January 31

This week’s image: the winter storm starts on Monday on Parliament Street

CABBAGETOWN NEIGHBOURHOOD 
REVIEW

Back again …
OPEN HOUSE ANNOUNCEMENTS
This week, there’s an open house at 434 Sackville on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.  Click here to read the announcement.  

LOCAL NEWS

It's progress - thanks
Two long-running problems have been attacked successfully this week. 

First, there’s now a police officer stationed inside the LCBO (512 Parliament).  This is a direct response to the theft that’s been happening there. These crimes in our local store were first mentioned by Paul Hancock in an irritated email on March 2.  They were very disturbing to customers who witnessed them. Local staff are also relieved now that they have this support.  One police officer reported that he hasn’t seen a single theft since he appeared on the scene.

Second, the new management at the Circle K store and the Esso Station got busy on Tuesday and Wednesday and shovelled the entire sidewalk along Amelia Street after the big snow storm.  This may seem like a small matter but it’s the first time in several years that anyone has bothered to do this chore - thanks to Hiral, the new Circle K manager.  And thanks as well to Stephen-Thomas at the Cabbagetown BIA for pitching in on the issue.  

260 Wellesley
Residents who left when the power and water were shut off have returned to their units at 260 Wellesley. Services were restored on Friday. Crews from the fire department, the Electrical Safety Authority and the contractor then conducted unit-by-unit checks on water taps and appliances so that new safety problems would be avoided. 
Informal estimates indicate that up to 30% of the tenants left the building.  The elderly, people with young families and the poor were among those who stayed. Local groups like Community Matters Toronto visited them throughout the blackout.

Future St James Town issues
Tenants from 650 Parliament and from 260 Wellesley have been meeting together to discuss these crisis events and to begin their own checks on building maintenance standards.  They’ve voiced their distress that the building management disappeared during the blackout at 260 Wellesley.  They’re also concerned about the recent increase in drug dealing and crime issues, particularly at 280 Wellesley.  
Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam has raised her worries about the City’s maintenance inspections in older apartment buildings.  She successfully introduced a motion at City Council to review City audits of rental buildings - click here for the details.   

TPS survey about Dundas and Sherbourne
Toronto Police Service conducted a survey asking about our experiences and reactions to the corner at Sherbourne and Dundas.  1,097 people answered.   A summary of these answers is online here.
Notably, most who replied said that they don’t feel safe at any time in the area - just over 40% said they feel safe during the day and 85% feel unsafe at night.  Drugs, homelessness and intimidation/harassment are the most serious policing issues.   

Car vandalism in Cabbagetown South
The Cabbagetown South Residents report that vandalism continues at a high level.  Most often, it involves a smash-and-grab with broken car windows and stolen articles.  Incidents are happening on Seaton Street most frequently. There’s a checklist of safety procedures for you on the Association’s website.  

Pam McConnell Award
This award, sponsored by the City of Toronto, recognizes young women who live in Toronto, who are between the ages of 19 and 26 and who have a proven leadership track record.  Nominations are open now to 11:45 pm on Friday February 8.  For details about the nomination process, visit the City’s website.   

New CYC website
The Cabbagetown Youth Centre (2 Lancaster) has a nifty new website.  It describes the CYC’s programs and schedules, its history, the Boxing Club’s events and contact info.  Amazing photos.  Check out the online store for lots of souvenirs - tees, bags and sweaters.  Thanks go to Robin Gambhir at Fair Trade Jewellery (523 Parliament) - he boxes there and he built the website as his contribution to a great institution.   

Digging a new river
Waterfront Toronto has issued a video explaining how historic industrial activity in the new Port Lands must be handled when the new river course is developed.  Click here to see it.   

Dixon Hall winter clothing drive
Dixon Hall needs winter clothing for men and women for its Out Of The Cold program.  Specifically - new, unused thermal underwear, tops and bottoms.  If you can help, please contact catie.primeau@dixonhall.org.

Skating rinks
The City of Toronto operates three skating rinks near our neighbourhoods. 
Regent Park Skating Rink (480 Shuter) is located at the Regent Park Athletic Grounds.
Riverdale Park East (550 Broadview) is at the north end of the park overlooking the Don Valley.
Sherbourne Common/Paul Quarrington Rink (5 Lower Sherbourne) is on the waterfront and skaters enjoy marvellous views of the lake and downtown Toronto.
You’ll find up-to-date notices about these rinks and others throughout the city at the official website.  

Cabbagetown Regent Park Museum Historical Tidbit
by Sally Gibson  sallygibson@sympatico.ca 
Image:  Edwardian postcard, Carlton & Sherbourne, courtesy Mike Filey
This wintery postcard, based on a late-nineteenth century photograph looking eastward along Carlton Street, reveals how little has changed … apart from the horses, the fashions and the vehicles. 
The Sherbourne Street Methodist Church (now St. Luke’s United) dominates the corner. Parliament Street stores close off the view in the distance. And a public transportation vehicle seems stuck on its southward journey along Sherbourne, perhaps awaiting the arrival of fresh horses. Toronto Railway Company drivers who had no protection from the elements complained that the company treated its horses better than its humans, who could readily be replaced when they failed to meet corporate expectations.

COMING EVENTS
Listed by starting dates

Social Smiths Cabbagetown Comedy
Thursday January 31, 7 to 9 pm, $10.  A diverse lineup of local comics hosted by Robert Watson.  574 and 1/2 Parliament.  

Gordon Lightfoot at Stompin’ Tom’s 82nd birthday
Duncan Fremlin and Whiskey Jack are honouring Stompin’ Tom at 7:30 pm on Thursday January 31 at Zoomer Hall (70 Jefferson Ave, Liberty Village). Special guests include Gordon Lightfoot, the Good Brothers and Murray Foster.  Tickets are $30, available online.   

Corktown planning meeting
The City of Toronto is holding a public open house on the King-Parliament Secondary Plan.  The King-Parliament Secondary Plan builds on the Downtown Plan. It will provide specific direction on built form, the public realm and heritage. St Lawrence Hall (157 King E), third floor, 6:30 pm, Thursday January 31.  

Brenda’s step class
Brenda has sent out her February schedule.  As usual, her step class takes place on Sunday mornings at 11 am and Wednesdays at 9:15 am.  Class is cancelled on Sunday February 17 for Family Day weekend.  It happens in the gym at the Cabbagetown Youth Centre (2 Lancaster, behind the Beer Store).

Cabbagetown South Residents Association
The annual meeting has been called for Wednesday February 6 at 6:30 pm in Hey Lucy (229 Carlton).  The special guest is Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam.  

Regent Park Rotating Gallery 
Organized by the Daniels Corporation. It’s a rotating exhibit spotlighting local artists and creators and featuring a different artist or artist group every quarter.
Beginning Thursday, February 7th at 6pm, Gabrielle Lasporte takes the stage.  She expresses herself through Modern Batik. (created by applying wax and dyes on fabric).
Regent Park Presentation Centre (500 Dundas E).  

Toronto Light Festival
The Distillery District is transformed into a giant outdoor gallery with lighting works by twenty local and international artists.  Open now to Sunday March 3.  Throughout the Distillery from dusk at 5:30 pm to 9 pm on weekdays and 10 pm on the weekends. Free.  
Winter music series. Five businesses in the Distillery present live music from 2 to 5 pm every Saturday and Sunday throughout the Light Festival - Mill Street Brew Pub, Balzac’s, John Fluevog, Denaturing Buildings and Spirit of York are all hosting concerts.  Click here for links and details about each event.    
Free tastings  Seven businesses in the Distillery are showcasing sparkling wines, craft beers, liqueurs, rum and ice wines.  Complementary tastings.  Every Saturday and Sunday throughout the Light Festival.

KIDS EVENTS

Hip Hop History with GeneOne
Local Toronto professional hip hop and graffiti artist GeneONE will discuss the history of hip hop and how it has influenced African Americans. He’ll also teach some basic hip hop production and rhyming skills. If you’re a hip hop enthusiast, this is your chance to celebrate Black History Month in style! To register, call (416) 393-7663 or visit the Parliament Street Library information desk.  Drop-ins welcome. Parliament Street Library (269 Gerrard E), 4 to 5 pm, Tuesday February 5. 

Harry Potter Book Night
The Children’s Book Bank (350 Berkeley) presents the Harry Potter Book Night with trivia, edible potions, and magical crafts! Come wearing your best wizard costume or make your own Harry Potter glasses and wand at the party.  5 to 7 pm, Thursday February 7, free admission.  

Skate exchange
Saturday February 9, 11 am to 2 pm, Regent Park Athletic Grounds (480 Shuter at Sumach).  Donate, exchange or get a free pair of skates.  Donations welcomed at the Athletic Grounds during the previous week.   Sponsored by Toronto Parks, Forestry & Recreation.  

Discovery Days at Riverdale Farm
Goats and feathered friends will be the focus of the next Discovery Day. Be part of a Rock Paper Scissors championship, make treats for birds that you’ll place around the Farm and even complete a milk and fibre scavenger hunt!  Discovery Days are a fantastic one-day experience for children aged 6 through 12 years. Friday February 15, 9 am to 4 pm, Riverdale Farm (Sumach and Winchester).  $70.  Call to register (416) 338-4386 or 311.

Buds & Blossoms
There’ll be a free Family Day open house at Buds & Blossoms (517 Parliament, second floor) from 10 am to noon on Monday February 18.  The popular after-school class, Little Chefs in Training, will be featured at 10:15 am and the brand new coding and robotics class, Kidbotics, at 11:15 am. There'll also be a giant colouring page and information on all of the services offered in Buds & Blossoms’ space.
Drop-ins are welcome.  You can also get a free ticket in advance at Eventrite.  

IN THE MEDIA

Cabbagetown is a shopping destination
Image:  Style Democracy
Style Democracy has listed 7 underrated shopping locations in Toronto, including Cabbagetown.  Aly Zorn writes that we’re noted for cafes and design shops - Spruce, Labour of Love, Kendall & Co and Green Antiques are mentioned.  She could have easily added Eclectisaurus and Mi Casa to her list.  She also likes the organic choices at St James Town Steak & Chops. 

50 top coffee shops
Image:  blogTO
blogTO has run a photo gallery highlighting 50 coffee shops across the city.  Three local ones make the grade - Jet Fuel (519 Parliament), Arvo (17 Gristmill Lane, Distillery) and Odin (514 King E).  

BUSINESS NEWS

Kendall & Co Winter Sale 
Hot deals at Kendall & Co (514 Parliament) on sofas, armchairs, throws and table lamps. A range of wool rugs and outdoor rugs are also on sale.  Final clearance on select home accessories and accent pillows. Sale now on for a limited time. 
Store hours - Monday to Friday 10 am to 6 pm, Saturday 11 am to 5 pm, Sunday noon to 4 pm.

Happy anniversary
Anji at Blooming Flower Bar is celebrating her first anniversary at her store at 559 Parliament.

VALENTINE'S EVENTS

Chocolates and tuna
Chocolate covered strawberries for every woman shopping here on Valentine’s.  Plus there’ll be special heart-shaped tuna steaks.  St Jamestown Steak & Cops (516 Parliament)

Valentine’s special at Blooming Flower Bar
Flowers, decorations and beautiful gifts are all available here.  Perfect for Valentines.  Save 10% on all your Valentine online orders between now and February 10.  Click here to see the website.  559 Parliament.   

The Irv
Enjoy Valentine features at The Irv (195 Carlton).  Braised short ribs, homemade gnocchi and chocolate cupcakes.  Thursday February 14 to Saturday February 16.

Dominion Pub & Kitchen
The Dominion (500 Queen E) presents Galentine’s Day - Sex & The City, a big movie on a big screen.  There’ll be $8 cosmopolitans, a popcorn station and a candy bar.  7 pm, Thursday February 14.

Staij
Strawberry Charlotte petit gateau - perfect for Valentine’s day.  Strawberry Bavarian cream, vanilla Genoise and fresh strawberry compote.  And meringue kisses.  Yummy.  Staij & Co (552 Parliament). 

RESTAURANT NEWS

Pop-up market
Food, crafts and jewellery by the chefs and artisans of Regent Park Catering Collective.  Paintbox Bistro (555 Dundas E), 5 to 8 pm, Friday February 8.

El Catrin winter brunch challenge
Bunch is served at El Catrin (18 Tank House Lane, Distillery) every Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm until March 17. It’s served outdoors on the patio!  Four courses - $29.  But, if you can last through the entire meal outside, you’ll enjoy a 50% discount and your bill will be $14.50.  

Beer dinner at The Irv
The Irv (195 Carlton) presents a four-course dinner with Steam Whistle and Von Bugle.  Only 26 tickets will be sold - so get yours early.  Your evening includes a 20 oz glass of Von Bugle, a can of Steam Whistle, a gift bag and a four-course dinner.  Thursday February 21, 7 pm.  $70 - reserve yours by email at regan@theirvpub.ca  or kevinh@steamwhistle.ca.   

Winterlicious is open
Winterlicious takes place between January 25 and February 7.  Local restaurants include F’Amelia (12 Amelia), Boku Noodle House (42 Gristmill Lane, Distillery) and Archeo (31 Trinity, Distillery). For the full list of participating restaurants and contact info, go to the official website  

Cyril’s soup
Cyril has a new email - abeautifulbowl@gmail.com. Please use it for both your orders and e-transfers.
Saturday's soup is curried red lentil and apple.  On Tuesday, it’s chicken ($10) or no-chicken ($8) noodle soup.
Order deadline is 7 pm on the day before delivery.  He delivers his soups (in Cabbagetown). He’s accepting payments by e-transfers and cash.  Place your orders at his new email address, abeautifulbowl@gmail.com

JANUARY & FEBRUARY 
THEATRE & DANCE PRODUCTIONS
Listed by starting dates.

Rose: A New Musical
Soulpepper (50 Tank House Lane)
On stage to Sunday February 24
Website and tickets here.  (416) 866-8666

Top Girls
Alumnae Theatre  (70 Berkeley)
On stage to Saturday February 2
Website and tickets here.  (416) 364-4170, ext 1

Virgin Trial
Soulpepper (50 Tank House Lane)
On stage to Sunday February 3
Website and tickets here.  (416) 866-8666

Slow Dance
Toronto Dance Theatre
Winchester Theatre (80 Winchester)
On stage to Saturday February 2
Website and tickets here.  (416) 967-1365

This Shape, We Are In
Toronto Dance Theatre
Winchester Theatre (80 Winchester)
On stage to Saturday February 2
Website and tickets here.  (416) 967-1365

Skow
Citadel + Compagnie
Ross Centre for Dance (304 Parliament)
On stage to Saturday February 2
Website and tickets here. (416) 364-8011

Gathering Light
Niimi’iwe Indigenous Dance Showcase
Native Earth Performing Arts
Aki Theatre, Daniels Spectrum  (585 Dundas E)
Saturday February 2 to Sunday February 10
Website and tickets here. (416) 531-1402

Scott Shorts & Zelda
George Brown Theatre School
c/o Young Centre for the Performing Arts (50 Tank House Lane)
Wednesday February 6  to Saturday February 16
Website and tickets here.  (416) 866-8666

Prince Hamlet
Canadian Stage Berkeley Street Theatre (26 Berkeley)
Wednesday February 6 to Sunday February 24
Website and tickets here.  (416) 368-3110

Little Menace
Soulpepper (50 Tank House Lane)
Saturday February 16 to Friday March 10
Website and tickets here.  (416) 866-8666

Gratter La Penombre
Citadel + Compagnie
Ross Centre for Dance (304 Parliament)
Wednesday February 27 to Saturday March 2
Website and tickets here. (416) 364-8011

CLUBS & PUBS – DAILY LISTINGS

THURSDAY JANUARY 31 TO SUNDAY FEBRUARY 10

For contact info about these clubs and restaurants, see the list at the bottom of this page.  
If there's a cover charge or tickets are sold, the prices are listed.

THURSDAY JANUARY 31

Dominion
8 pm, DJ David Deez
Mill Street Brew Pub
5 pm, Live music
New Town
Oki Doki Karaoke
Social Smiths
7 pm, Cabbagetown Comedy, $10

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 1

Alice’s Place
10 pm, Karaoke 
New Town
Oki Doki Karaoke

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 2

New Town
Oki Doki Karaoke

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 3

Alice’s Place
9 pm, Karaoke
New Town
Oki Doki Karaoke

MONDAY FEBRUARY 4

Stout Irish Pub
7:30 pm, Headscratchers New Year’s Eve Trivia

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 5

Stout Irish Pub
7:30 pm, Headscratchers Trivia

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 6

Alice’s Place
9 pm, Karaoke
The Tilted Dog
7:30 pm, Smart Ass Trivia with Porter

THURSDAY FEBRUARY 7

Alice’s Place
9 pm, Comedy night with Dave Burke and Danish Anwar 
Dominion
9 pm, DJ Money Jane
New Town
Oki Doki Karaoke
Tilted Dog
8 pm, Jeff Barnes and Noah Zacharin

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 8

Alice’s Place
10 pm, Karaoke
New Town
Oki Doki Karaoke 
Quincy
African weekends with DJ Fox and a guest DJ

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 9

New Town
Oki Doki Karaoke

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 10

Alice’s Place
9 pm, Karaoke

CONTACT INFO

ALICE'S PLACE
554 Parliament St, (647) 931-9088, 
ARVO
17 Gristmill Lane, Distillery,  (647) 352-2766
CORKTOWN KITCHEN
354 King St E, (46) 901-1188
CRANBERRIES
601 Parliament St, (416) 925-6330, 
DOMINION PUB & KITCHEN
500 Queen St E, (416) 366-5555, 
EL CATRIN
18 Tank House Lane, Distillery, (416) 203-2121, 
HOUSE ON PARLIAMENT
454 Parliament St, (416) 925-4074, 
IMPACT KITCHEN
573 King St E, (416) 306-1986, 
THE IRV
95 Carlton Street, (647) 350-4787, 
JOHNNY G’s
478 Parliament St, (416) 928-1358
THE LOCAL GEST
See below - The Tilted Dog
MILL STREET BEER HALL
21 Tank House Ln, Distillery, (416) 681-0338, 
MILL STREET BREW PUB
21 Tank House Ln, Distillery, 
ODIN
514 King E, (647) 350-6346,
NEW TOWN
413 Parliament Street
PAINTBOX BISTRO
555 Dundas St E, (647) 748-0555
QUINCY AFROKITCHEN & BAR
326 Parliament, (647) 989-9127, 
SOCIAL SMITHS
574&1/2 Parliament
SOULPEPPER
Young Centre, 50 Tank House Lane, Distillery, (416) 866-8666,
STOUT IRISH PUB
221 Carlton St, (647) 344-7676,
THE TILTED DOG
(Formerly The Local GEST)
424 Parliament. (416) 961-9425