Here's a bit of bad news for Riverside bar-goers. The Avro announced today that it will close its doors for good on Friday, April 26th, thereby following in the footsteps of the ill-fated airplane project after which the watering hole is named. The story is a familier one. Riverside is on the rise and with it is the rent that landlords are seeking from tenants. There's also more competition in the near vicinity with the arrival of Riverside Public House, An Sibin Pub and Aft (to name a few).

"We realize that in a dynamic and changing neighbourhood such as Riverside, commercial rent increases are inevitable but the rent hike demanded by our landlord is simply untenable for an establishment of our size," explain owners Bruce Dawson and Rachael Conduit in a note posted to Facebook.

Opened back in 2010, the Avro quickly won a loyal following from Riverside locals who enjoyed the laid back vibe and lack of pretention at the place. This won't mollify those folks much, but this atmosphere (not to mention some of the bar's staff) can also be found at Handelbar, its sister establishment in Kensington Market. And there are no plans to close up shop there.

Running events in Toronto are about to hit full stride. Perhaps you've been training all winter in snow and slush in preparation for another great racing season. Or maybe the first signs of spring have motivated you to lace up and tackle your first 5k. Toronto's long roster of running events is sure to include something for pretty much everyone, with a wide range of distances, locations, and charitable causes between April and November.

Below is a list of top picks for Toronto running events in 2013 as well as a long list of additional races and fun runs to keep you moving all year long. Be sure to sign up early, as prices increase closer to race day, and many races sell out fast.

Top Picks

May 5: Goodlife Fitness Toronto Marathon, Half-Marathon, and 5km
This race pegs itself as a "downhill, fast and scenic" Boston Marathon qualifier, and the website boasts that over half of the 2012 participants achieved a PR. My friends and I have found the marathon and half-marathon routes to be fast and scenic as promised, starting in North York, and passing through Rosedale Valley, the Distillery District, St Lawrence Market, and then looping out and back along the Lakeshore to end at Ontario Place. The 5km route sticks to the lakeshore, starting and ending at Ontario Place. The incredibly large marathon medals may be a bit over the top, but after training through winter in Toronto, you've earned it. Price: $50-$100 (increases April 1)

May 12:Sporting Life 10km run/walk
If you feel like everyone you know is running this race, you're right. Don't be left out! This huge event--with registration capped at 27,000 runners--is in support of Camp Oochigeas, a camp for children with cancer or affected by childhood cancer. The run bills itself as Canada's premier running event that delivers the largest net proceeds to charity. It follows the same route as the Toronto Yonge Street 10km in April, but it is a good choice for runners looking for warmer temperatures and a large, festive, and charity-focused event. However, serious runners looking to PR may find the large crowds to be a bit cumbersome. Price: $45 (increases April 1)

June 29:Pride and Remembrance Run 5km run and 3km walk
As one of the largest fundraising events during Pride Week, the Pride and Remembrance Run raises money for selected charities that support the LGBTQ community. This year's race hopes to raise $100,000 for the Canadian Lesbian & Gay Archives, Planned Parenthood Toronto, and the Pride and Remembrance Foundation. The run starts and ends at Church and Wellesley, looping around Queen's Park, and promises to attract over 1,000 participants, including celebs and political leaders. The race has gotten positive reviews in previous years for a great atmosphere, yummy food at the finish line, and a fun post-race party. Price: $35

August 17: A Midsummer Night's Run 30km run, 15km run/walk, and 5km run
This enchanted evening of running starts at 5:30pm and, to quote Shakespeare, it promises to be as "...swift as a shadow, short as any dream..." The event takes place along the eastern beaches and waterfront, offering a flat, fast, and scenic course (and, in previous years, a BBQ and beer tent to reward runners at the end). Race organizers play up the mystical, Shakespearean theme, encouraging runners to "flutter your wings and wave your wands" and run in costume. Proceeds go toward the SickKids Foundation. Price: $40-$55 (increases April 1)

September 15:Terry Fox Run
It's hard to find a reason to not participate in the Terry Fox Run, with multiple locations across the city, multiple distances, no minimum donation or entry fee, and an inclusive, family-friendly environment. In my experience, this event has great volunteer support and welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. Runs are usually 5km or 10km, but check what is offered at your nearest race location. The Terry Fox Foundation supports cancer research. Price: no entry fee or minimum donation

October 20:Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Half-Marathon, and 5km
If you're looking for something to motivate you to run all year long, this could be it. For many Torontonians, all of their training and racing throughout the spring and summer lead up to this goal race, advertised as flat, fast and festive. Runners may find the route a bit dull, with its out-and-back loop along the lakeshore, but to keep it interesting, there are plenty of participants, cheering crowds, and the most on-course entertainment of any Canadian marathon. Plus, organizers have changed the eastern portion of the marathon route to increase the number of spectators heading into the last 10km, when cheering supporters make all the difference for weary runners. Price: $45-$90

Additional 2013 Running Events

April 6:Harry's Spring Run-Off 8km, 5km and children's run
Kick off the racing season with this run through High Park to fight prostate cancer. The popular race is capped at 2400 participants for the 8km and 2000 for the 5km, and it is nearly sold out. Be sure to look sharp--the 'best dressed' runner will win a $100 gift card to sponsoring retailer, Harry Rosen. Price: $50

April 6:Beaches Spring Sprint 5km run/walk and 2km kids' run
Put on by the Beaches Recreation Centre Advisory Council, it is the 26th anniversary for this boardwalk run/walk. Available details are sparse, so contact the Beaches Recreation Centre for registration info.

April 13: Spring into Action Physiotherapy 5 km run/walk/wheel
This race through High Park is in support of the Physiotherapy Foundation of Canada. There is also 3-person team entry option for the price of $90/team. You get a free t-shirt if you register before March 29th. Price: $35

April 21: CBI Hustle for Hunger 5km run/walk
It's the fifth year for this run through High Park, with 100% of fees donated to the Daily Bread Food Bank. The family-friendly event offers face painting and balloons for kids, and welcomes seniors and four-legged friends (on leashes). Price: $35 or $20 per team member

April 21:Toronto Yonge Street 10 km run/walk
This is the first of Toronto's spring 10km races down Yonge Street, starting just north of Eglinton and then weaving down to end at Bathurst and Fort York. The course is downhill and fast, and I found the smaller crowds made for an even speedier run compared to the Sporting Life 10km, which runs along the same route in May. For this and all downhill races, be sure to train appropriately--pounding down Yonge Street can be hard on the knees! Price: $50

April 28:Game of Life 10km and 5km run/walk
Weaving through Ashbridges Bay Park and Woodbine Beach, proceeds from this race go toward the Commonwealth Games Canada (CGC)'s grassroots sport programs in Africa and the Caribbean. Price: $35-$45 (increases March 29)

April 28:Cadillac Fairview 5km run/walk
In support of the Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario, the goal of this year's race is to raise over $250,000 with more than 800 participants. Taking place in Sunnybrook Park, the event is intended to be accessible to all individuals and families, and it offers a post-run lunch compliments of Oliver and Bonacini. Price: $40 or $75 for a family of four

April 28:CMCC Backs in Motion 10 km run and 5km run/walk
Put on by the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, it's the 30th anniversary of this race in support of chiropractic education, research and patient care. The race starts and finishes at CMCC, near Leslie Street and Steeles Avenue East. Participants can take advantage of pre- and post-race care provided by CMCC's chiropractic interns. Price: $30-$40 (reduced rates for CMCC students and kids)

May 11: Leaside Spring into Action! For Diabetes 10km, 5km, and 2km
This run, walk, or cycle through Wilket Creek Park promises to be a "fun, family event based on exercise and awareness." Proceeds go toward the York University Diabetes Sports Camp and the Sunnybrook Foundation. Your registration fee includes a breakfast, a yoga warm-up, and a post-race BBQ with live music. Price: $35, or $60 for a family of four

May 25:Oasis Spring 8km and 4km run/walk
This run along the West Toronto Rail Path is in support of the Oasis Dufferin Community Centre, which provides emergency food relief, counseling and leadership development to the community. The top three finishers in each race will win free entry into the Scotiabank Toronto Marathon or Half-Marathon. Price: $25-$40

May 26:Walk of Life 5km run and 5km, 3km, and 1km walk
In support of the Cardiac Health Foundation of Canada, this race through the Evergreen Brick Works hopes to raise $500,000 this year. New for 2013 is a post-walk celebration with 15 gourmet food trucks and vendors from the Toronto Underground Market. The event also offers a free breakfast, parking, TTC shuttle services, kids' activities, and live entertainment. Price: $35

May 26:Toronto Women's Half Marathon and 5km
This is the first race of the Women's Run Series, where "women set the pace" in a welcoming and fun atmosphere. To appeal to the ladies, the Sunnybrook Park route includes a firefighter's water station and a chocolate station. A portion of the proceeds supports the Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario. Price: $55- $95

June 1:Campaign of Hope 5km run/walk
Proceeds from this run through High Park go toward the Youth Life International Relief, and there are reduced rates for team entries. Free t-shirts are offered to participants who raise over $100. Price: $20 (increases April 1)

June 2:Freedom to Move for Dystonia 5km run/walk
It's the 7th anniversary of this High Park event, in support of the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation Canada. Price: $20

June 9: Toronto Challenge 5km run/walk and 1km walk
This family event raises funds for non-profit organizations and community programs that support seniors' independent living and quality of life. The downtown route starts and finishes on Wellington Street, heading north up University to Wellesley, and back down Yonge--an uphill start with a nice downhill finish. Price: $20 or $40 for a family of four

June 13:Scotiabank Rat Race for United Way 5km
More details are coming in April for this Thursday evening race through the financial district, but start thinking about your rat-themed costume. This year promises a new route, a new registration and fundraising system, and technical tees. Price: TBA

June 16: Safeway Father's Day 5km Walk/Run for Prostate Cancer
Why not celebrate Father's Day by running or walking through Ashbridge's Bay Park to raise funds for Prostate Cancer Canada? The event offers free Green P parking, kids' face painting, snacks, and burgers. Price: $35

June 22:Lions Port Union Waterfront Run 10km run and 5km run/walk
This Scarborough run is part of the Port Union Waterfront Festival, and raises funds for various community needs. Price: $20-$25

June 23: Run for Huntington Disease 10km and 5km run, and 5km hike
The goal of this event is to raise $60,000 in support of the Huntington Society of Canada. Last year this wheelchair-accessible run/walk in Wilket Creek Park became the largest event supporting the organization. Price: $29-$39

July 14:Dawn at the Don 8km run and 5km run/walk
This family-friendly run in Sunnybrook Park is set amidst parkland and forest scenery along the Don River. For future running stars in training, Dawn at the Don includes a 300m Sprout Sprint for kids 5 and under, and a 1km Kids' Kanter for 6- to 12-year-olds. Price: $30-$35

July 28: Beaches International Jazz Fest Tune-up 20km, 10km, and 5km run
This race bills itself as a group training run for up to 500 participants, and an official 'tune-up run' for the October Scotiabank Waterfront Marathon. The race starts and ends at Kew Gardens, heading west along the Martin Goodman Trail. I enjoyed this race last year for offering a longer distance course with a casual atmosphere, as you run (without chip timing) along the boardwalk and are rewarded with live jazz at the end. A great way to enjoy a summer's day at the beach. Price: $30

August 11:Toronto 10-miler and 5km
Many race details, such as the course and fees, are still to be announced, but I've heard that previous years' races were fast, flat and fun events through the Distillery District and Leslie Street Spit. Price: TBA

August 24:Toronto Women's 10km and 5km
As the second race in the Toronto Women's Run Series, this Sunnybrook Park event is billed as a perfect speed workout for fall marathoners and half-marathoners, or a fun and friendly race for new runners. A firefighter's water station, chocolate at the finish line, and a post-race party provide extra motivation for participants. Price: $35-$45

August 25:Bum Run 5km run/walk
Encouraging participants to "walk or run for your bum," this race raises awareness about colorectal cancer screening, and all proceeds go toward Colon Cancer Canada. 2013 is the second year for the event, which starts and finishes at Queen's Park, doing a loop along College, Spadina, Bloor and Bay. Price: TBA

September 7:Night Race 10km run and 5km run/walk
Starting at 8pm, just as the sun sets, this unique night-time race through Sunnybrook Park is sure to be illuminating (haha). All participants will receive an LED headlight, which must be worn during the race, and last year headphones were not allowed for safety reasons. Additional lights, flashers, and glo-sticks can be worn--if not for safety, then at least for the rare opportunity to wear glo-sticks in public. Price: $70

September 8:B&O Yorkville Run 5km run/walk
True to its Yorkville setting, this run claims to be Toronto's premier boutique race, giving participants the opportunity to "run the red carpet" during TIFF. The website says the race expects some "serious celeb runners," and will offer post-race hors d'oeuvres from Yorkville restaurants. Whether or not you see A-list celebs, you'll be supporting YWCA women's shelters in Toronto. Price: $50

September 8:Longboat Toronto Island Run 10km and 5km
Organized by the Longboat Roadrunners club, this is apparently Toronto's oldest 10km race, celebrating its 33rd year in 2013. The Toronto Island course is flat, with a mix of pavement, grass and boardwalk terrain. Since the run is put on by fellow runners who "know what it's like to run hard," the post-race picnic includes not only bagels and fruit, but also burgers, hot dogs and cookies. For families, there is a 1km kids' run and a 5km family run. Price: $45

September 14: Toronto 5k run/walk
This mid-town 5km is Toronto's newest running event. It starts and finishes at Winston Churchill Park, winding around the Bathurst/St. Clair neighbourhood. The run is in support of the SickKids Foundation. Price: $40

September 21:Oasis Zoo Run 10km and 5km
This event is held at the Toronto Zoo in support of the zoo's conservation programs, and the course includes a scenic loop through zoo grounds. There is also a 500m Cub Run for kids ($20). Price: $45-$60

September 22:Island Girl Half Marathon, Half Marathon Relay and 5km
Another ladies-only event, this Toronto Island race embraces the island vibe, promising a "Caribbean-style" event with steel drums, grass skirts, and tropical fruit at the finish line. The relay option allows a team of two to split the half marathon distance. Price: $50-$65

October 6:CIBC Run for the Cure 5km and 1km run/walk
U of T's St. George campus will be awash in pink for this event that is held simultaneously in locations across the country. The Run for the Cure raises money for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, and includes inspirational and informative features like breast health info stations, a Wall of Hope to share your thoughts, and special recognition for participants who have survived breast cancer. Price: $40

October 26:Toronto Women's 8km and 5km
This is the last race of the Toronto Women's Run series, taking place in Sunnybrook Park. Like earlier races in the series, there will be a firefighter's water station, a chocolate station, and post-race party. Plus, if you complete all three runs in the series, you get a special prize. Price: $35-$45

November 10:Downsview Half Marathon and 5km
Whether you're looking to squeeze in one last race before winter's arrival, or looking for a special way to mark Remembrance Day, this race fits the bill. Taking place at Downsview Park, the "run to remember" begins with a short Remembrance Day ceremony at the starting line, and passes historic WW2 hangars and the Canadian Forces base. There are reduced registration rates for military personnel, as well as a two-person relay option for the half. Price: $30-$65

Off road running

I should point out that this list is focused on road running races in Toronto. If you're looking to leave the pavement behind and get a little dirty, events like Tough Mudder, Mud Run, Spartan Race, and the 5 Peaks trail running series are worth a try. There are also plenty of races in nearby suburbs if the dates and distances below don't align with your precise training schedule or racing preferences.

Photo by Subjective Art in the blogTO Flickr pool

Photo by Andrea Zaratin in the blogTO Flickr pool

Toronto events on Tuesday, March 26, 2013

FILM | Science at the Movies: Short Circuit
Johnny Five is alive and well at Sciences at the Movies, the Bloor Hot Docs Cinema's new popular series of science-related films. The 1986 sci-fi comedy Short Circuit, starring Steve Guttenberg and Ally Sheedy, will close out the series in tonight's third and final installment. The story of a robot that is electrocuted and becomes intelligent, Canadian author and science journalist Dan Falk will be on hand to talk about topics related to the film with U of T professors Diana Raffman and Sheila McIlraith. Tickets are available through Eventbrite and at the doors.
Bloor Hot Docs Cinema (506 Bloor Street West) 5:30PM $10

THEATRE | La Ronde
Arthur Schnitzler's La Ronde is a play that scrutinizes turn of the century sexual mores. Tonight, the Austrian playwright's highly provocative and formerly controversial story about ten sexual partners connections to one another will open on the Soulpepper stages. Directed by Alan Dilworth, this popular, circular and frank tale that explores taboos that even still exist today has been adapted for the Soulpepper stage by Jason Sherman and will run until May 4th. Tickets are available through the Soulpepper website.
Young Centre for the Performing Arts (50 Tank House Lane) 7:30PM $51 adult, $32 student

INNOVATION | Evergreen Innovation Talk: Who Pays for Regional Transportation?
Evergreen's six week series Innovation Talks continues tonight with an examination of effective funding structures for public transit. Examining regional transportation and the effects on the urban landscape, the panel will question who can really fund Toronto's transportation initiatives by comparing them to the structures of other international cities. Matthew Blackett of Spacing Magazine will moderate the panel consisting of Stephanie Cairns of Sustainable Prosperity, Richard Joy of the Toronto Board of Trade, City of Toronto's Robert Hatton, Metrolinx's John Howe and Monica Campbell of Toronto Public Health. Tickets are available at the door.
Evergreen Brick Works (550 Bayview Avenue) 7PM $10

FILM | A Chink In The Armour
Cultural labels of the Chinese in North America are tested in Toronto filmmaker Baun Mah's witty, engaging and surprising documentary, A Chink In The Armour. Screening tonight at Innis Town Hall, this award-winning doc challenges stereotypes about driving and math skills with hilarious results. The film is presented as part of the New Beginnings Young Canadians' Peace Dialogue on China & Tibet project and will be free for all.
Innis Town Hall (2 Sussex Avenue) 7PM Free

ALSO OF NOTE:

• Art Battle 48
• The Reception: Toronto Sketchfest
• French Macaron Workshop

MORE EVENTS THIS WEEK

For more Toronto event suggestions, check out these posts:

• Toronto Food Events
• This week in fashion
• This week in film
• This week in theatre
• This week in comedy
• This week in music
• Toronto concerts, March 2013

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

Still from Short Circuit

The TTC says it will cost $700 million to upgrade its surface stops for the accessible features of its new streetcars. The new vehicles deploy ramps when stopped to help wheelchair users board and require extra platform height. Some of the cash is also being spent on changes to the overhead wiring and the installation of on-street ticket machines.

Meanwhile, Adam Vaughan says the new high-capacity vehicles are too big for downtown routes like Queen, King, College, and Bathurst and he'd like the TTC to hang on to its old vehicles. Does that make any sense at all?

Rob Ford is continuing to draw criticism over comments he made to a Newstalk 1010 show about the Richard Kachkar trial. The mayor told listeners he couldn't understand why the court was discussing Kachkar's mental state. "One of our finest got killed. Left behind a wife and a little son. And we're trying to find an excuse why this guy stole ... a snow plow and killed a police officer," he said. The jury has already been instructed to avoid the media and is now in deliberations.

The Ryerson engineering students in the spotlight over a controversial hazing ritual have apologized. A YouTube video showed prospective frosh week leaders being made to crawl in their underwear through a slushy puddle. The event was apparently voluntary but staff at the university felt it left a bad impression of the university.

Two giant pandas mailed to the Toronto Zoo from China arrived in the country safely under the gaze of hundreds of TV cameras and press yesterday. PM Stephen Harper officially signed the FedEx delivery document for the pair, named Er Shun and Da Mao, as the animals were taken in to quarantine. The pair will go on public display Saturday, May 18.

Two of the TTC's top transit enforcement staff have left their jobs, according to the Toronto Star. Fergie Reynolds and staff sergeant Al Findlay left in the wake of the news eight enforcement staff were being prosecuted for issuing fake tickets, though the pair were not involved in that crime.

IN BRIEF:

• Jogger charged after pregnant woman harassed [CP24]
• TDSB trustee Irene Atkinson remains on ventilator with smoke inhalation [Toronto Star]
• Maple Leafs waste 2-goal lead, fall to Bruins in shootout [CBC]

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

Image: "Muddy Park" by jer1961/blogTO Flickr pool.

This 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.

Killing Them Softly (eOne Films)

Poor Andrew Dominik can't seem to catch a break. After his searing debut crime film Chopper, the very talented New Zealand director now has two moody, slow burning Hollywood classics to his credit which have both been virtually ignored upon their theatrical release (both also starring the usually reliable box office honey trap Brad Pitt, natch). Killing Them Softly, based on the book "Cogan's Trade" by George V Higgins, is a too clever by half indictment of the United States economy, told Kabuki theatre style using early Tarantino tough guy memes and featuring veterans of chewed over Gangster classics such as GoodFellas and The Sopranos.

That is to say, fans of the genre will find much to love here, while those looking for something with more depth may be surprised at the complex storytelling going on beneath the surface. With Brad Pitt, James Gandolfini, Ray Liotta, Richard Jenkins and Scoot McNairy and lots of sound bites from Barack Obama circa 2008.
Extras include deleted scenes and a making of featurette.

ALSO OUT THIS WEEK

Lincoln (Touchstone)

Long, pensive, and gripping, and that's just the beard on Daniel Day Lewis' mighty chin.
Steven Spielberg's noble historical epic joins his growing pantheon of US history curriculum on film, but doesn't quite deliver the same emotional wallop of Schindler's List or even The Colour Purple (although it's a step up from War Horse). Lewis does indeed effortlessly convey the vex Lincoln surely must have endured getting anything done, and a Robert Altman like company of supporting roles filled out by the likes of Tommy Lee Jones, James Spader, Sally Field, Joseph Gordon Levitt, Hal Holbrook and Bruce McGill bring their top game. Bonus features include Spielberg and the gang discussing the challenges of bringing Abe's story to the big screen, as well as a portrait of Richmond, Virginia and why the crew chose to shoot there.

To The Artic (Warner Bros.)

Gorgeous IMAX photography makes this well intentioned documentary about the plight of the Polar Bears easy on the eyes, while the subject matter may be more difficult for certain quarters to digest (if you are a Global Warming denier you probably won't enjoy this). The golden, Grandmotherly voice of Meryl Streep is on narration duties, subbing in for the usual Morgan Freeman and doing a great job. Some fantastic extra featurettes include "A Polar Bear Family", "The Challenge of Filming in the Artic", "Life Under Water", and "Welcome to the Artic".

From Beyond (Scream Factory)

Based on H.P Lovecraft's story of the same name, and probably the closest to bringing his unique vision to life in the pictures we'll ever see (until Guillermo del Toro unleashes At the Mountains of Madness at least), this is truly gonzo stuff. Crammed with surrealist imagery and blood splattered mayhem, Scream Factory have once again managed to treat a poorly serviced VHS-era horror movie right. Extras include audio commentary from director Stuart Gordon, storyboard-to-film comparison, and "shocking" never before seen footage.

Phantasm II (Scream Factory)

Another classic horror film lost at sea now rescue by Scream Factory, this is the second installment in Don Coscarelli's nightmarish series about The Tall Man and his lethal flying silver balls. More action-oriented than the orginal, but still infused with frightful imagery and definitely worthy of horror fans attention. Bucket loads of extras, including a well-timed rare short film starring Rory Guy (aka Angus Scrimm aka The Tall Man) as Abraham Lincoln.

Futureworld (Shout!Factory)

Sequel to the highly amusing Westworld is a bizarro mix of dopey 70s era conspiracy mongering and a slower moving rehash of the original. Starring a bemused Peter Fonda, who either hadn't read the script was reacting naturally to the far-out dialogue or had access to some really great recreationals (probably both). Bonus material includes the trailer and some trippy radio spots.

Johnny Sokko and His Flying Robot (Shout!Factory)

"Robot, attack! Robot, destroy!" Four discs of unhinged, badly dubbed high Japanese camp made in the late 1960s but endlessly re-run in North America in the kaiju obsessed 1970s. Voice controlled by the young Johnny Sokko, "Giant Robot" lashes out justice to trouble making CN Tower sized monsters. All 26 glorious episodes are included in this lovely package.

Jurassic Park(Universal)

Previously only available in a boxed set with its lame and lamer sequels, this watershed 1993 blockbuster is finally available on its own in Blu-ray. Impossible to believe this is 20 years old but the revolutionary-at-the-time effects still hold up as passable and the likes of Jeff Goldblum, Laura Dern and Sam Neill have never been better.

STILL FRESH

• The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey
• Zero Dark Thirty
• Nanook of the North/The Wedding of Palo
• Les Misérables
• This is 40
• Timerider
• Badlands
• The Life & Death of Colonel Blimp

TORONTO APOCALYPSE x 5

We may have escaped the Mayan apocalypse but it remains the end of the world as we know it in these 5 shot-in-Toronto movies, all available in one form or another and deserving a look if you live in the GTA and all highly recommended by Professor Brian Oblivion.

Crash (1996)

Local auteur David Cronenberg's grey-as-February 1990s adaptation of JG Ballard's shocking Sci-Fi novel might not be as in your face apocalyptic as some of his other works, but the painful niche of car crash sexual deviancy (never mind getting busy underneath the Gardiner) make this frosty auto-erotic fantasy as bleak as they come. Still criminally not available on Blu-ray, but the regular DVD and VHS will do for now.

Last Night (1998)

Manages to make the end of the world boring, as highfalutin Toronto snobs bicker and wander the streets aimlessly, and never live up to the potential promised by the haunting Streetcar centric poster.

Resident Evil: Apocalypse

Bonkers showdowns all over town but the Nathan Phillip Square throw down is key.

Dawn of the Dead(2004)

Not a patch on the George Romero original but still far more terrifying than anything offered up by the Walking Dead and the first of many movies to use Johnny Cash's "The Man Comes Around" ironically.

Johnny Mnemonic(1995)

Cyberpunk was a huge deal in the pre-internet days, attractingthe attention of nerds and future computer programmers. William Gibson was their oracle, and he penned this prehistoric Matrix that finds Keanu Reeves on the run. LOL at people still using VHS in 2021 and marvelling at the "immense" power of 320 gigabytes.

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds are like the Quentin Tarantino of pop music. So to see them live on a dimly lit stage provided an extra dash of eeriness to the experience. The iconic neon Massey Hall sign was out (for Earth Hour) when Cave took to the stage. Perhaps this contributed to the ominous tone last Saturday night during Canadian Music Week's most anticipated shows.

Just as I arrived at Massey Hall, so did Nick Cave, who was gracious enough to provide a quick autograph to an awaiting fan.

Once the house lights dimmed, the excitement mounted to the sounds of "We No Who U R," which also starts off their latest album, Push the Sky Away.

Some concertgoers rushed to the front of the stage early on, putting the ushers on alert. But Cave coolly commanded, "I think if people want to come down, it's okay." Before too long, hordes of cellphone-wielding fans began capturing the digital moment a little too close and too frequently for comfort. The entire orchestra level were on their feet and remained so the entire show.

I was surprised to see the band joined by a choir made up of about 20 grade 5 and 6 kids from Rose Avenue Public School (made possible via Inner City Angels. They seemed fidgety at first, but settled in after Nick Cave looked their way with a "You alright, kids?" early on.

They were, thankfully, ushered offstage before the band launched into some of their lyrically age-inappropriate songs. However, they may have caught an f-bomb when Cave chided a snap-happy fan in the middle of Higgs Boson Blues with "Take one more fucking photograph!" his finger pointing right down at him with rage.

Cave glided about the stage, his lanky frame bursting out of a tailored, shiny black suit and crisp white shirt, unbuttoned to his sternum. He channeled his rage through a few familiar tunes, kicking things up a notch with a 1-2 punch of "From Her to Eternity" and "Red Right Hand." He reached out to the audience at one point, grabbing outstretched hands as he sung "Can you feel my heartbeat," as sweat poured down his furrowed brow.

Guitarist/flutist Warren Ellis was like Paganini on stage, abusing his violin bow to shreds. Also joining the band was a 5-piece string section that included Owen Pallett and at least a couple of members of Godspeed you Black Emperor.

The 15-song set ended with "Stagger Lee." I'm sure I wasn't the only one blown away by Cave's visceral delivery. The night was topped off with a two-song encore of "Push the Sky Away" and "Tupelo," the crowd still on their feet, likely both exhausted and exuberant from the memorable concert experience.

Photos by Roger Cullman Photography.

DineSafe has uncovered several crucial infractions in well-known franchises this past week. Despite the fact that it's still horrendously frigid outdoors, restaurants seem to be having a hard time maintaining cold conditions for hazardous foods. Go figure? Here are some recent evils courtesy of the local culinary world.

John's Italian Cafe
Inspected on: March 20
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional Pass)
Number of infractions: 2 (Minor: 1, Significant: 1)
Crucial infractions include: N/A

Lion on the Beach
Inspected on: March 19
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional Pass)
Number of infractions: 6 (Minor: 2, Significant: 3, Crucial: 1)
Crucial infractions include: Failure to ensure food is not contaminated/adulterated.

Gino's Pizza
Inspected on: March 21
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional Pass)
Number of infractions: 6 (Minor: 2, Significant: 6)
Crucial infractions include: N/A

Second Cup
Inspected on: March 20
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional Pass)
Number of infractions: 8 (Minor: 2, Significant: 5, Crucial: 1)
Crucial infractions include: Failure to maintain hazardous foods at 4 C (40 F) or colder.

Pizzeria Defina
Inspected on: March 20
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional Pass)
Number of infractions: 5 (Minor: 2, Significant: 3)
Crucial infractions include: N/A

The Friendly Thai
Inspected on: March 20
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional Pass)
Number of infractions: 6 (Minor: 1, Significant: 3, Crucial: 2)
Crucial infractions include: Failure to ensure food is not contaminated/adulterated, failure to maintain hazardous foods at 4 C (40 F) or colder.

Java Joe's
Inspected on: March 21
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional Pass)
Number of infractions: 4 (Minor: 1, Significant: 2, Crucial: 1).
Crucial infractions include: Failure to maintain hazardous foods at 4 C (40 F) or colder.

Metro
Inspected on: March 21
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional Pass)
Number of infractions: 4 (Minor: 2, Significant: 1, Crucial: 1)
Crucial infractions include: Failure to maintain hazardous foods at 4 C (40 F) or colder.

Sparkling rivers of beer trickle through the corridors. Women in steel blue oxford shirts tied at the waist roam around with trays of cocktails. Elves get to work on the second floor, concocting new drink recipes.

This is what I imagined dreamed the LCBO warehouse at 43 Freeland would be like. I was wrong. It looks like an Ikea. There are stacks of wine crates on skids, a few machines for moseying the products about. The building's primary use is as a way station for Vintages products, so a place where you'll find booze deigned more for pinky-raised sipping rather than abandoned-dignity chugging.

To be honest, I'm let down by the lack of party in here.

My tour of the building happened after quitting time for the 45 or so workers, so it was a pretty ghostly scene. But despite the dull nature of the operation, the LCBO warehouse is crucial to stocking the city's wine drinking set. Each year, two million cases pass through the 100,000 square foot warehouse. There are about 3,000 different vintages in the warehouse at any given time, and inventory is generally in the neighbourhood of 180,000 to 280,000 cases.

George Soleas is the head of logistics for the LCBO (legend has it, he coined the phrase "beer before liquor, never been sicker"). In describing the operation, he notes that the warehouse stocks over 250 stores across the city and Southern Ontario.

The warehouse also processes private orders. That's right: the most privileged among us can taste wine in Italy, come home, and put in a special order for their very own case. Cases can be shipped in from virtually anywhere, and members of the bourgeoisie can pick them up at their local LCBO location.

The majority of products destined for the warehouse arrive via boat to ports in Montreal and Vancouver and then make their way to Toronto via truck-transport. As a measure to ensure that the wine doesn't spoil along the way (it can get pretty hot in a shipping container), between April 15 and November 15 all Vintages wine is shipped in reefers. Unsurprisingly, the most expensive products are shipped this way regardless of the time of year.

Soleas says they're exploring the possibility of using the St. Lawrence and Lake Ontario as an green initiative (trucks aren't exactly a clean mode of transporting booze), but that remains at the exploratory stage. That's too bad given that the warehouse is mere steps from the harbour.

But that won't be a concern for long: the warehouse is for sale, and all of the stock will go to the Durham warehouse, which is the largest of Ontario's five LCBO warehouses. It's 650,000 square feet as opposed to Toronto's 100,000, and 52 million cases pass through it every year, making Toronto's two million look measly.

There's no word yet on what will become of the property, or what the bidding process will look like. The only thing that is clear is that the government will make $200 million from the sale. This building could make for some incredible apartments if converted to loft-space, but the likelihood is the 1950s-era structure will be demolished when the LCBO packs up shop.

Photos by Derek Flack

Rob Ford was asked to leave a military gala last month because organizers feared he was drunk, according to a report published in The Toronto Star today. Ford was allegedly "speaking in a rambling, incoherent manner" at the Garrison Ball, a fund-raiser for wounded soldiers held two weeks before the Sarah Thomson incident.

Perhaps the biggest revelation comes in the second paragraph, in which reporter Robyn Doolittle claims that "it's an open secret at city hall that the mayor has battled alcohol abuse." The story later refers to an untreated substance abuse problem that the mayor has refused to acknowledge or treat.

The paper says it sought out attendees at the party, which included Minister of National Defence Peter MacKay, Chief of Defence Staff General Tom Lawson, and other high-ranking military officials. It alleges Ford arrived late and "alarmed" guests with his behavior. Coun. Paul Ainslie, a Ford supporter, confirmed the mayor was asked to leave, though he refused to specify on what grounds.

Just weeks ago Ford was accused of a drunken grope and inappropriate comments by former mayoral candidate Sarah Thomson at a Jewish gala event. Ford dismissed the "false allegations," saying his accuser was crying wolf.

What Rob Ford does in his private time is, of course, his business. A line is, however, crossed when a public official is asked to leave an event on account of fears that he's intoxicated. Although the mayor has yet to comment, Doug Ford denied the allegations on the John Oakley show this morning. His argument, in a nutshell, is that The Toronto Star is out to get his brother. You can be the judge as to how convincing the denial is.

Speaking a short time ago, deputy mayor Doug Holyday said he's never seen Rob Ford take a drink. "He behaves fine as far as I'm concerned," he told media, denying the mayor has a drinking problem. Like Doug Ford, Holyday says some outlets are out to attack the administration.

George Christopolus, the mayor's press secretary, denied his boss was asked to leave the gala earlier to the press this morning. Speaking after presenting the key to the city to boxer George Chuvalo, Ford angrily lashed out at the Toronto Star, calling their staff "pathological liars."

"It's an outright lie, it's the Toronto Star going after me again, and again, and again. They're relentless, that's fine. I'll go head-to-head with the Toronto Star any time. Let's just wait until the election is, and then we'll see what happens."

"It's just lies, after lies, and lies. I've called you pathological liars, and you are, so why don't you take me to court? Let the court decide. You guys are liars."

More soon.

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

Image: Chris Bateman

The Place Beyond the Pines was the hottest ticket at TIFF 2012 so we're excited to announce that we've teamed up with eOne Films to give you a chance to be at an exclusive advance screening of the film for blogTO readers only! This riveting new movie from the director of Blue Valentine is a sweeping emotional drama, powerfully exploring the unbreakable bond between fathers and sons.

View all the contest details here for a chance to win passes to the screening as well as prizes courtesy of TIFF, the Trump Toronto and STOCK Restaurant.

That's right, a tool library has opened at Queen and Sorauren. No, not that kind of tool, and no, city council hasn't changed locations. In the basement of 1499 Queen St. West, or PARC, as many refer to it, there is a venue designed to lend out virtually anything a person could need to be handy.

Before opening day, the library had collected over 500 tools, including drills, hand saws, hammers, paint brushes, shovels, hard hats and lots of other things I don't know how to use because I'm a girl (kust kidding, guys). Membership to the library is $50 per year and provides unlimited access to the supplies, which are collected mostly through donation.

Parkdale is an ideal community for a space like this. Because the neighbourhood is home to so many artists, DIYers, creators and recent immigrants, the library's stock is likely to be put to good use. There are wood working supplies, a pottery wheel, and other crafty supplies a-plenty.

Lawrence Alvarez is president of the Institute for a Resource-Based Economy, and one of the co-founders of the Tool Library. For him, initiatives like these are central to fostering true community.

"Our larger goal is to promote a sharing economy and get to a place of access over ownership," he tells me at the library's grand opening. "We want to bring resources to the community; that's really our goal. A community is only as strong as its most isolated member. Lots of people talk about capping the top, but we need to raise the bottom."

Because of the resource's socially-conscious bent, the $50 membership fee is flexible. One way around it is by sponsorship, or rather, donations of membership fees. The library already has 30 of these to help out those who can't afford the fee. Or, in some cases, the fee can be scaled back to match what you're able to pay.

Happy hammering!

Indie cafes across the city are morphing into two-spirited venues in which one can work/dick around on one's laptop, and, when writer's block hits, get drunk.

Voodoo Child is a prime example of making the trend work. The Little Italy cafe/cocktail lounge has fully embraced its dual personalities. During the day, it's a light-filled workspace with a quiet vibe, largely populated by bespectacled folks on Macs. At night, it makes the switch to mood lighting, candles, and upbeat tunes. It's exactly like a black sheath that makes a perfect transition from the office to post-work drinks. (I just made myself gag a little..)

The way Voodoo Child operates was foreordained, in a sense. When Scotty Daté and his partner first bought it, it was already a licensed cafe in the form of The Bean. So they rebirthed the concept, offering simple booze choices with a focus on fun cocktails. (Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights are cocktail nights from 10 p.m. til 2 a.m.). Daté says the multi-use nature of the space inspires a unique friendliness. He says the coffee-drinkers and booze-imbibers get along in harmony.

"Its expanding people's social horizons, I guess. You know, most cafes are pretty quiet. People are on their computers. But when people are drinking beer and cocktails, the conversations are just going pretty crazy."

Belljar is planning a similar metamorphosis. Owner Geoff McPeek has applied for a liquor license, and expects it to go through by the end of May. He wants to attract the same crowd and maintain the cafe's chill vibe. The only real difference is they'll stay open later, and specialize in local beers.

"The cocktail game is bullshit," he says with an eyeroll. What he means is the attitude that comes along with cocktail culture. McPeek is into community, and he wants to inject some much-needed nightlife into Roncesvalles while ensuring the neighbourhood feel of Belljar remains intact. (Along with the liquor license, he plans to open a patio this summer too, as well as a full-fledged kitchen to serve brunch noms. So ideal).

Anyway, sometimes the switch works, and sometimes, not so much. Last summer, Red Rocket started serving drinks and expanded its hours to better cater to an evening crowd, but co-owner Billy Dertilis says the additional hours weren't worth it. People still thought of Red Rocket primarily as a cafe.

"We thought it would be fun to serve drinks. It wasn't so much a revenue thing. But when you start losing money, it's a different story.

"We've never been a bar, and maybe that's part of the reason why us being open at night didn't take off."

Because staying open later wasn't making sense, the cafe scaled back its evening hours, but kept its liquor license. They still stay open late for special events, and on Saturdays for comedy nights.

Although the transition to late-night venue doesn't always work out, this isn't a trend I can see going anywhere. Coffee is awesome, alcoholic beverages are awesome, lots of writers hang out in cafes, and lots of writers also drink like filthy degenerates.

Go forth and get boozy, cafes of Toronto.

As expected, reports this morning of Rob Ford's alleged alcohol problems dominated online discourse from city hall observers and concerned citizens. Naturally, a report of this nature is likely to generate debate about what exactly falls within mayor's private business and what we as citizens and Ford's employers have a right to know.

Some corners are questioning the ethics of reporting a health problem while others say issues that have the potential to impair the mayor's ability to effectively perform his duties should be public knowledge.

Unlike the immediate fallout from other Ford scandals, comments for the most part urged caution, stressing the seriousness of alcohol abuse and its effects on the sufferer and their family.

Here's are some of the best Tweets from earlier this morning. Add your thoughts below.

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

Image: Chris Bateman

Located on a quiet cul de sac in Toronto's near Avenue and Wilson, this ultra-contemporary, stylish 4-bedroom home is the first constructed by Studio Architectonic Inc., a new design firm bent on creating sustainable, contemporary homes for the future. Combining the ease and cost-efficiency of pre-fabricated homes with unique design customization, 219 Roe Avenue is like the artificial intelligence of real estate.

Heated floors, electronic window fixtures and a Smart Home Automation system allow full control over lighting, entertainment systems, heating/air conditioning and the like. Perhaps 2001: A Space Oddyssey wasn't too far off in its predictions of the not-so-distant future...let's just hope we don't have Hal 2.0 on our hands.

SPECS:

Address: 219 Roe Avenue
Price: $2,498,000
Lot Size: 40.00x100.00 FT
Storeys: 2
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 4
Parking Spaces: 4
Kitchens: 1
Security Cameras: No
Fireplaces: 1
Inclusive Square Footage: 3,000
Exterior: Brick

NOTABLE FEATURES:

Smart Home Automation System
Electric heated floors
Electric window fixtures
Floating stairs
Glass and white oak accessories
Imported Boffi Kitchen
13-foot ceilings

GOOD FOR:

Slick suburban hipsters, environment-enthusiasts, exhibitionists (a lot of glass walls) and science fiction fans. This residence might also be attractive to those who like to use the word "postmodern" a lot.

MOVE ON IF:

You're offended by the adage of "people who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones." Or, you know, if you like to throw stones...

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

If you had the dough, would you buy this home? Let us know where you stand in the comments below.

Photo by Greg David in the blogTO Flickr pool

Toronto events on March 27th, 2013

MUSIC | JUNO Concert Series
An amazing lineup of music tonight as Lula Lounge presents their JUNO concert series. A lineup of some of the city's top roots, blues, and world music talent will grace the stage, as part of a fundraising show for the benefit of MusiCounts, a music education-related charity. Tonight's lineup includes fusion ensemble Jaffa Road, The Good Lovelies, The Lemon Bucket Orchestra, Jaron Freeman-Fox, Scarlett Jane, Jory Nash, Brenna MacCrimmon, Shakura S'Aida, and Steve Strongman. This in an amazing and rare opportunity to catch all of these artists on one bill.
Lula Lounge (1585 Dundas Street West) 7PM $25

MUSIC | Sky Ferreira & How To Dress Well at Wrongbar
Sky Ferreira hits Wrongbar tonight. Ferreira is a quadruple threat: singer, songwriter, model and actress, whose tune "Everything Is Embarrassing" was named as one of the best of 2012 by a number of happening publications and blogs. This LA native has two EPs under her belt, and her first full length, I'm Not Alright, is due out next month. Also on tonight's bill is How To Dress Well, the musical moniker of Tom Krell, an American-born, Germany-based producer, whose two albums, Love Remains, and Total Loss have earned consistent kudos from P4K, Stereogum and other notable music sites.
Wrongbar (1279 Queen Street West) 7PM $15

THEATRE | ShakesBeer
An interesting evening awaits you at Wychwood Barns tonight. You could think of it as a "crash course" in the works of William Shakespeare.... with beer. Yes, that's right: the Bard and brewskies. Charles Roy directs The Complete Works of William Shakespeare, Abridged, which incorporates all thirty-seven plays into an 87 minute performance starring Matt Drappel, Jeff Hanson, and Kevin Ritchie. Several brewers, including Denison's and Beau's will be participating in this event, as well, to give you a wonderful choice of beverages to accompany your immersion into Elizabethan theatre.
Wychwood Barns (601 Christie Street) 6:30PM and 9:30PM $25

ART | All That Sparkles
"All That Sparkles" is an exhibition featuring the work of Sam Mogelonsky. Mogelonsky is a Toronto-based artist whose work focuses on sculptures and installation, often using objects and figures that embody a sense of humour or play, but are being put to more serious work on closer examination. In this exhibit, various objects adorned with sharp pins reveal danger within pretty patterns, and a sinister edge can be found in playful and ornate pieces. Mogelonsky also works as Art Concierge at TO's Hazelton Hotel, and writes about art and deign for the blog Indecent Xposure. "All That Sparkles" runs until April 20th.
The Red Head Gallery (401 Richmond Street West, Suite 115) 12 to 5PM

ALSO OF NOTE

• Alt-J @ Sound Academy
• Gritty Trivia Night #10: Star Wars vs Star Trek: Round II

MORE EVENTS THIS WEEK

For more Toronto event suggestions, check out these posts:

• Toronto Food Events
• This week in fashion
• This week in film
• This week in theatre
• This week in comedy
• This week in music
• Toronto concerts, March 2013

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

Photo from How to Dress Well's Facebook Page

As the fallout continues from yesterday's Rob Ford alcohol abuse story, coun. Sarah Doucette says it's been known around city hall that the mayor has a drinking problem for some time. Though she says she's never seen Ford impaired, Doucette says other councillors have balked at going to the press for fear of the consequences. The Parkdale-High Park rep went on to urge Ford into rehab.

Meanwhile, the parents of kids at Don Bosco Catholic Secondary where Rob Ford coaches football met last night to discuss whether the mayor should continue working with the school. Ford has been criticized for casting the school and its students in a negative light. The group will vote and make a recommendation to the school board. Should Ford continue?

Police chief Bill Blair is telling some Toronto cops to pull their socks up over "totally unacceptable behaviour." In an internal video circulated yesterday, Blair called out a group of unnamed officers for behavior that "damages our service." It's thought Blair was referring the cops who abuse their authority.

Barbara Amiel, the wife of Conrad Black and a contributing editor to Maclean's, is recalling an exchange between Sarah Thomson and her husband in a controversial column. Amiel says Thomson asked, joking, whether she'd have to sleep with Black to get an interview for Hamilton Examiner, where she worked at the time. Amiel argues the 1998 exchange is an example of "an anything-goes sexual society."

There ain't no battle like a sidewalk battle, apparently. Dylan Reid at Spacing reports on the ten-year war of attrition between the city and residents of a Scarborough street vehemently opposed to a sidewalk, of all things. As it happens, Chine Drive is the only access route for a local school, but never mind the kids - what if the "rural feel" is lost?

Finally, the owners of Fortune Seafood Restaurant on Midland Ave. are stewing over a $10,000 fine issued under the Endangered Species Act. The Cantonese eatery was punished for offering soup made from a threatened species of freshwater turtle. The animals, which are protected under provincial and federal law, were discovered packed in a freezer during a routine inspection.

IN BRIEF:

• Second man charged with murder in shooting of Toronto rapper Anthony Spencer [National Post]
• Teen arrested for performing indecent acts at York University [Toronto Star]
• Extracurricular activities to return to Ontario public elementary schools [CBC]
• Joffrey Lupul rallies Maple Leafs over Panthers [CBC]

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

Image: "Old Ways" by Lucky7Photo's/blogTO Flickr pool.

What's open and closed on Easter weekend in Toronto:

Closed

• Government offices (postal service, City Hall and others) will be closed Friday-Monday.
• Banks will be closed Friday-Sunday, with most resuming service on Monday.
• Toronto Public Libraries will be closed on Friday and Sunday, but open regular hours on Saturday
• Most shopping malls and retail stores will be closed although there's usually some unexpected openings, so call ahead.
• The Beer Store is closed on Friday and Sunday.
• All LCBO stores will be closed on Friday, back to regular hours on Saturday, and closed on Easter Sunday. 280 LCBO stores will be open, with modified business hours, on Easter Monday.
• Most major grocery stores will be closed on Friday and Sunday

Open

• The Eaton Centre is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Good Friday, and 12 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, and will resume regular hours on Monday. Some retailers surrounding the Eaton Centre and up Yonge Street will observe similar hours.
• The Pacific Mall is open all weekend
• T&T Supermarket, Arora Foods Market, Food Depot (155 Dupont), Bloor Superfresh (384 Bloor St W), Rabba grocery stores (various locations), and Bruno's Fine Foods remain open throughout the weekend, with slightly reduced hours Friday-Sunday.
• The AGO remains open on Friday, but is closed on Monday.
• Most of the businesses in the Distillery District will remain open all weekend.
• Select movie theatres are open across the city

This 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.

NEWS

Last week, Holt Renfrew announced the opening date for hr2's Vaughan Mills location (1 Bass Pro Mills Dr). According to the discount chain concept's temporary website, the 23,000 square foot store will be opening April 27th with specials and promotions happening all weekend long. They've also implemented a newly created Twitter profile introducing the hr2 logo.

EVENTS/PARTIES

World MasterCard Fashion Week's Stylicity campaign focuses around a handful of local retailers, their unique shopping experiences, and a special promotion in partnership with MasterCard. Pomp & Pageantry (112 Scollard St) is this month's spotlight boutique, so they're throwing a party tonight (March 27) from 6 pm until 9 pm with local designers Rachel Sin, Niki + Lola, Shay Lowe, and Michelle Ross. Plus, if you use your MasterCard, your purchase will be 20% off - a promotion extending until March 31st. RSVP to info@pompandpageantry.ca.

This week (March 27 - 31), the One of a Kind Show is back on for its spring edition. Held at the Exhibition Place, the event is essentially a large convention of all crafty buyable art, photography, clothing, jewellery, food, makeup, toys, and more from over 450 vendors. This year, they're implementing a new Etsy section to bring the e-commerce website to real life, featuring 40 emerging Etsy sellers. Tickets are $14 (or $12 if purchased online) for adults, $7 for seniors and youth, and free for children under 12 years old.

Sweet Talk - an event hosted by the Women in Leadership Foundation - is a glamorous networking party for women happening tonight (6:30 pm) at the Berkeley Church (315 Queen St E). The $40 online ticket or $50 at the doors gets you a glass of vino, a makeover, a professional headshot, and a swag bag. Be sure to show up in your best heels, because Instagramming them at the event can win you a gift card to put towards even more shoes!

Tomorrow (March 28) from 7 pm until 10 pm, Sauvage (644 Queen St W) is hosting a Prom Clothing Drive to benefit students who can't afford a brand new dress or tux for prom via New Circles' annual Prom Boutique. For entry to the party (with complimentary drinks, snacks, and music by DJ Eric the Tutor!), bring along any prom-related donation including gently used dresses, blazers, trousers, shoes and accessories, and new makeup and perfume/cologne.

SALES

From today (March 27) until Sunday (March 31), the International Centre (6900 Airport Rd, Hall 6) is housing the first ever Nike warehouse sale in Toronto (well, technically it's in Mississauga, but that's close enough). Aside from the giant selection of men's, women's and children's apparel and accessories, there'll be specials, prizes, and free wi-fi for the duration of the event. Find the hours of operation and other details on the event page.

Starting Saturday (March 30) and running all the way until April 13th, Josephson Opticians is having a 50% off sale on select luxury sunglasses. The retailer - which carries the best from Mykita, Linda Farrow, and more - has six locations in Toronto, including a flagship at 60 Bloor Street West, so be sure to stop by for a fitting and a great deal.

Photo by karlofun in the blogTO Flickr pool