As the summer heat takes over Toronto, there’s no better time to escape the city for a day trip, or a weekend away. 

Luckily, one of the most spectacular nature trails is three to five hours from Toronto, inside Algonquin Provincial Park, and boasts the most unreal views in the entire park: the Barron Canyon.

A post shared by Joey Bruni (@joeybruni_art) on May 20, 2018 at 4:41pm PDT

Algonquin Provincial Park, located between Georgian Bay and the Ottawa River, is probably one of the most recognized and visited parks in all of Ontario.

Not only is it the oldest park in Canada, but additions to the park over the years have increased its size to almost 8000 square kilometres — almost twice the size of Prince Edward Island!

A post shared by Jackie Pettit (@bumblejacks) on Jan 22, 2018 at 6:01pm PST

The park is also one of the most protected pieces of land in the province, as it shares borders with several smaller, separate provincial parks that protect important rivers and habitats in the area.

A post shared by Myles Johnson (@wanderformyles) on Jun 13, 2018 at 5:39pm PDT

Algonquin is any nature lover’s paradise, with countless camping sites, hiking trails, and over 2,400 lakes within. With over a million visitors a year, it’s easy to see why this park is so popular.

A post shared by Drew (@algonquinlakes) on Feb 17, 2018 at 4:17pm PST

The Barron Canyon Trail consists of a 1.5 km loop that runs along the North rim of this massive, 100 metre deep canyon. This trail is no joke — it leads to a sky high, unfenced cliff top that has become the go-to spot to take that epic ‘gram. It will have you (quite literally) living on the edge.

A post shared by Explore Canada Out Here Travel (@outherecanada) on Jun 4, 2018 at 9:39am PDT

From atop the cliff head, you’ll get a bird’s eye perspective of the gorge below, and panoramic views for miles.

This massive canyon was formed after the end of the last ice age, when the Barron River carried the entire outflow from the Great Lakes. This enormous flow of water eventually cut this canyon into the shape it is today.

A post shared by Kathleen Carkner (@kcarkner) on May 22, 2018 at 4:51am PDT

If heights aren’t really your thing, you can also explore Barron Canyon from canoe below. It can be accessed from either the Brigham Lake parking lot or the Barron River parking lot.

A post shared by Casey gregg (@randomnaturespots) on Mar 21, 2018 at 12:31pm PDT

After exploring the Park from above, be sure to check out the surrounding area from down below — the stunning Bonnechere Caves are only an hour’s drive from Algonquin Park.

Notice anything different about the giant Toronto sign in Nathan Phillips Square this week?

In preparation for National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, the City of Toronto has added another symbol to its iconic lettered sign — this one, a Medicine Wheel before the first "T" — and it's about to add something else, too.

But first, let's learn a bit about the quadricolour Medicine Wheel, which was chosen in consultation with the Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre.

So this is happening right now! In honour of #nationalindigenouspeoplesday@cityofto is adding a Medicine Wheel and new wrap to the letters. https://t.co/3MMJqcguhGpic.twitter.com/VLkELmGeRU

— Selina Young (@selinayoung) June 18, 2018

Described by the city as an "emblem of North American Indigenous cultural values, tradition and spirituality," the wheel's four sections correspond to directions (east, south, west and north). They are said to symbolize completeness, wholeness, connectedness and strength. 

The Medicine Wheel was in place by Monday night, and city officials say that a custom vinyl wrap will be affixed to the outside of the Toronto Sign's letters today.

This wrap will resemble birchbark, inlaid with symbols such as feathers, fire, inukshuks, lacrosse sticks, turtles, Métis sashes, Ojibway canoes and sweet grass braids — all of which are now available as part of a TORONTOMOJI sticker pack. It will remain affixed to the sign until fall of 2018.

In honour of National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, the City of Toronto is adding a Medicine Wheel and a new vinyl wrap to the Toronto Sign. News release: https://t.co/gZ2zncAEil#xoTOpic.twitter.com/JBqZNeYYen

— City of Toronto (@TorontoComms) June 18, 2018

The Medicine Wheel will be part of the Toronto sign only until Canada Day weekend is finished, but will reappear outside City Hall in early October, ahead of the Indian Residential School Survivors (IRSS) Legacy Celebration.

"Toronto's Indigenous roots and the vibrancy and diversity of its Indigenous communities are reflected in the Toronto Sign," said Councillor Michael Thompson in a press release announcing the project.

"In this way, we are proud to mark Indigenous presence, historical and contemporary, in Toronto." 

Every time it looks like ice cream couldn't possibly get more extra, some new and insane frozen dairy trend comes bouncing along the internet highway, most often by way of either LA or Tokyo.

The idea of stuffing a cotton candy "tortilla" with ice cream has taken off like wildfire in the former city, as well as in Las Vegas, San Diego and all over Europe — but this time, it's Canada that can take the credit.

#EatingNewYork 👍🏼: Follow @EATINGWESTCOAST, @EatingMassachusetts & @EatingWDC for a like on your post! 🍴: Ice Cream Burrito 📍: Sugar Sugar 🏙: Canada 📸: @foodbeast 👇🏼Tag your ice cream loving friends below!

A post shared by EATINGNEWYORK (@eatingnewyork) on Jun 24, 2017 at 3:22pm PDT

Sugar Sugar in Sarnia, Ontario went super viral last summer with news of its ice cream burrito; an extreme dessert that sees ice cream, candy, springles and anything else you want for toppings wrapped up inside a flattened disc of candy floss.

Cotton Candy and Ice Cream burrito - they have different cotton candy flavours available to choose from #worththewait #sugarsugar #sweetnessoverload #strawberrycottoncandy #icecream #summerending #foodie #dessert #foodstagram #foodporn #london #ontario

A post shared by SweetLife (@sweetlife879) on Sep 7, 2017 at 3:42pm PDT

To date, however, the only way for someone in Toronto to taste (and take pictures of) the magic has been to drive three hours southwest. No longer.

YOSH! (formerly Sumeshi) is bringing its own take on the trend to Toronto's Taste of Asia street festival this weekend on Kennedy Road near Steeles Avenue. 

The heat wave has started. This is happening at #tasteofasia2018. Come get your Ice Cream Burrito (with customized toppings)this weekend at the YOSH! booth.

A post shared by YOSH! (@yosh.to) on Jun 18, 2018 at 4:47pm PDT

More than 180,000 people are expected to hit the annual event, which is thought to be one of Canada's largest Asian festivals, so expect lineups.

On the plus side, it looks like you'll be able to customize your burrito with toppings like cereal, sprinkles and sugary candy things. I'd do it for the gram alone.

The Toronto Pride Parade returns on June 24 2018 and will take over Yonge St. for most of the afternoon.  Here's a roundup of key information you need to know this year.

Pride Parade - Sunday, June 24

The parade starts at 2 p.m. at Church and Bloor before turning on Yonge and travelling south and ending at Dundas.

While glitter, bright colours and costumes remain a staple of the festivities, expect a more subdued parade as many wear black to mourn members of the community who fell victim to a serial killer.

The parade typically last about three hours, so bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen and arrive early to get a good spot.

While the Pride Parade might be the highlight of the weekend, it's not the only parade taking place. The Dyke March is Saturday at 2 p.m. and the Trans March goes down Friday at 8 p.m.

It was just over two years ago that Mayor John Tory announced his version of 'Vision Zero' for Toronto.

The plan, modelled after a global initiative with roots in Sweden, was meant to eliminate all traffic-related fatalities in the city by 2021 through such measures as reducing speed limits, boosting cycling infrastructure and cracking down on drivers who jeopardize the safety of pedestrians.

Needless to say, it hasn't been working.

A motorcyclist has been hit and killed since this editorial was published, yesterday. @globeandmail editorial: Toronto’s road safety program, Vision Zero, is a failure:https://t.co/5bXX9xSqjs

— Emile (@e_lava) June 14, 2018

At least 93 cyclists and pedestrians have been killed by cars on the streets of Toronto since Vision Zero came into play, and experts say we're currently on track for one of the deadliest years in history.

"When it comes to safety, our streets are failing," reads a call to action from six local advocacy groups who, together, are challenging city officials this week to step up and take action.

"This year (2018) Toronto has seen a surge in deaths of vulnerable road users," the coalition continued. "Each and every one of these deaths was preventable. We know the proven solutions now. We know how to build streets that are safe and accessible — streets that can save lives."

To prove this point, the Toronto Centre for Active Transportation has partnered with 8 80 Cities, Cycle Toronto, Friends and Families for Safe Streets and Walk Toronto to compile what they're calling #BuildTheVisionTO: Safe and Active Streets for All.

The plan details 15 "priority actions" that road safety advocates say will help build "streets where people of all ages and abilities can get around actively, sustainability and safely."

We’ve laid out 15 steps to #BuildTheVisionTO for active and safe streets for all. It starts with designing for movement at a human speed. @880CitiesOrg@TCATonline@Walk_TOpic.twitter.com/qdv5afzsZh

— Cycle Toronto (@CycleToronto) June 19, 2018

It's got some bold ideas, such as implementing a city-wide speed limit of 30 km/h on residential streets and outlawing right turns on red lights completely.

Bolder still is that the group has sent out a survey to all of Toronto's mayoral and city council candidates, asking where they stand on all 15 issues.

The responses they get from candidates will be published online well ahead of the October 22 municipal election — and, judging by the conversation surrounding Toronto's (lack of) road safety in recent weeks, those responses could prove quite powerful in terms of influencing how citizens vote.

#BuildTheVisionTO We have made the commitment now let's make the changes in order to make our streets accessible for people of all ages, of all modes of transportation. #VisionZero is a large undertaking, @JohnTory has promised us ZERO deaths on our streets, make it happen! pic.twitter.com/TectzYhLmo

— Bike Law Canada (@BikeLawCanada) June 19, 2018

"#BuildTheVisionTO will provide information for voters to assess if those who aspire to lead our City are committed to make road safety their priority and to protect the lives of vulnerable road users," said Walk Toronto spokesperson Daniella Levy-Pinto in a press release announcing the survey on Tuesday.

"For too long our streets in Toronto have been measured using one priority - the movement of cars," said 8 80 Cities executive director Amanda O'Rourke similarly.

"We must break free of this thinking. Our streets belong to all of us, no matter your age, ability or socioeconomic status, they should be safe and active places that improve our quality of life, not places where lives are taken away."

Toronto transit riders are shaken today as news spreads of a man who was pushed to his death in front of a subway train at Bloor-Yonge Station by someone he didn't know.

Police have charged a 57-year-old man with first-degree murder in connection with the incident, which took place on an eastbound platform around 10:15 a.m., and are still working to identify the victim.

The deceased is described as an Asian man with white hair in his 50s or early 60s. Police say he had no connection to the suspect, and that the two men interacted only briefly, if at all, before the victim was pushed and struck by an approaching train.

It's time we invest in barriers :(

“Death of man struck by Toronto subway being investigated as a homicide”https://t.co/mWoAFEcffm

— Queen B (@iMedOli) June 19, 2018

A case like this is "incredibly rare on the TTC," according to transit officials.

The last person killed in such a manner was 23-year-old Charlene Minkowski in 1997, according to The Star. Archived news stories say that she was pushed from the platform at Dundas Station by a "disturbed" man with schizophrenia.

Three teen boys were similarly pushed at Dufferin Station in 2009. All survived but two needed to have toes amputated. The person who pushed them is said to have had a mental disorder and was thus found not criminally responsible.

Calling this week's death "tragic," the TTC says that it will learn from the incident and plans to "review any measures that could further reduce the chances of it happening again."

Platform screen doors — the kind used to prevent suicide by subways in Tokyo, Paris, Bangkok, Beijing, Hong Kong and other cities — could be one such measure, as hundreds around the city are now pointing out (and not for the first time).

So Subway Platform Barriers come in all shapes, sizes and costs. You can even install video ad panels on them to defray costs. The panels could even include interactive wayfinding terminals. This is not that hard. @NEWSTALK1010@MooreintheAM@joemihevc#TOpoli#TTCpic.twitter.com/uubfWELsas

— Shelley Carroll (@shelleycarroll) June 19, 2018

Deaths by suicide are indeed a problem for Toronto's subway system, and these deaths are seldom talked about in news reports (in accordance with the city's suicide prevention strategy.)

A total of 45 people attempted suicide on the TTC last year alone. Nineteen of them died, according to TTC spokesperson Brad Ross.

Concerned riders have been calling for platform barrier doors for years, and this most-recent pushing incident has dramatically intensified the discussion.

Toronto: OMG #BellLetsTalk ! It's okay to not be okay! We are here 4 u!
Mentally Ill Torontonians: Well, a thing that would really help is subway platform barriers-
Toronto: LIFE ISN'T ABOUT WEATHERING THE STORM; IT'S ABOUT LEARNING TO DANCE IN THE RAIN! RIP ROBIN WILLIAMS!

— Absolute Unit (@ChurchCarlton) June 19, 2018

Ross responded to one Twitter user's question yesterday about why the doors haven't been installed yet, writing that an engineering study is actually underway.

"Once complete, estimated costing to be done, then funding," he said of the study. "Doors are going to cost at least $1 billion."

It's hard when to say the doors will actually be installed, however, should the study even greenlight them in the end. 

TTC officials recommended the same move back in 2010, saying at the time that they hoped to install suicide barriers on at least some subway platforms "within three or four years."

"The first phase, from Eglinton to Union, won’t be complete until 2013," wrote The Star at the time. "And it will be 2015 before it is installed all the way to Downsview."

Missing the old Commensal? Dry your cruelty-free tears, friendo — there's a new AYCE vegetarian buffet just north of Toronto.

Blossom, which serves dim sum, sushi and salad alongside a hot buffet line, can be found at 9425 Leslie Street in Richmond Hill.

The restaurant says its goal is to show patrons that "vegetarianism does not equate to restriction."

"We hope to demonstrate that it can be a satisfying, energizing, and fulfilling lifestyle," reads the Blossom website, noting that it does have lacto-ovo vegetarian options, as well as vegan food throughout.

Expect tons of meat-free takes on classic Chinese dishes, elegant desserts, and sushi that didn't have to die for your dining pleasure.

In just over one month, the Air Canada Centre as you know it will cease to exist. Goodbye ACC, hello Scotiabank Arena.

Don't freak out (again) — the stadium itself isn't changing all that much, as far as what's been announced. It will still host Raptors games and pop concerts and everything else it's been doing for the past two decades or so.

The building's exterior is another story.

Scotiabank, which signed an $800 million naming rights deal with Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment last August, will undoubtedly be putting its brand where it can be seen and noticed.

New renderings by the Toronto-based firm Kramer Design Associates show that some pretty prominent signage will be set above the west atrium after the bank takes over.

Signs on the new Scotiabank Arena will be large and bright, according to renderings from KDA. Image via City of Toronto submission.

A giant "S" logo and bright red names will similarly be positioned around the structure atop doors and entryways, including above heritage facades.

As for Maple Leaf Square (aka Jurassic Park), that huge screen we all know and love to watch games on will be replaced — by an even larger screen! 

If I'm reading the architectural plans correctly, the current 30-by-50-foot screen outside the ACC will be taken down in favour of a massive, 40-by-78-foot megascreen.

It remains to be seen exactly what everything will look like when it's all in place, as the renderings are rather mysterious — but we don't have long to wait.

The ACC turns into the Scotiabank Arena on July 1. Happy birthday, Canada.

Everyone knows about Kensington Market, Ossington, and West Queen West, but what about Geary Avenue? 

The former sleepy street near Dupont and Dufferin has grown beyond its industrial roots in recent years with an influx of new businesses and artisans as well as craft beer, fresh pasta and what might be the city's best hummus and falafel.

In the latest episode of the Only in Toronto podcast we take a closer look at Geary Avenue and try to learn more about its past, present and future.

Places featured in this episode include:

• Parallel
• Newport Fish
• Geary Lane

Articles referenced in this episode include:

• Toronto keeps giving preferential treatment to older food trucks
• Patio furniture falls off Toronto hotel's 44th floor rooftop
• The Toronto sign just got an upgrade
• Historic Toronto clock tower emerges from construction rubble
• Someone saw a fox eating a squirrel in Toronto
• Cotton candy ice cream burritos are coming to Toronto

More reading on Geary Avenue:

• This is the perfect Toronto street before it won't be
• The slow fade of industry on Geary Avenue

Other places to check out on Geary Avenue:

• Blood Brothers
• Dark Horse Bakery
• Famiglia Baldassarre
• The Greater Good
• Invisible City Record Shop

Ways to subscribe to the Only in Toronto podcast.

• Apple Podcasts
• Google Play Music
• Stitcher
• Tune In
• Libsyn

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

Events in Toronto today mark the beginning of Open Roof Festival at its new location on Sterling Road. alt-J takes the stage and some of the stars of RuPauls' Drag Race are in to kick off the Green Space Festival celebrations.

It’s not every day you stumble across a legitimate mansion for rent, but hey ho here you go! 

Inside this 1911 architectural gem, you will find soaring ceilings, tons of natural light and some unique decor.

The grand foyer is mesmerizing architecturally and the rooms that filter off from it aren’t half-bad either.

The coffered ceilings are stunning and luxurious fireplaces make this place seem so regal and elegant. 

The bedrooms are all spacious (obviously) and each room has direct access to a bathroom.

The master bedroom has all the fixins’. It boasts a walk-out deck, wood-burning fireplace and a walk-in closet.

I’m in love with the master en suite bathroom, which is delightfully Parisian with the pastel wallpaper and the chandelier.

Okay, now I know what you’re thinking, listed at $17,500 a month is insane, and yeah it would be if you’re just one person renting out the place for yourself. But if you get five people it’s $3,500 a month or even better five couples it’s just $1,750. That’s not terrible for a mansion!

Specs

• Address: 90 Roxborough Street East
• Type: House
• Rent: $17,500 / month
• Listing agent: Doug Vukasovic
• Furnished? Yes
• Utilities: No
• Air conditioning? Yes
• Bedrooms: 4+1
• Bathrooms: 5
• Parking: 5
• Laundry? In suite
• Outdoor space? Backyard
• Pet friendly? Yes

Good For

A movie or television production company renting out the home as a shooting location or a place to house some actors. 

Move On If

You’re on a realistic budget. I don’t even pay that much in rent in a whole year, let alone one month.

The best veal sandwiches in Toronto aren’t for those who wish to avoid carbs, messy hands or flavour. A thin pounded, crispy breaded piece of tender veal on a big puffy roll with a slathering of sauce (best served with stretchy, melty cheese and hot peppers), these sandwiches aren’t just relied on by the Italian community but all hungry Torontonians.

Here are the best veal sandwiches in Toronto.

After weeks of on and off again TTC subway closures, this weekend will see the return of one.

There will be no subway service on Line 3 Scarborough, Kennedy to McCowan stations, on June 24 due to track and infrastructure work.

No subway Line 3 (Scarborough RT) Kennedy to McCowan Sunday, June 24, 2018 during road closures for Pride Parade June 24. Alternative: Shuttle buses or TTC routes 16, 95 and 190 or GO bus routes 92 or 96. pic.twitter.com/BA8s4qdj4y

— TorontoRoadClosures (@ToRoadClosures) June 19, 2018

Shuttle buses will operate between these stations for the duration of the closure.

The next scheduled closure will halt weekend service on Line 1 between Sheppard-Yonge and St Clair stations on July 7 and 8 due to Metrolinx's Eglinton Crosstown LRT work at Yonge and Eglinton.

Southern Ontario has finally reached that time of year when seeing colours in the sky after 8 p.m. is not only possible, but often breathtaking.

With just two days to go before the summer solstice, Torontonians were out in full force on Tuesday evening enjoying one of 2018's longest days.

Blue Jays Toronto

A post shared by Our Trip Life (@our.trip.life) on Jun 19, 2018 at 6:08pm PDT

The temperature was gorgeous, the bugs respectful, and the vibes just right for chilling outdoors —all of us with cameras in our pockets or hands.

It's no wonder then, that Instagram and Twitter exploded with shades of orange, red, pink and blue when the sun started setting.

Sky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #toronto #sky #tones #shades #colors #streetsoftoronto #summerthings #clouds #sunset #skyline #cityscape #torontoskyline #downtown #blogto #narcitytoronto #natgeo #nightphotography #explore #city #citylife #torontolife #lastrays #highrise #cityskyline #torontosunset

A post shared by Paroma Ganguly (@paroma_g) on Jun 19, 2018 at 7:18pm PDT

The spectacular sunset on Tuesday night was one of the loveliest (and certainly most-photographed) we've seen in Toronto so far this year.

For the Bride to be @christines_shots . Someone just painted the sky with ❤️. #blogto #torontolife #toronto #sunsets #lovers #adventure #sky #love #thesix #iphone7plus #westendboys #blinkandyoumissit #etobicoke #thanksjimps #quigg #evidence

A post shared by Time Stands Still (@_evidence_) on Jun 19, 2018 at 6:22pm PDT

It was long and drawn out, letting us thoroughly take in the sky at many different stages of light.

Toronto’s cloud game is strong today! #toronto #blogto #streetsoftoronto #skyline #cloudporn #yyz #the6ix #inspiration #imagesofcanada #pick6ix #acc #skyporn #TO #downtown #fairmont #curiositytoronto #explorecanada #views

A post shared by kunalbhasin (@kunalbhasin) on Jun 19, 2018 at 7:38pm PDT

From amber-tinted clouds on blue skies early in the process...

Toronto’s hidden gem . . . . #Sunset #OrangeSunset #BurningSky #Resplendent #BeautifulAsAPainting #TommyThompsonPark #Marina #Lakeside #LakeOntario #Toronto #CitySkyline #TorontoSkyline #BlogTO #BikeRide

A post shared by bbluet (@bbluet) on Jun 20, 2018 at 12:02am PDT

To fiery reds as the sun slipped behind the horizon.

Someone set the sky on fire last night! 🔥🚒 #DiscoverON #ExploreCanada #Toronto #blogto #imagesofToronto #shotoniphone #TheHomeSeries #sunset #natgeo #natgeotravel #discoverearth #roamtheplanet #passionpassport #PPCuriosity #jj_forum_2285 #artofvisuals #aov #agameoftones #whpplay #theoutbound #stayandwander #vsco #justgoshoot

A post shared by Jackman (@jackmanchiu) on Jun 20, 2018 at 3:43am PDT

Thousands of Toronto sunset photos were uploaded within the span of an hour on Instagram alone.

🔥🔥skies . . . . . . . . #toronto #streetsoftoronto #worldphotos #visualambassadors #the6ix #photography #torontophoto #photographer #urbanphotography #lovetoronto #moodygrams #travel #illgrammers #streetmobs #dailyhiveto #ourmoodydays #urbanandstreet #downtown #streetphotography #blogTo #6tour #tdot #curiosityToronto #6ixwalks #ig_streets #sunset #sunset_madness #fire #sunset_pics

A post shared by Mahdi (@mahddness) on Jun 19, 2018 at 7:48pm PDT

It's almost hard to believe that these photos aren't computer generated.

Toronto sunset 🙌 #the6ix #budweiserstage . . . . . . . . . . #sunset🌅 #toronto #6 #6ix #views #concert #summer #summer18 #photography #sunset #visittoronto #discovercanada #exploreontario #canada #ontario #travel #blogto #narcity #queenwest #libertyvillage #yorkville #kingwest #exploreyourcity #ontarioplace

A post shared by Michael Zigomanis (@michaelzigomanis) on Jun 19, 2018 at 10:38pm PDT

Technology may be taking humans beyond our wildest dreams, but sunsets like this prove Mother Nature will always reign supreme.

Have you ever seen anything so full of splendour?

Sunset at Ashbridges Bay #toronto #sunset #landscape #skyonfire🔥 #boardwalk #thesix #sail #summernights #cityoftoronto #blogto #dusk #nikon #calm #yyz

A post shared by JC LeBlanc (@jeanclaude.leblanc) on Jun 19, 2018 at 8:16pm PDT

The legalization of weed in Canada took a big step forward this week. Marijuana will soon be legal for recreational purposes from coast to coast, making our country the second ever to fully legalize cannabis.

The Liberal government's act to legalize and regulate weed cleared its final legislative hurdle last night when the Senate voted 52-29 in favour of passing Bill C-45.

The bill now awaits royal assent, meaning that a representative for the Queen of England must literally nod her head in approval before we get high and sell weed (lol.) This is expected to happen as soon as Wednesday afternoon.

Bill #C45 has passed in the Senate. It now awaits Royal Assent. It is still illegal to buy, sell, produce, or use #cannabis. pic.twitter.com/y86t77WqWa

— GovCanHealth (@GovCanHealth) June 20, 2018

Retail sales of cannabis products were long meant to begin on July 1, but the timeline was recently been pushed back to give Senators more review time.

"We've just witnessed a very historic vote that ends 90 years of prohibition," said Canadian Senator Tony Dean in a press conference after Tuesday night's vote.

"It ends 90 years of needless criminalization, it ends a prohibition model that inhibited and discouraged public health and community health in favour of just-say-no approaches that simply failed young people miserably."

The Trudeau government is not releasing a legalization date just yet. It had promised to make pot fully legal 2-3 months after the bill receives royal assent #cdnpolipic.twitter.com/PbDvTfTSby

— Cormac Mac Sweeney (@cmaconthehill) June 20, 2018

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government said this morning in a press conference that marijuana will be made fully legal in Canada within the next 2-3 months.

An official legalization date will be set and announced after royal assent is received. 

Parliamentary secretary Bill Blair told reporters this morning that Trudeau himself will make the announcement this afternoon during a news conference at 4:30 p.m.

It's the end of an era for concept venues and the dawn of a new age for feline kind.

The Addisons Residence, a lounge-meets-club space on the quiet stretch of Wellington Street between Spadina and Bathurst, will officially be demolished to make way for the long-awaited "Wellington Cat Promenade" — one of two new, cat-themed public parks in downtown Toronto. 

A second cat park will be built nearby on Draper Street in a space that's been vacant since the 1940s.

Travis Agresti of John Doe Group, which owns The Addisons, EFS and Convenience Resto Bar, among other hot spots, confirmed the news by phone on Wednesday.

The venue at 456 Wellington Street West will indeed be torn down to make way for a cat-themed park, he says — but not in the near future.

Montreal-based architecture firm Claude Cormier et Associés are building two cat-themed and cat-friendly public spaces in King West to compliment their popular east-end dog fountain. Image via Claude Cormier et Associés. 

"Our lot is designated for the green space," says Agresti, "but we're not going anywhere soon."

Being that the 1,000-square-metre cat park isn't expected to be in place until 2022, and that the building will be one of the last things to go, there's still plenty of time to party at Addisons.

"We anticipate that we have at least this and two more summers to go before we turn it over," says Agresti, noting that his company is already "actively looking for other locations" in Toronto to recreate the concept.

Inspired by a retro home in Beverly Hills (complete with a kitchen area, living room and tons of dope rec room games), The Addisons Residence has become one of the King West club district's coolest spots since replacing the iconic (but much more clubby) C-Lounge in 2015.

Sad as the eventual loss of this unique party and event space on Wellington may be, the project it's been demolished for sounds incredible.

Cormier says the entire park is inspired by a local feline named Dizzy who likes to hang out in the soon-to-be park space on Draper Street. Image via Claude Cormier et Associés.

Montreal-based architect Claude Cormier details some of what we can expect to see at the new Wellington 'Cat Promenade' (and its Draper Street sister park) on his website.

Both parks will feature a series of realistic cat sculptures, just like Cormier's now-famous Berczy dog fountain in St. Lawrence Market.

Two giant cats will stand guard at both ends of the Wellington Park and a small dog will be added in for good measure (to counterbalance the sole cast iron cat who sits among the 27 canines at Berczy).

These new west-end cat parks, built as part of a massive forthcoming development called The Well, will be both feline centric and feline friendly, with tiny drinking fountains, bird houses, and plants like catnip included throughout.

Brick walls with mouse holes at the bottom will surround the space, though it is not made clear whether these holes are meant for the mice to get out — or to get in (a kitty-cat's belly.)

Diner en Blanc — the annual outdoor dining event in which guests dress up in white and pray for no rain— returns to Toronto this summer. As of late last week, we know exactly when.

Start thinking about how you're going to transport your own tables, chairs, stemware, tablecloths, food and drink, party goers: This year's secret white dinner party takes place on Thursday, August 16. 

As for where, nobody will know until right before dinner when the secret location is actually announced. Guests must still buy tickets well in advance, however, as Diner en Blanc is known to sell out fast and have long wait lists.

Based on a Paris event that's been running for nearly 30 years, the fabulous soirée takes over a new outdoor spot in Toronto every summer. 

For 2017, it was at Canoe Landing Park. Previously locations have included spaces in the Canary District, historic Fort York and by the Harbourfront.

Toronto city councillors, as we learned last week, are making a concerted effort to improve the lives of vulnerable people in the downtown east area.

Part of this means physically cleaning up streets and parks around neighbourhoods such as Yonge-Dundas, Sherbourne and Dundas, Cabbagetown, St. Jamestown and Regent Park.

Another, far more considered part will involve extending the current range of social services available to those in need — all with existing resources.

Toronto City Council will consider a 23-part, 12-month action plan next week that, according to the Community Development and Recreation Committee, can be implemented within a year.

It's been 6 years since I began Downtown East revitalization efforts. During that time we completed an Official Plan Amendment + Heritage Conservation District. After much advocacy City is working towards closing the local service gaps. Report found here.https://t.co/NHQkszVwKZpic.twitter.com/P16vJd6wRS

— Kristyn Wong-Tam (@kristynwongtam) June 8, 2018

The first 11 items in the plan pertain to mental health, substance abuse and harm reduction; measures such as suicide prevention workshops, overdose prevention training, supervised injection sites and distributing naloxone kits to shelters.

The last six focus on community safety and violence prevention, economic opportunities and enforcing illegal dumping restrictions.

Everything else is about homelessness, shelter support, volleyball, soccer and yoga.

You see, one of the planned measures, action item 11, recommends that the city offer more "planned recreation programs and leagues to individuals living in shelters or are affected by Homelessness."

These programs would be spearheaded by the department of Parks, Forestry and Recreation and follow the lead of leagues like Toronto's Downtown East End Softball League, which includes teams made up of staff, residents and former residents of various shelters and drop-in centres around the city.

@HavenTorontoCA vs last years Downtown East End Softball League champions @GatewayToronto in Moss Park. We had a great time, thanks for including us. @HowWeDoItTPS@TPS51Div@goodshepherd_to@TorontoPolicepic.twitter.com/EIGMST1LK6

— Moss Park Coppers (@MossParkCoppers) May 7, 2018

"Being connected to the real world is such a big step to getting out, to getting settled in your own place," said Councillor Paula Fletcher to CBC Toronto this week about the proposed move.

Fletcher says that city-run recreational classes, like yoga and tai-chi, are already available to people experiencing homelessness. Those programs are open to everyone, however, not just the homeless, which makes some reluctant to join in. 

Fletcher says that homeless individuals have indicated they'd rather participate in  activities  "geared solely to others in the same boat as they are," at least at first.

"Building your life back is what it's all about," says Fletcher. "Not staying in a shelter the rest of your life."

Mark your calendars, cannabis connoisseurs: Our benevolent leader just announced the release date for his much-hyped legislation, C-45, making the legalization of weed in Canada that much more official.

Rules that prohibit the possession, growth and sale of marijuana will be dropping from the Criminal Code this fall, exactly two weeks before Halloween.

As of Wednesday, October 17, recreational cannabis will at long last be legal across the nation. Some might even say 10/17 is the new 4/20. Or not. I don't care.

Marijuana will be legal in Canada on Oct. 17, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced today in the House of Commons. #legalization#Canada#Weedpic.twitter.com/wwuqHSyWz5

— Kyle Van Staden (@KVS85) June 20, 2018

"We work in partnership with the provinces, and since we've passed these measures in Parliament we've been listening to the provinces who have been asking for more time to implement it," said Trudeau (en français) during question period in the House of Commons on Wednesday.  

"That's why we're accepting the request of the provinces and that's why we'll be legalizing it as of Oct, 17, 2018."

October is quite a bit farther away than two or three months, which is what the Liberals had promised when their bill passed in the Senate.

It's also way later in the year than the originally announced legalization date of July 1.

It's official! Justin Trudeau says the official date for legal weed is Oct 17th. To celebrate, Oct 17th will now be known as July 1st.

— M@t (@m_brand) June 20, 2018

Ah well, what can you do? Not smoke pot yet, that's for sure. 

"Cannabis for non-medical use is not legal yet. The law still remains the law," said Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould during a news conference earlier today in response to Senate's passing of the bill.

"We're working hard to do the important work of repealing the existing legislation, replacing it with a comprehensive system of regulatory control," she said.

"Until then, I urge all Canadians to continue to follow the existing law until the Cannabis Act comes into force."

Has Toronto's sakura scene become a bit too intense for your liking? You're far from alone, and few who've witnessed the melee at High Park or Bellwoods would blame you.

Fortunately, next year will be different. Or rather, it could be, for you, if you're willing to drive north.

The GTA will have more cherry blossom trees than ever next May thanks to a massive donation from various Japanese diplomats to the City of Markham.

A total of 80 sakura trees have been planted across three different parks in Markham to honour the 90th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and Japan, according to a city press release.

Gifted through the Trees for Tomorrow program, their pretty flowering branches will explode into shades of white and pink each spring at Milne Dam Conservation Park, Rougeside Promenad the Markham Civic Centre for all to enjoy.

Join us Saturday for the official ceremony celebrating the generous donation of 80 Japanese Sakura Cherry Blossom Trees, which are planted in three locations in the City of Markham. This honours the 90th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and Japan. #MarkhamProudpic.twitter.com/FCATaaWZ4J

— Mayor Frank Scarpitti (@frankscarpitti) June 19, 2018

Want to welcome them into our home and native land? 

The City of Markham is hosting a celebratory ceremony this Saturday, June 23, complete with refreshments, speeches and performances by the Japanese Canadian folk music group Ten-Ten.