Our Neighbourhood Magazine: Spring 2009

EE FR

ONmagazine.ca

e Th

magazine

i m l y a F

June 2009

I ss u

e

™

Authentic Easter European Cuisine Since 1968

Catering • Private Dinner Parties • All Day Breakfast

FINE FOOD EMPORIUM

638 Queen St. W, Toronto, On M6J 1E4 Tel: 416-504-5787 Fax: 416-504-5524 catering@theprague.ca www.theprague.ca

Helping you is what we do.™ $244,500

Jason Bondy Sawyer* 647.404.3222 (Direct)

www.yourtorontoproperty.ca

$279,000

Adrian Coimbra* 416.205.0355 (Office) www.rlpdowntown.com

$379,900

John Maguire* 416.205.0355 (Office)

Wine & Cheese Rediscover what a cafe can be!

A laid-back staff of wine aficionados who share a passion for pairing wine and food ~ Over 30 wines by the glass,up to 30 cheeses.

With monthly Wine Tastings we bring wine back to the people in an unpretentious and rustic atmosphere!

We bake our own bread and offer artisan products for sale - fresh bread,local cheeses and organic meats available from our retail shelf!

The Richmond

Tridel-Built. Spacious, Very Well Laid Out OneBedroom + Den Suite Great Location: Steps To TTC, Restaurants, Cafes, Grocery, St Lawrence Market, St James Park, Distillery District, Financial Core.

CityPlace

Miguel Madeira* 416.737.5612 (Direct) www.rlpdowntown.com

Michael Camber* 416.205.0355 (Office)

Stunning And Completely Renovated Spacious 1 Bedroom Plus Den, Quiet And Tranquil North/West Tree-Lined Views.

$294,900

Al Daimee* 416.737.5612 (Direct)

The Hudson

$389,900

Built By Great Gulf, Interior Design By Brian Gluckstein, Best Building On King West.

Luxury One Plus Den W/Parking + Locker Included.

Welcome To Little Italy

www.KingWestCondo.com

One Bedroom + Den Suite With Open Concept Design With Lots Of Light And Clear South Side View.

www.KingWestCondos.ca

$530,000

$275,000

The Hudson

Immaculate One Bedroom On Quiet Side Of Building, Interior Design By Brian Gluckstein With Impressive Amenities.

www.TOPofTO.com

The Bentley Fully Renovated 1+1 Bedroom, 1 1/2 Bathrooms with Parking & Locker.

Miguel Madeira* 416.737.5612 (Direct) www.rlpdowntown.com

Beautifully Updated, Bright, Spacious Unit In Unique Boutique Building In St. Lawrence Market Neighbourhood.

$595,000

David Eakins* 416.205.0355 (Office) www.rlpdowntown.com

*Sales Representative | Properties shown available at time of submission

Saturday & Sunday Brunch from 11am starting June 6th!

We are available for company/private bookings and feature AV equipment for your presentation needs.

1330 Queen St.West ~ 416-536-7748 ~ www.cafetaste.ca 2

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd., Brokerage 905 King St. W, Toronto | 416.205.0355 (Office)

www.rlpdowntown.com

The Icon

Spectacular Designer Renovation Of 2 Storey Sub Penthouse Loft With 2 South Facing Balconies.

One Of A Kind With Custom Finishes Throughout.

Unbeatable Location In The Centre Of Everything.

welcome to

Our Neighbourhood reaches over 10,000 local readers every month who live, work and play in Queen West, King West & Liberty Village.

Our Neighbourhood is distributed to selected condominiums, homes, retail businesses, banks, professional offices, fitness facilities, hotels and restaurants along Queen West, King West and throughout Liberty Village.

Publisher: Roger Tumminieri 416.455.7320 | Roger@ONmagazine.ca Arts & Culture Editor: Carol-Ann Ryan 416.908.5474 | Arts@ONmagazine.ca Style & Fashion Editor: Manny Machado 416.996.5214 | Style@ONmagazine.ca Graphic Design: Kerry Brennan Design@ONmagazine.ca Webmaster: Jason Verbovszky Webmaster@ONmagazine.ca Advertising Inquiries: 416.455.7320 | Sales@ONmagazine.ca The publication and all images within remain the property of Our Neighbourhood Magazine and may not be reproduced in any form without prior written consent of the Publisher. Views expressed in Our Neighbourhood Magazine by any contributor are not necessarily that of the staff or Publisher.

ONmagazine.ca ON Magazine is printed by an FSC Certified Printer and uses VOC-free vegetable inks.

4

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

Sue Edworthy has worked for over a decade as an arts administrator in theatre, dance and opera in Toronto.

She is currently a Board Member for the Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts.

Dr. Matthew Follwell is a published author and radiation oncologist working at Princess Margaret Hospital. He is a member of the board of directors at Gallery TPW and is committed to the development of emerging art collectors.

Amber Kanwar is a first year student at Ryerson University pursuing a Master’s Degree in Journalism.

Her specialty is reporting on the people and places that make Our Neighbourhood the gem of Toronto.

Manny Machado is a designer specializing in solutions in the form of Urban Space Styling: a combination of basic design elements fused with fashion, style and innovation; with a goal to create original spaces that reflect your personality and your lifestyle.

Spadina

Published monthly, Our Neighbourhood is a free, community-based magazine, focusing on Arts & Culture, Food & Drink, Style & Fashion, and Health & Wellness.

™

Bathurst

magazine

contributors Desi Di Nardo is a poet and author whose work has been published in numerous North American and international journals, performed at the National Arts Centre, featured in Poetry on the Way on the TTC, and displayed in the Official Residences of Canada. Her poetry has also been presented in schools across the country and translated into foreign languages. Her new book is titled The Plural of Some Things. Visit www. desidinardo.com

Queen King

King & Bathurst 720 King St. W, Suite 155 416.898.6882 www.nexgenwireless.ca

Ben Peterson is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Journalists for Human Rights (JHR), Canada’s largest international media development organization. Ben is a recipient of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 award, and is excited to bring the world to Our Neighbourhood.

Taffi Rosen is a renowned photographer who has lived and worked in Liberty Village for over 20 years.

Her still photography has taken her around the world shooting campaigns for fashion, editorial and advertising clients. According to composer, lyricist and freelance writer, Harry Lewis: “Taffi Rosen is Canada’s answer to Annie Leibovitz without the humungous budget!” Still photography is but one element of Taffi’s expertise. She also runs a full service production company from her Fraser Street studio, where she produces series for Television, as well as a variety of music and corporate videos.

Carol-Ann M. Ryan is an art historian who writes, teaches, and manages art collections. She is an instructor at the Toronto School of Art, University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies and the Art Gallery of Ontario.

Anastasia Vaskova is an Environmental Consultant who has been writing about environmental issues that affect us and our homes for 7 years. Her goal is to connect you, the reader, to the best products, websites and information to help make your environmentally

JUST LISTED! – $339,900 1,000 sq ft, 2 bedroom, 2 bath townhome overlooking the park.

Includes underground parking & a locker, corner fireplace & a rooftop deck with a view!

SOLD! – $225,000 DNA - 1 bedroom condo

www.KingWestVillage.ca gigivonanrep.blogspot.com

Gigi von Anrep, Broker Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd. 905 King West, Toronto, ON M6K 3G9

416.205.0355

June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

5

Contents | June 2009 TERREQUITY REALTY BROKERAGE

8

What’s Up in Our Neighbourhood

10

Family | The Canadian Family. A Lost Cause?

12

Family | What’s New at Ziliotto?

14

Family | Time to Plug Out

15

Family | Sunny Mummy Spa + Boutique

16

Our World | Who’s in Your Family?

18

Food & Drink | Spice Route

20

Dealing with Divorce

23

Keith Monahan

Traci Tempany

Family Feature | Westside Montessori School

24

S a l e s R e p r e s e n tat i v e

S a l e s R e p r e s e n tat i v e

Arts & Culture Family Fun at the AGO Gallery School

28

Arts & Culture | Famous PEOPLE Players

30

Arts & Culture Listings

31

Green | Keeping Your Family SAFE

32

MARKETPLACE

44

on Queen West Salome, Samira & Amir Mohyeddin

46

6

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

00 94

,0 50

$3

42

$3

These Are the People In Our Neighbourhood

29

,9

40

$3

Health & Wellness Get Summer Ready with 2 Quick Moves

,9

00 89

,9

00 ,9 59

King West Village

• Stunning “New” Battery Park Condo in Liberty Village • 2 Bdrm Suite with Modern Upgrades, Stainless Steel Appliances and Wood Flooring • Outstanding Amenities, Walking Distance to a Bustling Village with Many Phenomial Restaurants & Boutiques • Parking & Locker Included!

• Spacious 1+Den in Award Winning Boutique Condo • Cherry & Glass Cabinets, SS Appliances, Granite

• Beautiful Wellington Corner Unit in Liberty Village

24 Counter Top • Ebony Hardwood Thru-Out. B/I Shelves & Desk • A Magnificent Suite in the Heart Where Everything is at Your Fingertips

• 2 Bedroom Townhome features Custom Backsplash in Kitchen, 2 Baths, Upgraded Underpad, Large

Storage Room and Outside Terrace • Cool, Classy and Affordable • Parking Included!

The Shops at Kin g L ib e rt y 61 Hanna Ave, Unit 5, Toronto Traci Tempany: tempany@sympatico.ca Keith Monahan: keith.monahan@sympatico.ca

34

(416) 495-2660

Queen King Snooker Hanna

39

$2

Real Estate | By the Numbers

Yorkville!

Battery Park Condo

Counter Top • Parking & Locker Included • In the Heart of King Liberty Village

00

38

• A Truly Spectacular One Bedroom Loft!

• Cherry Wood Floors, 10 ft Ceilings & Exposed Ducts • Custom Cabinetry, Black Appliances & Granite

,5

Real Estate | ON the Market

• Spectacular 1 Bedroom Suite which Features an Ultra

Modern Kitchen w/SS Appliances • Open concept Living Area with 10 ft. Concrete Ceiling & Suspended Spiral Ducts • Wall to Wall of Industrial Style Windows that w/o to Balcony • King & Spadina District a Terrific Area to Work, Play, Live & Dine. Locker Included.

Glass Breakfast Bar & Marbled Bath • 10 Ft Ceilings and Walls of 7 Ft Glass Windows • Ample Storage, Great Amenities & Activities Nearby • Parking & Locker Included

87

37

• 1+1 In Prime Water Front Locale • Stunning Upgrades including Granite Counter Top,

Atlantic

Fashionable Footnotes

Toy Factory Lofts!

$2

36

Camden St. Lofts!

00

Style & Fashion The Fashion Blip with Erin Tracy

Sold over asking

$2

34

16

Water Club Condo

00

Style & Fashion | Brown’s, The Short Man’s World

14

Metro Lynn Williams

TD CB

We are here

www.tracitempany.com

Strachan

Publisher’s Note

E. Liberty

Publisher’s Note | Roger Tumminieri

magazine W

®

Photo: www.taffirosenphotography.com

welcome to

elcome to ON Magazine’s Annual Family Issue!

This is a very special issue for me to publish, as I am now officially a Family Man. Last year, I dedicated our first Family Issue to my unborn daughter. This year, I happily dedicate this issue to all Families, be they ‘traditional’ or ‘non-traditional’. Thankfully, we live in a society (at least here in Toronto) where love trumps all when it comes to Family and less and less emphasis is placed on the conventional nuclear family structure comprised of a married man and woman with children.

In my humble opinion, Family has more to do with love and mutual respect than composition.

Enjoy,

8 1/2 x 11” Paper and Cardstock • Sale Envelopes Cards for Cardmaking • Discontinued Products Full Sheets of Decorative Paper • And more!

Dive into our collection of scraps and off cuts to create your own customized scrapbag!

Remainder of Sale Items

shop online www.thepaperplace.ca • 887 Queen St. West • (416) 703-0089 8

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

9

What’s Up in

What’s Up in ~ Coming Soon to an Inbox Near You ~

Family Matters By: Manny Machado, Style & Fashion Editor Family matters, whether you are a traditional family unit or surrounded by your chosen family. The summer months are a great time to get together with the people who make up your support network. I’d like to take this opportunity to wish a Happy Pride to my extended Gay family and ask you to spend at least one special day this month with the people you love.

For more information, visit: pridetoronto.com

Best Body Bootcamp Advanced As of June 22nd, BMO Field will host Best Body Bootcamp’s Advanced Bootcamp . This special version of the Best Body Bootcamp will be geared toward individuals who have completed several bootcamp classes in the past and want to challenge themselves even further, or toward those who feel that they can jump

right into an advanced program! This is a great opportunity for those who are looking for a program to supplement any of their current sports programs. Best Body Bootcamp Advanced will incorporate the same effective workouts, but at a much higher intensity and will also include sports drills, sprinting & agility drills, and much more. Be prepared to work hard and see results!

NOTE: There is a screening process to register for Best Body Bootcamp Advanced.

Participants will have to meet certain fitness requirements to qualify so calling ahead is highly recommended. bestbodybootcamp.com | 416.519.2643

news

™

Receive bi-weekly updates about what’s going on in Our Neighbourhood 4 Community 4 Arts & Culture q q 4 Food & Drink 4 Style & Fashion q q 4 Health & Wellness 4 Lifestyle q q 4 Real Estate 4 Great Giveaways q q Recipients of Our Neighbourhood News will automatically be entered to win monthly prize giveaways.

To receive Our Neighbourhood News, email: Info@ONmagazine.ca | Subject: NEWS Rotary Hearts for Youth Challenge Put a team together, get pledges, come and play the game. Clues take you to destinations along the route. Each correct clue gets you another playing card. The best hand wins – just like in Hearts. It will be challenging and fun to walk the High Park neighbourhood, meet new friends, and the

proceeds help support Youth Projects. It starts from $25 to register a team! Hosted by the Rotary Club of Parkdale – High Park.

Register NOW at rotaryheartsforyouth.org Date: Saturday morning June 13th from 9:30am – 1:00pm Location: Picnic Area, Bloor Street at High Park Avenue

Coming Next Month...

Happy Father’s Day

A Visitor’s Guide To

from all of us at ON Magazine!

10

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

11

Family | The Canadian Family. A Lost Cause?

By: Michelle Torres

kingwestcondo.com

www.

More than just condos Michael Camber, Sales Representative

ccording to Statistics Canada’s 2006 Census, more young adults between the ages of 20 and 29 continued to live at home with their parents, subsequently marrying and having children at a later age than the previous generation; the prevalence of divorce, common-law marriages, and single-parenthood continued to rise; and more families consisted of childless couples than couples with children1. These findings, while not entirely surprising, have caused many people to wonder: is the Canadian family dying?

A

Simply put, the answer is no. The Canadian family, in fact, is not dying but has become markedly more diverse. The changes in family structure are not necessarily a result of lack of interest or values, but are occurring to better suit the lifestyle and needs of the individual. For example, based on the aforementioned Census data, many young adults today reside with their parents longer and therefore are marrying and having children at a later age than the previous generation.Does this demonstrate a lack of interest in marriage? Absolutely not! What it does demonstrate is the fact that young adults are prolonging marriage – choosing first to attain an education or become more comfortable with the workplace – marrying only when they feel financially stable.

But what about divorce? Single parenthood? Childless couples? Blended families? Extended families? Step-families?

While it is true that divorce may close the door to a nuclear family, it may also open the door to a wide range of other types of families. The nuclear family, while once the most common, is not the only type of family which exists. Single-parenthood, childless couples,blended families,extended families, and step-families all provide individuals with an alternate family structure which may better suit their lifestyles. The family is no longer solely defined by blood ties, but rather it is defined by ties of mutual love and support whether it be emotional physical, or financial.

Finally, from the earliest family structures developed by the hunter-gatherer society, to those developed by the agricultural society,to the industrial or modern society of today, the evolution of the family is nothing new. Therefore, the changes occurring in today’s world do not indicate a regression in the structure of the family, but rather an evolution as to how the family is defined.

As a result, the definition of the family can never be constant; the family will continue to grow and adjust in order to better suit the needs and desires of the individual.

Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd., Brokerage 905 King Street West, Toronto, ON M6K 3G9

LOGO DESIGN

experts for over 10 YEARS

With any logo design for your business receive a 1000 FULL COLOUR BUSINESS CARDS

416.885.2849 | print@bdd.ca We have

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

Great Coffee.

Great Food. Fast.

print ,

DESIGN and e-marketing

packages

626 Queen West nichecoffee.com

to suit your

needs and budget

Now Featuring...

Organic Juice Bar

EXPERIENCE EXCITING RESULTS

Now Open

theloftfitnessstudio.ca 416.895.6797

12

Breakfast * Lunch* (New Menu!)

Weekend Brunch

FREE

Michelle Torres is a grade 12 student at Loretto College Catholic Secondary School.

Milan, Anne, and Vézina Mireille, eds. “Family portrait: Continuity and change in Canadian families and households in 2006: Findings,” Demography Division, Statistics Canada. Online Document. http://www12.statcan.ca/english/census06/analysis/ famhouse/index.cfm 12 March 2009.

1

416.205.0355

|

104 – 35 Liberty Street June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

13

Family | Ziliotto

Family | Time to Plug Out

What’s New at

By: Nora Ursulescu

Handmade & Hand Painted Microwave-sa fe Porcelain Pottery $18 to $28

Sleepers Made with Organic Fabrics – $38

Handmade W ooden Toys from Quebec with Non-tox $18 (car), $28 ic paints (bus)

Handmade & Hand Painted Wooden Book Ends – $85

ooden Handmade W 64 $ – s ol to S

Ziliotto is located at 764 Queen St. West 416.867.1632 | ziliotto.com 14

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

o you tuck your laptop in at night? Have you read books and sung loving lullabies to your Blackberry? Would you cook and clean for your iPod? Probably! You likely spend so much time by technology’s side, plugged in and tied up with the vast variety of devices, that the value of your family is severely diminished.

Everything is about the latest upgrade or the newest model which translates to upgrading your family from human to electronic members. How many times have you referred to your cell phone or your brand new 60” flat screen TV as your baby? Perhaps more than you realize.

D

In fact, you may spend so much time cradling technology in your arms you find you’ve got little time for much else. Hours on end glued to screens because you have to send out that last email, finish a very important report during dinnertime or find it necessary to update your iPod at 2a.m. in order for it to be ready for the morning commute. At work you might spend more time typing away, caught up in a trance from which you can’t break free.

You are drawn into a virtual world that pulls you deeply away from your family as the beeping, vibrating, and ongoing notifications cause you to fail to hear the signals family members are trying to send.

No longer do you spend time with loved ones. No more sit-down supper with conversations discussing everyone’s day. That process has been downright eliminated for you and your spouse and kids miss you. They’re fortunate if you can manage to be together on holidays and you don’t storm out after important calls. You wouldn’t dare want to ruin your family’s day. After all, it’s not like they have feelings right?

You miss out on the school plays, ballet recitals and hockey games. You miss out on momentous achievements and birthdays, you miss out on anniversaries.

That’s why you need to plug out, cut the wires to your virtual world and tune in to your family. They’re the only ones who won’t fail you in the end and can never be replaced by a newer model. They won’t freeze up and break down when you most need them, and if they catch a virus, they’ll recover without having to be rebooted. All it may take is some human one-on-one, a little love, and maybe some homemade chicken soup.

Nora Ursulescu is a grade 12 student at Loretto College Catholic Secondary School.

Organic Deni m Skirt for Women – $94 June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

15

Family | Sunny Mummy Spa + Boutique unny Mummy Spa + Boutique is Our Neighbourhood’s newest retreat for busy Moms (and Dads). Owner, Nilla Petta launched Sunny Mummy last December with the help of her partner Tara Diaczyk. The Boutique came first, followed by the Spa, which opened this past Valentine’s Day. When asked what inspired Nilla to open Sunny Mummy, she replied: “I always wanted to open a wellness business but never knew exactly what type. It wasn’t until I was pregnant that the idea for a spa / boutique came to me. I wanted to create an environment for Moms where they can feel comfortable

S

and safe. I chose Queen West to open my Sunny Mummy because I saw a need in 16

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

this area for a business catering to Moms. I also wanted to be a part of, and give back to, a great community! My daughter is the inspiration behind Sunny Mummy and I named the business after her. Her name is Soleil. With Sunny Mummy, I’m able to combine all that I love... wellness, entertaining, and my baby.”

Sunny Mummy’s Boutique offers a wide range of products for children that are environmentally friendly and support local Moms.

Some highlights include their clothing (made with organic materials), wooden toys, puzzles, as well as the very cool and hard to miss Rocket Ship Play House (made from environmentally friendly material and is easy to assemble, fun to accessorize, and grows with your kids). Coming soon to Sunny Mummy are the following product lines: Mommy & Baby Body Line, Diaper Bags, Newborn Gifts, and Purses. Workshops are also in the works. Look for the following in the near future: Teaching Baby Massage, Nutrition, Meditation, and Self-Grooming (looking great in 10 minutes or less).

Sunny Mummy’s Spa, on the other hand, is geared almost entirely toward Moms. They offer a complete line of Aveda Skin & Body products, scintillating spa packages, monthly specials, and they even host Spa Parties for Mommy Groups.

Some Spa highlights include: Massages, Facials, Manicures, Pedicures, Waxing, and Threading. Massages are also available for babies and children. And for Dads... Sunny Mummy is offering a Father’s Day Special, which includes a Pedicure, Massage, and Pick-Me-Up Facial (perfect if you’re not getting a whole lot of sleep these days) for $180!

Arguably the coolest and most progressive thing about Sunny Mummy is that they are the first of their kind in Toronto to offer on-site childcare. So when you’re slipping into a state of euphoric relaxation you can rest assured that your little ones are in good hands. Sunny Mummy has a room devoted to kids where they are supervised

by Early Childhood Education Certified staff.

So the next time you’re strollingdown

Queen West or through TrinityBellwoods Park with kids in tow, stop in at Sunny Mummy and take a load off. You deserve it.

Sunny Mummy Boutique + Spa is located at 903 Queen St. West | 647.430.3883 sunnymummy.com (Coming Soon)

June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

17

Our World | Who’s in Your Family?

By: Ben Peterson

JOB POSTING ON Magazine is seeking an energetic, experienced Sales & Marketing Professional with the ability to grow revenues for both Print & Web (ONmagazine.ca), to attract new business, as well as manage an established client base. amily’ is not a universal concept.

Sure, your parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, and children are all part of your family. But what about your aunts, uncles and cousins? What about your second cousins, great aunts and great uncles? What about your neighbours, close friends and your pets?

F

Throughout Africa, second and third cousins are often considered part of one’s immediate family. In Canada, some mourn the death of their goldfish more than the death of distant relatives. Some disown their closest blood relatives forever. Others embrace strangers on the street.

At the end of the day, family isn’t about your blood. It’s about love. Who do you love unconditionally? Who loves you back in the same way?

18

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

My family is my own personal tribe, composed of people that I will stick up for and defend without question, and vice versa. Some people come by way of relation, others by way of deep friendship.

It’s hard to get in, but once in, it’s almost impossible to get out.

How you define your own ‘family’ depends on a myriad of personal and social factors.

But no matter who you are or where you live or how big or small your family is, your family is your family forever. Love them and respect them as you hope to be loved and respected. Love triumphs all.

Ben Peterson is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Journalists for Human Rights. For more information, please visit: jhr.ca.

Applicants must possess the following attributes: Highest level of Integrity • Solid Business Acumen • Competitive • Proactive & Driven • Gregarious & Cordial • Creative • Attention to Detail • Team Oriented • Ability to Network • Work Efficiently & Effectively • under deadlines

Qualified applicants may forward a covering letter and resume to: Info@ONmagazine.ca.

June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

19

Food & Drink | Spice Route

309 King St. W | 416.740.6622

dhaba.ca

Menu items will include: Tempura Calamari with Lemon Scallion Aioli

fter one year and many meals served, Spice Route is marking its first anniversary with the launch of LunDin – a shared and indulgent dining experience that takes a new spin on typical lunch and dinner, combining the two to offer something unique that has something for everyone.

Enjoy sumptuous Sunday afternoon cocktails while sampling and socializing on one of Our Neighbourhood’s favourite patios.

A

Fifteen courses, all you can eat for $24 plus taxes and gratuities every Sunday from 12:00pm – 10:00pm.

Spice Route is located at 499 King St. West | 416.849.1808 spiceroute.ca 20

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

Vegetarian Spring Rolls with Lime Sambal Citrus Salad Hand-Made Mandarin Bu ns with Seasonal Chutney Pork Pot Stickers Kimchi Brown Rice Cantonese Chow Mein Mongolian Beef with Bro

ccoli Lemon Glazed Chicken Sweet and Sour Pork Tempura Onion Rings

Gourmet Food Contemporary Design Weekend Brunch We Deliver

Sweet Yam Fries

OrderIndianfood.com

Thai Vegetable Curry

Gateway to Gourmet Cuisine

Cheese Cake Tempura Banana with Chocolate and Caramel Sau

ce

Dealing with Divorce By: Amber Kanwar

Y

our world is ripped apart. Your hopes for the future evaporate.

Everything you know is turned upside down. Your sense of place and identity are shattered. The unknown is the only certainty.

This is divorce.

When a couple makes a decision to divorce, it can be one of the most trying moments in their lives. It becomes especially complicated when children are involved. Not only is your identity as a husband or a wife changing, but your entire family dynamic is taking a course through uncharted territory.

A big challenge is keeping “family” together even though the parents will not be together.

“One of the things that needs to become clear is that when mom and dad are getting a divorce, they are separating from each other... not divorcing their children,” says Penny Firth-Eagland, a psychotherapist who practices in Our Neighbourhood.

She says there are two things that ruin the chance of keeping a family in tact: guilt and taking sides.

Guilt is one of the hardest emotions to deal with and is felt by both the parents and the children during a divorce. Parents feel guilty they weren’t able to make it work and children feel guilty because they think it is their fault.

In order to assuage a child’s guilt, “a tremendous amount of openness has to be given to the kids in terms of allowing them to really speak their true feelings.” This can be difficult, especially because parents are going through their own emotional pain and may not be able to handle the emotional pain of their children.

Penny Firth-Eagland

Regardless, says Firth-Eagland,“Parents have to be able to hear the kid’s grief, the kid’s outrage, the kid’s sense of loss... and not shut the kid down because the parent doesn’t want to deal with the intensity of their own pain.”

Parents also have to make sure that they don’t try to turn their children against their partner. “This is where things can get really, really messy,” says Firth-Eagland, “When kids get used as leverage.”

It is important to allow individual relationships within the family to remain intact during a divorce. “Just because I have an issue with my partner, doesn’t mean my child has to have an issue with my partner,” she explains.

Despite Canada’s 44% divorce rate, no one goes into a marriage expecting that it will end in divorce. But, there are healthy ways to dissolve a marriage. “The healthiest way is the hardest way,” says Firth-Eagland, “the hardest way is to really sweat the details... be honest about all of the feelings.”

There is no way to prepare for the changes that come with a divorce, but there are healthy ways of dealing with it. Just because you are no longer husband and wife, doesn’t mean you no longer have a family.

June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

23

Family Feature | Westside Montessori School By: Carol-Ann Ryan

Alternative Education for the

Early Years oronto is a great place to raise a family. There are a variety of education options for children, both public and private, including schools that cater to special interests and particular needs. For our annual Family Issue, ON Magazine highlights an alternative school option located in our community.

Westside Montessori School is a new addition to the city’s education landscape, specializing in education for children aged 18 months to 6 years.

T

Opened by Jody Shulgan and Liz Girvan in September 2008, Westside follows the guiding principles developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator working in the early 20th century.

It was her belief that children are individuals and should be respected as such. The Montessori method aims to develop the whole child. Intellectual, physical and social growth is valued equally. Both Shulgan and Girvan hold internationally recognized Montessori teaching diplomas from the Toronto Montessori Institute.

Each Montessori school is different. At Westside, focus is placed on the early years and Jody and Liz have chosen to include art, music and French within the developmentally appropriate curriculum.

The classrooms are designed to suit small children, with custom built furniture including sinks and toilets. Reproductions of famous artwork adorn the walls, hung at a child’s eye level. Students are encouraged to respect one another, the common space they share, and their planet. Westside also boasts an extensive program of eco-friendly initiatives, such as composting and gardening.

o Ph

a y: C to b

m e ro

n Shulgan, Westside Stud

ent

(3 ½

yea

rs)

Following the Montessori model, the adult instructors observe the children and develop individualized lesson plans for each child. This personalized approach sets Montessori apart from a traditional day care or early childhood education setting that typically works with a set curriculum for a particular age group. The Montessori method accommodates each child’s unique needs, personality, and learning styles.

As a result, children in the same classroom may not work on the same thing at the same time. They’re free to choose the activity that interests them Liz Girvan as they go about their day.

The activities available involve both academic and practical learning, preparing the child for a

Jody Shulgan

future as a student and wellrounded individual.

The children are taught by instructors Jody or Liz and guided by certified classroom assistants, either one-on-one or in small groups. They work in one of two rooms: the Toddler Room for ages 18 months to 2 ½ years and in the Casa Room for children 2 ½ – 6 years old. The adult to child ratio is 1 to 5 and 1 to 8, respectively.

When asked how they manage so many small children pursuing individual interests, Jody replied, “The amazing part about this environment is that the children choose what interests them at that moment.

They’re not being forced to do something, so they’re interested, focused, challenged, and therefore concentrating. They often engage with one activity and move to the next when they are ready. They facilitate their own classroom.” continued on page 26

Photos on this page by: Cameron Shulgan, Westside Student (3 ½ years) 24

Our Neighbourhood Magazine

June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

25

Jody and Liz describe their school, “like a beehive, where children are productive, always doing something meaningful and purposeful.� If this approach to learning interests you, contact Westside Montessori School now as tours are available and

26

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | May 2009

enrolment is underway for the 2009-2010 school year.

Westside Montessori School is located at 511 Richmond St. West | 647.430.5321 westsideschool.ca

June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

27

Arts & Culture | Family Fun at the AGO Gallery School By: Carol-Ann Ryan

aving recently celebrated its 75th anniversary, the Anne Tanenbaum Gallery School at the Art Gallery of Ontario is poised for an exciting future. Founded

by Arthur Lismer in 1930, this member of the Group of Seven set out to create a gallery school with a unique mandate – to offer students an up close and personal viewing experience with original and celebrated works of art. This summer, parents and children alike can enjoy an exceptional art education opportunity.

H

Camp provides kids aged 6 to 13 a studio experience built into the heart of a day camp. Through an exploration into the creative process and skill development lead by a team of artist instructors, campers create innovative projects that encompass all media, including printmaking, cartooning, painting, digital art, 3-D sculpture and more.

Three camps this summer are themed in response to the current exhibition, Surreal Things.

Using Surrealist art practice as a jumping-off point, campers Arthur Lismer explore the playful world The Gallery School offers classes for children, youth and adults year of chance, dreams and the irrational, round and each summer, the AGO Art learning how artists used these themes to 28

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

inspire the creation of the most amazing array of strange and fantastic things.

Found objects, assemblage, collage, game boards, ‘exquisite corpse’ are just some of the projects campers might create in this camp, as they take a journey into the world of the surreal.

New this year, for the first time, the Gallery School is partnering with the Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD) to offer design camps for 8-13 year olds.

Campers will spend the studio portion of their day on the OCAD campus taking part in camps such as “Design Matters: Say What? Tell the World” and “Design Matters: Inventing Space and Place”, learning about the practice of design and how to become a designer of the future.

Families can spend time together at Off The Wall! Dr. Mariano Elia Hands On

Centre. This fun and interactive hands-on centre focuses on creativity that can be interpreted in a variety of ways both inside and outside the Gallery. It is designed to encourage imagination, experimentation and creative play among young children ages 2–10 alongside their siblings, parents or caregivers who may wish to participate.

There are five creative discovery zones that feature a variety of different activities, such as Make Your Mark, The Observatory, Body Canvas, DIY Junktion and Memory Maker. Parents and children can unleash their creative potential together, building sculptures, constructing costumes and gaining new perspectives on art and art making.

Creative summer fun for the whole family is available in Our Neighbourhood!

Check out the AGO today. For more information, visit ago.net June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

29

Arts & Culture | Famous PEOPLE Players By: Sue Edworthy

THEATRE: John/Yoko Bed Piece Based on John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s 1969 Montreal Bed-In for Peace, John/Yoko Bed Piece will be presented at the Theatre Centre from May 20 to June 7, 2009.

T

oronto’s Famous PEOPLE Players are an amazing blacklight theatre group guaranteed to entertain you and your family. FPP is an internationally acclaimed company which has been the topic of several television documentaries, including a CBS Emmy Award winning movie called “Special People”. The troupe is noted for its life-sized puppets of famous celebrities who come to life with the assistance of talented performers.

The company has travelled to Las Vegas and Broadway, and toured extensively in North America, Bermuda and China. The Famous PEOPLE Players dinner theatre was founded in Toronto in 1974, and has since been in operation year-round. What makes it so special?

“Our lives have meaning and we can do anything.”

With that statement, Famous PEOPLE Players was founded in 1974 in the spirit of personal development and team achievement.

Beginning with a theatrical black light show in Toronto – Famous PEOPLE Players combines music with life-sized characters that pay tribute to the music and artistry of Famous People.

John/Yoko Bed Piece takes the audience on a psychedelic trip to the Montreal hotel room where John Lennon and Yoko Ono held their historical Bed-In for Peace. Focusing on the political atmosphere of the time, John/Yoko Bed Piece includes characters based on personalities such as Al Capp, Dick Gregory, Timothy Leary, Bobby Seale, Tommy Smothers, Derek Taylor and more.

Venue:

Tickets: Website: Diane Dupuy

performers are developmentally challenged and through sheer will and determination, Diane brings out the best in her Players, and everyone who comes into contact with them.

In 1982 she was awarded the Order of Canada, and was the first Canadian to receive the Library of Congress Award. Her life story was featured on the TV show 7th Heaven. Other television credits include the Emmy Award winning documentary A Little Like Magic, Good Morning America, Adrienne Clarkson Presents and most recently Black Light Dreams.

Did you know Liberace discovered Famous PEOPLE Players in 1975 and hired the troupe to open for him in Las Vegas? For nearly a decade, Famous PEOPLE Players toured with him, winning rave reviews. In 1980, Famous PEOPLE Players were chosen by New York’s Radio City Music Hall to choreograph the first stage production of the “Sorcerer’s Apprentice” as the official reopening of this legendary theatrical venue. Famous PEOPLE Players have also toured the world, throughout the United States, Korea, Malaysia, Taiwan, Singapore, Japan, Chile, Hawaii, and in the People’s Republic of China.

Diane’s work is not only extraordinary on an artistic level, but on a humanitarian one as well. Our Neighbourhood Magazine salutes the strength of Diane and her company, and invites you to experience something you’ve never seen before. Currently on stage is “Best of the Best of Famous PEOPLE Players”, which opened May 6 and runs through October 2009. In celebration of their 35th Anniversary, Famous PEOPLE Players proudly presents to you their BEST! Some classic, some new, this musical revue showcases the best in blacklight – a great adventure for you and your whole family.

Where did it all begin for Famous PEOPLE Players?

It began with the vision and imagination of one woman – Founder and Artistic Director, Diane Dupuy. The company was founded upon the belief that all individuals, regardless of ability, must be integrated into society. All of Dupuy’s

Famous PEOPLE Players is located at 110 Sudbury Street. For more information on the company, or making reservations, visit: fpp.org

30

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

Arts & Culture | Event Listings

The Theatre Centre Dates: May 20 – June 7 1087 Queen St. West Tues – Sun: 8pm, Sat – Sun: 2:30pm $28 – $25, students/seniors/artists Contact: 647.887.3319 draft89.com

FAMILY: Luminato Presents Animated Films Based on Children’s Books View award-winning films from the National Film Board of Canada celebrating literacy. Enjoy a diverse selection of short films for the whole family: The Girl Who Hated Books (8 minutes) based on the story by Manjusha Pawaji Tzaritza I Want a Dog (10 minutes) Blackberry Subway Jam (8 minutes) based on the story by Robert Munch The Friends of Kwan Ming (7 minutes) Oma’s Quilt (8 minutes) based on the story by Paulette Bourgeois (author), and Stephane Jorisch (illustrator) Venue:

Tickets:

National Film Board Mediatheque Screenings: Saturday, June 13 150 John St. (at Richmond) 1pm and 3pm FREE! Website: luminato.com/2009

VISUAL ARTS: Jason Gringler & Jeremy Chance at Angell Gallery Angell Gallery is pleased to present the newest work by New York based painters Jason Gringler and Jeremy Chance. The exhibition runs from June 6th to July 4th.

Utilizing a variety of materials and techniques, Jason Gringler’s works achieve a complex visual and physical presence that reflects both the process and the spirit behind their production.

The tension and discourse that results from the nature of the materials and the limitations they present (with Gringler’s process of construction, destruction, and reconstruction), contribute to the complexity of his work.

Chance’s latest paintings entitled Overdub and Flay appear to reference an echoing noise, something dubbed-out and yet seductive in the way they fall apart, but potentially disturbing or abject in their incongruity. The touchy, scuzzy, filmy surface of the work is particular and wrought, but catching the portrait-like image in a moment of diminishing resolution and static.

Venue: Angell Gallery

890 Queen St. West Website: angellgallery.com

Dates: June 6 – July 4 Opening Reception: Saturday, June 6, 12–5pm

Want to have your local Arts & Culture event listed in ON Magazine or ONmagazine.ca?

Email our Arts & Culture Editor at Arts@ONmagazine.ca June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

31

Green | Keeping Your Family SAFE By: Anastasia Vaskova elieve it or not, the most toxic area of your house is under your kitchen sink or wherever you keep the cleaning products for your home. With all this “green washing” going on, it can be a daunting task to know who and what to trust. So let me make some recommendations of “green” associations, logos, and networking events that can be trusted to keep you and your family safe.

B

One key association is right here in Toronto: Environmental Defence (environmentaldefence.ca).

Environmental Defence champions critical environmental and health issues under three program areas: Greening Cities, Protecting People, and Saving Species. Their website is great. They are completely credible and have monthly newsletters that will keep you up to date on important issues. For you keen greenies, their Executive Director, Rick Smith and colleague Bruce Lourie just wrote a book, Slow Death by Rubber Duck: HOW THE TOXIC CHEMISTRY OF EVERYDAY LIFE AFFECTS OUR HEALTH. Remember: vinegar, water, and baking soda still reign supreme for cleaning your home from top to bottom.

32

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

If you happened to have viewed Marketplace on CBC television recently you would have seen the chaos that reigns with proper labelling of our food, and yes, the problem is due to the lack of rules by the Federal Government. If you missed it, check it out at: cbc.ca/marketplace/2009/ vehicle_history_reports/busted With respect to locally available organic foods, St. Lawrence Market still has a strong hold in the city, but there are lots of local farmers markets popping up in our local green spaces.

Try our local Trinity Bellwoods Organic Farmers Market (trinitybellwoods.ca) and the Liberty Village Market (my-market.ca).

For more about organic foods, check out these great websites: Organic Guide: organicguide.com/canada/organiccertification-and-labelling-in-canada

Green Drinks: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month at The Bedford Academy (36 Prince Arthur Ave.), Green Drinks started in London, England in 1989 and is in 49 countries and 488 cities worldwide.

It is an opportunity for environmental professionals and like-minded folks who care about the environment to get together, have a pint, and do some green networking.

The Toronto chapter started in 2005 and is run by volunteers. This event is FREE. (greendrinks.org) Toronto Green House: Held on the last Tuesday of the month at Steam Whistle Brewing (255 Bremner Blvd.) and founded by Randy Tyrell, the goal of Toronto Green House is to create a high-level event that allows for presentations

and networking with key environmental players in the GTA. Tyrell is dedicated to having a truly green event, plus a 100 mile menu. Cost is $25 to attend. This includes a drink, food, speakers, and lots of great networking. (torontogreenhouse.com) Connecting with the right associations can provide trustworthy information for all of us, family or not. Also, networking at these key monthly green events can provide a way to meet some great folks and for all you single people out there, it may provide an opportunity to meet your match and someone with whom you may want to start a family!

So stay keen and be green, as there is someone out there for all of us!

If you have a Green idea or issue you’d like me to include in an upcoming issue of ON Magazine, please email me at: greengirlconsulting@gmail.com

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture Food & Rural Affairs: omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/ organic/certification Canadian Organic Growers (COG): Online database of Organics in Canada: cogdir.ca If you want to network with some likeminded folks, then check out these two events... you are bound to have some fun.

The

CondoBar.com

Toronto Condos • Toronto Lofts

Miko Nalepa Sales Representative

Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd., Brokerage 416 205 0355 miko@thecondobar.com 905 King Street West | Toronto, ON | M6K 3G9

June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

33

Style & Fashion | Brown’s, The Short Man’s World By: Manny Machado still love each other. I asked daughter Pia Brown what they believed was the secret to their longevity:

rown’s, The Short Man’s World is a unique establishment amongst Queen West retailers. Founded in 1928 by Willie Brown, it stands today as the longest thriving business in Our Neighbourhood – 80 years in the same location at 545 Queen St. West. Now run by second and third generations, Lou Brown and son Jeffrey, the path to their success is due to the fact that they are solely dedicated to men 5’8” & under. However, their biggest accomplishment is that the family is working together and they

B

She gives all the credit to her Dad. Pia says proudly, “It’s Lou Brown, his dedication and his insight. Also, shorter men have come to appreciate that they can buy off the rack.

It’s high-end clothing and they feel great.

Fashion for men has never been so fashion forward and aloof, so dress for how you feel.

From casual to formal, each look is amazing and Brown’s offers so many varieties of dress depending on the customers and what they want.”

Mr. Lou Brown had this to say in regards to advice for those wanting to follow in his successful footsteps, “Be a hands-on boss.

You’ve got to be the store keeper and not just the CEO.” Since I’m 5’11”, I’m envious of their impressive and varied selection of men’s apparel. Versace tailors an exclusive short stature cut specifically for Brown’s. shortmanbrowns.com

Brown’s Hottest Looks for Summer 2009 The navy or black blazer is an integral piece to a man’s wardrobe. It can be worn with dress pants for work and with jeans for weekends. The classic suit outfitted with seasonal accessories is, of course, always in fashion. The classics never go out of style and to match your mood, they can be updated with the new colours of the season. Great jeans can be worn for business or casual and the French cuff shirt is huge, with patterned detailed collars and cuffs. Incorporate an accent with a pastel colour this season by wearing chunky cufflinks. They make a statement and can add spice to your wardrobe.

Pictured above: Lou Brown

34

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

35

Style & Fashion | The Fashion Blip with Erin Tracy By: Manny Machado the masculine to feminine to create a unisex look. I would recommend putting a personal twist on the ring that will be representing your special union for the rest of your life. Consider trying an edgy funky mix of things that don’t necessarily go together, like diamonds with acrylic. You’ll be proud to show it off. My Unique nontraditional custom wedding rings are my specialty and I can help you design your very own creation through a personal consultation.

Erin Tracy

U

nique, custom designed wedding bands and engagement rings are a perfect way to say “I love you.”

Call me at 416.220.6508 or visit my website for more information. erintracydesigns.com

Here’s Erin Tracy’s take on this growing trend...

Fashionable Footnotes NOW OPEN By: Manny Machado rban baby retailer Ella + Elliot, right here in Our Neighbourhood (188 Strachan Ave.), is one of the most forward thinking and original baby concept stores in the entire city. Their selection of products like modular cribs, change tables, decorative storage items and furniture is available in the most up-to-date finishes. Their designs make it easy for city dwellers to welcome their new additions in comfort and style.

U

ellaandelliot.com Accommodating enough storage for all of our personal belongings in modest urban dwellings is a huge factor and causes many homeowners headaches and heartaches. As our families change and grow, so do our needs; the solution is a twostep plan.

Fashion | Style | Accessories 171 East Liberty Street Unit 121 Toronto, Ontario

Step 1: Hire a professional to install floor to ceiling wall cabinetry along the biggest wall space in your home.

Step 2: Everything in your cabinets should be housed within containers, boxes, binders and sleeves to avoid injury or the crashing waterfall effect of personal mementos.

www.vocado.ca

Local retailers like NEAT (628 Queen St. West) can printad_layout.indd help you in your pursuit of storage bliss.

1

3/16/09 10:44:33 AM

neatspace.ca Toronto’s hidden secret is Fashionably Yours, a designer consignment boutique that offers current fashion trends for women and men. Located inside MODA (632 Queen St. West), their unique concept promotes an environmentally and economy friendly solution to the urban fashionista. The concept is simple. Exchange your unworn and gently used designer goods for cash. Wardrobe and style consultations are also available. Give them a call and find out how much money you have in your closet.

This is a good year for ring fashion accessories in bright peacock colours, mixing

fashionablyyours.ca

Having enough space to accommodate your growing family’s needs is one of the biggest challenges we face living in the city. Newer condos can be especially restrictive in size and space. This is the biggest concern my clients present to me during consultations. The best solution is always the easiest. The décor of your home should reflect and maintain your lifestyle.

36

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

Functional requirements should always guide the style of your space. Children spend most of their time moving about seeking to stimulate their imaginations.

Plan ahead and decorate the kids’ space in anticipation for when they are out of that infant stage. I can help you. Find more information at: mannymachadodesigns.com

Bare feet have never been happier! Show off your pedicures in style this summer in a new pair of Havianas. Men, women and children’s styles come in a wide range of colours and graphic prints. These are not your granddaddy’s flip-flops. Brazilian-made and available in select retailers at the Eaton Centre, like Aritzia, SoftMoc, Roots and Little Burgundy.

You can also find them at Sporting Life and in Our Neighbourhood at Getoutside (437 Queen St. West). havaianasus.com

magazine

®

Coming this Fall:

The

&

Style Fashion

Issue

June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

37

Real Estate | ON the Market

Real Estate | By the Numbers

By: Gigi von Anrep, Broker

By: Traci Tempany

hese words best describe the new norm amongst city dwellers.

As a realtor who has lived in Our Neighbourhood (King West Village and previously in Parkdale) for the past 14 years, I’ve seen how demographics and trends affect real estate values.

eal Estate opportunities are always out there, you just have to be looking for them. Sometimes it’s just a matter of great timing.

T

The demographics of our society have changed substantially – enough to influence the way people are buying real estate. This is frankly a topic for a much longer article but, in essence, what I’m noticing more and more is how young couples are no longer moving out of this hip neighbourhood and heading toward the “burbs” in search of more house!

I think that people are placing more emphasis on their overall quality of life as they assess how their time is best spent over the course of their daily lives. They are making the big decision to sacrifice space for time. By staying in this much loved neighbourhood, people are using that extra time saved by not commuting to spend with their family and friends.

City planners, together with developers, have been making a conscious effort to bring this concept of Live – Work – Play into the city’s core by building residential complexes in the heart of where these said residents are going to be working.

This allows them to bike or walk to work,

38

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

R

frequent boutiques and cafés while walking with their children and/or dog, and shop locally at farmers markets or the closest grocery store.

I used to meet with many young couples to list their condos for sale as they planned to start their families. They had decided that they wanted their children to grow up like they did – in the suburbs playing in a big backyard, biking with their friends, and playing road hockey until dusk. Only now, who does that anymore? Even in the suburbs you don’t see kids out playing like that. Again, society has changed. How we live has really changed and this affects real estate and how we as a society value where we live, work and play.

Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd., Brokerage 905 King St. W. Toronto 416.205.0355 KingWestVillage.ca gigivonanrep.blogspot.com

The current market conditions suggest that opportunity knocks! Spring has sprung (literally and figuratively) and now is the time to get out there and purchase. You may never again see the perfect pairing of pricing and financing.

The catch is that it will not last long.

All of the economic analysis I’ve seen suggests stabilization in 2009 and growth in 2010.

There were 8,107 sales reported in April by the Greater Toronto Realtors, up 26% from March on a month-over-month basis and up two-thirds compared to January’s ten-year low. The average price for April’s transactions is down just 3% from last year.

The low housing pricing and historical low rates are creating an opportunity to buy for less.

Now is the time to buy. So call your mortgage broker, lock into today’s great rates, and buy. The market is heating up and the window of opportunity will last just a few short months.

First-time home buyers can also cash in on incentives such as rebates on land transfer tax and increases to contributions to the Home Buyers Plan.

I would be happy to help with your decision to take advantage of this great opportunity.

Stop by our office or call us!! We’ll be happy to chat with you!!

Traci Tempany Keith Monahan 416.495.4069 Office 416.495.2915 Office 416.937.2185 Direct 416.995.8209 Direct tempany@sympatico.ca

keith.monahan@sympatico.ca

Coldwell Banker Terrequity Realty Brokerage The Shops at King Liberty 61 Hanna Ave #5 416.495.2660 | tracitempany.com

June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

39

Health & Wellness | Get Summer Ready with 2 Quick Moves By: Daniela Nahas Chiropractic Acupuncture

s summer hits and we start to shed bulky clothing, many people become self-conscious about baring their arms. These moves will not only help you build muscle and get stronger, but they are simple so you can do them while enjoying the great outdoors.

Work these exercises into an interval session by mixing in some running drills between sets and you’ve got yourself a great workout!

A

Both men and women should work on strengthening their upper body. The stronger you are overall the less prone to injury you will be and you will perform simple exercises much more effectively: picking up your kids, running with your dog, carrying heavy boxes, and any movements that require you to push and pull.

1) Push Ups: Good old push-ups are simple but very effective. Push-ups work your chest, back, shoulders and triceps and because you have to hold up your body weight it is very effective core work.

What’s more is that you can do many variations of a push up to isolate different areas and provide more of a challenge.

Begin in plank position – shoulders and wrists in line. Make sure that the abdominals are tight so that the lower back does not drop. As you lower down into a push up it’s important to make sure that you bring the whole body down

Registered Massage Therapy Pregnancy Treatments Naturopathic Services

together. (Perform on knees if a beginner).

Repeat to failure x 3-4 sets 2) Dips: Excellent for targeting that stubborn back of the arm area. Women especially tend to have weak triceps.

Begin by sitting at the edge of a chair or bench, with legs bent at 90 degrees, and your hands facing forward on both sides of your thighs. Slowly glide your butt off the bench or chair. Slowly bend your elbows and lower yourself towards the ground.

Make sure to lower straight down and not at an angle - keep the shoulders back and butt close to the edge of the bench. For an extra challenge straighten your legs.

Repeat to failure x 3-4 sets Yours in health and fitness, Daniela Nahas Daniela Nahas is a Personal Trainers and co-founder of Best Body Bootcamp.

She can be reached at: 416.519.2643, info@bestbodybootcamp.com, or bestbodybootcamp.com.

Visco-elastic Foam Products Custom Orthotics 1002 King St. West, Toronto, ON, M6K 3N2 Tel: 416.597.1604 | www.KingWestChiro.com | Email: info@kingwestchiro.com

Check Out the Great Offers in The Paper Place.......................Page 9 Beyond Destination Design.....................................Page 13 ACT Fit........................................Page 41 Fresh and Clean.......................Page 43

Next Bootcamp: June 22nd

Beyond Marble & Granite....Page 43

Trinity Bellwoods Park, Clarence Square Park & BMO Field

ON’s Contest Giveaway........Page 45

6:00am, 7:00am, 6:30pm, 7:30pm 1 hour/3 days a week/4 weeks

Tula Yoga...................................Page 47 40

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | May 2009

10 LOCATIONS IN TORONTO

416.519.2643

www.bestbodybootcamp.com June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

41

These Are The People In

Our Neighbourhood Location: Vocado Grand Opening | 171 E. Liberty St., Unit 121 in the Liberty Market Building Photos by: Beverly Wooding

Lighting for your lifestyle.

624 King Street West

one block east of Bathurst, on the north side

416-364-9099 Looking for a green solution to clean your carpet?

Green Cleaning for over 10 years, before it became popular

We use both truck mounted steam cleaning and low mostiure (dry) methods

Non-Toxic cleaning solutions - food and plant based cleaners

FREE

Double Stainless Steel Sink

with purchase of Kitchen Granite Countertop. Present This Ad. (Minimum 30 sq. ft.)

Our cleaning solutions will not void your new carpet warranty

All of our cleaners are IICRC certified in carpet and upholstery cleaning

Specialized stain removal and spot dying

Anti Allergen cleaning, great against dustmites and pet dander

Odour control for pets and other sources

Trusted company with solid systems and follow up

Satisfaction guaranteed or we will come back at no charge and fix it

Refinish floors - Sandless hardwood refinishing, tile and grout deep cleaning

Granite Countertops Oak Hardwood Flooring 14mm Laminate Flooring

45.00 $ .99 2 $ .99 1

$

Installed from

sq. ft.

from

sq. ft.

from

sq. ft.

Summer Blowout Sale Up to 70% off all in-stock flooring

Ask for your free bottle of spot remover.

Carpets Upholstery Area rugs

Hardwood Tile & Grout Air ducts

www.freshandclean.ca | 416-604-0607 42

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

1862 Dundas St. E, Mississauga (West of Hwy 427)

905-270-1100

www.beyondmarbleandgranite.com June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

43

M

A

R

K

E

T

P

L

A

C

E

M

A

R

K

E

T

P

L

A

C

E

LOGO DESIGN

experts for over 10 YEARS

416.885.2849 | print@bdd.ca 647.430.3883 www.sunnymummy.com

With any logo design for your business receive a

Queen W Strachan

FREE

903 Queen Street West, Toronto

Walnut

1000 FULL COLOUR BUSINESS CARDS

Richmond W

Thinking of refinancing?

Canada’s Mortgage Experts

™

Enjoy the summer with our new Brazilian cocktails.

922 Queen Street West T 416 | 532.2550 www.caju.ca

news

™

See page 11 for more details.

metta

SANCTUARY

ENERGY & BODYWORK THERAPY

www.thefloorstudio.ca telephone

416.533.2855

CONTEST EXTENDED!

Win $200 at The Paper Place!

For customized treatments call:

sylvia galletta

416 536 6161

www.mettasanctuary.com

44

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

To enter, email Info@ONmagazine.ca | Subject: The Paper Place Winner will be chosen at random and his/her name will be published in a subsequent issue of ON Magazine.

Contest expires: June 22, 2009

NOW is the time to take advantage of today’s historically low interest rates.

Kerri Nelligan, AMP Mortgage Agent/LLP Partner Invis Inc. Cell: 905.580.6736 kerrinelligan@invis.ca www.kerrinelligan.com Brokerage License#: 10801

|

License#: M08007422

Place Your Ad Here.

416.455.7320 June 2009 | Our Neighbourhood Magazine

45

Breathe, Grow and Relax...

on Queen West | Salome, Samira & Amir Mohyeddin

I

recently had the gastronomic pleasure of feasting on authentic Iranian cuisine in the ‘Hood and meeting the Mohyeddin Siblings at their restaurant, Banu on Queen West. Banu means lady or dame in Persian, and it just happens to be their mother’s nickname.This dedicated entrepreneurial family includes Salome (corporate financing), her sister Samira (Sous Chef-manager-Bad cop) and their younger brother Amir (Chef de Cuisine). With all of their combined talents they decided to recreate the traditional opulence of the Iranian cuisine before the Islamic Revolution. Their considerable inspiration was inherited from their family’s custom kitchen.

You will not find Ali Baba’s tent or massive carpets on the walls.This is a modern minimalist pastiche of their collective memories of elegance and Persian fusion. The white walls are adorned with authentic Persian blue motifs, and the bar, seen in the photograph above, is the centrepiece of the lower dining room. A variety of beautifully textured glasses, bowls, blue modern bar stools and authentic hookahs, adorn Banu with an affable ambiance.

By the way, for a different kind of aperitif, you 46

Our Neighbourhood Magazine | June 2009

Photo: www.taffirosenphotography.com

By: Taffi Rosen

might want to try smoking one of these herbal infusions at your table. Or try sipping on their specialty drink, SAFKA, a saffron infused vodka with pomegranate seeds.

If you’re brave, you can try one of the specialty dishes, lamb testicles marinated in vodka and grilled. For those of you who are not adventurous and may fear traditional delicacies, Banu also offers choice cuts of organic beef and tenderloin of lamb.

“We always knew that we wanted to bring Iranian cuisine to the forefront in Toronto, as most of the Iranian restaurants are in the suburbs. We chose Queen Street West in particular because we have lived in the area for more than a decade and have always loved the energy of the street even before its gentrification. Educating people about Iranian cuisine and allowing for a different perspective on Iran and its people who have an immeasurable zest for love, life and food is what Banu is all about”.

Banu Restaurant is located at 777 Queen St. West | 416.777.2268 | banu.ca Open 7 days a week, 12pm-3pm & 5pm-close

A NEW ERA IN HEALTH & WELLNESS!

TULA central Hot Yoga • Pilates • Spa 30 Duncan St., Suite 102 (at Richmond/Duncan) 416.599.8852 • info@TulaHotYoga.com www.TulaHotYoga.com

OR try us at our other location

TULA West 956 Bloor Street West (at Ossington) 416.913.4181 • infowest@TulaHotYoga.com

200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training Starting May 5, 2009 at Tula West!

Contact 416.913.4181

INTRO SPECIALS 1st Class: $10 2nd Class: FREE

mobile Available at

ONmagazine.ca

速