June 30

 CABBAGETOWN NEIGHBOURHOOD 

REVIEW





A PERSONAL VIEW


Another reason to brag

The new Parkscape on Parliament Street is awesome.  It promises to bring fun, excitement and prominence to the neighbourhood.  It’s the kind of project that fits in Cabbagetown - offbeat and welcoming for everybody.  Ten years ago, no one would have predicted that we would build a park in the middle of our main street.  At that time, our retail area was seen as rundown and slightly seedy. Not now. Congrats to everyone who had the idea and the drive to bring it here.  It’s going to be an interesting summer!  (Photo:  the plaza area in front of Jet Fuel)


CABBAGETOWN ARTISTS


This site introduces local artists to our local community.  Six artists are featured here.  They’ve been adding new images regularly.  It’s a site where you can happily browse and see works by people you know.  And you can purchase any that appeal to you. (This image: Irene DeClute, Lorne’s Wellesley Cottage) 


LOCAL NEWS


Parkscape is opening

The target date is July 1 and construction appears to be right on schedule.  Adam Bienenstock from Bienenstock Natural Playgrounds is leading the team doing the work - he gets here at 5:30 am each day.  He notes that they have done hundreds of them and it shows in the coordinated and careful work that they’re doing.


Parkscape entertainment opportunities

Virginia at the Cabbagetown BIA is inviting interested individuals and groups to tell her about their projects.  You can use the spaces at Parkscape to stage your event.  Email your ideas to her.  There’s now a special website page to describe Cabbagetown Parkscape - check it out.


Winchester movie

Of course, while traffic and parking are jammed on Parliament because of Parkscape construction, a movie is filmed on Winchester just east of Parliament.  Traffic is regularly stopped there as well while this happened.


Welcome Bev Jenkins

Bev Jenkins is succeeding Randy Brown as the Executive Director at Cabbagetown Art & Crafts - the annual Festival art show in Riverdale Park.  She’s an experienced professional planner who’s managed major events and media campaigns for over 25 years.  She’s also an accomplished artist who’s been exhibiting her work for over two decades.  Her paintings have been sold all across the world.  She knows what artists need when they come to Riverdale Park - she’s joined plenty of group shows, special commissions and solo shows. She’s a long-time Cabbagetown resident and appreciates the importance of the Art & Crafts Festival for our community.  Best wishes, Bev, for your work at the show.


Protect the Don Valley

Three groups have joined forces to oppose Metrolinx plans to build a rail facility in the Don Valley - A Park for All, Build the Park and Wonscontonach Trail.  They published an open letter against the project and they’re organizing people to make presentations to City Council.   Floyd Ruskin has written about the campaign on his Facebook page with details about contacting CityCouncil.


Congrats Wellesley Avenue

Bill and John, two Wellesley Avenue residents, spearheaded repairs to a wall and garden at the end of the street.  It’s a beautiful frame for the rows of gracious Victorian homes.  All the residents on this tiny street contributed to the project.  Originally, the wall contained a plaque saluting Peter Thomas who “loved gardens and was a guiding light in the building of this one” and the plaque has been restored as well in his memory. (Photo:  Gus looks good lounging in front of the new wall.).


Port Lands bridge

The final bridge is on its way from Nova Scotia for the Port Lands.  This one will twin with another one across the Keating Channel.  It’ll reach Toronto within a few days.


Cabbagetown Festival

Apparently, the news reported here that the Cabbagetown BIA won’t stage its traditional Festival along Parliament Street in September wasn’t exactly correct.  The BIA’s Board has assigned a committee to put together a program for the weekend’s festivities. 


ActiveTO

Bayview Avenue south of the Rosedale Valley Road to Corktown and River Street between Bayview and Spruce will be closed from Saturday at 7 am to Sunday at 7 pm.    If you’re planning a bike ride or a stroll along these streets, check the City’s website for the latest updates. 


Farmers’ Markets

The Cabbagetown Farmers’ Market (Riverdale Park, Sumach and Winchester) has had a successful launch for its season. David Doze from Riverdale Urban Farming reports that, “The first two weeks have been amazing – busy with shoppers (some vendors have even sold out!) and fantastic weather (another great one today!)” Neighbourhood Coffee, Reif Winery and Henderson Brewery provided lots of liquid refreshment.

The Underpass Park Farmer’s Market (29 Lower River Street) in Corktown is open now and every Thursday from 4 to 7:30 pm. Over 30 vendors are listed. 


Love rocks

These nifty little painted rocks are appearing across the neighbourhood. The donor is anonymous and the gifts are appreciated.  Watch nearby front yards to see them.  (Photo:  Jessica Commins)


Lookin’ good

Quinn, David and their son Felix are enjoying the Cabbagetown Farmers’ Market in Riverdale Park.


Cabbagetown Regent Park Museum Historical Tidbit

By Sally Gibson.  Cabbagetown has long been home to artists in many disciplines. Who should come pirouetting down Winchester Street in the mid-1970s but prima ballerina Karen Kain.  She was winning hearts and international recognition with her Swan Lake, a ballet that still stirs her to her artistic depths nearly fifty years later . But in the mid-1970s on Winchester Street, Kain was performing more as Cinderella than Odette, woman-handling a scraper and calling in her National Ballet company friends to help her renovate her new/old Cabbagetown residence.  Image: Karen Kain renovating 1976 TPL, Toronto Star  


ANNOUNCEMENTS


PAW

The Passionate Animal Walkers are open for business. Flyers are appearing in mailboxes around the neighbourhood.  They’re insured and bonded and they offer “the best prices in Toronto.” Call Meaghan at (647) 628-0373 and check out her website. (Photo:  Meaghan with Ticket and Doug. Thanks to Lawrence Bernstein)


KIDS NEWS


Build a bike

Charlie’s Freewheels is teaching young people (ages 12 to 25) how to build a bike from the frame up.  Classes on bike anatomy, tool safety, bike safety and mechanical systems.  Students will build and keep their own bikes and they get a helmet, lights, a bell and a lock.  All classes start from July 3 - limited to 8 students, first-come, first-served.  BAB1 happens on Mondays and Wednesdays from 2 to 4 pm, BAB2 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 8 pm. (Note:  BAB2 is reserved for 2SLGBTQ+ persons and people of marginalized backgrounds) and BAB3 on Saturdays from 3 to 6 pm.   For more info, click here.  Free.


Pride Month at the Children’s Book Bank

Drag Queen Storytime starring Lucy Flawless happens on Wednesday July 6 at 4 pm.  All kids are welcome.  This is the latest in a series of drag queen events held at the Book Bank (585 Dundas E, Suite 260).  There’s also a special display of books about LGBTQ+ experiences.


Mud-days at Allan Gardens

Save Monday mornings for your kids - July 4, 11, 18 and 25 at 10 to 11:30 am.  Allan Gardens invites your family to drop-in (no advance notice needed) and stay as long as you wish.  Great for children 2 to 7, siblings welcome, accompanied by a care giver.  Your kids can nibble on plants, look at bugs, plant some seeds, make nature crafts and go on scavenger hunts.  It all happens in the Edible Garden at Allan Gardens (Carlton and Jarvis).


IN OUR STORES


Marilyn at Pet Valu

Marilyn from Diggity Dog Grooming (239 Gerrard E) returns to Pet Valu (240 Carlton) with her nail grooming clinic for your dogs and cats.  Saturday July 2 from 9 am.  Bring your pets for a trim.  Please call (416) 920-6814 for your reservation. 


Vintage and previously loved goodies

Rychard has opened Timeless Collective and he’s sharing space with Lala June (540 Parliament).  He’s offering furniture, lighting and other household items.  Lala has vintage clothing, African designs, jewellery and shoes.  Open from 1 to 7 pm daily.

 

IN THE MEDIA


Art trail gift

The Pierre Lassonde Family Foundation has given $25 million to Waterfront Toronto.  The gift will be used to build an art trail through the Port Lands.  It’ll pay for two permanent installations along with rotating installations by various local, Canadian and international artists.  Click here to read Aisling Murphy’s story in the Toronto Star.  (Artist’s image:  Waterfront Toronto, City of Toronto)


Lawsuit quashed

Former Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam and City Councillor Paul Ainslie along with several  Catholic school trustees had been sued by the publisher of Corriere Canadese, Joe Volpe.  It involved a dispute over links to a LGBT Youthline and subsequent comments by the City officials about the newspaper’s reactions.  The judge dismissed the suit because it tried to prevent public officials from speaking out on a matter of public interest, also known as a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation.  Mr Volpe plans to appeal. Francine Kopun wrote about the suit and reactions by the Councillors and Trustees in the Toronto Star.


THEATRE & DANCE NEWS


Kamloopa

Presented by Soulpepper and Native Earth - on stage now to July 24.  Kamloopa is a winner of the Governor General’s Award for Drama. An irreverent comedy about the ultimate journey to self-discovery.  50 Tank House Lane.    For more info and tickets, click here. 


Summer Intensives

The School of Toronto Dance (80 Winchester)  is again scheduling one-week summer intensives.  The pre-professional level for ages 12 to 15 is July 4 to 8.  The professional level for ages 16+ is July 11 to 15.  They offer future dancers contemporary skills and networking opportunities.  Details and registration are available online here. 


ENTERTAINMENT


Tim Collins Band

Every Wednesday and Sunday afternoon, the Cabbagetown BIA will sponsor a band to play in the new Parkscape.  The first performers are the Tim Collins Band on Wednesday July 6 at 5 pm.


Mill Street Brew Pub

Mill Street Brew Pub (21 Tank House Lane, Distillery)  has ribs, chicken, sausages, skinny fries and coleslaw - plus a special on cans of beer. Only on Canada Day.


House on Parliament

The HoP (454 Parliament) is open on Canada Day.  Brunch is available from 11 am to 3 pm.


F’Amelia

Celebrate Canada Day the Italian way.  Have a Bellini.  12 Amelia.


Buskers in the Distillery

Every Saturday and Sunday until August 28.  Noon to 4 pm.  A new performer appears very day.


Headscratchers’ Trivia

Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton) is hosting its popular Headscratchers Trivia every Monday and Tuesday night from 7 pm.  Reservations are recommended.  Board games are available daily.  (647) 344-7676.  Free.


Karaoke at Alice’s Place

Friday night karaoke happens at 9 pm every week at Alice’s Place (554 Parliament).  Thousands of songs.


Live music and DJs

The Dominion (500 Queen E) brings you live music and DJs every Saturday night through the summer.  


RESTAURANT NEWS


Thanks Regan

The Irv (195 Carlton) has closed.  It’s a loss for all of us.  Regan Irvine used his pub as a springboard for lots of special causes to support the Cabbagetown community.  And he attracted a loyal customer base with his good food, good beer and cheery atmosphere.  Thanks, Regan, and best wishes for all of your future plans.


L’Avenue

The new restaurant at Parliament and Amelia is open (583 Parliament).  The menu is online.  Congrats to the building owners and the restaurant for an outstanding renovation.


Coming soon

Life is stirring at The Golden Pigeon (424 Parliament).  It’s the new pub that’s moving into the location of the former Tilted Dog and Ben Wicks. 


Introducing Lamdoma and Sanjay

You’ll meet them at El Nahual (556 Parliament) when you order your tacos and burritos.  Open 4 to 10 pm on weekdays and 1 to 9 pm on weekends.  For now, they’re open at the side door take-out counter on Prospect Street.  The front room is being renovated for bistro-style fine dining.  Licenced.  


Haldi

Haldi (568 Parliament) is closing for a week from Sunday June 26 to Monday July 4.  Construction and renos are happening.  


Cyril’s soup

Cyril is still on vacation but right about now, he’s probably starting to miss us.  His next delivery will be on Saturday July 9.

June 23

CABBAGETOWN NEIGHBOURHOOD 

REVIEW




A PERSONAL VIEW


It’s time to brag!

This edition of the Cabbagetown Neighbourhood Review marks its official tenth anniversary.  It started up on June 18, 2012.  510 editions later, 1,864,557 viewers have come into our Cabbagetown world.  It’s been a great trip so far and there’s lots more to come.

FEATURED ARTIST


Jack Grunsky

Jack has recently added his images to our site. Click here to find his work. (This image:  A Stroll in Vienna, acrylic on canvas, 30” by 36”)

Cabbagetown Artists

This site introduces local artists to our local community.  Six artists are featured here.  They’ve been adding new images regularly.  It’s a site where you can happily browse and see works by people you know.  And you can purchase any that appeal to you. (This image: Martha Preston, Peonies) 

LOCAL NEWS


Have fun, Elena

After 13 years keeping kids safe amid the crazy traffic at Wellesley and Parliament, Elena is retiring when school closes later this month. She’s been amazing. People who use this crosswalk all know her and enjoy her cheery greetings..  She’s planning a trip to the west coast in the Fall and another one to the Philippines after that.  She says, proudly, that she’s 80 years old and it’s time for new adventures.

Randy Brown retires

After more than 30 years as its executive director, Randy is retiring from the Cabbagetown Art & Crafts show. He’s had a remarkable run with the event.  He created a major art exhibition for the whole city, combining the quality of its art and crafts with the charm of Riverdale Park.  His show has become the centre of our annual Cabbagetown Festival, attracting thousands of visitors each day into the park.  None of this has been easy.  Thanks and congratulations to Randy for building this gift to Cabbagetown and to Toronto.  (Photo:  Randy Brown, Twitter 2020)

Randy comments

“I am retiring after thirty years of running the Cabbagetown Art and Crafts Show, due to a disabling cancer. I have been lucky to have had the assistance of many neighbourhood volunteers over the years and I thank them.  The show has been turned over to a new team headed by Gerald Fitzgerald, Virginia Hamara and Beverly Jenkins who are determined to keep it in the community supported by volunteers just as I had hoped.  It has been a wonderful, at times exhilarating experience running the show these many years. I will miss the Cabbagetowners and the artists who attended but the show does go on as it was meant to. I wish you all the best.”  Photo:  Randy Brown (left) and the 2021 artists’ jury.

Cabbagetown Art & Crafts

As planned, the show will happen on the weekend of September 9, 10 and 11 in Riverdale Park.  Gerald Fitzgerald, Chair of Cabbagetown Art & Crafts, has noted, "Randy will be missed, but the show he built will continue to be a premier event on the Cabbagetown calendar.”  He has also announced that Bev Jenkins, a Cabbagetown painter, will succeed Randy as the new Executive Director.

Cabbagetown Festival on Parliament and Carlton

The Cabbagetown BIA is not planning a traditional Festival along Parliament Street in September.  Instead, the new Parkscape project along with the CafeTO patios will give the street the basics for a new program.  Plans are still underway.

The Cabbagetown Residents Association

The CRA held its annual meeting this week on Zoom.  The association is in very good shape.  Caroline Murphy is its Chair and she conducted a brisk, informative session.  The Forsythia Festival returned successfully in person in May.  Its pumpkin walk attracted 250 people and 350 pumpkins.  At Christmas, it conducted its annual lights contest and its Christmas card contest. The Spring clean-up in Wellesley Park and surrounding streets went off smoothly.  It joined other local groups to raise $3,500 to fight food insecurity with Dixon Hall.  In the coming year, it plans to circulate a survey among residents and to expand the clean-up efforts into the Fall. The association’s finances recovered from the pandemic and it now has over $29,000 in assets. Its website, Facebook page and Instagram page are all online now. And, perhaps most important, they printed three poster signs combatting dog poop on our sidewalks. 

Volunteers needed

Volunteers are needed by the Cabbagetown Residents Association for its Board of Directors.  There are currently ten people on the Board and a few more will fill all the slots.  As you can see from the report (above), it’s a lively and effective group. Send an email if you’re interested.

Parkscape entertainment opportunityunities

Parkscape is the summer project being developed by the Cabbagetown BIA.  A pop-up park will stretch along Parliament from Winchester to Carlton, bringing open spaces, seating and special landscaping to the street. There’ll be areas where musicians, performers, artists and community groups can set up and reach the passersby.  Virginia at the Cabbagetown BIA is inviting interested individuals and groups to tell her about their projects.  She wants to schedule events by the local community.  Email your ideas to her.  There’s now a special website page to describe the #CabbagetownParkscape project and the events planned there.  Check it out.

Oops

The Cabbagetown walk in the Necropolis didn’t happen.  It was scheduled for Sunday June 19 at 10 am.  A group of people gathered inside the park gates at Winchester and Sumach as instructed.  But nothing happened and they went home, confused, about 10:15.  The tour leader appeared at 10:20, stayed to 10:40 and went home, confused.  

Congrats to Sherbourne Health

The Centre (333 Sherbourne) celebrated its 20th anniversary on Tuesday with a Block Party. It has a strong tradition of community service. It was a leader in Toronto’s vaccination campaigns.  It’s provided specialized services for the 2SLGBTQ+ community.  This has expanded to include newcomers and the homeless.  Thanks to the staff who make such an important contribution.

Pride Month at the Children’s Book Bank

Bring your kids to the Book Bank’s new site (585 Dundas E, Suite 260).  There’s a special display of books about LGBTQ+ experiences.  

ActiveTO

There will be no road closures on the weekend of June 25 - 26.  If you’re planning a bike ride or a stroll along the street in the future, check the City’s website for the latest updates.  

Farmers’ Markets

Opening day at the Cabbagetown Farmers’ Market (Riverdale Park, Sumach and Winchester) seemed to give a lot of people an excuse for hugs. Murray’s Farm has a selection of meats, eggs and fresh produce.  John, who was staffing the booth, enjoys coming here.  Until 2019 when he moved to Murray’s farm, he lived in an apartment on Parliament Street and loved Cabbageown’s lifestyle. 

The Underpass Park Farmer’s Market (29 Lower River Street) in Corktown is open now, every Thursday from 4 to 7:30 pm. Over 30 vendors are listed

More hugs

John and Richard grabbed a quick squeeze at the Cabbagetown Farmers’ Market.

ANNOUNCEMENTS


The Cabbagetown BIA

The BIA is looking for volunteers to join its Board of Directors.  People who own commercial property or a business in the BIA’s district are eligible to join.  For more info, email Virginia Evoy at the BIA office (237 Carlton).

COMING EVENTS


Cultural collage festival

Community Matters is organizing the 2022 St James Town cultural collage festival;.  Tuesday June 28, 2 to 7 pm, 260 Wellesley E.  There’ll be live music, a photo booth, food vendors, Bollywood dancing, face painting, henna, special activities for kids and lots more.  

Grill & chill community bbq

The Sumach is having a community bbq for seniors at 11:30 am on June 29.  The food is delicious and it’s a great time to make new friends.  Everyone is welcome.  Free.  On the terrace at 146 Sumach.  Please RSVP at this link so they can make plans for food quantities.

Mud-days at Allan Gardens

Save these Monday mornings for your kids - July 4, 11, 18 and 25 at 10 to 11:30 am.  Allan Gardens invites your family to drop-in (no advance notice needed) and stay as long as you wish.  Great for children 2 to 7, siblings welcome, accompanied by a care giver.  Your kids can nibble on plants, look at bugs, plant some seeds, make nature crafts and go on scavenger hunts.  It all happens in the Edible Garden at Allan Gardens (Carlton and Jarvis). 

IN THE MEDIA


Surviving a violent break-in

Alex Cyr has written a very detailed story in Toronto Life about a late night robbery at his Cabbagetown apartment while he and his friend were inside.  (Photo:  Joshua Best, Toronto Life)

THEATRE & DANCE NEWS


Where the Blood Mixes

A coproduction between Native Earth and Soulpepper.  Winner of the Governor General’s Literary Award for Drama in 2009.  “Where the Blood Mixes takes us to the place where the rivers meet, to the heart of a family. After decades apart, Christine returns to her First Nations community to reconnect with her father. Her return provokes his memories of the Residential School system and together they must confront that legacy. With beautiful heart and great humour, this is a celebration of resilience and the healing power of stories.”  On stage now to June 26.  50 Tank House Lane.    For more info and tickets, click here.

Kamloopa

The next presentation by Soulpepper and Native Earth is on stage from June 23 to July 24.  Kamloopa is a winner of the Governor General’s Award for Drama. An irreverent comedy about the ultimate journey to self-discovery.  50 Tank House Lane.    For more info and tickets, click here.

Summer Intensives

The School of Toronto Dance (80 Winchester)  is again scheduling one-week summer intensives.  The pre-professional level for ages 12 to 15 is July 4 to 8.  The professional level for ages 16+ is July 11 to 15.  They offer future dancers contemporary skills and networking opportunities.  Details and registration are available online here.

ENTERTAINMENT


Keating Channel Patio Party

Friday June 24 from 6 pm.  The annual patio party will include beer, wine and spirits samplings. Live music with Denis Martel and the High Rollers.  Lots of prizes. 2 Villiers.  

Cityview - The Decadence Festival

Featuring Tiesto on June 30, Illenium on July 1 and Above & Beyond on July 2.  Tickets are available online - $105 to $123.  20 Poulson Street.  For more info, click here.

Karaoke at Alice’s Place

Friday night karaoke happens at 9 pm every week at Alice’s Place (554 Parliament).  Thousands of songs.

RESTAURANT NEWS


L’Avenue

The manager has told interested customers that L’Avenue (583 Parliament at Amelia) will open on Friday June 24.  Judging by the construction work to restore the building and the design of the outdoor patio, this will be a classy place!


El Nahual Tacos

The sign says “coming soon” but the door is open for takeout orders.  The menu lists burritos, tacos, enchiladas and quesadillas.  All are reasonably priced and hearty offerings.  If the early tastings are any clue, these will be popular dishes. You can see the menu on Ritual. 556 Parliament.  

Cocktail nights at Fusilli

Friday June 24 and Saturday June 25, starting at 5 pm.  Enjoy sangria, martinis and specialty cocktails.  531 Queen E.

Haldi

Haldi (568 Parliament) is closing for a week from Sunday June 26 to Monday July 4. Construction and renos are happening. Lunch this week was wonderful - chicken tikka masala, butter chicken, naan and rice with a bottle of Kingfisher lager - big portions even for two people.

Cyril’s soup

Cyril’s on vacation.  His next delivery will be on Saturday July 9.