of an international grassroots activism network, staged a series of disruptions around Yorkville on Saturday dressed in red shirts and, in the case of some participants, giant pig heads.

The goal was to make people imagine that the tables were turned — that people were the ones on dinner plates and pigs shopped at Whole Foods for "organic, locally-raised" human meat.

If even thinking about that makes you feel sick, well, that's the point.

To really drive the message home, activists wearing pig heads were seated at tables both within Whole Foods and right outside the Hazelton Hotel.

In both cases, a waiter (also dressed as a pig) brought the ritzy pig couple a fake, bloody-looking human face on a silver platter.

Protesters also marched through the high-end grocery store, which has taken heat from PETA for boasting about its animal welfare practices, and around the streets of Yorkville.

They held up signs with photos of animal faces and phrases like "I need your voice," "it's not food, it's violence," and "their bodies. not ours."

"Don't buy the humane lie. There is no humane way to kill someone who doesn't want to die," wrote organizer Jenny Henry on Facebook about DxE's demonstration.

"Take their place for just one minute, and imagine the tables were turned."


Toronto mass shooting suspect identified as Faisal Hussain

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Faisal Hussain, 29, of Toronto has been identified as the shooter in an attack that left two victims dead and injured 13 others along Danforth Avenue last night.

In a highly unusual move, Ontario's Special Investigations Unit has released the name of the gunman who carried out Sunday night's deadly shooting spree in Toronto, less than 24 hours after the incident took place.

The gunman himself died as a result of the incident, along with 18-year-old Reese Fallon and a 10-year-old girl whose name has not yet been released.

Hussain's family sent out a statement by email to several Toronto news outlets on Monday evening expressing their devastation.

"We are at a terrible loss for words but we must speak out to express our deepest condolences to the families who are now suffering on account of our son's horrific actions," said the statement.

The family explained that Hussain had been struggling with severe mental health challenges, including depression and untreatable psychosis, for most of his life

"While we did our best to seek help for him throughout his life of struggle and pain, we could never imagine that this would be his devastating and destructive end," the family wrote.

"Our hearts are in pieces for the victims and for our city as we all come to grips with this terrible tragedy."

The SIU — a provincial law enforcement oversight agency — said earlier today that the suspect "fired shots at groups of people several times" while walking in Toronto's Greektown neighbourhood around 10 p.m. last night before fleeing the scene. 

Police located him on nearby Bowden Street, where an exchange of gunfire took place. The man fled again, but was found dead a short time later on Danforth.

It is not yet known if the suspect died by suicide or was killed by police.

"Yesterday, the SIU commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of a 29-year-old man in Toronto," reads a press release issued Monday evening.

"A short time ago, after speaking with a member of the deceased’s immediate family and a family representative, the SIU was able to confirm the man’s identity," it continues. 

"Due to the exceptional circumstances of this tragic incident and the public interest in knowing the man’s identity, the SIU is identifying the man as Faisal Hussain of Toronto."

Both Toronto homicide detectives and the SIU are investigating the incident further and have appealed to members of the public for help.

"If you heard or saw anything, don't assume that we already have that information," said Toronto Police Chief Mark Saunders during a press conference Monday afternoon, urging citizens to contact police with any information they may have.

10 things to do in Toronto today

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Toronto is still recovering from Sunday's horrific shooting but those looking to get out and support events in the city have plenty of options to choose from including  a movie under the stars and an exhibit featuring Toronto's most enduring murals.

Events you might want to check out:

Fleet Foxes (July 24 @ Sony Centre for the Performing Arts)
Seattle's indie folk rockers put a modern twist on an old genre, incorporating pop elements that have brought them into the mainstream.
Wiz Khalifa (July 24 @ Budweiser Stage)
Rapper Wiz Khalifa is in with none other than Rae Sremmurd, arriving for the night as part of his Dazed and Blazed tour.
Reflections (July 24 @ The Roastery (401 Richmond))
Toronto's own murals get the gallery treatment in this exhibition dedicated to thirty years of colourful walls filled with stories of the city.
City Cinema (July 24 @ Yonge-Dundas Square)
Catch a flick outside in the heart of downtown at this screening of Ron Howard's 2016 film about the The Beatles during their touring years.
Xanadu (July 24 @ The Royal Cinema)
The weird and wild world of the late-70s is captured in this retro-drenched film about a roller disco starring Olivia Newton-John and scored by ELO.
Diamond Comedy (July 24 @ Comedy Bar)
Local up-and-coming comedians are gearing up for the Edinburgh Fringe and are looking to test their material on a group of lucky show-goers.
Queeraoke (July 24 @ The Beaver)
Queer it up and sing it out to your own theme song at this karaoke jam hosted by the new Bricks & Glitter festival.
Merival (July 24 @ Burdock)
Toronto's own multi-instrumentalist Mervial has been making her way around Canada and is back to perform alongside Sam Moss and Dana Gavanski.
Left Field Brewmasters Dinner (July 24 @ Craft Beer Market Toronto)
A four-course dinner is going down with beer pairings and a complimentary brew is all part of this monthly dinner series.
Free Coffee at Marben (July 24-27 @ Marben)
Mornings are tough but Marben is giving away free coffee fro 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. everyday this week until Friday.

There's going to be a huge block party under the Gardiner Expressway

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One of the city's newest public spaces has been going hard with summer events, and now it's set to cap off the season with a huge block party.

The Bentway is about to become the last word on public programming after a year of ice skating, art exhibitionsskateboarding and a beer garden.

Now the space under the highway you'd otherwise never think to go is transforming into party central with an end-of-summer block party on August 25.

The event promises live performances in its newly built amphitheatre, food and drink, a splash pad, workshops, open-air arcade, artists, kids activities, and a giant piñata installation.

Local musicians Myles Castello, Monowhales, Brave Shores and The Darcys are all set to perform as well.

House of the week: 275 Glen Manor Drive East

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Oh my God, Becky, look at this house! This stately home overlooking the Glen Stewart Ravine is gorgeous. I love how it’s set up and back from the street and shaded by tons of greenery that you almost don’t see it.

275 glen manor torontoDespite all the trees, the interior is sun-filled and spacious, with stunning white oak floors.

275 glen manor torontoWith a combination of traditional and open-concept design, each room on the main floor flows effortlessly from one to the next.

275 glen manor torontoThe kitchen gives off a French country home vibe with a farmhouse kitchen sink and white cabinetry.

275 glen manor torontoI also adore the powder room on the main floor. The wallpaper and the chandelier make it seem so Parisian.

275 glen manor torontoUpstairs are the four large bedrooms and three bathrooms.

275 glen manor torontoThe master bedroom is airy and overlooks the ravine treetops. It also boasts two walk-in closets and a five-piece en suite.  

275 glen manor toronto The en suite is quite narrow. It could have probably done without the double sinks or such a large shower, just to give it a bit more room.

275 glen manor toronto Downstairs is a massive rec room and games room as well as a beautiful office with built-in wood bookcases and desk.

275 glen manor toronto The back garden is lush and palatial with the water features and sprawling patio. It’s perfect for throwing a dinner party. There’s also plenty of privacy as the backyard backs onto a private side street.

275 glen manor toronto Specs
275 glen manor torontoGood For

Anyone with mobility issues. The house is outfitted with an elevator that serves all three levels, so if stairs are a challenge you don’t need to worry.

275 glen manor torontoMove On If

You have terrible allergies. Being surrounded by that many mature trees plus being across from the park means pollen season won’t be fun.275 glen manor toronto

Hedley singer Jacob Hoggard charged with sexual assault in Toronto

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Canadian singer-songwriter Jacob Hoggard has been charged with multiple counts of sexual assault involving two different women in the GTA, according Toronto and Peel Region police.

The 34-year-old entertainer, best known as the lead singer of Hedley, was arrested on Monday and is scheduled to appear in a Toronto courtroom on July 24 at 2 p.m.

A joint press release from the Toronto Police Service and Peel Regional Police indicates that Hoggard "met with two women on separate occasions" over three dates sometime in 2016.

He is alleged to have "committed a sexual assault on each of them" and, as a result, has been charged with two counts of sexual assault causing bodily harm.

Hoggard also faces one charge of sexual interference, which Canada's Criminal Code defines as touching the body of any person under 16 years of age for sexual purposes.

Police said in a press release on Monday night that they are "concerned there may be other victims."

Earlier this year, Hoggard vehemently denied public allegations of sexual misconduct involving young fans.

Hedley was nonetheless dropped by its management team, booted from the Juno Awards, and blacklisted by hundreds of radio stations after those allegations surfaced on Twitter and elsewhere.

The rock-pop band continued to tour and perform for about two weeks in March amidst mounting controversy, but announced on February 28 that it would be "taking an indefinite hiatus."

In light of the arrest, some of Hedley's most hardcore fans are now changing their minds about supporting the group.

Many fans had been defending Hoggard— some of them viciously so — since the sexual misconduct allegations first surfaced in February.

Some say that the charges mean nothing, and are still publicly declaring their love and support for Hoggard on Twitter using the hashtag #IStandWithHedley.

"Anyone that has anything bad to say to me about Jacob will be ignored, I have looked up to and adored this man for many years," wrote one young woman on Twitter early Tuesday. 

"While I am very disappointed in his actions I still will love him and support him though this."

Others say the time has finally come to let go of a childhood icon.

Those who were flamed by Hedley fans following the first round of allegations, like Lizzie Renaud of Toronto's Speakeasy Tattoo, are chiding those who came at them back in February.

"If any of you Hedley supporters who made my life hell, sent me death threats or forced my shop to close for gun threats wanted to say sorry, my PayPal link is right in my bio," wrote Renaud, who offered to cover up Hedley tattoos for free when the first allegations dropped.

Others are simply surprised that it didn't happen sooner.

"I met him once," wrote one woman on Twitter. "He groped me and my friend and made some seriously sexually explicit comments in front of the other band members."

"People who grew up in the neighborhood Jacob Hoggard is from know he's always been like this," wrote another user from B.C

"There are more women who need to come forward and I personally know some of you," he continued. "I really hope that we can stop this man from further victimization of women. Please do the right thing."

Fans react to Hedley frontman Jacob Hoggard's arrest for sexual assault

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Canadian singer-songwriter Jacob Hoggard has been charged with multiple counts of sexual assault involving two different women in the GTA, according Toronto and Peel Region police.

The 34-year-old entertainer, best known as the lead singer of Hedley, was arrested on Monday and is scheduled to appear in a Toronto courtroom on July 24 at 2 p.m.

A joint press release from the Toronto Police Service and Peel Regional Police indicates that Hoggard "met with two women on separate occasions" over three dates sometime in 2016.

He is alleged to have "committed a sexual assault on each of them" and, as a result, has been charged with two counts of sexual assault causing bodily harm.

Hoggard also faces one charge of sexual interference, which Canada's Criminal Code defines as touching the body of any person under 16 years of age for sexual purposes.

Police said in a press release on Monday night that they are "concerned there may be other victims."

Earlier this year, Hoggard vehemently denied public allegations of sexual misconduct involving young fans.

Hedley was nonetheless dropped by its management team, booted from the Juno Awards, and blacklisted by hundreds of radio stations after those allegations surfaced on Twitter and elsewhere.

The rock-pop band continued to tour and perform for about two weeks in March amidst mounting controversy, but announced on February 28 that it would be "taking an indefinite hiatus."

In light of the arrest, some of Hedley's most hardcore fans are now changing their minds about supporting the group.

Many fans had been defending Hoggard— some of them viciously so — since the sexual misconduct allegations first surfaced in February.

Some say that the charges mean nothing, and are still publicly declaring their love and support for Hoggard on Twitter using the hashtag #IStandWithHedley.

"Anyone that has anything bad to say to me about Jacob will be ignored, I have looked up to and adored this man for many years," wrote one young woman on Twitter early Tuesday. 

"While I am very disappointed in his actions I still will love him and support him though this."

Others say the time has finally come to let go of a childhood icon.

Those who were flamed by Hedley fans following the first round of allegations, like Lizzie Renaud of Toronto's Speakeasy Tattoo, are chiding those who came at them back in February.

"If any of you Hedley supporters who made my life hell, sent me death threats or forced my shop to close for gun threats wanted to say sorry, my PayPal link is right in my bio," wrote Renaud, who offered to cover up Hedley tattoos for free when the first allegations dropped.

Others are simply surprised that it didn't happen sooner.

"I met him once," wrote one woman on Twitter. "He groped me and my friend and made some seriously sexually explicit comments in front of the other band members."

"People who grew up in the neighborhood Jacob Hoggard is from know he's always been like this," wrote another user from B.C

"There are more women who need to come forward and I personally know some of you," he continued. "I really hope that we can stop this man from further victimization of women. Please do the right thing."

This abandoned paper mill near Toronto is an explorer's paradise

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There’s something mysterious, and hauntingly beautiful about abandoned places, which makes them unique and often stunning spots to take some epic photos. Luckily, this abandoned gem, the Barber Paper Mill, is less than an hour from Toronto, and it's just begging to be explored.

A post shared by Tom Davis (@tomdavistoronto) on

Located in Georgetown, the Barber Paper Mill was the first electrical generating plant in North America, built in 1854. At its prime, the Mill was the largest industry in Halton, run by John Barber - who is now rumoured to haunt the abandoned property and was even caught on camera!

The Mill produced book paper, posters and newspaper, and employed hundreds of workers from surrounding communities until 1948. In 2008, the 13-acre complex was designated under the Ontario Heritage Act, although it’s in desperate need of some TLC.

The Town of Halton Hills, the Credit Valley Conservation Authority, and the owner/developer Everlast Group, have yet to decide on what the future holds for the ruins. There have been discussions of turning the property into a 44-room hotel, 50,000 sq. ft of commercial space, or a 14-storey, 240-unit condominium, but nothing has been confirmed.

Although the space is obviously suffering from neglect, vandalism, and the harsh elements, it serves as an important reminder of the past, and offers a uniquely beautiful property to appreciate and capture on film.

Because of this, it has become a hugely popular spot for videographers and photographers to visit.

A post shared by Tom Davis (@tomdavistoronto) on

The abandoned property can be accessed via the Bruce Trail side-trail by the Barber Mill on the corner of River Road and Maple Avenue. Bring your camera, and prepare to take some memorable shots.


Two-hour transfers coming to the TTC next month

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Toronto's public transit system is about to roll out a new program that, practically speaking, amounts to "all-you-can-ride for $3.25."

Back in November, after more than a decade of piloting the idea on St. Clair Avenue, the TTC Board finally greenlit two-hour transfers as part of a larger initiative to boost transit ridership in Toronto.

City Council subsequently approved the measure as part of its operating budget and...we've been waiting ever since. But, no longer!

TTC spokesperson Brad Ross confirmed on Twitter Monday evening that time-based TTC transfers would be in effect for PRESTO users starting Sunday, August 26.

This means that, in just over a month, regular TTC riders using PRESTO will be able to hop on and off any public transit vehicle, as many times as they want, within a two-hour window for a single fare — just like the people of St. Clair were allowed to between 2005 and 2017.

At $21 million annually by 2020, the program isn't cheap – but it is expected to bolster TTC ridership by about 5 million new customer trips each year. 

It'll also put an end to streetcar drivers saying you can't get on with a subway transfer because you decided to walk up a few stops while waiting 20 minutes for them to arrive.

Ridiculousness, that.

Ryan Gosling movie headlines films coming to TIFF this year

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The 2018 Toronto International Film Festival returns this year with films that look to innovate, challenge, and transcend the medium.

This year's programming lineup points to a continuing trend of big stars taking roles in smaller productions, as names like Alec Baldwin, Lady Gaga, Ryan Gosling and Julia Roberts have films premiering during the festival.

Expect Toronto to become a star-studded wonderland when many of these noteworthy films arrive from September 6 to 16.

The Front Runner

The latest from director Jason Reitman, this film stars Hugh Jackman and Vera Farmiga in a documentary about the life of embroiled Senator Gary Hart and his 1988 presidential campaign that ended in scandal.

If Beale Street Could Talk

Moonlight director Barry Jenkins' latest offering takes place in Harlem, where a woman looks to prove her fiancé is innocent of a crime.

Windows

Director Steve McQueen returns with an ensemble cast of outstanding female actresses (Viola Davis, Michelle Rodriguez, Elizabeth Debicki, Cynthia Erivo) in a story about love, crime and corruption.

Roma

Alfonso Cuarón writes and directs this film, which takes place in Mexico and follows a middle-class family over the course of a year in the early 1970s. 

Wildlife

Jake Gyllenhaal and Carey Mulligan star in this drama surrounding a young boy who witnesses his parents divorce during a time when such things were unheard of.

Beautiful Boy

The source of recent buzz, Steve Carell and Timothée Chalamet play a father and son duo working through the heartbreaking struggle that comes with addiction.

Ben is Back

Julia Roberts stars in another film that looks to further explore family dynamics, as she watches her troubled son return home on Christmas Eve to a difficult familial climate.

A Star is Born

Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga, and Dave Chappelle all lend their talents to this remake of the 1976 film that sees a young musician (Gaga) fall in love with a veteran singer (Cooper) whose personal problems plague his career.

Everybody Knows

Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem begin innocently enough, until things go horribly wrong in this psychological thriller by directer Asghar Farhadi.

First Man

Look forward to some Ryan Gosling action as he stars as American astronaut Neil Armstrong in this adventure drama about the first man to set foot on the moon.

Galveston

Ben Foster, Elle Fanning and Lili Reinhart star in this Mélanie Laurent-directed film about a hitman who returns to Galveston, Texas, to plan his revenge.

The Public

Public libraries become a political weapon during a particularly harsh winter in Emilio Estevez's film starring Alec Baldwin, Jena Malone, Michael Kenneth Williams, and Christian Slater.

Life Itself

Another ensemble cast of characters comes out for this Dan Fogelman-led film about generational differences, starring Samuel L. Jackson, Annette Bening, Oscar Isaac, Olivia Wilde and more.

High Life

Robert Pattinson takes to outer space in this futuristic sci-fi adventure film by director Claire Denis, telling the story of a father and daughter living in the far reaches of the abyss.

Shoplifters

Winner of the Palme d'Or at this year's Cannes, Shoplifters will close the festival. This film is Hirokazu Kore-eda's story of small-time criminals who take in a young girl off the street.

Toronto's favourite fabric store is closing

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At the corner of Queen West and Brock, right across the street from Parkdale's branch of the Toronto Public Library, sits an absolutely massive yet nondescript fabric store that insiders have been raving about for decades.

Designer Fabrics, regularly ranked as the top store of its kind in Toronto, is a Parkdale institution — a "mecca for those who make their own clothes or are planning an interior design project," as it's been said.

Happy Place

A post shared by Maggie McMillan (@maggielmcmillan) on

The sprawling space isn't showy on the outside, but inside awaits a world of wonder with more textiles, trim and tassle than you could ever imagine seeing in one place. Their selection has been described as "mind-blowing" and staff members as actual saints (of fabric knowledge and customer service).

It's a busy place and a fun one to visit, but sadly, the days are numbered for Designer Fabrics: It's shutting down for good on August 4 after more than 65 years in business.

General manager Angie Clarke said by phone on Tuesday that the family-run business is closing because both of its owners, who are elderly, want to retire.

"We're all sad," she said. "It's like the end of an era. Our staff, our clients, we're a family."

The silver lining here is that you can get all kinds of fabrics, from inexpensive cotton broadcloth to high-end luxury silk, at a discount until the store closes in roughly two weeks.

Everything is currently 50 per cent off inside the Designer Fabrics store at 1360 Queen Street West, though online sales have already been shut down.

As for what's coming next to the space, Clarke has no idea.

The store is gigantic for something in the city that isn't a Shoppers Drug Mart (or similarly well-funded corporate venture), stretching halfway to Cowan Avenue, west of Brock, and all the way north to Abbs Street from Queen.

my happy place

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It'll likely be leased or sold for a pretty penny, though, given how much property values have been rising in the fast-gentrifying neighbourhood.

Don't shoot the messenger, Parkdale. I said "likely."

Toronto is now hotter than San Francisco for tech jobs

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Software developers, AI engineers and information systems professionals take note: You have a better chance at getting a prestigious high-tech job in Toronto than in Silicon Valley right now (not that your ilk is struggling to find work.)

A new report from CBRE shows that more tech jobs were created in Toronto last year than in Seattle, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Vancouver, New York, Boston, Chicago or — most interestingly — the San Francisco Bay Area.

Approximately 241,400 people held tech occupations in Toronto as of 2017, according to the real estate firm's annual ranking of North American tech talent, representing an increase of more than 50 percent since 2012.

toronto tech ranking

Toronto showed the best growth out of all 50 markets surveyed in CBRE's 2018 tech talent ranking, but still came in at the fourth spot overall. Image via CBRE.

Salaries grew by just under 10 percent over the same time period to an average of $83,245.

Another 353,700 people work in Toronto's tech industry but perform non-tech roles, such as sales, marketing, business operations and administrative support. The average salary for these workers as of 2017 was $54,146.

Overall, Toronto scored a 65.38 on CBRE's 2018 tech talent scorecard, ranking fourth behind San Francisco, Seattle and Washington, D.C.

It's also noteworthy that we surged past New York in this year's ranking, up from sixth place to fourth overall. 

toronto tech talent

Software engineers in Toronto are generally well-educated and good at their jobs, which is great news for employers who can pay them a lot less than their counterparts in New York and Washington. Image via CBRE.

While Toronto fared exceptionally well with our labour pool and "brain gain" rate, the city was found to be less appealing in terms of office rent prices, average cost of living (both too high) office vacancy rates and wages by market (both too low). 

The city is pretty average when it comes to what CBRE calls "talent diversity," with a chart showing that 72 percent of tech industry workers in Toronto are male and 28 percent are female.

Despite its drawbacks, CBRE Canada still pegs Toronto as one of the best values for tech firms to invest in thanks to cheaper labour and a well-educated workforce.

Like Vancouver and Montreal, Toronto was also found to have a "very high" quality of labour with a low labour cost — making the region particularly attractive to American corporations whose dollars will stretch even further.

Toronto is putting more patios on city streets

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At this point everyone knows how much the King Street Pilot has changed up the Entertainment District. 

The City's plan to beautify the now essentially car-free stretch of King between Jarvis and Bathurst has marked the arrival of parklets – fun public areas taking over curbside spaces – and it seems like most neighbouring businesses aren't mad at it

From the fun new furniture taking over the street, to arcades and human-sized impression boards, the area has transformed over the past few months from a congested city street into an interactive play space. 

Now it looks like the Entertainment District is about to get even jazzier with the advent of more liquor-licensed curbside patios and cafés. 

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This year, the City encouraged restaurants within the King Street Pilot area to drum up business by waiving their application fees for curbside patios - something that restaurants like Cibo have already taken advantage of with their European-style patio. 

Just outside of the Entertainment District, the northern part of Temperance Street between Sheppard and Bay will also be getting two new curbside cafes by way of Boxcar Social and Johns & Sons Oyster House, which are slated to be built sometime in August. 

And at The Fifth, a new 47-seater patio opened just two weeks ago marks the first signs of beautification to hit Duncan Street, complete with planters and a view of the CN Tower. 

"The visibility on the street definitely helps a lot," says Ivy Ho, an associate at the Fifth. "It draws in a lot more people." Though the Fifth's patio took only two weeks to construct, all restaurants looking to expand their business to the street have to ensure they're meeting all safety requirements for building their curbside space. 

"Visual barriers are a huge issue," says Ho. "Cars have to have a proper sight line across our patio." 

curbside patios toronto

The Fifth's new curbside patio runs along Duncan Street. From mandatory reflective tape to making sure that patio barriers are low enough for drivers to see past, the application process consists of three permits via the City, the Liquor Board and a full inspection of the decking. Photo by Tanya Mok.

Not permitted are things like outdoor music or BBQ areas, and curbside patios are required to close by midnight on Fridays, Saturdays, and by 11 p.m. every other night. You'll also only be able to enjoy them until November 14, after which they'll be packed away for winter. 

Once all conditions are met, though, we can all take advantage of downtown's newly-freed-up streets with some alcoholic beverages in celebration of summer. 

The car-sharing debate isn't over in Toronto

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Two months ago, the world's largest car-sharing service left Toronto in a fit of fury, shaking its fist at City Council on the way out for refusing to even test a free-floating car-share pilot on residential streets.

Now, the issue is coming up at City Hall once again — and if councillor Mike Layton's updated version of the original policy is adopted, Car2go might come back to The 6ix, no doubt pleasing roughly the 80,000 Torontonians who once used the service.

"Until now, car-share vehicles needed to be parked in a limited number of dedicated parking spots – this is about to change," wrote Layton on his website last week in an appeal for citizens to sign a petition.

"We know there are over 200,000 residents who use car-sharing services in Toronto. Let’s make sure our voices are heard loud and clear," he continued. "Reducing car ownership can reduce parking pressure on neighbourhood streets and reduce traffic congestion on city streets."

Layton explains that a proposal going before council tomorrow is to start a pilot program for roaming parking permits, and only for a limited amount of car-share vehicles.

"There will be rules to help avoid bunching many car-share cars on single streets, restrict parking in areas which are already oversubscribed for parking permits, and ensuring vehicles aren’t parking illegally," he noted.

The pilot would allow eligible Toronto residents to park on the street in areas with overnight parking permits when they want to end their trips, as opposed to taking car-share vehicles back to a small, specific lot.

While City Council did shoot down a similar proposal earlier this year (the vote was a decisive 30-2), the revised version of it has some key differences thanks to the input of seven different car-share companies that Layton says will "improve the viability of the Free-Floating Car-Share Pilot."

Transportation Services, which authored the report, recommends the following two major changes:

  • that the beginning of the 18 month pilot be established as the first month in which Free-Floating Car Share pilot permits are issued, and that Transportation Services report back to Public Works and Infrastructure Committee on the findings of the pilot project and a recommended way forward following completion of twelve months of pilot operation; and
     
  • that City Council revise the authority granted to Community Council to add/remove and/or exclude a street and/or area from the pilot to take effect six (6) months after the commencement of the pilot, so that it shall take effect twelve (12) months after the commencement of the pilot, and that Council reconsider the need for such delegated authority at the time of the report back on the pilot.

There's a chance City Council will vote differently this time around, swayed by the backlash from citizens after Car2go left, but only time can tell. 

If things go as they should, we'll find out during another marathon meeting at City Hall on Wednesday.

Vote for your favourite photo of Summerlicious 2018

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The annual Summerlicious prix-fixe extravaganza has now come to an end which means it's now time to find out what we missed by scrolling through all the photos. We've narrowed the entries to a final ten and now ask you to vote for three winners.

Here are the finalists selected for the Summerlicious 2018 photo challenge.

1. lumlamson at Bymark

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2. sarah_unicorntrails at Veloute Bistro

3. _milicious_ at Ricarda's

4. cli2020 at Copetin

A post shared by C. (@cli2020) on

5. dinewithhils at One Restaurant

6. jen_df at Hotel Ocho

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7. s.a.m.stew at Thoroughbred

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8. voracious.vee at Noce Restaurant

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9. superstickyfish at Midi Bistro

10. melmel_withlove at Lena Restaurant

Voting ends at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday July 29, 2018.

Winners will receive gift certificates to some of the participating Summerlicious restaurants.


10 things to do in Toronto today

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It remains a sombre time in Toronto but events today give you the chance to get out there and be with people. Toronto FC takes on Ottawa for the Canadian Championship and there's outdoor movie screenings and performances.

Events you might want to check out:

Canadian Championship (July 25 @ BMO Field)
Toronto's own soccer champs have made it this far and are looking to go further, as they take on the Ottawa Fury during the Canadian Championship.
Lord Huron (July 25 @ Sony Centre for the Performing Arts)
California indie rockers make music for all the cosmic wanderers out there by fusing electro and folk to create dreamy soundscapes.
Open Roof Festival (July 25 @ Sterling Road)
Open Roof returns again with beer, food, and a film. This week it's the Death of Stalin, paired alongside a performance by RubēHill.
Movie Nights in the Beach (July 25 @ Ivan Forrest Gardens)
The classic all-female (and Tom Hanks) flick A League of Their Own gets a screening under the stars with free popcorn included.
The Cult (July 25 @ Budweiser Stage)
80s and 90s rock legends The Cult, Bush, and Stone Temple Pilots arrive for a night of head-banging nostalgia from a time gone by.
L7 (July 25 @ Danforth Music Hall)
80s female rockers L7 have reunited and are more badass than ever as they play their new, charged up anthems for a new generation.
Rockers (July 25 @ The Royal Cinema)
This classic 1978 Jamaican musical has amassed a cult following in recent years, in part due to its stellar soundtrack by the hottest reggae artists of the time.
Songwriters in the Round (July 25 @ Painted Lady)
Ever wonder how artists make their visions a reality? Lindsay Foote, Bill Simms and Dana Swarbrick discuss just what that process looks like.
Dirty Wednesdays (July 25 @ The Corner)
Dirty and uncensored comedy is going down with no-holds-barred funny people showcasing material to make you laugh, squirm and everything in between.
Marry Me Marry Me Marry Me (July 25-29 @ Bell Tower Coffee)
A small production by Marina Moreira, this play tells the story of one woman's journey with gender identity and the search for family.

150 people in Toronto went running to take back the Danforth

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Toronto is holding strong after a mass shooting that left two dead Sunday night. In a mission to take back the street, 150 people gathered last night to run the Danforth.

Participants gathered at Coxwell Ave and the Danforth—the scene of another shooting in 2015—and ran, walked, and jogged to Bowden Street, the location of this week's shooting. 

Sarah Kiriliuk, who organized the event, posted a group photo to Twitter thanking those who came out.

"We won't let violence scare us away from being a strong community," she wrote on Facebook. 

A vigil is planned for tonight along the Danforth. A candelight procession has been organized by the local BIAs. It begins at 7 p.m at Bowden Street.

Rental of the week: 52 Churchill Avenue

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Located in between Trinity Bellwoods, Little Italy, and Dufferin Grove, this place is in the perfect location.52 Churchill Avenue TorontoThe open-concept main floor is bright and airy. The historic home shows off gorgeous hardwood floors, cute stained glass windows, and exposed brick wall, all of which add character.

52 Churchill Avenue Toronto The living room is huge and could easily fit a large group of people for a party.

52 Churchill Avenue Toronto The kitchen is spacious and walks out onto a private balcony. It also comes equipped with all the bells and whistles of a high-end kitchen, including stainless steel appliances.

52 Churchill Avenue TorontoThe bedrooms are well-proportioned and all fit double beds.

52 Churchill Avenue Toronto Although, in two, you might have to get a bit creative with furniture placement due to the sloped ceilings.

52 Churchill Avenue Toronto There are two bathrooms, so if you are sharing this place with roommates, you won’t have to constantly fight over who gets to use the bathroom.

52 Churchill Avenue Toronto This unit also has two private decks. One looking out from the front of the house and one at the back.  

52 Churchill Avenue Toronto Specs
  • Address: #UPPER- 52 Churchill Ave.
  • Type: Apartment
  • Rent: $4,250 / month
  • Listing agent:  Freeman Real Estate Ltd.
  • Furnished? No
  • Utilities: Hydro extra
  • Air conditioning? Yes
  • Bedrooms: 3
  • Bathrooms: 2
  • Parking: 1
  • Laundry? In suite
  • Outdoor space? 2 private decks
  • Pet friendly? Yes
52 Churchill Avenue Toronto Good For

Three young professionals. This place seems ideal for sharing. It’s spacious enough that you wouldn’t be crowding each other, and splitting the rent is always nice.

52 Churchill Avenue Toronto Move On If

You prefer your home to be one level. You will need to walk up at least two flights of stairs to get to bed, and sometimes that's not appealing when you're coming home late from the bar.52 Churchill Avenue Toronto

ISIS claims responsibility for the Toronto Danforth shooting

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After a shooting on the Danforth Sunday night that left 13 injured and two dead, speculation and hostility have arisen around the motive and shooter. 

Now, ISIS has claimed responsibility for the attack. 

The attacker, according to ISIS's AMAQ news agency, was "a soldier of the Islamic State," and that he “carried out the attack in response to calls to target the citizens of the coalition countries."

However, it should be acknowledged that ISIS often claims responsibility for attacks and events that law enforcement deem unrelated. Furthermore, the terrorist group did not provide any evidence beyond their short statement of claim. 

Toronto Police and Canadian law enforcement have not confirmed any motive for the attack yet, and are still currently investigating all aspects of the situation. 

Shortly after the ISIS claim was reported, Police Chief Mark Saunders said the TPS has "no evidence to support these claims." 

Hussain's family maintains that he was suffering from severe mental illness and psychosis, and was not connected to terrorism.

Canada's Public Safety Minister, Ralph Goodale, confirmed Tuesday that the shooter, Faisal Hussain, was not on any federal watchlists, and there was no connection with national security. 

Toronto votes to ban handgun and ammunition sales

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Toronto city council is taking some heavy and decisive steps to address gun violence city-wide in the wake of a mass shooting on the Danforth Sunday night.

One of these steps involves asking the federal government to ban handgun sales in Toronto. Another will see council request Ontario ban the sale of ammunition locally.

Councillors voted 41-4 in favour of these specific measures during a marathon meeting at City Hall on Tuesday evening, but the marquee agenda item they fell under — a set of proposals called "Immediate Steps to Address Gun Violence" — carried unanimously with a vote of 45-0.

The sweeping gun control motion was unveiled well-ahead of the shooting in Toronto's Greektown neighbourhood on Sunday, but was amended to include some additional requests in recent days (such as one that would ensure local trauma recovery programs include culturally-appropriate resources).

While tragic, the recent Danforth shooting was only the latest in a series of high-profilegun death incidents in Toronto this summer.

As of Monday, there had been 228 shootings this year. A total of 308 victims were injured by gunfire in these incidents, 29 of them fatally.

The number of shootings in Toronto is up roughly 11 percent over this time last year, but the number of shooting deaths has gone up by a startling 71 percent.

toronto gun violence

There had been 228 shooting incidents to date in Toronto as of July 23, 2018. Image via Toronto Police.

The city is well on pace for one of its deadliest years in history, and the recent frequency of what police call "brazen" downtown shootings has intensified public concern to levels not seen since 2005's "summer of the gun."

Toronto Mayor John Tory and Police Chief Mark Saunders announced earlier this month that 200 police officers would be dispatched to "priority areas" around the city between 7 p.m. and 3 a.m., for the remainder of the summer, in an effort to curb the violence.

Both have attributed much of the shooting activity to gangs, but there's clearly more at play here — hence the more in-depth plan presented at City Hall this week.

In addition to asking for help from Justin Trudeau's Liberal government and Doug Ford's Ontario PCs, City council approved the following gun control initiatives during Tuesday's meeting, as per CBC Toronto:

  • Approving funding for ShotSpotter technology, which uses microphones to detect gunfire and automatically informs police.
  • Asking the province to fulfil its promise to provide $1.9 billion in funding for mental health supports and programs.
  • Increasing funding for the Youth Equity Strategy by $2.6 million.
  • Asking the chief coroner of Ontario to conduct inquests into all gun-violence deaths.
  • Implementing a gun amnesty buyback program.
  • Using funding from the city's reserve fund to immediately hire 100 new police officers. 
  • Investigating gun clubs and shooting ranges in the city to see if they are operating legally.
  • Looking into the city acquiring and repurposing gun clubs for civic purposes.

The five-year-plan is estimated to cost around $44 million in total, all of which the City hopes will come in the form of federal and provincial funding.

These funds have not yet been approved, but if they are, at least $7.4 million will be spent this year alone on such things as enhanced surveillance and enforcement projects.

This includes the installation of 40 new CCTV security cameras around the city and, eventually, the potential rollout of the controversial "gunshot listening" technology ShotSpotter.

More than $1 million of the first funding round will also be spent on youth violence prevention initiatives and the expansion of Toronto's Community Crisis Response Program.

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