July 28

 CABBAGETOWN NEIGHBOURHOOD 

REVIEW





FEATURED ARTIST


Rick McCarthy

Rick McCarthy is a fine artist, printmaker and sculptor. He’s lived in Cabbagetown for 40 years. He graduated from the Ontario College of Art in 1963 and has works in collections world wide. He is also a Hanshi (8th dan) in Shotokan Karate.  For more info visit his website or follow him on Instagram at rickmccarthyart. 


Untitled,  Oil on canvas, 4’ x 5 ‘


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: Victoria Hadden, Spring.) 


LOCAL NEWS


Front Street Festival

On Saturday and Sunday last weekend, local artisans, buskers and musicians lined Front Street in the Canary District. 


Lots of family fun with a splash pad, skating hills, a stilts walker and face painting.

 

Shoppers were everywhere and they obviously enjoyed browsing through the booths lining three block on the sidewalk. The Canary restaurants and stores brought their goodies outside for storefront patios.   


Organizers are lucky - this area has huge plaza-like sidewalks and interesting art that makes the scene inviting for their event.


COVID vaccines

If you need your extra booster shot, there are plenty of places locally where you can do it conveniently.  There’s a community vaccine clinic at 40 Oak Street in Regent Park.  There’s a long list of local pharmacies who can give you an update.  You can also call 1-833-943-3900 for additional help.  Find all of these locations online.


Progress report

The buildings at 502-508 Parliament have been under construction since the Fall of 2020.  Eric Philip who handles real estate matters at Dixon Hall says that the exterior work should be finished within a few weeks.  Then the wrapping and scaffolds will come down and the place will be amazing.  There’s 20,000 square feet of interior space still to complete and that work will be finished in 2023.  


The boxing ring is back

Art Eggleton has sent along photos showing the boxing ring at the Cabbagetown Youth Centre (2 Lancaster). It’s been reinstalled in the Cabbagetown Boxing Club.  Work is moving forward now to the early September official reopening.


Linda Manzer’s project

Linda Manzer is a luthier who makes gorgeous guitars. Her latest project is the Sunflower Guitar for Ukraine, a gift to the people of Ukraine and an inspiration to all of us to give humanitarian aid.  As it travels to Ukraine, it passes through the hands of many gifted artists.  This is Linda’s part of the $1k Project for Ukraine which has raised $8 million so far.  It donates $1K US to Ukrainian families in need.  She hopes that her Sunflower Guitar will raise $250,000 for this effort.  Thanks to Brenda McNee for passing on this story.   Go to Linda’s website  and her Facebook page for more info and for a donation button. 


Gifts for Green Thumbs Growing Kids

It’s our last chance to support Green Thumbs Growing Kids’ summer fundraiser.  Two generous donors have pledged to match donations made before July 31 to a total of $7,000.  Your gift now will have twice the impact.  GTGK and its student gardeners are back again in their school gardens at Winchester, Rose Avenue and Sprucecourt and in the rooftop garden at The Daniels Spectrum.  Summer programs are underway. Check it out and make your gift at the GTGK website. 


ActiveTO

Unfortunately, the City hasn’t posted ActiveTO info by our deadline. They did this last weekend.  It was bad news then - the ActiveTO routes were closed down.  So, if you’re planning a bike ride or a stroll along Bayview and River Street, check the City’s website for the latest updates before you go. 


Cabbagetown Farmers’ Market

The Fat Quarter Band plays every week at the Market, Riverdale Park West (Sumach at Winchester), every Tuesday from 3 to 7:30 pm.  They’re “a band playing tunes with fat grooves, rich melodies and plush harmonies.”  Check out their website - you may want to book a porch concert.


The picnic tables nearby are regularly busy - it’s an easy spot for a picnic with all your food and beverage sources nearby.


Charlie’s Freewheels offers a free diagnostic service and minor repairs for your bike.


Murray's, Samsara Fields, Thames Valley Melons and Kooner Farms all have plenty of organic garlic and greens.


Underpass Park Farmers’ Markets

Fresh new produce is now available - lots of greens, fresh corn and of course, strawberries and fruit.  The Underpass Park Farmer’s Market (29 Lower River Street) in Corktown is open now, every Thursday from 4 to 7:30 pm.


Lookin’ good

Celia was asked whether she agreed to have her picture taken.  “Talk to the hand,” she said.


COMING EVENTS


On-going event:  Moonlight Market in Regent Park

Thursdays and Saturdays from 5 to 10 pm,  July 28 to September 17.  Local crafts, food, entertainment.  The east patio beside The Daniels Spectrum (585 Dundas E).  


Every Wednesday:  Taste of Regent Park

Community meals, local vendors and entertainment every Wednesday from 5 pm until September 21.  The Big Park (620 Dundas).


Thursdays at noon:  Park Yoga

Park Yoga classes will happen every Thursday from noon to 1 pm at Riverdale Farm (Sumach and Carlton) up to Thanksgiving.  Sarah Elder is the instructor.  PWYC - these classes affordable and accessible to the community and they support Nellie's Shelter for abused women and children.  Cabbagetown members have requested a class here so Riverdale Farm has been added to the roster.  For listings of other locations and dates and for last minute info about rain cancellations, check out the website.


ANNOUNCEMENTS


Watch for it

Ron Hume’s new book is coming soon - his announcement will be sent out early next week.


Apartment or house needed

Looking for a furnished two bedroom house or apartment in Cabbagetown or downtown for two months starting September 1 or September 5.  We are two nice ladies, non smoking quiet professionals, our sweet dog and every other week, a teenage girl.  We need a furnished two bedroom unit while our home renovations are completed. (They’ve taken two months longer than we expected.) We'd like to stay in Cabbagetown or downtown. If interested, please email Meg and Christina


Lost rabbit

Menagerie Pet Shop (549 Parliament) has found a lost rabbit.  It’s docile and well fed.  Anyone missing a pet rabbit can call (416) 921-4966 or visit the store.


KIDS NEWS


Book donations

Children’s Book Bank will receive your drop-offs on Saturday from 11 am to 2:30 pm and on Saturday August 13 from 11 am to 2:30 pm.  Please leave them at the warehouse (531 Sherbourne), rear entrance off Berkeley Street north of Wellesley.


Mud-days at Allan Gardens

Mud-Day Monday mornings for your kids - August 8 and August 15  from 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


Holiday time


St Jamestown Steak & Chops (516 Parliament) will enjoy an annual August holiday from Monday August 1 to Sunday August 7.  Reopening Monday August 8.  Before then, grab some fresh peaches and corn right from the farmer’s fields.


Tasso (540 Parliament) is taking some time away.  The next bake will be for August 13.  Stay tuned to the website for menus and ordering.


The Great Mallard

Christina and Jon are repeating a successful event.  They’re selling $2 ice cream cups at Parkscape in front of their store (503 Parliament) on Sunday afternoon from 4 to 7 pm.  The proceeds from the day’s sales will go to the Cabbagetown Youth Centre. They’ll also be back on Thursday August 4 from 4:30 to 8:30 pm and they’re sponsoring a contest to win a free gift basket.  


Timeless Collective

Beautiful and stylish clothing from Timeless Collective (540 Parliament).  The pop-up happens at Parkscape in front on Parliament Street Fitness (488 Parliament) on Friday and Saturday from 1 to 8 pm.  


Business are welcome

Parkscape (Parliament between Winchester and Carlton) offers all Cabbagetown businesses an opportunity to set up and sell their stuff.  To get more info and to be featured on the BIA’s website calendar, contact Virginia at (416) 921-0857 or by email.


IN THE MEDIA


Services for Regent Park youth

Farrah Merali has written a CBC News report about youth services and about barriers that block youth from using them. (Photo:  Paul Borkwood, CBC News)


Parkscape is one of the ten spots

Parkscape is one of ten places in Toronto to enjoy an ice cream cone on a summer afternoon. blogTO has done a quick review of Parkscape.  (It’s in an advertiser’s sponsored story, but who cares!). 


ENTERTAINMENT


Curtains Up - outdoor movies

At sundown, approximately 9 pm, Thursday July 28, Catch Me If You Can and Short Round Up. Free.  Corktown Common, 155 Bayview.


Playing in the Park

The Counterpoint Community Orchestra presents free concerts in Allan Gardens (Carlton and Sherbourne).  3 to 4 pm every Sunday to August 14. 


Music at Parkscape

On Wednesday August 3, the Tim Collins Band is back to wow everyone from 5 to 8 pm, playing in front of Parliament Street Fitness (488 Parliament).  Check the website for times and details.  And watch for announcements for the weeks to come - the schedule is filling up with exciting groups. 


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 from 7 to 11 pm through the summer.  


RESTAURANT NEWS


Puppy menu at Stout

Bring your puppy to the garden patio at Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton).  There’s even a special menu.  What’s better than chicken and rice or carrots and whipped cream?  Yum.  


Cyril’s soup

Cyril is taking a break from his regular schedule in order to concentrate on the pending special orders that he has.  Send him an email to check on your order or to ask if you can be added to one of the special orders.   

July 21

CABBAGETOWN NEIGHBOURHOOD 

REVIEW



FEATURED ARTIST


Rick McCarthy

Rick McCarthy is a fine artist, printmaker and sculptor. He’s lived in Cabbagetown for 40 years. He graduated from the Ontario College of Art in 1963 and has works in collections world wide. He is also a Hanshi (8th dan) in Shotokan Karate.  For more info visit his website or follow him on Instagram at rickmccarthyart. 


Legacy,  Oil on canvas and wood,  77” x 185”


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: Eric Morse, Swerve.  Image selected to celebrate his birthday.) 


LOCAL NEWS


COVID vaccines

It seems strange and somewhat depressing to list locations where you can get your COVID vaccine shots and boosters.  We had hoped that this routine was behind us.  Unfortunately, it’s a good idea to top up all of your shots - the disease isn’t going away.  There’s a community vaccine clinic at 40 Oak Street in Regent Park.  There’s a long list of local pharmacies who can give you an update.  You can also call 1-833-943-3900 for additional help.  Find all of these locations online.


Census data

Statistics Canada updated its 2021 census reports in mid-July.  Here are a few snapshots for our census district. Our population has increased by 15.5% since 2016 to 119,901 people.  In general, people 15 to 64 make up 80.9% of our population and within that range, the largest groups were ages 25 to 29 - 17,665 people. There are 68,975 private dwellings and 58,740 of these are in apartment buildings with five or more storeys.  Single-person households make up the biggest group with 37,340.  


Sydney and the Women’s 8

Sydney Payne (front row, second from the right) has returned to Canada’s national rowing team.  They won the Olympic Gold in Tokyo.  Most recently, they raced in Lucerne Switzerland and won a silver medal in a World Cup preliminary.  The entire team including their support staff had contracted COVID on June 20.  They were racing just after their recovery - a tough time for Sydney who had some breathing difficulties.  The team has now returned to their Vancouver Island base to rest, recover and prepare for the World Cup finals on September 18 to 25 in Racice in the Czech Republic. All of this is preparation for the 2024 Summer Olympics. Sydney’s mom, Kelly Rogers, has kept all of us up-to-date on her progress. (Photo from Kelly Rogers)


The Dr Sandy Macpherson Bursary

Organized by Community Matters Toronto, the Dr. Sandy Macpherson Bursary was established in 2021 in his honour to promote his standards of excellence and inquiry coupled with the decency that he practiced. Sandy was a long-time Cabbagetown resident who enjoyed deeply his connections with his neighbours and friends.  As a professional, he had an outstanding career in public health.  The bursary is awarded to students from St James Town to continue into their post-secondary studies. His friends may wish to contribute to the bursary fund - send an email for more info to Community Matters.


Congrats Rashad

This year, Rashad Jaffar Hussain is the second student from Jarvis Collegiate to win the 2022 award from the Dr Sandy Macpherson Bursary.   His marks right across the board are exceptionally high and he has contributed consistently to student life and athletics at the school. He’s planning on a career in health care.  


Gifts for Green Thumbs Growing Kids

GTGK and its student gardeners are back again at their three school gardens at Winchester, Rose Avenue and Sprucecourt and in the rooftop garden at The Daniels Spectrum.  Summer programs are underway. Two generous donors have set aside $7,000 to match your gifts - making a grand total of $14,000.  The deadline is July 31.  Check it out and make your gift at the GTGK website.


ActiveTO

Unfortunately, the City hasn’t posted ActiveTO info by our deadline.  So, if you’re planning a bike ride or a stroll along Bayview and River Street, check the City’s website for the latest updates before you go. 


Farmers’ Markets

Fresh new produce is now available - lots of greens, fresh corn and of course, strawberries and fruit.  The Cabbagetown Farmers’ Market, Riverdale Park West (Sumach at Winchester), every Tuesday from 3 to 7:30 pm.

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


COMING EVENTS


July 23 & 24 - Front Street Festival

Saturday July 23 and Sunday July 24, 10 am to 5 pm.  Local artisans, buskers, musicians and a live DJ. Lots of family fun with face painters, henna artist, balloon artist and more.  Canary restaurants and stores will offer specials.  Front Street east of Cherry.


July 24 - Environment Day

Normally, we would have an environment day in our Ward.  The City of Toronto, for some unexplained reason, cancelled ours but there’s another one across the Don River.  If you have items that you would like to recycle, then hop over on Gerrard to Bridgepoint Hospital Drive on July 24 from 10 am to 2 pm.  Read about the materials that you can recycle at the City’s website.  


July 24 - Urban Sketchers at Parkscape

Urban Sketchers is hosting a Sunday-morning sketching session.  Parkscape is an ideal setting with lots of people, little nooks and crannies and a variety of storefronts. Drop by the CCDT dance theatre (509 Parliament) in Parkscape on Sunday July 24 at 10:30 am.  Then disperse to your favourite spot, sketch what you see and rejoin the group at 12:30 to compare drawings and experiences.  


KIDS NEWS


Buds & Blossoms at Parkscape

Refreshments, games and contests at Buds & Blossoms pop-up in Parkscape.  Try your luck with your kids and win one of four gift certificates to a Buds & Blossoms program.  Friday July 22,  noon to 3 pm.  517 Parliament.


Mud-days at Allan Gardens

Mud-Day Monday mornings for your kids - July 25, August 8 and August 15  from 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


The goodies keep rolling in!

St Jamestown Steak & Chops (516 Parliament) has fresh Ontario peaches.  And they’re selling fresh Ontario corn. 


The Great Mallard

Christina and Jon are repeating last week’s success.  They’re selling $2 ice cream cups at Parkscape in front of their store (503 Parliament) on Sunday afternoon from 4 to 7 pm.  The proceeds from the day’s sales will go to the Cabbagetown Youth Centre.


Business are welcome

Parkscape (Parliament between Winchester and Carlton) offers all Cabbagetown businesses an opportunity to set up and sell their stuff. Last week, Menagerie Pet Shop (549 Parliament) put up a rest station for dogs and people. Check out the ways that Buds & Blossoms (517 Parliament), The Great Mallard (503 Parliament) and Urban Sketchers are using this opportunity. To get more info and to be featured on the BIA’s website calendar, contact Virginia at (416) 921-0857 or by email.


IN THE MEDIA


Parkscape in the Globe & Mail

Dave LeBlanc, the Globe’s architourist, wrote a major story last week about Parkscape (Parliament between Winchester and Carlton). The installation is gathering more positive responses from residents as well, The photos show its unique features and comfy seating areas. Click here to read it.


More coverage for Parkscape

Paul Barker wrote about Parkscape (Parliament between Winchester and Carlton) in the Toronto Sun just after its launch. His story explains the projects origins, its costs and its impact for the community.


THEATRE & DANCE NEWS


Kamloopa

The final weekend - 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. 


ENTERTAINMENT


Curtains Up

At sundown, approximately 9 pm, Thursday July 21, Soul Power and short film Ruff & Tuff - Stranger Cole's Toronto Roots.  Free.  Corktown Common, 155 Bayview.

Catch Me If You Can and short film Short Roundup at sundown, approximately 9 pm, Thursday July 28.  


Under the Stars

Summer of Soul, cancelled because of the threat of a thunder storm. The rain date is August 3 in The Big Park (620 Dundas E at Sackville). (Photo: Helton from Shoot for Peace)

Block Party followed by the film Encanto,  sundown, Wednesday July 27 in The Big Park (620 Dundas E at Sackville).  Free.


Taste of Regent Park

This week, the Friends made cheddar cheese and jalapeño cornbread muffins.  Taste happens every Wednesday evening until September 21 from 6 pm.  During July, it happens before the outdoor film starts (approximately 9 pm).  Community meals, local vendors and entertainment every week.  The Big Park (620 Dundas). 


Playing in the Park

The Counterpoint Community Orchestra presents music in Allan Gardens.  3 to 4 pm every Sunday to August 14.  Free. 


Music at Parkscape

Bands will liven up your visit to Parkscape (Parliament from Winchester to Carlton) every Wednesday and Sunday afternoon at the Cabbagetown Stage.  On Sunday July 24, the Red Marsh Band will play jazz favourites, funk, Latin and pop from 4 to 7 pm.  On Wednesday July 27, the Toronto All-Star Big Band is back to wow everyone from 5 to 8 pm.  Check the website for times and details.


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 from 7 to 11 pm through the summer.  


RESTAURANT NEWS


The Golden Pigeon is open

The Golden Pigeon (424 Parliament) has opened its doors.  An enthusiastic group showed up to try it on Wednesday.  It’s themed as a German beerhall with a good selection of craft beers and a German-based menu as well as pub favourites.  The interior is bright and clean, giving the space lots of room for groups.  The outdoor space has been repainted and spruced up.  Open from noon to “late”, Tuesdays through Sundays.  The website has menus, photos and contact info. (Photo: TJ and Ophelia working at the new Golden Pigeon)


Congrats L’Avenue

L’Avenue (583 Parliament) is the new bistro that’s just opened at Amelia and Parliament.  Amy Carlberg writing in blogTO selected seven new restaurants worth trying and L’Avenue topped her list.


Cyril’s soup

Cyril is making a mildly curried lemon, red lentil and corn soup. It’s got curry, cumin, coriander, and a pinch of saffron.  Good with crusty bread and a fruity bubbly.  3 to 9 cups at $3 each and 10 or more cups at $2.50 each.  He’s also making apple ginger lemonade at $9 for two cups.  Send him an email with your order.