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This Week in Home Video: The Soska Sisters invade Toronto, Dark Skies, Doctor Who, Dirty Mary & Crazy Larry

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Peter FondaThis Week in Home Video previews all the latest Blu-ray, DVD and on-demand titles hitting the street this week, plus lost gems, crazed Cancon, outrageous cult titles and the best places to rent or buy movies in Toronto.

THE SOSKA SISTERS INVADE TORONTO

AMERICAN MARY is a new horror film created by twin Vancouver-ites Jen and Sylvia Soska, and starring Katharine Isabelle from Ginger Snaps. It is screening in Toronto this Thursday night as part of Cineplex's Sinister Cinema umbrella, a collection of limited engagement, high-minded, low-budget pictures which evoke memories of the varied kinds of horror movies we all grew up with.

Do you like visiting Toronto?

Sylvia: I really do. As die-hard horror nerds, we love getting to invade the Anchor Bay and Rue Morgue offices. Anchor Bay has been putting out awesome horror titles and you can tell how much they love what they do with the stuff you find in their office. It's a real honor to have AMERICAN MARY in that film family. Rue Morgue is a staple of the Canadian identity and passion for horror. It's very rad to go from fangirling over the zines to being in their building, getting the tour, and seeing all of the history.

Jen: We LOVE Toronto. I owe a big part of that to the Toronto After Dark Film Festival and the amazing team that makes it possible. We had our Canadian premiere there and we were just blown away by how kindly we were treated and by the out pour of love from the fans. The audience was outstanding! It was and remains the biggest reaction we've ever received from an audience. They laughed at every funny bit and cheered and groaned and applauded. It felt extra special because it was in Canada. We are so proudly Canadian. It feels amazing to get that kind of response from a Canadian audience especially with a 100% Canadian film.

Other than American Mary, any hot tips for summer flicks?

S: Everything in the Sinister Cinema series was great - JOHN DIES AT THE END, THE LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT OF ROSALIND LEIGH, THE ABCS OF DEATH, NO ONE LIVES - if you miss them in the theatre, the DVD/BD and VOD is a'coming. V/H/S 2 has Jason Eisener involved, so I can't wait to see what he does. It'll be rad.

J: I am terrified to see THE WOLVERINE. I'm such a comic fan and suffer, probably incurably, from nerd rage. Wolverine is one of my favorite heroes. There are two wicked cool Canadian super heroes and everyone know they're Wolverine and Deadpool. Neither has had a stand alone film that was worthy of the character. Don't get me wrong, Hugh Jackman plays a great Wolvie and Ryan Reynolds was a pitch perfect Deadpool and in no way responsible for what happened with his character in the film. Wolverine should be treated like a Batman or a Superman or a Spider-man. He's just such a deep and beautifully written character. The trailer for his new movie screams CGI nightmare to me. If you avoid that one, you should be good. I am pretty excited for MAN OF STEEL.

Your first horror movie is almost like your first crush, you never forget it. What was the first horror movie you remember seeing, or that scared you? Were you into horror movies growing up?

S: POLTERGEIST. We were so odd, as far back as I can remember, we would haunt our local video store's decorated horror section and stare at the VHS boxes, begging our mom to let us see one. When we did watch our first, it scared the shit out of us. Especially the bodies. Then our mom did something that would forever change the way that we look at horror films - she explained what we had actually seen: the director, the actors, the sets, the costumes, the script, and the monster makers. All these artists worked together with the intention of scaring the audience. We got hooked, it became a safe place to explore, and we loved monster makers.

J: We were always into horror. Halloween was a very big deal for us. Our first horror movie was POLTERGEIST. It changed our lives. I remember being so scared. That movie is made to terrify children if you really think about it. The clown under the bed. Oh my God. I had a clown doll that I had to lock in the closet. I got a lock for my closet so he couldn't come out and get me. But I imagined him in my dark closet at night and felt he was even more powerful in there. It was kind of like putting him under my bed.

And my closet was scary. There was a door on its ceiling that led up into the attic. We read a lot of Stephen King novels growing up. My mum had this massive collection and tricked us into loving reading by telling us if we read the book we could see the movie. It had us reading at a high level when we were incredibly young. It's also where we got our sick sense of humor. Stephen King is just the master of dark comedy.

I have heard that you really admire American Psycho from Canadian filmmaker Mary Harron. What other Canadian horror movies do you rate highly?

S: GINGER SNAPS - it's such an intellectual horror and a must see for all angsty teen girls. CUBE is great and so high-concept, I don't want to spoil it by giving anything away. SHIVERS is amazing because who doesn't like sex slug possession films. Everything by Astron-6 is some of the most hilarious and rad filmmaking you will ever see - cannot recommend highly enough. Start with BIO-COP, then do MANBORG. You're welcome in advance if I'm introducing them to you.

J: DEAD RINGERS is my favorite Cronenberg film, but I bet that's pretty obvious, ha ha. There are some sensational independent Canadian horror movies that I just love. PONTYPOOL is amazing. It's a very original take on a something that's been done to death, but never with such originality and excellent execution. GRAVE ENCOUNTERS by the Vicious Brothers is awesome. It's a found footage film where something actually happens. It was shot right here in Vancouver, too, at a partially closed asylum which is widely known to be haunted.

You both write, direct and produce. Who are your favorite other "triple threat" film makers?

S: We learned it all from the one and only Robert Rodriguez. The man is such an inspiration. Not only are his films rad, but he's cool enough to share his tricks. If it wasn't for watching his films, learning from his Ten Minute Film Schools, and reading his 'Rebel Without A Crew', we wouldn't have gotten into filmmaking ourselves.

J: Robert Rodriguez. He's our hero. He's the reason we ever picked up a camera. He is so much more than a triple threat. The man writes his own score, edits, shoots, and even acts. He's just a master of his craft. The way he works has made me endlessly seek knowledge about every position on set and never stop learning. I think he's the reason a lot of people got into filmmaking.

Horror as a genre seems to have suffered with the proliferation of PG-13 rated "horror" movies, usually toned down for economic considerations. Would you compromise your vision if it meant more people might see your film?

S: I wouldn't. If I have a story to tell with adult content, I'm going to have that content there. Once you start compromising for a broader audience, which is really a cash grab to increase your box office potential, it's a slippery slope to making sell out pieces of shit. That's not why I got into filmmaker. I would love to make some money doing this, but telling an honest story that means something to me and hopefully others is top priority.

That said, we've gotten messages from young people who can't watch our films because of the content, but their parents have watched them or they got introduced to us in another way and want to be able to see something we've done. We're working on a film for a younger audience because we got into horror at ten and it would be nice to make a horror film that ten year olds can see, but it's still very much our style. Finding a balance between the two is the real challenge, but we've got something good figured out.

J: We're not smart enough for that, ha ha. We have a very definite vision. If we have an evisceration in a film, we want it there. We've once passionately fought (and won) to keep a 3 frame insert of an extreme close up on male naughty bits. But we felt it was integral to the story we were telling. I don't think there are enough cool horror movies for young people. I began watching horror movies much younger than a lot of kids and I loved it.

I feel AMERICAN MARY is a horror film you don't have to look away from but my ringing endorsement won't likely get a bunch of parents to bring out their kids to see it. Sylv and I do have a series of horror films that would be able to get a rating under R purely so that young people can see our films easily. But we would never tone down a film that we're making just to get more people to come in. Some films have to be rated R. It's like in some situations you just have to use the "f" word.

Toronto versus Vancouver: Which city is scarier?

S: I haven't been to any scary places in Toronto. They shoot in an old asylum here called Riverview that the crews here swear are haunted and it's creepy as fuck. They shot IT and THE X-FILES here. It's rainy and dreary, so I think it has a more spooky atmosphere with the weather and the forested areas. I'll have to ask someone to show me the scarier side of Toronto.

J: Vancouver's my town! It can't be scary to me. It's like your childhood home. You're just so used to it and you get to know it so well. I don't really find Toronto scary. I mean, we're Canadian. We're so sweet and welcoming. I love Canada. I'd probably have to go to a hockey game in Toronto to really know which one of us is scarier. In that regard, I would say that LA wins hands down, ha ha

What's next for you? Any dream projects you would like to share?

S: We're in early prep for an original monster movie that we are teaming with Masters FX on called BOB. The tagline is: There's a monster inside all of us, sometimes it gets out. We're also very stoked to be a part of the multi-collaborative ABCS OF DEATH 2. We've got some good stuff cooking for that. We're in a very cool place in our careers right now that we have had this outpour of support so that we can pursue our dreams. There's a few projects coming that I can't talk about yet, but they are literally dream come true projects for the two of us.

J: We are huge comic nerds. We're stoked to be partnering with FIRST COMICS to bring our films to graphic novel life. We've also had the pleasure of meeting so many talented writers and artists through them. There is one particular writer/artist who I can't mention by name just yet, but we are massive fans of his work and we are so honored to be bringing one of his graphic novels to the big screen. We've always wanted to do a comic book movie and to do it authentic to the comics. You'll just be able to feel our love for the material and creator dripping from every frame. It's going to be incredible.

With the rise of tablets and changing viewing habits, do you worry your movies will be watched in 10 minute chunks on iPhones while people are on the bus? Are you format agnostic or would you prefer your films screened in a theatre?

S: I don't think we'll ever lose theatres. Since before Gladiator times, we've had groups of people sit together and watch a huge spectacle unfold. It's escapism at its best. Yes, you can have escapism on the bus, that's why those devices are so cool, but it isn't as all-encompassing as the theatre ritual. Theatres will develop and change to be experiences you need to come out to and hand-held devices will continue to advance to be convenient entertainment for people. I think we can have both.

J: Growing up, we used to pick out horror movies at our local video store. We'd spend forever looking at the covers and checking out the backs of VHS boxes. It's something that really made me fall in love with horror. That's gone now. No kid will grow up with that experience and have it make them want to make movies. And that sucks. With more and more people staying home or downloading movies, we're seeing a huge decline in theatrical releases. It's so hard to get a horror film or an indie film on the big screen. Who knows how much longer they'll be around at this rate.

There's some real romance to going into a theatre and sitting there waiting for the film to start. There's that anticipation and audience experience. I believe it's an experience you can't download. You put some much into a film, with production design and make up effects and wardrobe and locations... it's not really meant to be seen on an itty bitty screen. I am happy that anyone anywhere is watching our films in any form, but I do think films belong on the big screen and it's all of our responsibilities to go out and watch movies and keep theatres alive.

AMERICAN MARY is playing this Thursday. Check your local listings.

Blu-ray/DVD will be released June 18

NEW THIS WEEK

Dark Skies (eOne)

Suburban bliss comes under sustained attack from unexplained forces in the home of Daniel (Josh Hamilton) and Lacy Barret (Keri Russell). Legend has it that originally Steven Spielberg's E.T was going to be a horror movie about a pack of malevolent aliens mercilessly attacking a family home. Instead, he ported that element over to his production of Poltergeist, changed them into ghosts, and made his alien friendly. Dark Skies plays out that original remit to its chilling natural conclusion. This is a bona fide scary movie, the kind that the major Studios used to churn out en masse in the 80s and 90s before bean counters pointed out it was cheaper to remake and reboot previous glories. That said, while Dark Skies may cannibalize Poltergeist, Close Encounters of the Third Kind and Paranormal Activity, it also remixes the source material into a novel contemporary tale of terror.

Doctor Who: Series 7 Volume 2 (BBC)

Matt Smith continues to amuse as the 11th incarnation of the popular Time lord, however sadly this year's crop of episodes has slightly let the team down with inconstant pacing and some horrible scripts. Highlights include the gothic haunted house episode "Hide", The Sherlock Holmes meets Hammer Horror comedy "The Crimson Horror", and a claustrophobic re-introduction of the classic Ice Warrior baddies in "Cold War". Season finale "The Name of the Doctor" starts out great, but falls to pieces with cheap emoting and a cringing cliff-hanger, and the less said about Neil Gaiman's pig's ear of a script with the natty Cybermen, the better. Seeing as it is the 50th anniversary of this great British institution, let's hope they get their act together, sharpish.

Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry/Race with the Devil (Shout Factory)

Deep fried Southern gritsploitation is the name of the game with this low-down, sweat stained double bill from Shout Factory. First up is the legendary Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry, featuring what amounts to a movie-length car chase featuring a kitted out 1969 Dodge Charger RT in one of the most nihilistic finales in cinema history, and a gurning Peter Fonda; Race With the Devil, also with Fonda, and hard boiled '70s bad man Warren Oates, finds two couples running afoul of a local Satanic cult during an innocent RV vacation. Vintage high octane drive-in trash classics.

Rolling Thunder (Shout Factory)

Often hailed as one of "Quentin Tarantino's favourite films", this flea bitten revenge tale about a Vietnam vet hunting down a pack of low-lives who killed his family packs a serious punch. Starring the awesome William Devane and Tommy Lee Jones in an early role, it's easy to see how this influenced much of Tarantino's output of late. Directed by the great grizzled John Flynn (The Outfit), and written by Paul Schrader (Taxi Driver), this is one cult '70s picture that actually deserves its iron fisted rep.

STILL FRESH


Get to know a Toronto startup: Strum

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Strum appHave you ever left a store or restaurant with an elated feeling about the service you received? Instead of constantly feeling that you have to tip "just because", you walked away thinking that the person really went above and beyond to make your experience that much better. Besides leaving a tip, which may be easy to do at a restaurant, but downright complicated when you are shopping for clothes, how else can you get your feedback to the person who made your day just a little bit brighter? Welcome to Strum.

Strum is a new and interactive way for customers to enjoy more influence and rewards at their favourite local businesses. Built around the concept that repeat customers deserve to feel important and great employees deserve to be recognized, Strum is quickly changing the typical feedback loop.

I had the opportunity to spend some time with Strum's founder and CEO, Andrew Smith, to learn about how the Strum team is attempting to dramatically change the way customers and businesses connect.

Let's talk about Strum, where did the idea come from?

I spent January, February and March of 2012 interviewing small business owners all over southern Ontario - I was building a feedback channel for small business. But something kept bothering me. I was a regular at a fantastic local restaurant called Coquine. But had I ever given the owner, Rob Prete, any feedback? No. Did I keep coming back? Yes. Why? Sure the food is terrific, but the reason I kept going back was because of Rob and his team. Because I knew before I walked in the door that I was going to feel welcome, important and appreciated.

In the spring of 2012, I talked to Rob. His advice was to make Strum about people. Give his customers - especially the ones who couldn't be in there every week - an opportunity to connect with him and his team personally. That would bring value to his customers and therefore value to him. That was the pivot. We transformed Strum from a focus on feedback to a focus on people. So customers can enjoy direct influence with the people behind their favourite places. And have some fun and get rewarded at the same time.

Can you give me some more details on how Strum works?

Strum is simple: (1) message local business owners directly; (2) earn Strum points; and (3) use your Strum points to bid against your friends on free local merchandise in the Strum Auction. Strum is location aware - we put you three taps away from your favourite local businesses. When you're at a favourite place, just open Strum and message the business owner (what we call a "Strum") - and if you get great service, you can select a specific employee to send a round of applause.

You can send these messages privately, or share them with your followers on your public feed. And because your opinion is valuable, you receive points when you "Strum" that can be used to bid against your friends for great local merchandise in the Strum Auction. "Strum" an employee for great service, and they receive points too. Lastly, when you favourite a business on Strum, you open a channel for occasional rewards - not commercials.

Tell me more about the Strum Auction. Can anyone collect points for providing feedback?

Absolutely: Strum, Earn Points, and Bid to Win in the Strum Auction. As long as you're on-premise, you earn points when you message ("Strum") local business owners - regardless of whether the business owner is currently on the Strum platform. Whether it's a free margarita pizza from Lil' Baci, free Irish nachos from the Churchmouse & Firkin or a free slackline from Boardsports - they're all up for grabs in the Strum Auction. But be prepared - there are a few gunslingers out there - sometimes it comes down to the wire!

strum iphone appWhere can I use Strum today? Do businesses have to be signed up before I can interact with them?

We're currently testing Strum with customers in Turkey, the UK, Brazil, the US and Canada; you can message any business on Strum - regardless of whether they're currently on the platform. These messages are visible on your public feed.

In Toronto, we're rolling out with businesses neighbourhood by neighbourhood. Today, you can Strum your favourite local businesses in Riverside & Leslieville, in Church & Wellesley, and in Davisville. We're currently expanding into West Queen West and College Street. If there's a favourite business you'd like to see on Strum, send them an in-app invite!

If you had to summarize, what would be Strum's main goal?

Our goal is simple: To be the world's leading channel connecting customers with the businesses they care about, always placing the customer's interests first.

What are the next steps for Strum?

Each Tuesday at Strum is a Super Strum Tuesday where we promote two favourite local businesses in an epic auction showdown. This past Tuesday saw Boardsports face off against Desmond & Beatrice in a tightly contested duel we dubbed Pop Some Wheelies or Eat Your Feelings? Customers bid down to the wire, with the victors wheeling away (or munching away) with big rewards and bragging rights.

What do you think? Will you use Strum?

This week on DineSafe: McDonald's, Astro Variety, Ahmutha Surabi, Everyone Cafe, Country Style

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Dinesafe TorontoThis week's DineSafe database is, thankfully, lacking in the closures department. There was nary a crucial infraction for most restaurants that hosted the health inspector. Everyone Cafe was probably the biggest offender this week, as they didn't seem to be able to keep the food hot or cold. Here, behold the other minor villains of Toronto's kitchens this past week.

McDonald's (2365 Dundas St. W.)
Inspected on: May 21
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional pass)
Number of infractions: 2 (Minor: 1, Significant: 1)
Crucial infractions include: N/A

Astro Variety (2894 Dufferin St.)
Inspected on: May 23
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional pass)
Number of infractions: 5 (Minor: 2, Significant: 3)
Crucial infractions include: N/A

Country Style Bistro Deli
Inspected on: May 23
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional pass)
Number of infractions: 6 (Minor: 2, Significant: 4)
Crucial infractions include: N/A

Everyone Cafe (20 Grosvenor St.)
Inspected on: May 23
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional pass)
Number of infractions: 6 (Significant: 4, Crucial: 2)
Crucial infractions include: Failure to maintain hazardous foods at 4 C (40 F) or colder, failure to maintain hazardous foods at 60 C (140 F) or hotter.

Goldstone Noodle (266 Spadina Ave.)
Inspected on: May 24
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional pass)
Number of infractions: 6 (Minor: 3, Significant: 3)
Crucial infractions include: N/A

Ahmutha Surabi (2847 Lawrence Ave. E.)
Inspected on: May 23
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional pass)
Number of infractions: 5 (Significant: 3, Crucial: 2)
Crucial infractions include: Failure to ensure food is not contaminated/adulterated, failure to maintain hazardous foods at 60 C (140 F) or hotter.

Swetha (2633 Eglinton Ave. E.)
Inspected on: May 21
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional pass)
Number of infractions: 6 (Minor: 2, Significant: 3, Crucial: 1)
Crucial infractions include: Failure to maintain hazardous foods at 60 C (140 F) or hotter.

Taste of Dominican (2231 Danforth Ave.)
Inspected on: May 24
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional pass)
Number of infractions: 8 (Minor: 1, Significant: 5, Crucial: 1)
Crucial infractions include: Failure to ensure food is not contaminated/adulterated.

House of the Week: 6 Evergreen Gardens

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6 Evergreen Gardens TorontoThis house at 6 Evergreen Gardens, in what some refer to as Bennington Heights, looks like the kind of place Angelina Jolie would run circles around in a film, taking aim at other mysteriously spandex-garbed ninjas. (Seriously, how and why are they always dressed in those catsuits? Where do they buy them?). The design is quite stunning and thoroughly modern, with few frills and adornments. It's honest; it says what it means, you know? The facade is a combination of brick, cedar and glass, making for an arresting textural palette, and the inside also pays homage to that ever-present duality of warmth vs. frigidness for a striking effect.

6 Evergreen Gardens TorontoSPECS:

Address: 6 Evergreen Gardens
Price: $2,349,000
Size (square feet): N/A
Storeys: 2
Bedrooms: 4+1
Bathrooms: 4
Parking Spaces: 3
Property Taxes: N/A

6 Evergreen Gardens TorontoNOTABLE FEATURES

  • Private drive
  • Designed by award-winning architect Drew Mandel (Bragging rights!)
  • 2009 Ontario Association of Architects Award of Excellence Winner
  • Dual-sided fireplace
  • Brazilian hardwood floors (chop that fucking rainforest!!)
  • Family room with sliding glass wall

6 Evergreen Gardens TorontoGOOD FOR

People whose self-esteem needs bolstering. People who like to sip scotch and stare pensively out of windows without many thoughts flowing through their whiskey-addled brains. Angelina Jolie. Less cynically, those for whom modern architecture matters (and who are willing and able to pay for the privilege).

6 Evergreen Gardens TorontoMOVE ON IF

You like full-on walls. And rainforests.

Read other posts in this series via our House of the Week Pinterest board.

12 local beers to drink this summer in Toronto

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Toronto beer summerWhile it seems to be arriving in spurts, summer is nearly upon us here in Toronto. It's a special time in the city when the sunglasses come out, we start to show a little more skin, and we queue up for a space on one of the city's great patios.

It's a also a time in the city when put away the heavy, boozy beers that kept us warm all winter and look to a crisp, refreshing beer better suited to long, lazy days in the sun.

With that in mind, here are a dozen of some of the best local offerings for easy summer drinking, as well as some info about where you can get yours.

Bellwoods Brewery's Wizard Wolf
My current beer obsession, Wizard Wolf is Bellwoods Brewery's answer to a session ale. Usually known for heftier brews like their Hellwoods Imperial Stout or the boozy double IPA, Witchshark, Wizard Wolf weighs in at a-perfect-for-an-afternoon-of-drinking 4.8%. Unlike other beers that opt for a lower ABV though, Wizard Wolf manages to retain all the big hoppy aromas that bitter beer lovers crave (seriously, the smell is amazing) and the taste is all mango and citrus.

Where it's brewed: 124 Ossington Avenue
Where you can get it: Available on tap at the Bellwoods Brewery Pub or in the bottle from their retail store at 126 Ossington (you may also see it pop up in a few of the city's beer bars, too)
Where you should drink it: If you're lucky enough to get one of the few available seats, drink this sitting on the Bellwoods patio just a few yards from where it was brewed, but if the patio's full, a four pack of Wizard Wolf shared with a couple friends in Trinity Bellwoods makes for a nice little afternoon, too.

Steam Whistle Pilsner
With so many craft brewers popping up in Toronto these days, the good beer folks seem a little under-appreciated in the Big Smoke. Sure, being present in virtually every bar in the city and enjoying a national audience means it's becoming increasingly difficult to think of Steam Whistle as one of the "little guys," but they're still locally owned and operated and, most importantly, they're still cranking out a near flawless crisp and refreshing European-style pilsner.

Where it's brewed: The historic Roundhouse at 255 Bremner Blvd
Where you can get it: Direct from the brewery, The LCBO, The Beer Store, various bars
Where you should drink it: While last year I might have encouraged you to have a few brewery-fresh beers at the Roundhouse before a Jays game, this year Steam Whistle managed the landmark feat of becoming the first local beer available in the Roger's Centre. It's only available from one vendor on the 100 level right now, but it's worth the hike to let the powers that be know you'd prefer a cold can of local stuff while you watch our team lose again.

Junction Craft Brewery's West Toronto Weisen
Junction Craft Brewery is actually something of a best kept secret when it comes to beers you can drink all day: the majority of this small brewery's offerings weigh in at around (and often less than) 5% so while all their beers are big on flavour, they don't pack the boozy wallop that some other flavourful beers do. Their as-yet-unreleased Weisen will surely fit that bill too. It's a 4.6% ABV, traditional German Wheat beer with just 10 IBU, meaning this one is sure to go down easy. And, proving that Junction Craft is a brewery after my own heart, they'll be launching the beer as part of a "Wheat Beer Breakfast" in mid June. I'll bring the maple syrup.

Where it's brewed:90 Cawthra Avenue Unit #101
Where you can get it: (soon) Direct from the brewery
Where you should drink it: Who am I to question the wisdom of Junction Craft's Tom Paterson and Doug Pengelly? Drink it with breakfast!

Muskoka Brewery's Summer Weiss
Newly available in handy 355ml bottles in six packs or cases, Muskoka's Summer Weiss is an amazing, unfiltered, aromatic wheat beer with aromas that will remind you of cloves, bananas, and juicy fruit. This beer deserves a permanent spot in your fridge this summer and is so well-suited to summer drinking that we were willing to stretch the idea of "local" up highway 400 just a bit in order to include it here.

Where it's brewed: A brand new brewery at 1964 Muskoka Beach Road in Bracebridge Ontario
Where you can get it: Direct from the brewery, The LCBO, The Beer Store, various bars
Where you should drink it: This one's ideally suited to drinking beside a body of water in a Muskoka chair. If you aren't lucky enough to have a cottage, a kiddy pool on a rooftop patio in the Annex will also do in a pinch.

Muskoka Summer WeissKensington Brewing Company's Fruit Stand Watermelon Wheat
The latest beer from Kensington Brewing Company features just a touch of watermelon juice that's added during the fermentation process and manages the beer/fruit combination without destroying what most people like about beer; namely that it tastes like beer. There are floral and juicy aromas and a barely perceptible sweetness of watermelon but they're really only evident the more you drink the beer--and luckily, at just 4.5% ABV, this beer's ideally suited to drinking more of it.

Where it's brewed: For now, Wellington Brewery at 950 Woodlawn Road West in Guelph, but eventually it will be produced at KBCo's new location at 299 Augusta Avenue.
Where you can get it: various bars (Check out the Kensington Brewing Company website for locations)
Where you should drink it: While it seems obvious that this one is best enjoyed in Kensington Market, it doesn't appear that any bars in the market are carrying it yet so...Victory Cafe, I guess?

Cameron's Cream Ale
Those who insist their beer needs to be hoppy/complex/unfiltered/brewed with cardamom etc. can feel free to just skip this entry (or, more likely, just skip to the comments section to express your disagreement), but in the summer there's a certain place for a perfectly inoffensive, well-made, crisp tasting beer--and Cameron's Cream Ale is just that. It's not going to blow your mind, but beer doesn't always have to. To be honest, Cameron's Cream Ale isn't even the best beer that Cameron's brews, but if you're looking for an excellent cream ale, this oft overlooked, malt-forward, subtly sweet beer that's been around since 1998 will do the trick quite nicely.

Where it's brewed: 1165 Invicta Ontario, Oakville Ontario
Where you can get it: Direct from the brewery, The LCBO, The Beer Store, various bars
Where you should drink it: While performing a summertime task that necessitates cold beer: think grilling or post yard work.

Beer Academy Kolsch
Some craft beer enthusiasts may have issues with The Beer Academy given it's big-brewery overseer (the place is owned by Molsons), but the fact remains that the people who work and brew there are passionate about beer and make some tasty stuff. Case in point, their Kolsch. It's a bright, refreshing beer with biscuity aromas and a hint of citrus. Interestingly, whereas most Kolsch-style beers focus on a clean, filtered look and taste, the Beer Academy has opted to keep theirs unfiltered, lending it a cloudier look, a slightly lengthier taste, and a healthy dollop of white head.

Where it's brewed: 75 Victoria Street
Where you can get it: Buy it in growlers or in 625ml bottles directly from the Beer Academy.
Where you should drink it: Crack a growler of Kolsch with a nice brunch to help get over last night's late evening and get your sunny afternoon off on the right foot.

Amsterdam Framboise
Recently re-released in the LCBO at the urging of the beer's loyal following, this Amsterdam brew boasts 2.2 pounds of fresh raspberries in every 750ml bottle, making the beer a brilliant red colour with an exceptional raspberry tartness. It's not exactly the first thing people reach for when they think of a cold beer, but this Toronto-made classic definitely earns its sport among easy drinking summer beverages.

Where it's brewed:45 Esandar Drive
Where you can get it: In 750mL ceramic, swing-top bottles direct from the brewery and from select LCBOs for a limited time.
Where you should drink it: On a picnic date with someone who claims "I don't really like beer." Use this beer to begin showing that person the error of his/her ways.

Black Oak Brewery's Ten Bìtter Years
You can only drink so many wheat beers and fruit beers before you just need some damn hops. There is no shortage of hoppy brew on the Ontario market these days, but why not grab this excellent Etobicoke-made imperial IPA? Recently added to the brewery's full time lineup after years as a seasonal favourite, Ten Bitter Years packs a healthy 8% ABV and has all the big pine, grapefruit, and mango hop flavours you'll need to kickstart your evening after a day spent drinking sessionable beer.

Where it's brewed: 75 Horner Ave #1 Etobicoke, Ontario
Where you can get it: Direct from the brewery, The LCBO
Where you should drink it: Drink this one after chilly late night skinny-dipping and let its high alcohol and bitter taste help restore feeling to all your extremities.

Great Lakes Brewery's Miami Weiss
The city's craft beer contingent will be very happy to learn this excellent Great Lakes Brewery summer offering will be back on shelves very soon. A more hop-forward beer with great mango and floral aromas, this non-traditional wheat beer--with it's piney, bitter taste--actually has more in common with an American Pale Ale than a weiss beer, but it retains a soft and light-feeling body, ample carbonation and a nice big head and weighs in at an-oh-so-sessionable 4.5%.

Where it's brewed:30 Queen Elizabeth Boulevard, Etobicoke, Ontario
Where you can get it: (soon) Direct from the brewery, The LCBO
Where you should drink it: On a beach, wearing a white blazer with the sleeves pulled up, obviously.

Ben Johnson also writes about beer over on Ben's Beer Blog.

Toronto Artist Collective aims to revive all-ages scene

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Toronto Artist CollectiveToronto Artist Collective (T.A.C.) is promoting its second major event this Friday at The Great Hall. Intrigued by their take on the classic battle of the bands concept, I asked T.A.C. founders Dan Drory-Lehrer, David Royer and Erik Preston about their vision for reviving the all-ages scene in Toronto, and what to expect this weekend.

You're expecting over 1,000 people to attend your second major all-ages event in Toronto. How did this idea come about and grow so fast?

Toronto Artist Collective was originally founded with the goal of strengthening the independent music scene in Toronto. This is not a new or original idea, but T.A.C added the all-ages component in independent music that we felt the city was lacking.

Our first large-scale show, Johnnyland, took place March 1 at The Annex Live and turned out to be a great success. A couple days after the show, Dan Drory-Lehrer and our friend Lucas Izzy Tennan created an idea to make a Battle of the Bands; for "Johnnyland."

How does Toronto Artist Collective operate with the bands vying for the prize? Do they each pay an entry fee to participate? What do they get in return?

There is no entry fee for the 7 bands that we have selected with this show. We pride ourselves in being able to provide artists the best opportunities to play shows with bigger and more enthusiastic audiences without forcing any promotional quotas upon them. All bands are being paid to play and the top 3 bands are getting free recording time with our partners at INEO studios.

What makes this show more interesting than your average battle-of-the-bands show?

This battle of the bands is student run, meaning that it is developed and presented to a demographic that we truly believe needs a voice in this city. For us, this battle and art show represents a new calling for young artists and musicians to hone their talent before adulthood by giving them a new venue to display their skills.

If it's an all-ages show, will there still be alcohol for sale, for those 19 and over? What else can concertgoers expect to be able to purchase to consume at the show?

We will be operating a wristband policy, so those 19+ can still enjoy the full bar available at The Great Hall. Those under the legal age will be able to enjoy any non-alcoholic drinks normally available. Within steps of the venue are many of the great restaurants seen on Queen West, many of which are open late for post-show munchies.

What's with the name Johnnyland? Where did that come from and what does it mean?

My brother Dov - pianist in the band Professor H & The Bandits (940 time slot in the battle) - and I grew up living with our dad in Costa Rica a lot, having visited over 30 times. While surfing in Samara Beach on the Pacific coast a couple years back, we would run to the ocean with our surf boards over our heads and scream, "To Johnnyland!"

To me, Johnnyland is the word that represents the biggest feeling of bliss in escapism; tying into the art expo's theme and the escapism I personally get from listening to music and my whole experience of building T.A.C.

KC Roberts

There's also the art exhibition component to the evening in The Conversation Room across from the main hall. Can you tell me how this came about and how it fits in with the event?

In booking the great hall, we had an extra room with a capacity of 100+ people. Dan jumped on the idea of curating an art show with a theme "beautiful escapism" and revolving around his artwork, Dan Art. The intention was to give fans a place to relax from the tight atmosphere of the main hall. And give artists of all ages from all around the city the chance to show their work and gain exposure. Overall, we believe the art exhibition brings another artistic dimension to the fan's experience.

After the Battle of the Bands component, there's the headliners, KC Roberts & the Live Revolution performing a set. Why did you choose them?

Since we have been dealing mainly with the 16-20+ age range, we wanted to expand our audience to an older crowd past midnight. Our second acoustic act, the lovely Annie Dorrett, referred us to her guitar teacher, KC Roberts, telling us of his 7-piece funk band. We did our research and realized a) they could bring out the older crowds in large numbers and b) they put on one hell of a live experience. Band member Matt Giffin was instrumental in the promotion of this event.

Toronto Artist Collective's Battle for Johnnyland begins at 6pm on Friday night at the Great Hall.

Photo by Keiko Chanderbhan. Photo of KC Roberts & the Live Revolution from their Facebook Page.

Roncesvalles Village gets an art gallery to call its own

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2186 DundasDespite the nearby presence of the art-focused complex on Morrow Avenue that houses heavyweight galleries like Olga Korper, the Roncesvalles area is anything but a destination for emerging art spaces. Addressing the void, a new gallery has landed at Dundas and Roncesvalles that aims to showcase up and coming artists — one that notably takes no commission on the sale of work. Artists take note!

Read my profile of 2186 Dundas in the galleries section.

Vote: 20 Best Of categories

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PoutineToday we're opening up voting in our latest Best Of poll. Now you can have your say in a new batch of categories including microbreweries, nightclubs, late night poutine, wedding venues, outdoor patio furniture, used bike shops, playgrounds and more.

Take the Best Of poll here.

Voting in the poll ends at midnight this Friday May 31st.


Highlights from Anime North 2013

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Anime North TorontoThe Doubletree Plaza shook as the Nagata Shachu taiko drummers beat out a furious song of old. Each thump of the drums was so strong, and the acoustics of the hall so sound, that I felt the air vibrate. Perhaps those were the goose-bumps running up my skin, though. I turned to the crowd. Gazing at the neon sea of brightly-coloured wigs and Styrofoam armature, I wondered who felt the same.

Such were the opening ceremonies for Anime North 2013. I attended all three days at Anime North so that I could answer some burning questions. Mainly, what can someone expect from a convention of this size? What sights are worth the price of admission, and how does one enjoy oneself at such a venue?

Read on for my impressions or check out our huge slideshow of photos.

ART SHOWS
Anime North Toronto 2013Located in the heart of the convention is the Comic Market, a hot-zone for artists and crafters to sell their works. Here can be found original pieces to own for oneself or hand off to a loved one, whether it`s a painting or a print or hand-made bowties and jewelry.

In the middle of it all was one of the big mainstays of Anime North: Gallery Momiji. For the past eleven years, the Gallery has hosted a variety of amateur and professional paintings, sketches, and sculptures. This year was no exception, as over six hundred pieces from fifty different artists were on display that weekend. Over the years, Momiji has come to include many types of art.

One Marie-Josée Cayer donated Japanese relics to be put on display, not sold. Such donations include stunning Meiji-era kimonos and tools dating back to the Edo period. While not for sale, they certainly attract attention. Plus, whatever money spent at Momiji goes towards Sick Kids Hospital.

"For me, though," Gallery Director David Federman said in a statement on Saturday, "the biggest joy has been being a great springboard for launching the careers of amateurs and professionals. It`s going to be very exciting to see all the new artists emerging from AN."

PANELS
Anime North Toronto 2013

Panels are always an interesting experience, often covering a number of topics that excite attendees and encourage discussion. Many panels are mostly cosplay workshops for people who want to learn new tips and tricks on dying fabric or making weapons, or are roundtable discussions on various series.

I visited some that were quite different. One in particular was hosted by the Congress Centre's building supervisor Nick Charabaruk and the Master of Ceremonies, cultural anthropologist Doctor Shelley Rabinovitch, titled "Cosplay Is Not Consent." This was a formal, personal, and quite handy guide for con-goers who wanted to know about acceptable forms of physicality, how to stay safe and be discrete in complimenting a cosplayer, and what to do when dealing with potential stalkers.

Not that every panel had such a serious tone, mind. There were two panels on the difference between science fiction and science fact that were both hosted by very engaging and charismatic ex-soldiers and military historians called "Military Realism in Anime" and "Where's My Giant Robot?" One called "Anime and Parenting" discussed connecting with your geeky children and how to embrace their hobbies, while another, "Transphobia in Anime and Gaming," went into positive and negative portrayals of trans characters in Japanese pop culture. Basically, you'd be surprised at not only how much fun you can have at Anime North, but how much you can also learn from being there.

LIVE EVENTS
Anime North Toronto 2013The Congress Centre's parking lot was converted into a stage area where DJs spun remixes of popular music, and hosted another set by Nagata Shachu. Several J-Pop and J-Rock acts also performed that weekend, including AWOI, Umbrella, and Chii Sakurabi, who were met with nothing short of boundless enthusiasm.

What else was there to watch, though? BLOODSPORTS. Well, not really. The weekend held several Cosplay Battle Chess events for people to sit in on. This is when cosplayers are arranged on a mock board and act out the moves of a chess game being played nearby, engaging in choreographed combat whenever the pieces collide. So it's less "Rook to Bishop 3" and more "Deadpool to Cutie Honey 3."

That same day was when the Anime Wrestling took place, when Great Canadian Wrestling's own roster dressed up before stepping into the ring. I ended up arriving during a six-man tag team match between Mario, Death Note's L, and Elmo, and their opponents Wario, The (evil?) Green Ranger, and Jason Voorhees. Someone's been reading my fanfiction.

KICKIN' BACK
Anime North Toronto 2013How to relax when you're already relaxing? Well, there were a couple of dances on the Friday and Saturday nights, and I just so happened to check out the J-Rave being held in the Congress Centre. It was fun but I'm certain I was the oldest guy there so I felt out of place. I did have a dance-off with someone dressed as the Grim Reaper from Soul Eater, though, so that made my night.

The nearby Sheraton Hotel hosted several retro arcades and game tournaments for anyone wanting to kick some butt in Darkstalkers or attempt a Super Mario speedrun. One of the most popular places there, however, was the Manga Library. Hosted by Emilie Uyeyama, the Library has been at Anime North for the past four years. Assembled from her personal collection of nearly six thousand volumes, this hideaway is an ideal spot for fans to get away from the insanity and read for hours on end, so long as they use their convention badge as a library card and stay inside the library space.

IN THE END...
Anime North 2013I had fun. Then again, I often do at conventions. For those in the community, it's a great place to catch up with old friends and learn new things about the fandom they enjoy. For people who are new to the convention game, it can be either overwhelming or a fun place to explore. If anything I said here tickles your fancy, line up next year and see for yourself what brings out and psyches up over twenty-thousand Torontonians every May.

Above photos by Tristan Gordon / Slideshow photos by Irina No

The Rolling Stones defy their age at the ACC

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The Rolling Stones TorontoEntering the cozy confines of the Air Canada Centre on Saturday night, it was difficult not to be taken aback by the sheer scale of the Rolling Stones' stage setup. The band's iconic hot lips logo was serving as the basis for the backdrop of a custom stage, encapsulating a video screen and extending out into the arena to create a circular standing area, or "tongue pit". It was both visually striking, dominating overheard pre-show discussions, and distinctly utilitarian, as it allowed Mick Jagger to run out to into the crowd and strut his stuff as only one of the greatest frontmen in rock can do. Shaking, flailing and wailing - all in a day's work for Jagger, even in advanced age (he's 70 in July).

The Rolling StonesBut there's little to say about the Rolling Stones in 2013 that hasn't been said countless times before. Even amongst the portion of the crowd that paid a whopping $624.50 for tickets, the "and Counting..." part of the tour's name may have been a bit of a misnomer. For most of Saturday's crowd, the Stones exist as a skintight nostalgia act, albeit one with some of the greatest rock songs of all time in their far-reaching back catalog.

Still, the beer/bathroom breaks during two new songs from last year's GRRR! compilation is testament to the predictable songwriting template that Jagger and Keith Richards seem to work within these days. Aside from those and a needless performance of "You Got Me Rocking" early on, anything recorded post-1981 was neglected entirely. Perhaps the tour should've been called "19 and Stunted," you may be thinking.

But here's the thing - no one cared.

Everybody who has any interest in the Stones already knows that they'll never stop being great at what keeps the Rolling Stones name brand going. They'll continuously and dependably keep deploying a steady stream of material from the first two decades of the band's existence, and they'll perpetually look the part of the archetypal garage rock band throughout. They all appear the grizzled vets they are, but here even Richards is surprisingly spry, seeming almost baffled by the rapturous applause directed at him upon leading the band through "You Got the Silver" and "Happy" midset. Both were ramshackle but excellent, serving as great reminders of Richards' strengths as an understated songwriter.

Supporting players took some weight off team Stones, most notably backing singer Lisa Fischer's stellar take on Merry Clayton's "Gimme Shelter" vocal. The subsequent "Angie" felt mechanical, especially when Jagger was unable to nail the high notes on the chorus. Weirdness abounded when "Street Fighting Man" was announced as winning an online vote-to-play - would they really have omitted it otherwise? - and presented onscreen with font that looked as if it had been picked straight out of Big Buck Hunter.

The projected visuals, when not of the band itself, often consisted of hokey animations of dice, tongues, and women. They seemed to be at odds with the Stones' reputation as effortlessly cool, and at times came off as being done without any sense of aesthetics whatsoever.

The Rolling Stones TorontoTaken in context with the hefty price tag, it was hard not to feel some cognitive dissonance with regards to the show's staging. But there were definite highlights, and they were quite plentiful throughout the set. Mick Taylor, the most melodic guitar player the Stones ever had in their ranks, joined the band for an extended run on Let It Bleed's "Midnight Rambler" - this being his first tour with the band since departing in 1973. And as much as I expected the Carrie Underwood duet to be dead on arrival, she actually provided a vocally impressive foil to Jagger during "It's Only Rock 'n' Roll (But I Like It)". Odd choice, and while I've never personally been a fan, she held her own.

Rolling Stones Carrie UnderwoodUltimately, even if there were gripes to be had with the show - the gaudy visuals, a slight autopilot feel throughout, the underutilizing of Mick Taylor - there was still the fact that the Rolling Stones were energetically and competently playing the classics in front of you. Whether it was the slinky faux-disco of "Emotional Rescue" or the hit parade that made up the encore, the band were surprisingly on point, with Jagger rarely letting melodic focus slip out of his grasp. Two and a half hours later, everyone had gotten their fix, and left satisfied. Other than the requisite Rob Ford joke, no surprises were needed.

Setlist
Get Off of My Cloud
You Got Me Rocking
Paint It Black
Gimme Shelter
Angie
Street Fighting Man
Emotional Rescue
It's Only Rock 'n' Roll (But I Like It)
Doom and Gloom
One More Shot
Honky Tonk Women
You Got the Silver
Happy
Midnight Rambler
Miss You
Start Me Up
Tumbling Dice
Brown Sugar
Sympathy for the Devil

Encore
You Can't Always Get What You Want
Jumpin' Jack Flash
(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction

Photos by gbalogh on Flickr / Richards/Underwood photo by J. Bouquet

A greener Toronto

Radar: Captain Dirt & The Skirt, Odourless Press Poetry Launch, Confrigeration, Festival of Clowns

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Suzannah Showler TorontoToronto events on May 29th, 2013

MUSIC | Captain Dirt & The Skirt
An album launch tonight at Lula Lounge: Captain Dirt & The Skirt release their debut album,The Adventures of Captain Dirt & The Skirt. This project is a collaboration between singer/songwriter/guitarist Kristin Sweetland and multi-instrumentalist Lyndell Montgomery. There are some top notch players on this multi-genre release, including cellist Kevin Fox and drummer Gary Craig. Despite the fact that this album is instrumental, tonight's launch will feature a number of very 'vocal' entertainers in the form of the Ladies In Waiting: Scarlett Jane, Faye Blais, Sarah Burton, Melanie Brûlée, and Tricia Foster will perform along with the headliner, with some burlesque fun provided by Andrea Ramolo and Loretta Jean.
Lula Lounge (1585 Dundas Street West) 7 PM $15

BOOKS & LIT | Odourless Press Poetry Launch
Tonight, Odourless Press, a small Toronto-based press, holds a launch party for their series of spring chapbooks and broadsides. Two chapbooks are being released: Suzannah Showler's Sucks To Be You and Other True Taunts, and Matthew Walsh's Cloudpeople. The two broadsides being launched are: Ben Ladouceur's Song of the Seventh Son of the Seventh Son, and Hashtag Apocalypse by Mat Laporte. Each of these publications are inexpensive (two to five dollars) and are being pressed in very limited quantities, so you may end up with something highly collectible on your hands. The four creators will be reading and there will be plenty of drinks and schmoozing going down.
The Ossington (61 Ossington Avenue) 8 PM

Authors at Harbourfront Centre: Rhidian Brook, Natalee Caple, Ru Freeman
Tonight, three authors gather to share some of their work as part of the ongoing Authors At Harbourfront series. Somerset Maugham Award winner, Rhidian Brook, will read from his latest, The Aftermath. Author and poet, Natalee Caple, is currently working on her PhD at the University of Calgary, and was previously nominated for a Gerald Lampert Award. She will read from her novel, In Calamity's Wake. Sri Lankan and American author, Ru Freeman, whose debut novel was longlisted for the DSC Prize for South Asian Literature, will present passages from her novel, On Sal Mal Lane. Tanis Rideout hosts this event.
Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay West) 7:30 PM $10 (free members/students/youth)

ART | Susan Qu: Confrigeration
Susan Qu's solo exhibition, Confrigeration opens this afternoon at Propeller Centre for the Visual Arts (with an opening reception tomorrow evening). Qu is a member of the Propeller Centre, and also a resident artist at the Living Arts Centre in Mississauga. This collection of work is an extended mediation, or creative investigation, into the purpose of refrigerators. Qu compares the modern appliance to the human body, which also acts to preserve its contents. The idea of 'preservation' and its implications in social and psychological contexts is also explored. Confrigeration runs until June 9th.
Propeller Centre for the Visual Arts (984 Queen Street West) 12 PM to 6 PM

Also Of Note

For more Toronto event suggestions, check out these posts:

Have an event you'd like to plug? Submit your own listing to the blogTO Toronto events calendar or contact us directly.

Photo courtesy of Odourless Press.

Morning Brew: The Ford plot thickens, a birthday cake protest, options for council, Don flood shuts down DVP, meet Peter Russell, and another weird Taiwanese video

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toronto yonge streetRumours continue to circulate this morning about alleged behind the scenes moves in Rob Ford's office in the hours after the Gawker story broke. It's reported David Price, the mayor's "logistics" manager (and high school football coach,) "hypothetically" asked now-fired chief of staff Mark Towhey what the team should do if the location of the alleged video showing Rob Ford smoking crack cocaine became known. It seems at this point Towhey called the cops.

Yesterday was Rob Ford's birthday. He got a bunch of flowers, some cards, and a cake frosted with a call for him to resign. A group of protesters sang "happy birthday, please resign" while the mayor was in a meeting of his executive committee. "I am not in agreement with the way Mr. Ford is running the city," said Jennifer Capraru, a demonstrator. "This is a performance intervention. We're polite."

During that meeting, the executive decided to indefinitely defer discussions on a 1-metre passing rule for cyclists. Also in bikes: new bridges for Don Valley cyclists.

In case you're wondering, city council does have some power to intervene in the ongoing Ford saga. According to the Toronto Star, a little-known rule allows council to call a judicial enquiry in to the matter. A judge would investigate, call witnesses, and then make a recommendation. There's no power to remove the mayor from office, though.

Watch out if you're taking the DVP downtown this morning. Police have closed a large section of road between Bloor St. and the Gardiner due to some spectacular flooding from the Don River. The water level rose significantly during last night's downpour and has blocked all lanes in both directions. The bike path is also underwater.

Toronto has something of a knack for electing bombastic and bizarre civic leaders. The trend started back in 1796 (yeah, we've been at it for a while) with Peter Russell. Writer Adam Bunch has a great history of Russell's bumblings over at Spacing.

The Town Crier family of local newspapers is, sadly, no more. Multimedia Nova, the parent company, has entered receivership in part due to the loss of a grant normally made by the Italian government to one of its sister publications, Corriere Canadese. All the company's staff are being laid off.

For the second time in less than a month the mayor has got the bonkers Taiwanese video treatment. This time Ford is inexplicably pantless and swallowing glass pipes in alleyways. Then something about a baby, pirates, a giant boot, and the Matrix. Yeah, I don't know... check it out below.

IN BRIEF:

Chris Bateman is a staff writer at blogTO. Follow him on Twitter at @chrisbateman.

Image: Che.Pei.En/blogTO Flickr pool.

This Week in Fashion: Acne Studios Trunk Show, Etsy Springtime Marketplace, Gsus Sindustries Pop-Up Shop

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Vawk fashionThis Week in Fashion rounds up the week's style news, store openings and closings, pop-up shops, sales and upcoming fashion and design events in Toronto. Find it here every Wednesday morning.

EVENTS/PARTIES

Peruse Acne Studios' pre-fall 2013 collection with drinks and good company at a trunk show tomorrow (May 30). Head to Jonathan + Olivia (49 Ossington Ave) from 2 pm until 8 pm to sip on Peroni (or Perrier) with the Acne NY team, all while enjoying a 30% discount on all spring/summer 2013 goods.

Sylvie and Shimmy - a new womenswear boutique - is opening in Parkdale (1640 Queen St W) on Saturday (June 1) and they want everyone celebrating! From 11 am until 7 pm on opening day, refreshments and treats will be provided while you take a gander at their stock - including clothing and accessories by Cry Wolf, 1% Talent, and more. But try to arrive earlier rather than later; the first 50 customers will receive a gift with purchase!

On Saturday (June 1), 918 Bathurst will be home to Toronto Etsy Street Team's 4th annual Springtime Marketplace. With over 40 handmade vendors and vintage sellers, it's a great (and fun) way to support small businesses -- find one-of-a-kind jewellery, art, clothing, and baked goods, all while dancing to a live DJ and participating in free workshops from 11 am until 5:30 pm.

Toronto-based e-boutique ShopThursdays is coming out of their on-screen shell next month for a real life pop-up shop at 5 Macpherson Avenue. Every day from June 1st through 30th, the store's sassy and affordable womenswear can be seen, felt, and purchased. Afterwards, their pieces can be found online - with free shipping in Canada!

If you're a fashion entrepreneur looking to enhance your skills, mingle with like-minded individuals at FAJO Magazine's Fashion, Business & Beyond presentation. Vawk designer Sunny Fong and journalist Hannah Yakobi will be sharing their tried-and-true secrets to success at ING Direct Network Orange (221 Yonge St) next Tuesday (June 4) at 6 pm -- so be sure to snatch a $58 ticket to secure a spot in the audience.

SALES

From tomorrow (May 30) until Saturday (June 1), Gsus Sindustries is having a pop-up shop in their local showroom (553 Richmond St W). Have a looksee at their spring/summer 2013 collection - plus, bring an old Gsus clothing article to donate to Yonge Street Mission and receive 15% off on a new piece of denim.

It's Biko Jewellery's one-year anniversary and there's no better way to celebrate than with a sample sale! From tomorrow (May 30) until Friday (May 31), the Biko studio (174 Spadina Ave, Unit #411) will be filled to the brim with edgy, hand-crafted pieces for as low as $10.

For one day only next Monday (June 3), Kultura (169 King St E) will be hosting Rebekah Price's annual summer sale. From 11 am until 7 pm, you can get your hands on extravagantly bedazzled jewellery for up to 75% off.

Photo from Vawk's Facebook page

New in Toronto Music: Smart Boys, Jane's Party, Captain Dirt & the Skirt, Frankie Payne

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Jane's PartyFind out what's new and hot with our our bi-weekly local music roundup

SMART BOYS / "RSVP" & "CUTTING THROUGH LIFE EP / MAY 28TH
"Cutting Through Life" is the kind of song that will be in the background of a a lot of good scenes in my life this summer. Jesus Christ, did I just use term scenes instead of moments. Good Lord. Well, at least I didn't use the word "posts". As some of you have complained that I do not provide enough information about the bands themselves, I will attempt to do so: Smart Boys is a side project by two dudes that are in Fucked Up that aren't Pink Eye. DOES THAT MAKE THE MUSIC SOUND ANY DIFFERENT? DIDN'T THINK SO.

JANE'S PARTY / HOT NOISE / JUNE 1ST
If you check out the Jane's Party website there's another music video with a bunch of costumed animals in a bush. You don't see many costumed animals these days. I've always found it strange that people sexualize costumed animals. Ya''ll can catch Jane's Party at their record release at the beautiful Cameron House June 1st.

CAPTAIN DIRT & THE SKIRT / THE ADVENTURES OF CAPTAIN DIRT & THE SKIRT / MAY 28TH

The Adventures of Captain Dirt and the Skirt is a comic book I would definitely read the first issue of. As long as it wasn't steam punk. I'm not saying it's flawed, just not my preference; I find it tacky. Seems that these days people will stick a bowler hat on anything and make a genre out of it. YEESH! The record release is TONIGHT and features burlesque, which is another thing that could use to lose a bowler hat IF YOU KNOW WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT (FELLAS AM I RIGHT?).

FRANKIE PAYNE / CLARITY / MAY 31ST
I'm fairly certain this video for the riveting single " " is all clips from the movie Fresh. I've never actually seen Fresh as my brothers would never let me watch it. They said I was too little. I think I'll watch it though, it looks pretty good, pretty raw. And there's nothing that my brothers can do about it, I'm an adult man now who lives in my own house and can write curse words on the internet whenever I damn well fucking want to.

COOL VIDEO CORNER

GABE LEVINE / LONG SPUN THREAD / MAY
My cousins are almost here, so I'll let Gabe himself share. "Just letting you know about a new video you might be interested in, for "Long Spun Thread" — a sweet Toronto-centric number shot on Lomokino. It's directed by Matt Skwid, who spent many hours cutting the hand-cranked footage. Take a look."

EARLY BIRDS takes place Saturday June 1, 7:30-9:30pm at the TRANZAC Club. PWYC.

Photo from Jane's Party's Facebook page


Condo of the Week: Radio City Condos

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281 Mutual TorontoDon't get me wrong when I say this, for it is meant as a full-on compliment: I think this penthouse at 281 Mutual St. just might be the condo Austin Powers would live in upon retirement. Maybe it's the design, maybe it's the swag of the penthouse factor, maybe it's the '60s accoutrements. Either way, it's a perfect fit.

281 Mutual TorontoOf all the filthy/gorgeous condos for all the filthy/gorgeous people I see each week, this is one of my favourites. The only reason I'm going to say anything bad about it is that I have to, dear commenters. I mean, the insanely chic barrenness of that bedroom? I would actually drag my ass out of bed in the morning hours just to do sun salutations in that amazing light overlooking the city.

281 Mutual TorontoSPECS

Address: 281 Mutual St.
Price: $1,695,000
Square Footage: 2,700
Bedrooms: 2+1
Bathrooms/Half baths: 2/2
Storeys:1
Parking Spaces: 1
Fireplaces: 1
Monthly Maintenance: N/A
Building Amenities: 24-hour concierge, gym, guest suites, party room.

281 Mutual TorontoNOTABLE FEATURES

Actual panoramic view of the city
Three balconies
Spa-esque master ensuite with jacuzzi (party time!)
Gas fireplace in the master bedroom
Walk-in closet with custom cabinetry

281 Mutual TorontoGOOD FOR

Wild sex parties that last til the dawn. Sipping espresso on one of your three balconies while feasting your eyes on our city's great skyline. Living happily ever after.

281 Mutual TorontoMOVE ON IF

You're too lazy to paint over the horrendous ogre-green paint in the washroom and the equally disastrous purple stuff in the bedroom. Or if you hate the skyline.

ADDITIONAL IMAGES

281 Mutual Toronto281 Mutual Toronto281 Mutual Toronto281 Mutual Toronto281 Mutual TorontoRead more posts in this series via our Toronto condos and lofts Pinterest board.

Get to know a bartender: Quenton Fortune, Churchill

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Quenton Fortune ChurchillIf you've spent any time on Dundas West over the past couple of years, you've no doubt been served a cocktail or two by Quenton Fortune at Churchill. Or, if you're a little further north, you might have encountered him at the recently opened Rose & Sons, the boutique diner launched by ex-Drake chef Anthony Rose. I popped into Churchill one afternoon before service to speak to Quenton about how he got into bartending and growing up in an ever-expanding Toronto.

You grew up in Toronto, right?

Yeah, I'm born and raised in Toronto - on Madison Avenue, in the Annex. If I ever meet someone who grew up in downtown Toronto we either know each other or there's one degree of separation. The Annex is one of the greatest parts of the city to grow up in. It's the centre of the city and you're surrounded by students and professionals. It's also very gay and lesbian-friendly and multicultural. I grew up across the street from the Madison Avenue Pub.

Is growing up opposite the Madison what got you interested in the idea of bartending?
For sure. When we were in grade 5 or 6 my buddy and I would go to the Madison to get chicken wings. We would be two little kids in the middle of the craziness at the Madison so we got to know all the staff there. I used to see the food runners cutting through the crowd with their trays and look at them with awe. I got to know the owners and they gave me odd jobs here and there, like handing out flyers outside Spadina station and walking their dog. It was $10 an hour, which was great money when you're that age.

Did you ever bartend there later on?

I've done the last few St. Patrick days there as a guest bartender but that's it. When I was 18 and I was finally old enough to work in the pub, I worked there as a food runner/bar-back during the day. Later they put me on nights and I worked for a year to save money to put myself through school when I went to Ryerson to study urban planning. It was a great time of my life. The tips were good as a food runner and you got to finish earlier than everyone else so I never really wanted to bartend at the time.

Quenton Fortune ChurchillDid you ever work as an urban planner when you graduated?

During school I did some work with a guy who was friends of the owner of the Madison but that's it. When I graduated my buddy and I decided to go travelling. We planned to spend 6 months in South East Asia but afterwards I ended up spending a year in Australia and I eventually came back 2 years later. My first ever bartending job was in actually in 2004 in Melbourne at a place called Escobar. We had bands upstairs and the place had just been done up. It was fun. I came back to Canada in November of 2005.

What did you do when you got back?

A lot of people who were at the Madison at the time left to open up the Drake Hotel. I heard about it while I was away via emails from my friends. This hot new place in Parkdale. My dentist was down in Parkdale and that was gross! So when I came back I went straight into food running at the Drake. It was a blast. You could go see shows downstairs after work or go up to the Sky Yard patio for drinks. After a couple of years Shane and Catherine approached me about working at Churchill and I wanted to move into bartending so the timing worked out well.

Quenton Fortune ChurchillWhen did Churchill open?

We've been open about 2 and a half years now. It was October/November of 2011. I already knew Sandy De Almeida and I met Kalinda when I came here for our first meeting. That was our team. It was a big learning curve moving behind the bar full-time - reading up on all the cocktails. There are so many separate eras to cocktail culture and I'm still learning. I had a bit of knowledge from the Drake but doing the cocktail training with Sandy was a whole other level and being here and being immersed in that has been fantastic. It's just a matter of doing things properly and doing it with confidence. We have a lot of home-made syrups and tinctures and bitters and it's getting really complicated. The level keeps rising. I don't try to be more than who I am and when you're talking to people you just soak it up and keep learning.

You can never know it all. There's always more to learn.

Yeah and that's the good thing about this neighbourhood is that I don't find a huge degree of pretentiousness. It's not about everyone knowing everything. You talk, you have the conversation - it's like 'this is the drink I want and if you don't know it I'll tell you how to make it'. No-one's like 'Oh, you don't know that!' - at least the places I go - so it makes you feel comfortable.

Quenton Fortune ChurchillSo how did you get the job at Rose & Sons. I'm guessing you knew Anthony from the Drake?

Yeah, I kept in touch with Anthony - or Chef as we call him - over the years. We worked together an art opening once or twice - he was catering it and I was behind the bar - and he said 'So when I open my place you're gonna come and work with me, right?' He's very passionate and you really have to know what you're doing but the atmosphere is casual. I remember my first shift - we hit the ground running and it's been fantastic there. It's a small room so everyone pitches in. It's a nice contrast with Churchill and I usually work two days in each place. Saturdays at Churchill are really busy but it's such a great spot - everyone's very mellow and we never have any problems.

It seems to be getting busier and busier on the Dundas West.

I've lived in this area now for seven years and I've seen it change a lot. I'm not one of those people who complains when this area gets flooded from people not from the neighbourhood. We live in a city, that's what happens - people come into the city on weekends - and they may not be as knowledgeable or polite as some of our regulars but whatever. They're here to have fun and we're here to help facilitate that.

Quenton Fortune ChurchillRAPID FIRE QUESTIONS

Straight up or on the rocks? Straight up

Scotch or Bourbon? Irish! A nice bourbon over Scotch

Gin or vodka? Gin

Twist or olive? Twist

Favourite shot? Jameson. I'll do a Jäger once in while or sometimes Fernet Branca, but usually Jameson.

Photos by Jesse Milns

What's the worst condo name in Toronto?

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Bohemian Embassy TorontoNaming condos can't be easy — what with the desire to mark a development out as hip, new, unique, elegant, blah, blah, blah. But, holy shit, does this ever go wrong sometimes. I imagine it's like the very opposite of a scene in Mad Men when Don Draper (or perhaps Ted Chaough) comes up with a great pitch or tagline.

Instead of capitalizing on some kernel of desire tied to our propensity for nostalgia and the need to consume, the suits naming these condos instead offer up the most transparent visions of upward mobility, ones that notably reek of inauthenticity, creative bankruptcy, and decadence.

Case in point: The Bohemian Embassy. Although we polled our Twitter followers for suggestions on this topic, I'd like to state for the record that there will never be a worse name for a condo in the history of this city. Saying it out loud makes me want to punch myself in the face.

Sadly, however, it is not alone in its ridiculousness. Other candidates for the dunce cap include Yonge+Rich, Republic of Yonge & Eglinton, Chaz, Ice 2, South Beach Condos (in Toronto!), etc. Pat yourselves on the back, you who have named these condos — if nothing else, you've entertained us with your drivel.



Photo(shop) by Michael Toke on Flickr

Photos of the Don Valley flood on Instagram

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toronto don valley floodIt rained in Toronto last night. In fact, it rained so much that the mighty Don River, tamed and restrained south of Bloor for so many years, rose up, burst free and did a little dance all over the Don Valley Parkway, much to the displeasure of anyone attempting to drive to work in anything other than an Amphicar.

The highway was closed for several hours between Bloor St. and the Gardiner, GO services were disrupted on the Richmond Hill line, and users of the trail system had to find another route (or at least switch to a canoe) while the 60.2 mms of rain that fell on the city found its way in to the harbour.

Amid the diversions, many found time to snap pictures of the water on Instagram before the road re-opened. Here are some of the best shots:

toronto don valley floodPhoto by mattblazys

toronto don valley floodPhoto by bec_spring

toronto don valley floodPhoto by rmmoralito

toronto don valley floodPhoto by yeeguan

toronto don valley floodPhoto by robbasile

toronto don valley floodPhoto by tea_is_my_favourite_drink

toronto don valley floodPhoto by xdeguzmanhd

toronto don valley floodPhoto by lpeaceout

toronto don valley floodPhoto by redclove

toronto don valley floodPhoto by feelslikekittens

toronto don valley floodPhoto by csmartfx

Chris Bateman is a staff writer at blogTO. Follow him on Twitter at @chrisbateman.

Bloody Beet Roots break the speakers at the Phoenix

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Bloody Beet RootsIf you were looking for vitamin rich vegetables at the Phoenix when the Bloody Beet Roots rolled through town, then you had come to the wrong place. If you had a hankering for big, bloody, over the top beats, however, then this was indeed the venue you were looking for.

Bloody Beet RootsSir Bob Cornelius Rifo has been crafting his gothabilly EDM luchadore act for a number of years since entering the electro scene with his high-energy remixes, but I get the impression that this was never enough for him. He needs Venom-inspired masks, stage dives, drop kicks, electric baby grand pianos and microphone stands to hurl around. A male fan mounted the stage and it seemed he lost his nerve because before he had time to make the move, Sir Bob, ever the trickster, gleefully made up his mind for him and pushed him over the edge.

Material from his past Dim Mak albums like Romborama, were treated with intense manic energy, cycling from soft piano to high energy EDM stabs, to Rob Zombie-esque psychedelic surf thrash, to full on punk songs. After one particularly epic drop, he rushed back to the piano, only to find it horribly out of tune.

But he played on, feedback and all, until the speakers gave way entirely to crackling feedback. Oh the drama... the horror! Shouldn't he be terribly embarrassed? OK, so the sound recovered and we realized it was just all just a gimmick, but an incredibly clever one. While the cycle of manic energy became a tad repetitive, if anything, it was a metaphor to say if a routine ain't broke, then don't fix it.

Bloody Beet Roots

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