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ALIVE AND WELL AT D&E LAKE
ON THE
WATERFRONT DISCOVER TORONTO’S BEST SUMMER HOT SPOT
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TORONTO’S FAB FIVE
From gourmet hot dogs to artisan grilled cheese, these culinary delights bring new meaning to the term comfort food.
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CONTRIBUTORS
LAUREN CHARLEY
LYNN OGRYZLO
Lauren graduated from The University of Western Ontario with an honours BA.in Media Studies, where she also completed many creative and journalistic writing courses. She loves to travel, meet new people, and take too many pictures! Currently Lauren is learning to speak Mandarin. She lives for the summertime, vacations, and anything involving lots of sunshine!
Lynn is a food, wine and travel writer, author of three international award-winning cookbooks and regular contributor to REV Publications. Lynn specializes in culinary tourism covering regional cuisine destinations, slow food, culinary holidays, wine, spirits and “la dolca vita”. She can be reached for questions or comments at lynnogryzlo.com.
GABRIELLE TIEMAN Gabrielle is a writer with REV Publishing and holds a passion for covering travel and event pieces. She is always up for an adventure and loves meeting new people but also maintains close relationships with her Keurig and bicycle. Her favourite time of year is scarf season and she has easily watched the movie Armageddon 200 times. You should follow her @gabrielletieman.
EVAN SAVIOLIDIS Evan Saviolidis is a Wine Tasting Challenge Grand Champion, journalist for Canada’s largest winemagazine, Quench, Instructor for the Canadian Association of Professional Sommelier and teaches wine appreciation courses in Niagara at WineSavvy. For complete information, please visit evanwinesavvy.com
TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 5
For this issue, we cover the hidden side of Toronto (Don’s Bookstore, page 57 and Haunted Toronto, page 42) the exciting side (Concert Listings, page 74 and Best Places to Shop, page 67 ) the tasty side (Fab Five Restaurants, page 14 and Best Bartenders, page 29), and much more. We’ve definitely got something for everyone. This time of year is particularly beautiful in Toronto, so take advantage of it by getting out and exploring everything this area has to offer. Have a great summer season, and I hope you enjoy this issue of Toronto.
Megan Pasche Editor
LETTER
Welcome to the summer edition of Today Magazine: Toronto. As a tourism publication, we bring you in depth articles on all the best things to see and do during your visit to the city.
TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 7
Lunch Dinner Martinis Cocktails Vintage Wine Premier Dining in the Blue Mountain Village 705.446.2643
www.copperblues.com
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PRESIDENT & CEO Daniel A. Pasco ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Alexandra Mills SALES REPRESENTATIVES Melanie Bryson Crystal Lowes Patricia Bolus Lynn Ann Lynch Lance Mallett Dan Carbonara EDITOR Megan Pasche PRODUCTION MANAGER Tina Lanzillotta GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Tabitha MacDonald Rachel Bertrand IT/WEB DEVELOPER Justin Soungie DIGITAL SALES MANAGER Dave Mace MARKETING & SOCIAL MEDIA
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Toronto by Today Magazine is published by Rev Publishing Inc. All opinions expressed in Toronto by Today Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of Toronto by Today Magazine, it’s employees or owners. Reasonable care is taken to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is as up-to-date and accurate as possible, as of the time of publication, but no responsibility can be taken by Toronto by Today Magazine for any errors, omissions or comments made by writers or interviewees that are contained herein. Furthermore, responsibility for any losses, damages or distress resulting from adherence to any information made available through this magazine is not the responsibility of Toronto by Today Magazine. All unsolicited manuscripts and/or photographs submitted are assumed to be intended for publication or republication in whole or in part. The right to alter, edit or refuse photos and/or manuscripts intended for publication is assumed. All unsolicited material submitted to Toronto by Today Magazine are submitted at the author’s risk. Manuscripts and or photographs intended to be returned must be accompanied by sufficient postage. Toronto by Today Magazine does not assume any responsibility for any claims of our advertisers and reserves the right to refuse any advertising.
COVER STORY 14
TORONTO’S FAB FIVE
Break out of your culinary box with these fabulous five comfort food eateries.
FOOD AND DRINK 19
IN DEFENSE OF THE GRAZING BOARD An amuse to your bouche.
23 EVAN’S WINE RATINGS
Evan Saviolidis rates wines from around the world.
29 THE BARTENDER
Two men who are shaking, mixing, dicing and dancing their way around their bars.
ABOUT TOWN 33 37
THE WATERFRONT
Toronto’s best summer hotspot
TORONTO TRANSIT FOR TOURISTS
Helping you navigate around the Big Smoke
42 UNVEILING THE CITY’S DARKEST SECRET Touring Toronto’s haunted side
52 URBAN PLAYGROUND
The city’s best activities for the family
LIFESTYLE AND CULTURE 57 61 67
CIVILIZATION BEGINS WITH BOOKS
D & E Lake, a Toronto institution
TAKIN’ IT TO THE STREETS
The Kick and Push Festival in Kingston
SHOP TIL’ YOU DROP
Toronto’s Best Shopping Districts
HERE. SEE. DO 71
TORONTO EVENT LISTINGS
74
TORONTO CONCERT LISTINGS
Destination Profile 77 EXPLORE WESTERN NEW YORK
Need a little excitement this summer? From the Seneca casino properties to the Allegany Mountains, there is certainly an adventure waiting for you. TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 11
A World-Class
Waterfront
Destination
Gateway to Adventure
“
The 1000 Islands boat tour was fantastic, a definite ‘must do’ on your list. Bring your sun hat, sunscreen and your camera. We packed our lunch and enjoyed a picnic on the grounds of Boldt Castle...where there are a number of tables. It was a beautiful way to spend the day.”
Amidst Gananoque’s small-town, friendly atmosphere, enjoy the many wonderful things to do in and around the area.
GANANOQUE BOAT LINE CRUISE
THOUSAND ISLANDS PLAYHOUSE
Discover lost treasures below the water’s
nestled on the banks of the st. Lawrence river,
surface, cruise past Boldt Castle, witness
the thousand Islands Playhouse theatres offer
lavish homes on Millionaire’s row and see
six months of engaging entertainment, in one
the old haunts of vagabonds & villains.
of Canada’s most beautiful theatre settings.
Featuring 1-hour, 2.5-hour and the 5-hour
1000islandsplayhouse.com
stop-over cruises. ganboatline.com
1000 ISLANDS HELICOPTER TOURS
SMUGGLER’S GLEN GOLF
1000 Island Helicopter tours is the newest
tee off at Eastern ontario’s premier rated
attraction offering the most spectacular views
golf courses. the course design takes full
of the islands through three unique tours.
advantage of the rugged Canadian shield
Featuring the 1000 Islands, Boldt Castle and
landscape of high granite cliffs, tall white
two Castle tours, this is an adventure you
pines, & interesting scenic elevated tee-offs.
won’t want to miss. fly1000islands.ca
smugglersglen.com
Tickets on sale at our Welcome Centre
Welcome Centre open in 2014, the Gananoque Welcome Centre is conveniently located in Gananoque and offers visitors a go-to center for tourism information and to purchase attraction tickets. our knowledgeable and wellacquainted staff can offer first-hand advice on making your visitor to Gananoque and the 1000 Islands a memorable one. A number of local and regional attraction tickets can be purchased directly at this facility. 787 King St. East, Gananoque | 613.381.8427
Immerse in Activities As the official Gateway to the 1000 Islands, make your stay worthwhile, fun and fulfilling. BoAtInG – Area marinas include Peck’s Marina, Clark’s Marina & Brennan Marina
1000islandsheritagemuseum.com
CAsIno – oLG Casino thousand Islands olgslotsandcasinos.ca/olg-
sCuBA DIvInG – Thousand Island Pleasure Diving
casinos/thousand-islands/
islanddiver.ca
CyCLInG – 1000 Islands Parkway trail waterfronttrail.org
sHoPPInG – Downtown Gananoque
ExPLorE – rideau Heritage route rideauheritageroute.ca FIsHInG – Charter, leisure & fishing tournaments available HIKING – Frontenac Arch Biosphere fabexperiences.ca KAyAKInG – 1000 Islands Kayaking 1000islandskayaking.com MInI GoLF – Putt n’ Play
MusEuM tours – Arthur Child Heritage Museum
gananoquedowntown.com
sKyDIvInG – skydiving Gananoque skydivegan.com sPAs – Located at Gananoque Inn, Colonial resort & spa and the Glen House resort
Discover more at 1000islandstourism.com
BREAK OUT OF YOUR CULINARY BOX WITH THESE FABULOUS FIVE, COMFORT FOOD EATERIES.
BY LYNN OGRYZLO
TORONTO’S FAB FIVE Don’t look now but as classic superhero movies are being revamped, so has ordinary comfort food been refashioned. I forage the concrete jungle for tastes of our most casual foods transformed into gourmet meals. Here is a short list of the most taken-forgranted dishes that have been reinvented by chefs and culinary entrepreneurs who have never taken the simplicity and emotional power of food for granted. They’ve built flavour with house-made everything, urbanized the ordinary with gourmet ingredients and added excitement with eclectic ethnic combos. Here are childhood memory foods all grown up and unlike anything your mom ever made for you. >>
TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 15
HAMBURGERS WAHLBURGERS Burger-fanatics alert! The first Canadian Wahlburgers has landed in Toronto and they cover all the basics of a good burger joint: flexibility to build your own burger, peppy staff and a good burger buzz. Sides (fries) are priced separate from entrees (burgers), but do the math: prices are fair and still way under other comparable gourmet burgers. Each thick patty is made from a secret grind of various cuts of beef mixed together for burger perfection. The potato bun soaks up the juices from the burger and flavours from house-made condiments for a super full mouthful of perfectly balanced burger perfection. The amazing O.F.D. (Originally from Dorchester) burger is a full 8-ounce patty (also offered in 5-ounce) has rich house made tomato jam, thick rashers of crispy artisan bacon, a generous melt of Swiss cheese and perfectly sautéed mushrooms. Add a house made salads or crock of sweet potato tater-tots and sip on a cocktail or thick boozy frappe (they’re awesome!!). Catch a live showing of Wahlburgers every Wednesday evening on the 15 giant television screens that line the restaurant walls. Avoid Saturday nights where it’s so crazy the chefs easily flip 1,000 burgers and line-ups spill down Blue Jays Way. FAVOURITE DISH: BBQ Bacon Burger. PRICE POINT: $$ 46 Blue Jays Way in the SoHo Metropolitan Hotel | wahlburgers.ca GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH AND MACARONI AND CHEESE CUT THE CHEESE Not the same grilled cheese your mother made! Cut The Cheese is all about warm cheesy comfort foods like oozy grilled cheese sandwiches and luscious crocs of bubbly mac’n cheese. Try the Big Bad Wolf grilled cheese for a mouthful of savoury, deep fried, pork belly enrobed in creamy, warm Asiago with refreshing house made coleslaw, spicy southwest chipotle aioli and crunchy hickory sticks. It’s a beautiful play on the palate with a constant thread of comfort. On the noodles side of the menu, opt for a luscious crock of everyone’s favourite, Southern Comfort. It goes like this: noodles partnered with deep fried buttermilk popcorn chicken, sweet roasted bell peppers, sautéed corn and Panama peppers all brought together with creamy, cozy Emmental cheese. All of the condiments and foods are made in-house, from scratch and what they source has no additives or preservatives. Gluten free and vegetarianized grilled cheese available. Located in Toronto’s trendy Junction neighbourhood, they home deliver during dinner hours making gourmet, cheesy cravings that much easier to satisfy. Look for their daily specials and secret menus. It’s the classic comfort food but with an urban twist! FAVOURITE DISH: Egg-celent Mac’n’Cheese. PRICE POINT: $ TAKE-OUT: 416-901-7166 2901 Dundas St., W (One block west of Keele St.) | cutthecheese.ca
BURRITOS CHINO LOCOS
HOT DOGS FANCY FRANKS GOURMET HOT DOGS
It’s a burrito bar with a cult following. Chino Locos is named after the three crazy Chinese owners who wrap up popular flavours of their home country as tightly as a baby’s blanket. The flavour combos are a blend of Asian and Mexican they call “new” Mexican. Each burrito gets stuffed with your choice of savoury, rustic brown rice or silky Chow Mein noodles and spiced as hot as you can handle. Just so you’re forewarned their spicy medium is most peoples hot. All of the sauces are proprietary blends made from scratch including the chipotle sauce, the awesome ginger relish and the fiery sauce. If you’re a Burrista – or burrito aficionado, you’ll love the fish burrito called, Da Finest. It’s made with fresh fillets of whitefish, seasoned and sautéed to a juicy, flaky texture. It’s topped with house made guacamole, grated cheese, a squirt of fresh lime juice and dollops of tangy sour cream. Get it with the Chow Mein noodles for a real palate frenzy of fresh flavours. They offer vegetarian burritos, gluten free corn tacos or go completely naked with the Bento Box (shelless burrito). Look for their weekly specials.
When traditional hotdogs reinvent themselves, so does the way we talk about them. Fancy Franks is not a hotdog joint but an eatery innovating tubular gastronomy. Owner Angelos Economopoulos begins with a lamb casing stuffed with custom ground tender shoulder beef. Each dog is hand twisted the old fashion way and made every other day to ensure it’s always fresh and never frozen. Like a true hot dog it snaps! Bite into it and the lamb casing stretches just so far then breaks with a snap! Then your teeth sink into the tender, beefy, juicy middle. Besides a perfect dog, the toppings are full flavoured and creative. Juicy Kimchi, ripe, luscious avocado, nasal massaging horseradish mayo, fried runny eggs and crispy bits of chicken bacon. Try the Frankie Goes To Buffalo dog with its panko crusted wiener, blue cheese dressing, squirt of hot sauce, crumbled chicken bacon and julienned carrots and celery. You’ll need a fork to eat the overloaded Frankaphone with smoked Gruyere, horseradish cheddar, squeaky curds and honey Dijon mayo. They offer a signature vegetarian dog along with ten different poutines, choice of fries and sausage options. The dog is hot at Fancy Franks!
FAVOURITE DISH: Slow Roasted Pork Burrito. PRICE POINT: $ TAKE-OUT: 647-349-3888 2 locations in downtown Toronto | chinolocos.com
FAVOURITE DISH: Franko Fancy-Aano. PRICE POINT: $$ three locations in downtown Toronto | fancyfranks.com
TM
SANDWICHES THIS END UP Finally, a restaurant that speaks to everyone’s longing to nosh casually while coveting great cocktails! This little, flashy red and brick eatery on Dundas West has the guts to cultivate a mouthwatering, combo culture of gourmet sandwiches and classy cocktails. The Hogtown Cubano sandwich is a mouthful of rich, smoky flavour coming from the scrumptious cured, hickory-smoked pork belly. It’s layered with peameal bacon, plastered with velvety Swiss cheese and dressed up with pickled jalapenos, smoked garlic mayo and house mustard. Wash it down with the bourbon based Bjorn Again cocktail. The Cali-Coco BLT is insane with coconut smoked bacon. Kick it up a notch with the flavours of a Scotch Bonnet Infused Rum cocktail called The Jerk. There’s a Fish Po’Boy, a Brockton Burger and Rare Smoked Beef. All condiments are made in-house including their popular Kimchili Cheese (Kimchi and pork chili). There are frites, salads, wings and tacos to round out this sandwich dominant menu. Look for their daily specials and gluten free sandwich options. FAVOURITE DISH: Pulled Pork Rendang Banh Mi Sandwich. PRICE POINT: $$ 1454 Dundas St W., 647-347-8700 | thisendup.ca
TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 17
A hidden Niagara treasure. Two Sisters Vineyards marks the beginning of a new chapter. Gently unfolding over 7 6 acres, Two Sisters Vineyards tells a story of a simpler time, celebrating nature’s landscape and the endless beauty of graceful architecture.
Areas so inviting, you may wish to revisit your itinerary and linger a while.
Enjoy a glass of our wine and experience the art of true winemaking. Delight your palate with Italian-inspired dishes at Kitchen 7 6.
240 John Street East, Niagara~on~the~Lake, Ontario L0S 1J0
Telephone: 905.468.0592
TWOSISTERSVINEYARDS.COM
IN DEFENSE OF THE
GRAZING BOARD
AN AMUSE TO YOUR BOUCHE BY LYNN OGRYZLO
The grazing board, it’s a funny name that conjures up images of cows in a field. Yet to me, it’s the most delicious of casual dining experiences. Of course, I’m talking about sipping on drinks that stimulate an appetite for nibbles of gourmet foods that you and your friends’ leisurely nosh while layering the experience with great conversation. Often confused with a charcuterie board, a grazing board is the cheese platter of the 1980s, reincarnated by the modern day carnivores’ lust for cured meats and demand for exciting flavours. They include both meat and cheese with accompaniments that can be tart, crunchy, smooth or savoury. When put together properly it becomes a continual play on the palate that lasts for hours. Charcuterie boards on the other hand, are only cured meats with a few condiments for flavour contrast. Notice how I said cured meats and not charcuterie. Charcuterie is a French word and yet, very few (if any) of the ingredients on the board are French. Think about it, prosciutto and salami are Italian, kielbasa is Polish and ham hocks are German. Sure, cornichons, the little French, miniature, tart pickle is the perfect foil for rich fatty meats but it has now been replaced with Korean kimchi which does the same job yet adds a modern twist with a complexity of flavours the little cornichon lacks. Creamy French pate has become passé being replaced with coarsely textured terrines, which are both English
and French inspired. So where is the justification to use the French word charcuterie? John Zagaria of Dolce Lucano, the Woodbridge equivalent to Niagara’s famous Pingue Prosciutto is a specialist in all cured meats but he refuses to use the French word charcuterie. Preferring instead to talk of salumi, the Italian word for the same family of meats such as sopressata, capacola, bresaola, Genoa salami and prosciutto. But since the word salumi is not showing any signs of popularizing the way charcuterie did, I think we’ll continue to hear charcuterie. My preference has always been for a grazing board because it offers many more options to try new and interesting foods. Organized properly a grazing board becomes an afternoon amuse to your bouche. The goal is to feel pampered and satisfied in an atmosphere of indulgence. To do this, quantities are kept to a minimum while maximizing on the number of flavour elements. Keep in mind that on any good grazing board there could be three meats, two cheeses, three accompaniments, bread and fruit. Certainly you can add more or less, depending on the number of people and the time you have to indulge. The great thing about a grazing board is that you own it. It can be as adventurous or tame as you like and get this – all ingredients can be purchased from a convenient grocery store to a well stocked, specialty food shop. How much easier can decadence be? >>
TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 19
GRAZING BOARD DESIGN MEAT The deli counter is your playground when selecting a mix of cooked and cured meats. Be adventurous with a smoky speck and creative with slices of cooked sausage. Bacon-like pancetta will add richness and real Black Forest Ham will add a bit of sweetness. You may also want a cured sausage like soprasatta or aged items like bresaola. Whatever you do, don’t forget Niagara’s quintessential cured meat, prosciutto di Niagara. If you choose two different meats, plan on two ounces of total meat per person. The more kinds of meat you have, the more people tend to eat so for three meat choices, count on three ounces of total meat per person. Bring meats to room temperature for the best flavour. To do this, remove them from the refrigerator approximately 15 to 20 minutes ahead of serving and simply include a small fork for serving.
CHEESE Don’t cut the cheese! That is so 1970s! Instead, leave it whole. To make the board more visually appealing, stick to an odd number of different favours and styles of cheese. Firm cheeses include Asiago, Grana Padano and Manchego. Everyone loves a rind cheese such as brie, gorgonzola and ash veined. If you like creamy cheeses, pull out a small bowl and fill it with rondule, buratta or chèvre. You can also try selecting cheeses by the type of milk such as cow, goat or sheep for a range of different flavours. When planning your cheeses, balance the strength of the cheese to your choice of meat. If you choose smoky meats, pair it with an equally strong blue cheese. If your meats are salty and elegant such as prosciutto, a hard cheese like Pecorino partner best. If you’re serving a really strong cheese, serve it on a separate platter to avoid flavour contamination. To serve, bring the cheese to room temperature by removing it from the refrigerator approximately one hour before serving. For firm cheese, a knife with holes prevents the cheese from sticking to it, a butter knife works for soft cheeses and for hard varieties, a cheese plane will shave off the perfect thickness of cheese for your cracker. If you don’t have special cheese knives, just remember to provide one knife for each cheese to avoid mixing the different flavours together.
ACCOMPANIMENTS Condiments, condiments, condiments! Use them generously, they build layers of flavours beyond the meat and cheese, add interest and round out the entire experience. Serve them in little bowls on the board with a small spoon or knife for easy sharing. Choose a variety from the following: Acidic foods cut the richness of cheese. Choose from gherkins, kimchi or anything pickled like red onions, artichokes and mushrooms. Fresh fruit such as slices of mild pear, the tang of an apple or grapes. Look for delicate champagne grapes for a special treat. Oily foods are a great foil to meats. Examples are olives and marinated vegetables such as mushrooms, eggplant and sun-dried tomatoes. Flavour excitement comes from sweet, savoury and salty foods. The sky is the limit here. Grainy mustards, vegetable salsa, fruit chutney, honey, ratatouille, caponata, bacon jam, wine based jelly or caramelized onions. Textural diversity is as important as flavour. You could add crunchy raw vegetables but I recommend roasted nuts or apple chips. Dense and chewy can be had from dried fruit such as figs, cherries or apricots. Bread plays a supportive role. Offer a selection of breads, including sliced baguette, bread sticks, and crackers in all different shapes and sizes. It’s not a good idea to vary the taste and texture among the breads because they will just fight with everything else on the board. If you’re serving soft cheeses and spreadable condiments, slices of fresh baguette allow for easy smearing of all the flavours.
SPREAD OUT THE SPREAD Once you've chosen your food it’s time to put the platter together. Choose a large plate, a food grade wooden board or marble slab, with plenty of room so that none of the cheeses or meats touches anything else and you have plenty of room for cutting. Really strong cheeses should be on their own platter. TM
ACCOMPANIMENTS
CHEESE
MEAT
TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 21
“Dancing Polar Bear” by Noo Atsiaq, 22” tall x 12” x 8”
Native Canadian Art Gallery 129 Queen Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, L0S 1J0 Canada Phone: 905-468-8787 Toll Free: 1-855-668-8787
Native Arts Niagara 3845 Main Street Jordan, ON, L0R 1S0 Canada Phone: (905) 562-8888 Toll Free: 1-800-646-2848
www.canadiannativeartgallery.com canadiannativearts@outlook.com
www.nativeartsniagara.com scottdaly@nativeartsniagara.com
facebook.com/nativecanadianartgallery facebook.com/nativecanadianartgallery
WINE
EVAN’S INTERNATIONAL
By Evan Saviolidis
RATINGS 100 Point Scale 95-100= Outstanding 90-94=Excellent 85-89=Very Good 80-84=Good 75-79=Drinkable
ARGENTINA | RED 88 Secreto Patagonico Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Patagonia ($18.95) Here is a straight up, unpretentious steak wine with masses of dark fruit, cocoa, clove, earth and tobacco smoke. There is very good length, supple tannins and some heat, so put a slight chill to it before diving into that medium rare cut. (ES)
AUSTRALIA | RED 91 Wynns Coonawarra Estate Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Coonawarra ($27.95) This wine is a recent addition to the Vintages Essential program at the LCBO. Polished and dense, Coonawarra’s hallmarks of eucalyptus/menthol/cassis mesh with violets, graphite, dark cocoa, smoke and raspberry. Hold until 2016 and then drink until 2024. I also had the opportunity to try the 2012 and it is right on par with the 2010! (ES) >> TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 23
CANADA WHITE 91 Tawse Winery Quarry Road Gewürztraminer 2013, Vinemount Ridge ($24.95) Without a doubt, this is a brilliant off-dry Gewurz! It serves up peach, honey, rose water, cardamom, ginger, cold cream, lychee and pineapple. The palate is thick with soft acidity, 12% alcohol and a super satisfying finale. Drink until 2016 to take full advantage of it exuberance. Pair with foie gras or Thai food. (ES)
90 Redstone Chardonnay 2012, Niagara Peninsula ($18.95) This wine is unofficially known as the “Bistro” Chardonnay and is only sold at restaurants. Barrel fermented and aged for 12 months, the wine exudes ripe pear, apple, peach, honey, spice, white flower, vanilla, cream and toast. It is medium bodied with excellent length and refreshing acidity. Lobster ravioli in a beurre noissette sauce or filet of halibut are well suited for this wine. (ES)
project. The pale colour might make you think that this is a timid wine- but don’t be fooled. The bouquet of cherry, plum, toast and earth meets up with spice and sage on the palate. Excellent length. Drink until 2020. (ES)
91 Reif Estate Winery Meritage 2012, Niagara River ($34.95) For the number lovers, this is a blend of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. For the wine lovers, this is a full bodied red with a complex bouquet if sweet vanilla, cassis, violets, raspberry, cocoa and mint. Length is fabulous with tannic structure to ensure a decade of aging. (ES) 90 Reif Estate Winery Merlot Reserve 2012, Niagara River ($25.95) There is almost a port like quality with all the over ripe plum, blackberry and cherry qualities. Add in the spice, cocoa and earth, as well as a rich texture and great length and you have one fine bottle of Merlot which will age gracefully over the next 5 years. (ES)
89 Palatine Hills Sauvignon Blanc Neufeld Vineyard 2013, Niagara Lakeshore ($18) This is a superb barrel fermented Sauvignon Blanc. Huge fruit salad, honey, passion fruit, guava, pink grapefruit, cream, spice and mineral weave around a core of refreshing acidity. Fine depth and excellent length make for an ideal partner with a halibut filet or even a grilled rosemary scented veal chop. (ES)
90 Château des Charmes Merlot St. David’s Bench Vineyard, St. David’s Bench ($29.95) This is one serious Merlot which has benefited from the heat of the 2012 vintage. Full bodied, it hits the senses with plum, blackberry, vanilla, cocoa, vanilla, anise and dried herbs. Concentrated, there is a long finale and gritty tannins which require some more bottle age to sort themselves out. Drink from 2016 to 2021. (ES)
88 Palatine Hills Prestige NV, Niagara Lakeshore ($22.95)
89 Redstone Pinot Noir Limestone Vineyard 2012, Twenty Mile Bench ($29.95) Even though this Pinot comes from the warm 2012 vintage, it displays poise and elegance. The brilliant ruby colour heralds the plum, raspberry, cherry, earth, cocoa and spice. The acid is fresh and the tannins are supple, so drink now over next two to three years. Pair with charcuterie or ahi tuna steak. (ES)
Even though the label says it is non-vintage, the majority of the base wine for this bubbly came from the cool 2009 vintage, which was perfect for sparkling wine production. Made from 100% Chardonnay, it spent 30 months on the less, imbuing the wine with yeast, brioche, cream, peach, anise, and apple qualities. The palate shows fine mousse, fresh acidity and very good length. (ES)
88 Bachelder Chardonnay 2012, Niagara ($29.95) This wine has graduated to the LCBO Vintages Essentials program. Rather easy going, this Chardonnay features moderate aromatics in the form of peach, toast, apple, pineapple and anise. It is a carbon copy on the palate with minerals and a slight nuttiness. Very good length and ready to drink. (ES)
RED 92 Bachelder Pinot Noir Lowrey Vineyard 2012, St. David’s Bench ($44.95) Back in 1993, Inniskillin partnered with the Burgundy house of Jaffelin to produce Alliance, Ontario’s first premium Pinot Noir. That wine and partnership have long ago given up the ghost, but those old vines have now been scooped up by Thomas Bachelder for his Niagara
89 Rockway Vineyards Reserve Meritage 2012, Twenty Mile Bench ($19.95) This wine proves why we blend Cab Sauv, Franc and Merlot together; each varietal compliments the others! This rich and velvety red doles out the dark fruits, mocha, vanilla, anise, coconut, mint and violets. It is stylish with excellent length. Drink over the next 8 years. 89 Rockway Vineyards Small Lot Block 11-140 Cabernet Franc, Twenty Mile Bench ($24.95) With 18 months of barrel aging under its belt, this medium to full bodied Franc shows off raspberry, coconut, herbs, cassis, violets and vanilla qualities. There is very good length as well as some unresolved tannin which suggests aging until the end of 2015 and then drink until 2022. (ES) >>
. e v o L e u r T . a k o k s u M y l u r T
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Book your wedding with us before Oct. 31, 2015 and RECEIVE TWO AUTHENTIC MUSKOKA CHAIRS as our gift to you. Some restrictions apply.
89 Rockway Vineyards Small Lot Block Blend Merlot, Twenty Mile Bench ($21.95) The deep ruby colour heralds the plum, cherry, vanilla, mocha, herbs and graphite. The palate is a combination of richness and tannin, which will allow for 5 years of aging ahead. Duck confit or a bison burger are perfect partners for this rock solid Merlot. (ES) 89 Palatine Hills Merlot Neufeld Vineyard 2012, Niagara Lakeshore ($25) Winemaker Jeff Innes has really upped the quality of the wines since his arrival at Palatine. Case and point, this Merlot which absolutely flatters with huge plum, dark cherry, cola, spice and vanilla. It is ripe, with good depth, a round texture and enough tannins to allow 5 years of aging. (ES)
89 Henry of Pelham Baco Noir Reserve 2012, Ontario For my taste, this is the best Baco in Ontario. Full bodied, there is copious amounts of jammy dark fruit which is supported by smoke and cocoa notes from new barrel aging. Fresh acidity and a slight sweetness rounds out the texture. There is solid length and 5 to 6 years of life ahead. (ES)
88 Palatine Hills Meritage Neufeld Vineyard 2012, Niagara Lakeshore ($30) Slightly tight at this early stage, this Meritage might even turn out to be better than their Merlot. Cassis, earth, vanilla, cherry, roasted red pepper, oregano and red/dark flowers reveal themselves. The tannins still need to resolve themselves, so hold until 2016 and then drink until 2022. (ES) 88 Rockway Vineyards Small Lot Block Cabernet Sauvignon 12-120, Twenty Mile Bench ($22.95) This Cabernet Sauvignon reveals a combination of fruit and savoury. Cassis, vanilla, Indian spice, coconut, mint and herbs are supported by some solid tannin. Hold until 2016 and then drink until 2023. Rack of lamb was made for this red. (ES)
88 Redstone Winery Cabernet 2012, Niagara ($19.95) This blend of 70% Cabernet Franc and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon is the red “Bistro” companion for the Chardonnay. Mid weight, a perfume of raspberry, cassis, smoke, tobacco leaf, violets and herbs carries over to the palate. Very good length and ready to go with steak frites. (ES)
CHILE 89 Concha y Toro Winemaker’s Lot 148 Carmenère 2012, Rapel Valley ($18.95) This is a solid Carmenère, which features cassis, blackberry black cherry, violets, anise, mint, roasted herbs and chocolate. It is medium plus bodied with an attack of rich fruit which leads to some dry tannins on the finale. Drink over the next 3 years. (ES)
87 Concha y Toro Casillero Del Diablo Reserva Carmenère 2012, Rapel Valley ($12.95) For its price point, this Carmenère really over delivers. Cassis, violets, raspberry, cocoa and the tell-tale spice/herbal note of the varietal are built on a medium bodied frame. It is elegant, with some dusty tannins which make pairing with a medium-rare grilled steak a fine choice. (ES)
PORTUGAL 91 Taylor Fladgate Late Bottled Vintage Port 2009, Porto ($18.55) This LBV shames some vintage ports – easily! From a hot vintage comes this super ripe and opulent wine with loads of dark fruit, chocolate, raisins, violets, pepper and orange peel. It is long on the finish with some unresolved tannins which will allow for some short term aging, if so desired. (ES)
89 Sandeman Late Bottled Vintage Port 2009, Porto ($16.95) In the past decade, Sandeman has really elevated their game. This full bodied Port is ripe and elegant on the palate. Plum, cassis, violets, spice, earth and smoke flavours are long lasting. A quintessential fireside sipper with Stilton cheese. (ES)
UNITED STATES 92 Bachelder Pinot Noir Johnson Vineyard 2012, Yamhill-Carlton District ($55) Two thousand twelve was a great vintage in Oregon. The combination of low yields and constant warmth throughout the growing season, with little rain, produced ripe and elegant wines. This medium bodied organic Pinot typifies said style. It starts off with cherry, cranberry, iron and toast qualities; then the plum, cocoa, earth, red flowers and spice chime in on the long finale. Tannins are suave, allowing for five years of cellaring. (ES)
88 Henry of Pelham Family Tree 2012, Niagara ($18.95) This delicious blend of 48% Shiraz, 23% Cabernet Franc, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Merlot offers enticing flavours of pepper, plum, cassis, roasted peanuts, cocoa, roasted herbs, vanilla and incense. There is richness on the palate before the juicy acid and round tannins fill in the finale. Very versatile as a food wine! (ES)
88 Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Sonoma County ($18.95) A superb value from the realm of California Cabernet. The blackberry and blueberry fruit meets up with violets, roasted herbs, vanilla and spice. Medium plus body with very good length and some gritty tannins on the aftertaste. Drink over the next 3 years. (ES) TM
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THE
BARTENDER
By Lynn Ogryzlo
THE STORIES BEHIND TWO MEN WHO ARE SHAKING, MIXING, DICING, DRIPPING AND DANCING WITH THE SHAKERS Bursting with passion, humble as pie and seeping of eye candy, Adal Marquez is a 33-year old expert mixologist and bartender in Barcelona, Spain. Winner of two international competitions, brand ambassador for Bacardi Rum and bartending instructor for both the European Union and Barcelona University, Adal claims humbly, “I am an apprentice to the master here.” Adal is referring to Jeranino Vaquero, the top bartender in the world and Boadas Cocktail Bar (boadascocktails.com), the oldest cocktail bar in Barcelona. To be a bartender in Europe is considered to be the royalty of the working class, an occupation with many parallels to top culinary positions. “Cocktails are all about flavour,” says Adal very matter-of-factly, “it must be full of flavour and perfectly balanced”. >>
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In the dimly lit bar the size of a postage stamp, they have the skills to mix over 1,200 cocktails from the classics to international drinks, signature cocktails and new boozy inventions. “We’ve never had a cocktail list,” says Adal, “ever”. Instead, Adal prefers to talk to his customers. He asks questions about their favourite flavours, liquors, spices, herbs and more. From that he creates cocktails that put a smile on the face of everyone who trusts him. He chooses Dante’s Blood for me. As the delicious cocktail slithered down my throat, the concept began to fall into place. Adal, an aspiring poet himself looks up to Dante and this creation is a tribute to him. It’s a mixture of pureed raspberries with hot chili, fresh lime, Licor 43, Tabasco, red wine and well aged rum. It’s thick and blood red in colour. He balances an ice cup on the rim of the glass. A few tiny, dried, hot chili’s and shaved lime zest go into the ice cup and the drink is ready to sip. Firey hot (if you tip the chili’s into the drink), lusciously thick with a meaty raspberry flavour – simply divine! There are three bartenders behind the bar, each one of them is top in their field. Each one of them shaking, mixing, dicing, dripping and dancing with the shakers. One of them lifts a full shaker up to eye level and tips it over. In a few mesmerizing seconds I watch as the dark liquid flows expertly downward through the air into the second shaker held at thigh level. Amazingly, he does it again and again; it’s called mixing long. The golden brown liquid falls into a long, perfect stream, hitting its destination expertly each time. Then he pours it into a prepared glass and magically, it’s the perfect amount of liquid to reach the top of the glass. The technique of mixing long is not only theatrical but it oxidizes the liquid, smoothing out each component and unifying the flavours. The people who find Boadas are well moneyed and cultured. They include movie stars, actors, writers, political customers and aristocrats. “I’ve never worked anywhere in the world that has this kind of clientele” says Adal. There is a framed thank you card from world famous artist Joan Miro who was a Boadas regular. There are other pictures of Miguel Boadas (founder) with a young Kevin Costner, Pablo Picasso, the previous King of Spain and Ernest Hemingway. Adal tells stories of the friendship between Miguel Boadas and Ernest Hemingway. “He was an ugly man when he was drunk and he liked to drink a lot.” Hemingway’s favourite two drinks were the Mojito and Daiquiri and today Boadas makes each of these drinks exactly the same way Hemingway insisted they be. They’re the two most popular drinks because everyone who makes a pilgrimage to Boadas, knows about them. Hemingway’s Mojito is made with lemon, not lime and a double shot of rum because he liked his drinks strong. “In Hemingway’s time there was no lime, only lemon so that’s what they used at the time.” Hemingway’s Daiquiri is made with a double shot of rum and crushed ice because he said it reminded him of the sea of Cuba. “I never saw a Daiquiri with crushed ice but when I tasted it, I fell in love with this style,” says Adal. The delicious Daiquiri is clean and refreshing with tiny shards of ice that melt away to the citrusy flavours. “In Hemingway’s day there were probably only ten cocktail bars in the world. I think he made a point of travelling to all of them,” laughs Adal. Adal has even mastered the Blue Blazer, the most difficult drink in the world. It’s a simple and unpalatable combination of bourbon and water. When ignited and mixed long it creates an impressive blue flame that stretches almost three-feet. It’s impressive but Adal advises, “I don’t recommend to drink it. It’s horrible. It’s only a show drink.”
In Toronto, East Thirty-Six (eastthirty-six.com) is a small cocktail bar partly owned by two Frenchmen, Sebastian Moya from Cannes and Julien Salomone from Toulon. They opened the European-style bar on Wellington Street East in 2014 and unlike typical Toronto bars, there’s not one big screen to be found in the place. Instead, people crowd into the dimly lit space, ladies cozy up to the mahogany bar and parties surround a bistro table as soft music plays in the background. All around the room soft lights draw attention to glass jars of alcohol infusions made by Sebastian, a testament to his passion for high quality drinks. People mingle, they talk to each other in the cocktail soaked atmosphere, just like Boadas. Like Adel, Sebastian is committed, humble and as delicious to look at as his flavour rich cocktails. He squeezes his lemon and lime juice daily, makes his own infusions, his own tinctures and refuses to use mixes from a gun. “I pay attention to the details that most other bartenders take for granted,” he explains. He shows me some of his other tools, a line-up of Edmond Briottet fruit liqueurs in creative flavours. I see rose, fig, caramel, strawberry, white peach and violet. “They don’t have a lot of sugar, just big flavour so they’re perfect for making great cocktails.” Sebastian is a fan of the classics and he’s not afraid to put his own spin on it. “I like a gin Manhattan with Old Fashioned Bitters,” says Sebastian of his reinvention. He uses gin instead of the traditional whisky and Old Fashion Bitters that are strong in cloves and cinnamon. Likewise
I PAY ATTENTION TO THE DETAILS THAT MOST OTHER BARTENDERS TAKE FOR GRANTED -SEBASTIAN MOYA of EAST THIRTY-SIX
his signature Old Fashioned is made with tequila not brandy and he uses chocolate bitters for a popular Torontonian twist. “Always, they have lots of flavour,” says the man who looks so comfortable behind the bar. Unlike Adal, Sebastian can’t make Hemingway-style drinks because Ontario doesn’t allow more than 3-ounces of alcohol in a cocktail, nor can he attempt the Blue Blazer because it is illegal to ignite show drinks, but that didn’t stop him from excitedly igniting my Negroni – love it! East Thirty-Six does have a cocktail list but, “our list is for suggestion only,” says Sebastian. “We have ginger cocktails in the winter, watermelon martini’s in the summer. It’s fun to do that, but we can make anything not on the list.” Ontario laws insist food is available with alcoholic drinks so East Thirty-Six has a ‘small-plates’ menu available from opening (4 p.m.) to close (1 a.m.). Chef Brent Maxwell who returned to Canada after cooking his way around France creates the delicious cocktail friendly fare. To grow their cliental base, East Thirty-Six offers $1.00 oysters on Mondays (4 p.m. to 7 p.m.), half price wine on Sundays and $8.00 martinis through the week (4 p.m. to 7 p.m.). As I think of the over abundance of celebrity chefs on television, I can’t help but feel that really talented bartenders like Adal and Sebastian will soon have their day in the media spotlight. The cocktail culture in Barcelona and Toronto offers plenty of destinations to visit, sip and discover the stories behind the men and women who are shaking, mixing, dicing, dripping and dancing with the shakers. TM
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I S L A N D S
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LOCATED BETWEEN THE SPANS OF THE 1000 ISLANDS INTERNATIONAL BRIDGE ON HILL ISLAND 400’ Above The St. Lawrence River | 3 Observation Decks ( 1 Enclosed ) High Speed Elevator | Canadiana & Souvenir Shop Tour Guide Available At The Top Of The Tower | Currency Exchange (Usd,Eur) Ice Cream Shop | Buses Welcome | Privately Owned And Operated SPECIAL EVENTS 2015 The Tower is open for sunset on May 16 & 17, July 4, Aug. 1 & 2, Sept. 5 & 6, Oct. 10 & 11 | Breakfast with a view: June 7, July 26, Aug. 23 & Sept. 27 | 50th Birthday of the 1000 Islands Tower: June 15 Fireworks Event with Dessert Buffet: July 5th
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ABOUT TOWN
TORONTO’S BEST SUMMER HOTSPOT
Photo: Lissandra Melo | Shutterstock.com
By Gabrielle Tieman Every year, millions of people visit Toronto’s beautiful waterfront to enjoy amazing live music, cultural festivals and lush scenery. Nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario, this unparallelled location is an excellent way to spend a day; offering city dwellers limitless activities right beside the water’s edge. Toronto’s waterfront renewal project has worked hard to create a powerful, worldclass identity for the central waterfront that celebrates the Canadian lakefront experience for all. So whether you’re looking to take a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge, enjoy live music or shop and dine, Toronto’s waterfront has an activity or festival to offer. >>
THE WATERFRONT: Scan here for more activities!
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CELEBRATE
EAT
Celebrate the revitalization of Toronto’s waterfront with Party on the Promenade, the Redpath Waterfront Festival, June 19-21. Recognized as one of Toronto’s major summer festivals, the annual all ages event operates to position and promote Toronto locally, nationally and internationally as a waterfront destination. Comprising of five events, four parks, three days and two kilometres of festival that runs the length of the Queens Quay Boulevard, this multi-day festival will take you that much time to consume everything there is to see and enjoy. Live entertainment will include buskers, musicians and master dance demonstrations that will line the promenade between world class food trucks and vendors. Located in HTO Park East, the Waterfront Artisan Market will showcase unique products from local designers, chefs and artists throughout the entirety of the festival. Want to learn how to dance like a pro? DANCE Pan American Style will have you polishing off your dancing shoes each day with public dance classes led by celebrity choreographer Jean Marc Généreux, contemporary dance choreographer Blake McGrath and master hip-hop dancer Trevor Tordjman. Watch amazing canine aquatic feats as dogs compete for a spot in the World Championships with the Dock Dogs competitions. This dock jumping and diving sport for dogs is back this year with three main events; Big Air, Vertical and Speed Retrieve. Along with the competitions, dogs will ride bikes, play the piano, walk a tightrope and do incredible tricks. Think your dog has what it takes? Dock Dogs encourages all participants to come out and show off their skills for the crowd.
A restaurant with a view can change a great meal into an unforgettable one. Whether it is the city lights reflecting off of the water or sailboats riding the horizon, Toronto’s waterfront restaurants are serving up more than just fantastic food. Resting along water side streets, food lovers can find a wide range of culinary styles and treats. Against the Grain Urban Tavern is a casual classic tavern featuring eclectic twists on favourites – like chipotle baked wings and dark beer braised pulled pork – local draft beers and of course, a waterfront patio with a view. If you are a craft beer fan, check out The Amsterdam Brewhouse; Toronto’s first brew pub sits in a 14,000 square foot brewery right on the shores of Lake Ontario. Offering clean, original brews and great food paired alongside, the view won’t be the only thing you’re talking about when you leave. Looking to treat yourself? Pink Bicycle Sandwich Co. and Lick it Gelato is the perfect after dinner (or before), treat spot. With rich gelato, sorbetto, baked goods and gourmet soups and sandwiches, you will have a hard time choosing just one treat. There is also a plethora of fast food chain classics for the group looking for a quick bite before they get back on the water.
EXPLORE Switch your running shoes for boat shoes. Toronto Harbour Tours’ sightseeing cruise line is a scenic way to explore Toronto’s waterfront and islands up close. Boaters can enjoy a live narrated tour by their captain while taking in the scenic views of Toronto’s skyline and shorelines. Tours run daily from 12 – 4 p.m. weather pending and offer frequent departures on all of the harbourfront. The Harbour Tours will even allow visitors who wish to explore the opportunity to hop on and off the boats when visiting the islands and then catch a return boat later in the day. Tours cost $20 for adults and $12 for children when purchased online. If you’re looking to explore the shorelines independently, Harbourfront Centre Sailing & Powerboating provides affordable and accessible boating courses, services and training to all levels and ages. Boat rentals are open to the public, with a varied fleet of yachts, sail and power boats available for rent. Bareboat rentals are available to anyone with recognized credentials or equivalent boating experience. Harbourfront Centre as well offers first class training facilities for individuals looking to learn the craft or brush up and advance their skills before hitting the open water; offering practical, on-water experience into basic sailing, dinghy sailing, international yacht training and Sail Canada Intermediate Cruising lessons.
SHOP You don’t have to venture downtown to find unique shops and artisan boutiques to satisfy your shopping tooth. Toronto’s waterfront streets Queens Quay West and Harbour Square hold a contemporary and oneof-a-kind treasure trove perfect for those looking to enjoy the sunshine while they shop. Discover unique boutiques like Cosmopawlitan Pet Boutique and Spa (dedicated to providing high quality products and services for your beloved pets), Kitchen Table Grocery Store stock full of fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods and flowers from around the world and organic clothing stores like the Earth Collection – offering shoppers environmentally friendly and ethically produced fashions created with all natural fibres for men, women and children.
RELAX The Toronto Music Garden is a must see City of Toronto Park that can be appreciated by all. Known as the gardens infused with the spirit of music, the soothing and beautiful grounds are a symbol of Toronto’s participation in the international community and a public place for young and old alike to enjoy a meditative space for quietly pondering nature Inspired by and a reflection of the music of Johann Sebastian Bach and designed by internationally acclaimed cellist Yo Yo Ma and landscape designer Julie Moir Messervy, offers great views of Lake Ontario for visitors to enjoy year round. But it is the summer months where the acclaimed gardens are brought to life; hosting the summer concert series Summer Music in the Garden from July to September. The free concert series features outstanding classical performances from around the world. Concerts are most Thursdays at 7pm and Sundays at 4pm (weather-permitting) and last about one hour.
COMPRISING OF FIVE EVENTS, FOUR PARKS, THREE DAYS AND TWO KILOMETRES OF FESTIVAL THAT RUNS THE LENGTH OF THE QUEENS QUAY BOULEVARD, THIS MULTI-DAY FESTIVAL WILL TAKE YOU THAT MUCH TIME TO CONSUME EVERYTHING THERE IS TO SEE AND ENJOY.
SING & DANCE Join fellow music lovers for high-energy music and outdoor dancing all summer long with Dancing on the Pier – a free concert series that celebrates all styles of music and dance every week right alongside Lake Ontario. Past years have had dancers moving to fast paced numbers by Toronto’s most popular Cuban band Son Ache and swinging to classic Big Band era songs by one of the country’s premiere live groups the Swing Shift Big Band. Dancing on the Pier ensures there will not be a quiet Thursday night in Toronto. DJ Deep Fried Fridays starts your weekends off right, pairing Toronto’s top DJs with different decadent deep fried foods each week to create a journey for your senses. This free entrance event profiles different types of music blends alongside fan favourites like empanadas and duck confit cakes. Alongside the weekly events is Toronto’s annual Waterfront Blues festival. Held in Woodbine Park, right off of Lakeshore Boulevard, this free blues and jazz music focused festival runs for three days in midJuly and has established a ten year tradition of presenting a mix of high caliber artists. Past performers have included Grammy and Juno award winners, Canada’s foremost soul band and Canadian up and comers. TM
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Scan here for more on Angie!
“SECRET” GARDEN & GALLERY NOW OPEN TO VISITORS!
It’s no surprise this one-of-a-kind “must visit” destination is a TRIP ADVISOR TRAVELLER’S CHOICE! Renowned Niagara-on-the-Lake artist Angie Strauss is best known for transforming her gift of colour and nature’s beauty into wonderful oil paintings that just seem to make people happy. Angie’s “secret” garden and gallery is hidden from street view behind her beautiful 1860’s Victorian home. Enter through the garden gate and discover a magical world... and the one where she finds her inspiration! A tranquil fish pond & waterfalls, abundant with waterlilies and water hyacinths leads you into a large rambling perennial English country garden, filled with countless varieties of flowers and trees- and the garden chosen by the Town to be judged when it won the prestigious honour as “The Prettiest Town in Canada.”
Follow the meandering brick path and under a majestic sixty foot high weeping Beech tree to discover Angie’s studio and gallery, where you’ll be greeted by the artist herself. There you can enjoy her vibrant oil paintings, art prints on canvas or watercolour paper, art cards, as well as her affordable handmade jewellery. Hers is a unique and special world, filled with beauty and charm...including Angie herself, with a personality that is an inspiration to all who meet her!
DON’T MISS IT...
178 VICTORIA (OFF QUEEN, DOWN FROM THE BANK OF MONTREAL) NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE 905-468-2570 • TOLL-FREE 1-888-510-0939 • www.angiestrauss.com • angiestraussgallery@gmail.com
ORONTO RANSIT FOR OURISTS By Gabrielle Tieman
The quickest route to frustration during an out of town vacation is to battle an unknown city grid. One way streets, strange neighbourhoods and a constant flow of pedestrian traffic can turn a quick commute into a never ending battle against the clock. >>
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W
ith easy to navigate subways, busses, streetcars and trains, Toronto’s public transit systems make getting around the hectic city a snap. Leaders in efficient and affordable travel, Go Transit and the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), the third largest transit system in North America, provide visitors with an accessible way of seeing Toronto and its outer corners. Transporting over 1.6 million passengers on a typical weekday by wheels, ferries and rails, visitors can easily forgo expensive downtown parking lots and frustrating commuter traffic without sacrificing the sights. By embracing these five forms of transportation when visiting Toronto, you’ll travel smarter, save time and energy all while conquering Toronto’s big city grid with ease.
BUS Toronto’s bus system allows for easy access to thousands of points throughout the city. With TTC, there is no waiting for a bus; with over 1800 buses and more than 140 bus routes, frequent and fast service is easy for visitors with tight sight-seeing schedules. Many buses operate all day every day, providing transit services within a five to seven minute walk to most attractions within Toronto. Single fare bus rides cost between $2.80 with a token or ticket or three dollars if you’re paying with cash. Bus tickets and tokens can be purchased ahead of time at Subway Station Collector Booths, located at every subway station, or at an Authorized TTC Fare Seller at any time of day. Tickets start at 3 for $8.50 and increase from there, depending on the number of tickets you wish to buy ahead of time. If you are paying for cash for the bus upon boarding, make sure to have exact change; bus drivers do not make change and you will get stuck forking over more than the ticket price. If you are headed to a destination that includes more than one bus trip, make sure to obtain a paper transfer once you have paid for your fare – a single fare can take you a long way. TTC allows ticket holders to transfer for free between TTC buses, subways and streetcar routes as needed to reach your destination. All bus stops are easy to spot [all stops are marked with a white pole with a red band and bus icon] and they make it easy to hop on and off
busses with little searching for your next stop in order to reach your destinations efficiently. Free TTC Ride Guide maps are available in most subway stations once you purchase a ticket. As well, new bus stops have been equipped with easy to read maps and route information for travelers.
STREETCAR Looking to enjoy a historical mode of transit over your holiday? Toronto’s streetcar system is a timeless and efficient transit network comprising of 11 streetcar routes and 249 streetcars, making it the largest streetcar system in North America. Operating at upwards of 70 kilometres an hour, the streetcar is a leisurely way to see the city while you travel to your destination. But Toronto is not leaving their streetcars to rest in the past; currently undergoing a huge upgrade, 204 new and improved vehicles are set to be on the rails by 2019. Modeled after similar successful European transit lines, the new 30 metre Bombardier vehicles will feature 70 seats and standing room designed to accommodate a variety of customer needs – including family wide seats and areas to accommodate strollers, wheelchairs and bicycles – and carry 285,000 people daily. Their plan is to have 30 new vehicles on the rails by the end of 2015. With the new improvements and vast upgrades being made to the system, transit officials ensure riders will be rewarded with more reliable service and less wait times, with busy streetcar routes operating as frequently as every two minutes. TTC has said their standard is simple: if you’re running to a stop and you miss the car, you should be able to see the next one coming. Fares operate the same as the bus routes; single fares cost between $2.80 with tokens or tickets or three dollars if paying with cash. Again, if you are paying in cash upon boarding, make sure to have exact change as the drivers do not make change.
SUBWAY SYSTEM Sometimes the fastest way to get from point A to B is to head underground. Operating every two and a half to five minutes during peak periods, Toronto’s easy to navigate subway system is perfect for travelers who want to reach their destination with time to spare.
Quick navigation is at the heart of TTC’s subway; with almost 70 subway stations and four lines running in every direction of the city. Each car has a subway map posted above the doorways, making for easy navigation and exit preparation with young children or baggage. The subway hours of operation on weekdays and Saturdays are frequent, running from approximately 6 a.m.-1:30 a.m., and Sunday service approximately 9 a.m. - 1:30am. Fares run the same as the streetcars and buses at $2.80 per ride with a token or three dollars by cash. Each subway station has at least one staffed entrance which accepts all fares, including day passes and transfers. Subway stations will offer change if you choose to pay with cash. Other entrances are automatic and accept tokens and weekly/monthly passes only. If paying with cash or tokens and switching to a streetcar or bus later in the same trip, look for the small red machines past the turnstiles to receive a paper transfer – you will need it to prove your purchase to the next driver. If you’re in need of accessible features, make sure to consult TTC’s Subway Map before departing; not all stations within the system are equipped with accessible features like wheelchairs and barrier-free entryways but those that are will be highlighted.
GO TRAIN Decided to explore outside of Toronto for the day? Ontario’s inter-regional transit system GO Transit is the commuter rail and bus service that connects cities and towns across the greater Toronto area with ease. Reaching from Barrie to Hamilton, Oshawa to Niagara Falls, GO Transit makes it easy for you to schedule a one day excursion across the Greater Golden Horseshoe – no car rentals required. Carrying over 65 million passengers a year, their seven train system runs 240 train trips daily. All trains depart from their main downtown hub in the basement of Union Station which is an easy to access central point when staying in downtown Toronto. Though services are much less frequent than the TTC, with often an hour between trips and some routes only available during rush hour, it is a leisurely and enjoyable alternative to battling the highways outside of the city. Fares are based on the distance you are travelling and passengers are given the option to purchase either a single ride fare or a day pass which can
be used for unlimited travel between two specific zones. Each single ride GO ticket is valid between two specified points; if it takes both a train and bus for you to arrive at your destination, you may use the same ticket. Tickets and passes are available from GO Train stations, GO Bus terminals, and GO Transit ticket agencies as well as can be purchased at automated ticket vending machines. These machines are found at most GO Train stations, and accept credit cards, debit cards, and select coins. GO Bus drivers as well accept fares on the bus, but again do not carry change.
FERRIES Toronto’s attractions are not limited to the city’s core. With a frequent and simple to use ferry system, exchanging the bustle of downtown for the refreshing Toronto Islands just off the city’s coast is an affordable and easy escape for individuals without access to a boat. Host to a number of sporting events and festivals throughout the summer and many root attractions like restaurants, parks, splash pads, Centreville Amusement Park and beaches – including both family beaches and a secluded nude beach – the Islands make for a great full day excursion for both adults and families with children. The Toronto Ferry Docks are located at the foot of Bay Street at Queens Quay, just west of the Westin Harbour Castle hotel. During the summer season Ferry departures are frequent, with Monday to Friday service to Centre Island and Hanlan’s Point leaving every 3045 minutes. Saturday, Sunday and Holidays will operate on the same schedule, but increase departures to every 30 minutes during peak hours from 10:15 a.m. – 6:15 p.m. for Hanlan’s Point and 8 a.m. – 11 p.m. for Centre Island. Centre Island schedule will increase to every 15 minutes depending upon weather and crowd requirements. All fares are roundtrip and range from $7.00 for adults, $4.50 for students with valid student ID, $3.50 for children under 14 and free for children under the age of two. The ferries and docks are fully wheelchair and stroller accessible. Toronto’s ferries can carry more than 4,000 passengers an hour to and from the Islands so travelers are advised to arrive early to avoid long waits. Schedules vary per season, so it is recommended to check each individual island’s schedule according to season you’re visiting and weather conditions. TM
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BUFFALO BILLS
Home Field Advantage It’s 8:30 a.m. on a Sunday: time to crack open a cold one, fire up the grill
and start the party with 70,000 of your closest friends. Tailgating at the Ralph before a Bills game is a time-honored tradition that goes back decades. So is the Friday Night Bash, where fireworks cap off a summer evening of Bisons baseball in downtown’s retro-style Coca-Cola Field. Buffalo’s professional teams – the Bills, Sabres, Bisons and Bandits lacrosse – pride themselves on honoring the city’s proud sports history and treating you to the best fan experience in their leagues. Charlie Fashana
BUFFALO BISONS
Baseball is the greatest game and all generations go to it. I always get that at the ballpark. ‘Oh, you used to serve my grandfather.’ Or, ‘I used to come here and sit on my dad’s knee, and now I’m getting a beer from you.’ It’s amazing how many people come to me for their first legal beer and get their picture with the Conehead getting that first beer. It’s a rite of passage. I can’t sell it cheap, but I can sell it cold. CONEHEAD AS TOLD TO MILB.COM
@CharlieFlash23
BILL WIPPERT
“Love how the @BuffaloSabres honor their heritage at the FNC with remnants from the Old Aud. #Tradition”
JOHN PAGET JOHN PAGET
JOHN PAGET JOHN PAGET
This might be the last simple place left in the NFL. A place where fans navigate tiny roads and pass signs for $10 parking on people’s front lawns, and they can walk to a stadium that doesn’t look like the Emirates Palace. And when they do visit they can find an RV in the middle of the parking lot where a Hall of Fame quarterback tailgates just like them – every game-day morning. YAHOO.COM
BY LAUREN CHARLEY
When most people think of Toronto, they think of a culturally diverse and fast-paced metropolis filled with chaotic city traffic, lively entertainment, prosperous economic development, and a rich passion for arts and culture. Despite all the characteristics Toronto shares with other large cities, this world-renowned urban centre is also the site of a lesser-known, unique and haunted past. The dark secrets this place keeps disclosed are waiting to be shared with you by The Haunted Walk of Toronto. >>
When most people think of Toronto, they think of a culturally diverse and fast-paced metropolis filled with chaotic city traffic, lively entertainment, prosperous economic development, and a rich passion for arts and culture. Despite all the typical characteristics Toronto shares with other large cities, this world-renowned urban centre is also the site of a lesser-known, unique and haunted past. The dark secrets this place keeps disclosed are waiting to be shared with you by The Haunted Walk of Toronto.
TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 43
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WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW ABOUT TORONTO…. Toronto is the most populous city in Canada and the country’s cultural, entertainment and financial capital. Its reputation as one of the world’s most cosmopolitan hubs of activity has made it an attractive place for visitors, businesspeople, and residents. However, many of Toronto’s guests and locals are oblivious to the fact that they are in a place with a unique and haunted past. Its violent history and abnormal sightings of the unknown have led paranormal experts to believe that some of the city’s most active areas are the site of an abundance of supernatural activity.
Toronto is a city that many don’t think of as a “historical” place. It is a city that seems to always be moving forward, and not taking much time to reflect on its past... There’s a lot of Toronto that people don’t know about, and we strive to share that on our tours.” – Jim Dean, Creative Director of Haunted Walk Inc. Tours. THE HISTORY OF YORK AND THE CITY OF TORONTO York was what the original name of “Old Toronto” used to be called since it was established by Governor John Graves Simcoe in 1793, until being given its current name, Toronto, in 1834. From the time of its recognition as Upper Canada’s capital, the city has endured participation in historical battles, revolutionary political scandals, and numerous instances of bloodthirsty murder; all of which have warranted suspicion that this tourist hot spot may in fact be haunted. The town began as an undeveloped area with unpaved roads and unsanitary living conditions where citizens often engaged in vulgar displays of public behaviour. All contributions considered, York was not a very salubrious place to live nor visit, and safety and security conditions at home and work were less than adequate. The Upper Canada parliament buildings were burned to the ground by American soldiers during the War of 1812, who did a lot of looting, pillaging, and of course, killing during their invasion of the area. Additionally, Toronto later became the site of its own political turmoil during the “Rebellion of 1837”, when William Lyon Mackenzie led a group of reformers to march down Yonge Street with intent to attack the city. Many executions took place at the Don Jail over the course of its history, including the double hanging of Ronald Turpin and Arthur Lucas in 1962; the last before capital punishment was abolished in Canada. During an archaeological assessment in 2007, human remains were even found around the property. >>
DON JAIL The Don Jail was one of Toronto’s former penitentiaries, situated East of the Don River in the Riverdale neighbourhood. The facility opened 1864, and features Italianate architecture and vermiculated columns, which create a sense of awe; it is one of the oldest pre-Confederation structures in Toronto that still remains in good condition. The architectural masterpiece closed in 1977 as an incarceration facility, and reopened in 2013 as the administrative building for the new Bridgepoint Hospital. The building was once the site of many tragedies leading to a strong belief that the new hospital location is a hub for paranormal activity. There are many reported ghost sightings on the property, including the ghost of a prisoner who committed suicide in her cell and now wanders the halls, haunting those who innocently come to the infamous lockup. These supernatural incidents are unlikely to be reduced with the facility’s transformation, as about 20 percent of its heritage interior was preserved by the hospital.
THE TOUR GUIDES The Haunted Walk tour guides are carefully selected from the best of Toronto’s roster of talented actors, story tellers, and amateur historians. The chosen candidates are mentored to become the perfect hosts, each delivering the passion and enthusiasm necessary to tell the tales of the haunted city centre. These dedicated hosts will provide the highest-quality service for guests seeking to enjoy an extraordinary excursion which is both educational and frightening, and are happy to elaborate and answer questions on the creepy stories...should you be brave enough to ask them! GLEN SHACKLETON The Haunted Walk was established in 1995 by the current owner, Glen Shackleton, one of the most renowned “ghost historians” in Canada. According to the Haunted Walk website, Glen started the company “with the intention of creating a job for himself where he could study local history, meet interesting people and convince total strangers to listen to all of the great stories he had gathered over the years.” Glen is the author of two books about ghost stories and paranormal activity; Ghosts of Kingston: From the Files of the Haunted Walk and Ghosts of Ottawa: From the Files of the Haunted Walk. TYPES OF TOURS Haunted Walk of Toronto operates two different tours, with special Halloween versions offered during the month of October until November 1st. All walks deliver an exciting presentation, revealing many surprises about the history and legends of the city’s haunted past. TORONTO’S HAUNTED WALK The Toronto’s Haunted Walk tour is offered throughout the season until early October. For 90 minutes, participants are escorted along a surprisingly spooky walk in the downtown area of Toronto. Departing from the Hockey Hall of Fame the Haunted Walk guides narrate a history of the city from when it was the old military town of York to the urban centre it is today. The stories of Toronto’s haunted past are sure to shock those on the tour, as they hear the secrets of haunted theatres, public hangings, and encounters which have occurred in many of the city’s beautiful buildings, including the infamous Mackenzie House. After this experience, guests will have an entirely different outlook on the city they didn’t know was haunted! GHOSTS AND SPIRITS OF OLD TOWN If you’re looking for a different kind of thrill this autumn, Haunted Walk of Toronto offers their “Ghosts and Spirits of Old Town” tour up until late November. The 90 minute tour departs from the old Distillery Historic District, which was once a massive industrial site and eventually became the largest concentration of distilling in the world. Its history as a dangerous and unregulated production facility have led to many stories of unnerving accidents in the past and questionable supernatural instances which are still frequent today! “Stepping into the Distillery is like traveling back to another time and place. That is why it is so often used as a set by major film productions. The historical feel of the Distillery is the perfect complement for the darker history and spine-tingling tales we share every evening on the tours. There are twists, turns and surprises around every corner - just like the stories we love sharing,” says Jim Dean, Creative Director of Haunted Walk Inc.
THE
DISTILLERY HISTORIC DISTRICT The Distillery Historic District is home to industrial buildings which comprise the largest and most well preserved collection of Victorian architecture in the city of Toronto. It was formerly the site of the Gooderham & Worts Distillery, which opened first as a small grist mill and began producing whiskey in 1837. Shortly after its inauguration, one of the owners, James Worts, endured a horrific personal loss when his wife and baby died during child birth in 1834. Heartbroken by the tragedy, Worts was rumoured to have committed suicide when his body was found two weeks later having drowned in the property’s well. Numerous reports have sighted what is thought to be his ghost wandering miserably through the property, pining in search of his lost family. Due to the hazardous working conditions of industrial workplaces during the majority of the facility’s operation, many souls were lost in terrible accidents, contributing to the belief that there is more than just Worts’ spirit who haunt the grounds.
HALLOWEEN WALKS AND EVENTS During the month of October, Haunted Walk of Toronto delivers two special versions of their regular tours. One is the “Fact or Fiction” Ghost and Spirits of Old Town tour, where in addition to the usual stories, the guides will throw in one fictional story and participants are asked to guess which is fake for a chance to win special prizes. The second is the “Mackenzie House Visit”, which is the usual Toronto’s Haunted Walk, with a chance to explore more thoroughly this notorious paranormal site. Due to the high volume of interest in these unique events, the company recommends purchasing tickets in advance online at www.hauntedwalk.com/ torontotours.php, or at their box office through the Segway of Ontario, located at 30 Gristmill Lane, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4. TM
1000 Points of View Gananoque and the 1000 Islands is a boater’s paradise, a fisherman’s playground, a hiker’s haven, and a cyclist’s waterfront adventure. It’s easy to see why it’s regarded as one of the most beautiful places on earth. Amid the spectacular scenery of lush woodlands, rock and cobalt-blue water, the 1,864 islands that make up the 1000 Islands truly lives up to its reputation as a world-class waterfront destination.
COURTESY OF PECWA/MICHAEL GRILLS
RINCE EDWAR OUNTY
WINE. DINE. UNWIND.
MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME IN THE COUNTY Prince Edward County is Ontario’s fastest-growing wine region, with 40 established vineyards and wineries and new ones popping up every year. The limestone-rich soils of Prince Edward County produce wines with an unmistakable sense of place. The natural minerality of the soil is highlighted in the wines along with other flavours developed from the nutrients and minerals that the grapes absorb as they grow. While the winemakers are serious about wine, the tasting experience in Prince Edward County is refreshingly unpretentious. Sip award-winning wines quietly looking out over acres of vineyards, or enjoy the hustle and bustle of a crowded patio. With tasting rooms in rustic old barns, industrial production facilities, and modern, sleek concrete & steel buildings, wine tasting in Prince Edward County never gets boring. There are a lot of exciting things to do in Prince Edward County. Step off the beaten path and discover art studios, artisan markets, local theatre & live music. Spread your wings and try something new, whether it’s a cooking class or renting a bike and cycling quiet country back roads. Prince Edward County is laid back, but there’s never a shortage of things to see and do.
CLOSSON CHASE WINERY
DEL -GATTO ESTATES
HALF MOON BAY WINERY
629 Closson Road Hillier, ON clossonchase.com
3633 County Road 8 Picton, ON del-gattoestates.ca
3271 County Road 13, RR#3 Picton, ON HMBWinery.ca
Closson Chase is a quality-driven producer that helped spearhead the birth of the Prince Edward County wine industry, using centuries-old European traditions & sustainable, innovative techniques to create world class wines using only the finest Chardonnay & Pinot Noir grapes. Winemaker Keith Tyers captures what Mother Nature grows in a bottle. We are committed to sustainable and organic practices wherever possible.
Del-Gatto Estates is family-owned and operated. Handplanted, handpicked and handcrafted – our wines will take you on a new journey. You will feel the life in the vines, our love for them, and the passion we have for each vintage. We are proud to release the County’s first Pinotage grown on our land. Our vineyard is located in the most picturesque part of Cape Vessey, in the heart of the fruit belt. We invite you to enjoy something new. Ci Vediamo Presto (See you soon!)
Half Moon Bay is a small farm-gate winery located on a limestone ridge above Half Moon Bay, in the southeast corner of Prince Edward County. Our grapes are hand harvested and grown without the use of synthetic chemicals. The wines are crafted with minimum intervention. Our wine selections for 2015 will include Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Chardonnay & Merlot all estate grown and bottles. Member of the Grape Growers of Ontario and Prince Edward County Winegrowers Association.
HUFF ESTATES
GRANGE OF PRINCE EDWARD ESTATE WINERY
K ARLO ESTATES WINERY
2274 County Rd.1 Bloomfield, ON huffestates.com
990 Closson Road Hillier, ON grangeofprinceedward.com
561 Danforth Road Wellington, ON karloestates.com
Huff Estates is a state-of-the-art facility, modern and sleek with a multi-faceted concept to maximize your experience. Award winning high quality wines, served by our qualified staff. Complete with indoor/outdoor patio, serving lunches May long weekend through Thanksgiving and live music every Sunday through the summer season. Floor to ceiling windows and even a heli-pad, this is unlike any other winery in the area and offers a unique experience for all.
We want your visit to our vineyard to be an experience at The Grange of Prince Edward Vineyards & Estate Winery. Taste our 100% estate grown and made wines, tour our winery and vineyards, and spend the afternoon enjoying a classic picnic amongst the vines.
Visit the new home of Gilmour Wine in an 1845 barn. Sample wines with food pairings. Before his passing, Richard Karlo partnered with Hockey Hall of Famer Doug Gilmour, because of a shared standard of excellence. As the new home of Gilmour Wine, Karlo Estates is Trip Advisor’s top winery destination and the only winery to be named twice on the Top Ten Cutting Edge Wines in the World list. We are also proud to be recognized as North America’s first Vegan certified winery.
1000 Islands/Mille-ÃŽles
EXPLORE, DISCOVER and EXPERIENCE the 1000 Islands like never before!
For special packages visit 1000islandsbrockville.com | 1.888.251.7676
City of the 1000 Islands Brockville is considered the eastern gateway to the 1000 Islands and is one of the oldest and most charming cities in Ontario. Brockville, known as “the City of the 1000 Islands” attracts visitors from around the world looking to spend some time in the world famous 1000 Islands and on the St. Lawrence River. The city’s roots trace back to just after the American Revolution when displaced Loyalist refugees settled and founded the first incorporated village in Upper Canada. Take a stroll or a bike ride along one of the most accessible waterfronts in the 1000 Islands to view North America’s great inland shipping route where gigantic
THE AQUATARIUM Brockville’s Newest Tourism Attraction The Aquatarium is Brockville’s newest tourism attraction and it will be opening in 2015! This interactive, learning and discovery center is located at the foot of the Tall Ships Landing and at the base of Broad Street in the heart of Brockville. At the Aquatarium, a variety of interactive adventures and experiences inspire critical thinking through storytelling and play while cultivating an appreciation of the unique history, culture and ecosystems of the 1000 Islands region. Spark your imagination with a visit to the Aquatarium! aquatarium.ca
cargo vessels weave their way through the Brockville Islands. Explore the Brock Tail, Canada’s First Railway Tunnel, enjoy afternoon tea on the verandah at Fulford Place Museum or fire the cannon at Fort Wellington National Historic Site. Do some shopping in one or all of our fabulous boutiques, antique shops or art galleries along King Street. Brockville offers several excellent dining options in the community including several choices in the downtown. Visitors stopping by Brockville have plenty of interesting sites to see including eastern Ontario’s newest attraction opening in 2015, the Aquatarium.
1000 ISLANDS & SEAWAY CRUISES Boat cruising in the world famous 1000 Islands
BROCKVILLE ARTS CENTRE World Class Venue - World Class Entertainment
Of course, no visit to Brockville would be complete without a cruise of the world famous 1000 Islands. Departing from Block House Island in the City’s historic downtown, 1000 Islands & Seaway Cruises operates a fleet of boats offering a close-up view of the Islands. Choose from a variety of traditional Sightseeing, Dining and Entertainment cruises or get your motor running aboard the Islands’ only high-speed passenger boat, the ‘WildCat’ – safe, family fun, soft adventure for all ages. 1000islandscruises.com
Treat yourself to a show in one of Canada’s finest heritage theatres. The Brockville Arts Centre presents a wide variety of top quality live entertainment year round. The 710 seat theatre is located in historic downtown Brockville. This popular venue is well known for its friendly staff, big stage, comfortable seating, state of the art sound system and exceptional acoustics. The lobby gallery showcases some of the regions finest artists and exhibitions. brockvilleartscentre.com
has earned its reputation as one of the world’s best freshwater scuba diving destinations. Thanks to the crystal-clear waters that reveal well-preserved sunken ships - from steel freighters to old schooners - thousands of divers explore these shipwrecks in “Canada’s Caribbean” every year.
Fathers Day Weekend
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June 19-21, 2015
allshipsfestival.ca Funded by the Government of Ontario
PLAYG
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THE ROM – ROYAL ONTARIO MUSEUM rom.on.ca/en The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is proud to be amongst the world’s leading museums of natural history and international cultures. In the museum, visitors are exposed to millenniums of information, covering the history of humanity and nature, by explaining the relationship between the two. The museum invites the public to explore the extraordinary experiences of science and civilization, by visiting the establishment and learning through engagement with its many informative travelling exhibits and permanent galleries. This summer, be sure to plan a day to visit “Pompeii: In the Shadow of the Volcano”, which opens June 13. It explores the mystery of the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, that was buried by a volcanic eruption almost 2000 years ago. This exhibit displays various objects that have been excavated from this ancient site. The exhibit will be running until January 3, 2016.
Toronto is Canada’s most populous city, and the capital of Ontario. With a population of over 2,615,000 residents, this metropolis also attracts over 21 million visitors annually, from locations all over the world. Many international tourists fall in love with the renowned Canadian hospitality and culture, and especially all the sights, activities, and attractions our land has to offer. Toronto is a very popular tourist destination: the home to major sports teams, many award-winning restaurants, the country’s leading economic sectors, and of course, an infinite amount of enterprises to match everyone’s interests. Summer is one of the best times of year to visit Toronto, as it is a very beautiful city to explore outside on a warm, sunny day. Additionally, some of the city’s most popular attractions are only open, weather permitting, in the late spring, summer, and early fall. The following six venues are a mix of both indoor and outdoor activities, offering fun and exciting experiences for the whole family.
BY: LAUREN CHARLEY
URBAN
ROUND ONTARIO SCIENCE CENTRE ontariosciencecentre.ca
CENTRE ISLAND PARK– TORONTO ISLANDS centreisland.ca
The Ontario Science Centre (OSC) is a fun and educational outing for families, offering information of interest to visitors of all ages. With hundreds of exhibits and activities covering a vast array of topics, the centre provides an enjoyable environment for all individuals. The OSC is a pioneer learning centre with a hands-on approach to science, along with the San Francisco Exploratorium and Detroit’s Museum of Science and Technology. Unlike most traditional museums where the exhibits are for viewing only, the OSC offers an enriching experience for visitors by providing interactive exhibits catered to those who learn best through personal participation. Since its inauguration, the OSC has been Ontario’s primary public centre for innovative thinking and learning in the fields of science and technology, and an iconic institution in Toronto. Exhibits in the OSC include “The AstraZeneca Human Edge”, where attendees explore the potential and limits of the human body; a fantastic voyage across the universe at the Planetarium; electricity demonstrations, and even a “Science Arcade” to try the most bizarre science experiments.
Just off the shore of the busy, metropolitan city centre of Toronto, a small community of eleven islands comprise the only group of isles in the Western part of Lake Ontario, and provide shelter to the Toronto Harbour. The summer ferry schedule operates from May 15 to September 7. Although each of the islands features its own unique qualities and natural beauty, visitors to Toronto Islands are most familiar with Centre Island Park, on Middle Island. Centre Island Park is home to the very popular, 14-acre “Centreville Amusement Park”, which is perfect for families with young children. The fun fair includes over 30 rides and attractions including Twirling Tea Cups, the Scrambler, the Monster Coaster, the Log Flume ride and Ferris-wheel. The park also features activities perfect for family bonding such as miniature golf, and bicycle rentals including singles, tandem bikes, and even quad-cycles. Before boarding the ferry in the morning, be sure to pick up some sandwich fixings, premade salads, or hotdogs from a nearby grocery store; Centre Island Park is renowned for its 21 picturesque picnic >> TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 53
areas, six of which have fire pits, and others offer recreational volleyball courts and wading pools. Alternately, the island also has many concession stands with treats such as cotton candy, ice cream, and funnel cakes, and offers two full service restaurants featuring large outdoor patios with panoramic views of Lake Ontario and prospects of the beautiful Toronto city skyline. MEDIEVAL TIMES medievaltimes.com/toronto Travel back in time to the Medieval ages where honour and bravery meet pride and tradition, by witnessing an authentic, live jousting tournament, complete with a four-course Medieval-style banquet experience. The show features a full cast of knights, dutiful courtiers and royalty, who bring to life the magic of one of the middle-ages’ most prized traditions, in a competition between six knights armed with lances, and mounted on horseback. Medieval Times is no ordinary dinner theatre. The show takes place inside a fully enclosed European-Style castle, “The Grand Ceremonial Arena”, which accommodates up to 1,400 guests. Upon arrival, visitors are presented with a colourful crown representing the knight to whom they will bestow their unconditional support. The lords and ladies in the crowd are then served an exquisite, regal meal, which includes oven-roasted chicken, garlic bread, tomato-bisque soup, herb-roasted potatoes, spare ribs, and the castle chef ’s pastry of choice. Not only do you get to indulge like a king, but you must eat like him too: using absolutely no cutlery! The property also provides a full-service bar for adults during the pre-show, the show itself, and the post-show. At this bar, “The Knight Club”, guests get a chance to meet with their esteemed knights and other cast members, receive autographs, take photos, and even dance to tunes from the Medieval Juke Box. Be sure to visit the “Torture Dungeon” to see over a dozen different medieval torture devices, and then purchase a souvenir at the castle’s gift shop.
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CANADA’S WONDERLAND canadaswonderland.com Canada’s Wonderland, “Canada’s Premier Amusement Park”, is a 330-acre theme park in Vaughn, a suburb of Toronto, located just north of the city. It is the ideal place for families to spend a day out in the hot summer sun, exploring the massive park and satisfying their appetites for an adrenaline adventure. Today, Wonderland has over 65 rides and attractions, including the famous “Leviathan”, the seventh-tallest and eighth-fastest roller coaster in the world. In addition to thrill rides and attractions for kids, Canada’s Wonderland offers a variety of moderate activities for visitors wanting a more relaxing experience. Alternatively, guests can enjoy the waterpark, “Splash Works”, featuring a lazy river, multiple splash pads and pools. For an educational experience, kids can check out the “Dinosaurs Alive” exhibit, featuring models of the monstrous creatures and interactive learning activities. Also offered for the guests’ enjoyment are live entertainment options including concerts, acrobats, professional divers, and theatrical performances, as well as a diverse selection of dining options and boutique shops. TM
CANADIAN NATIONAL EXHIBITION (CNE) theex.com The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) or “The Ex”, as it is commonly referred to, will return to its annual location at the Exhibition Place this year between August 21 and September 7. The Ex is Canada’s largest annual fair, and runs for a total of 18 days. It began as a way to promote agriculture and technology when the exhibition first took place in 1879. Today, however, it is celebrated by over a million visitors each year who come to enjoy an array of entertainment, shopping, attractions, and especially the chance to try some of the best international cuisine Toronto has to offer. Additionally, the fair offers colourful parades, vibrant pyrotechnics, educational exhibits, and talented street performers. This year, the CNE enjoys exclusive entertainment from national and international performers including musicians, celebrity experts, award-winning chefs, incredible stunt professionals, ventriloquists, and a variety of different talent acts. The grounds feature numerous markets and pavilions, selling both unique treasures and modern merchandise at reduced prices for the classic shopaholics. Adrenaline junkies can purchase tickets or a Ride All Day pass, to experience the thrill of rides such as roller coasters and zip lines on the Adult Midway, whilst children can conquer their fears and face all the fun the Kiddie Midway has to offer. Whatever your interests, the Canadian National Exhibit offers fun for the entire family to enjoy. TM
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Fort Henry National Historic Site Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises Experience The Complete Kingston 1000 Islands Destination.
Hop on the Trolley and step back in time with a stop at the UNESCO-designated Fort Henry National Historic Site of Canada: meet the Fort Henry Guard or take in a world-famous Sunset Ceremony on Wednesday nights in July and August. Then, board a Kingston 1000 Islands Cruise ship for the widest selection of entertaining sightseeing and fine dining cruises in the 1000 Islands, departing from the heart of Kingston’s historic downtown. Create your Cruise and Fort Henry K-Pass Package at www.Kpass.ca
www.ktic.ca
www.forthenry.com
www.kpass.ca
Experience all the 1000 Islands has to offer,
HWY 32
first class!
Kingston
HWY 401
1000 Islands Tour
Brockville
Boldt Castle Tour
Two Castle Tour
1.855.855.HELI (4354) Fly 1000 Islands.ca
LIFESTYLE & CULTURE
D & E LAKE, A TORONTO INSTITUTION BY LYNN OGRYZLO
Don Lake is a tall man, I’m guessing 6-foot, 5-inches, impeccable posture, distinguished grey hair tied back into a ponytail and in his little disheveled shop on King Street East where jeans and a sweatshirt would not be out of place, Don wears suits. Like an English history professor, Don wears his past on his sleeve, a man of mystery, a man of intrigue. >>
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It’s easy enough to miss Don’s shop. The façade of D & E Lake Ltd., is wooden, a rarity in Toronto these days. The centre door is flanked with large windows of small, rippled glass panes with century old, faded signs over each. Inside are books, thousands and thousands of books along with rare prints, limited historical artifacts and displays of hard to find picture-framing materials. Like walking through the wardrobe in Narnia, D & E Lake is a magical experience. Enter the front door and I promise you’ll not be able to walk more than a few feet. Partly because of the massive piles of books crowded all around you but mostly because of a sense of ooverwhelming verwhelming disorientation. It’s a good thing really, even fun. opporThee stock of books Don has amassed is enormous. “When an oppor Th ttunity unity comes up, I buy. I buy what others don’t want because they’re noo longer popular,” says Don. I’m still at the front door and above me n aare re the sensational works of Proust, Shakespeare and Hemingway. IIn n fact, just last week Don sold me Hemingway’s, A Moveable Feast. IItt was so amazing to read it. “Classic works like that never go out of sstyle,” tyle,” says Don. I look around me and I see Two Lives, by Janet Malcolm, “I had an opportunity to buy 300 of her books and I jumped at it,” say Don admiring the book. There’s a book halfway down a tall stack of hard covers that catches my attention. I ask about it. It’s The Billionaire’s Vinegar by Benjamin Wallace and Don leaps into a story about the most expensive bottle of wine in the world and how it was a hoax. Ok, now that I know the ending, I don’t have to read that one! I step back carefully; navigating your way through the store is an exercise in fragility. Towering stacks of books everywhere! There are a number of narrow walkways for browsing but really, a major catastrophe is waiting for the first shoulder purse to swing the wrong way. In any event, there really is no need for browsing, for Don knows everything he has in his store, where it is, what it’s about and why you should read it. “Canadians should read more books,” says Don who believes that everyone deserves to get lost in the pages of a good mystery, or be inspired by an extraordinary human achievement story. “When was the last time you were swept away by true love - it really can happen more than once in your lifetime you know? Do you really know what it feels like to grow through the knowledge of something beautiful or to make sense of your world through the chapters of a good book? Books change people, an avid reader looks at the world through a more balanced, educated lens. Reading is a fundamental right for all Canadians.” Don doesn’t think of books in quite the same way as most people do. For Don, books are not static, material possessions with words to gobble up in the hopes of entertainment, then tossed aside for the next. To Don, books are living cultural portals meant to inspire action, stimulate conversation and mold minds. “In Paris, they believe the basis of civilization begins with books,” says Don. He goes on to explain that in France and Germany, Amazon
cannot discount books because the French and German believe that literature and books are the basis of civilized acts, of inspiring knowledge and of economic growth in small business. While I can’t find proof of his Amazon claim, Don finds books being undermined by big business one of life’s most intolerable and ignorant acts. Ignorant because Don says, “you cannot open a book without learning something that will change you”. Don is a man with a destiny in the books he surrounds himself with. “There are no real booksellers left in Canada so I have a duty to sell them. Books are how we transmit knowledge from generation to generation. It’s the basis of culture. Books, knowledge and culture are the quintessential trilogy to a civilized society. Protecting the small bookseller against the giants is essential to the culture of our society, it has nothing to do with free enterprise.” There is no other Canadian supplier of early books besides Don. “You can find some late 19th Century books around, they’re about the oldest, but I have lots of books before that.” In fact, Don runs an on-line (delake.com), rare book business with customers from all over the world. Some of his rare books sell for $40 to $50,000 each. “They don’t sell to Canadian customers,” says Don sadly. I can see some interesting titles a little further away and I ask about them. “I call that mind candy,” says Don of the collection of detective and mystery books. While Don considers the mystery trilogy, The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson one of the greatest books he’s ever read, he’s quick to dismiss the movie. Similarly, the nine volume science fiction series Berlin Noir written in the early 1990s by Philip Kerr gets an enthusiastically high rating as best ever written and The Man from Beijing by Henning Mankell is “a stunner of a book. It will grip you. It starts with a tremendous act of retribution for what was done to a Chinese family and it just gets better.” Don looks around and guestimates there are millions of titles in this little space alone and there’s more. On the east side of the room is a long narrow staircase, each rung is used to display more books with a narrow walkway through the centre that ascends to an entire second floor crowded with more books and a shorter staircase in the south corner that goes into a back room full of vintage and archived prints. Don also stocks books in foreign languages. He just sold a beautiful book on Torino, Italy to a couple that bought it as a gift for their Italian-speaking friend. The beautiful picture book was written in Italian. “Everyone gets involved in purchases like that,” says Don “it becomes special”. Besides modern, popular books of the day, at D & E Lake you’ll also find fine arts books from Canadian artists, books on French antiques, on ceramics, the history of costumes, architecture, cooking, fashion design, engineering, interior design and beautiful books on the performing arts. Like a library, I’m astounded that I’ve never seen most of these titles anywhere else. “I love all of my books,” says the man who buries himself in literature. “From the five dollar book to the fifty thousand dollar one, I love them all.” TM
“BOOKS CHANGE PEOPLE, AN AVID READER LOOKS AT THE WORLD THROUGH A MORE BALANCED, EDUCATED LENS.”
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OCTOBER 2015 Howie Mandel – Thurs Oct 1 An Evening With Heritage Blues Orchestra – Thurs Oct 15 Danny Michel & Jeremy Fisher – Fri Oct 16 The Rémi Bolduc Jazz Ensemble A Tribute to Dave Brubeck – Sat Oct 17 Page Turner Adventures presents A Mixed Up Fairy Tale – Sun Oct 18 Bboyizm – Fri Oct 23 Jose Feliciano with special guest Pavlo – Sat Oct 24 Cirque Alfonse presents Timber! – Tues Oct 27 NOVEMBER Ahuri Theatre presents Ralph and Lina – Nov 18-22 ProArteDanza – Tues Nov 17 The Irish Rovers – Wed Nov 18 Ron James – Fri Nov 20 Bollywood Masala Orchestra & Dancers of India – Wed Nov 25 Classic Albums Live performs Supertramp: Breakfast in America – Thurs Nov 26 Darlene Love – Fri Nov 27 Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia presents Goodnight Moon/Runaway Bunny – Sun Nov 29 DECEMBER Jesse Cook – Sat Dec 5 Shine On: The Universe of John Lennon –Thurs Dec 10 Moscow Classical Ballet presents The Nutcracker – Sat Dec 12 JANUARY 2016 The Musical Box – Fri Jan 22 Sing-A-Long-A Grease – Sat Jan 23 Dakha Brakha – Sat Jan 30 FEBRUARY Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet presents Going Home Star – Truth and Reconciliation –Tues Feb 2 Moon Vs. Sun – Featuring Raine Maida and Chantal Kreviazuk – Thurs Feb 11 Corb Lund – Thurs Feb 18 Steven Wright – Sat Feb 20 Classic Albums Live performs Led Zeppelin II – Fri Feb 26 Childsplay presents Cat in the Hat – Sun Feb 28 MARCH Late Company – Mar 2-6 Yamato the Drummers of Japan: “Bakuon” Legend of the Heartbeat – Thurs Mar 3 Hong Kong Ballet presents A Room of Her Own, Castrati and In Light & Shadow – Sat Mar 12 APRIL Downchild Blues Band – Fri Apr 1 Just for Laughs Road Tour – Tues Apr 5 Holly Cole – Thurs Apr 7 Johnny Clegg – Fri Apr 8 Men of the Deeps – Sat Apr 9 Ruthie Foster with special guest Harrison Kennedy – Fri Apr 22 Windmill Theatre Presents Big Bad Wolf – Sun Apr 24
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TAKIN’ IT TO THE STREETS… Come to Kingston this summer and get your theatre on. Kingston’s newest attraction, the inaugural Kick & Push Festival, is a theatrical, performing arts extravaganza. Starting this summer, you’ll be able to catch exciting and unexpected performances by a variety of local theatre companies in alternative venues, including the streets of Kingston, the City’s market square, and in the refurbished historic Grand Theatre (although not necessarily on its stages!). “The Kick & Push Festival is all about creating one-of-a-kind experiences for people when they’re visiting Kingston,” says Brett Christopher, Theatre Kingston’s Artistic Producer. “Kingston is a city with a rich history but one that is also home to a really vibrant and youthful arts scene, full of festivals and unique arts-based events all summer long.” >>
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Project; and introduces special out of town guests, Fixt Point and Convergence Theatre. PRODUCTIONS INCLUDE: AutoShow – a collection of stories about all the things that happen in cars from loving, fighting, driving, sleeping, eating, escaping, and dying, presented rain or shine in Springer Market Square, produced by The Kick & Push Festival and Convergence Theatre.
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Emerging as one of the most important and thriving arts communities in the country; beautiful, historic Kingston is situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, midway between Toronto and Montreal and just two hours from Ottawa. Easily accessible by car, rail, bus, and air, Kingston is home to Queen’s University and the Royal Military College of Canada, St. Lawrence College, the old Grand Theatre, Fort Henry, Kingston WritersFest, the Kingston Symphony Orchestra, the brand new Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts and the Tett Centre - a ground-breaking home for the arts situated on Kingston’s waterfront, and now, The Kick & Push Festival. The Festival’s unusual name pays homage to Kingston’s historic past. The Kingston and Pembroke railway, a line that was incorporated in 1871, was intended to run from its terminus in Kingston through the lumber, mining, and agricultural communities of Eastern Ontario to its final destination in Pembroke. Known as the K&P line, it is affectionately remembered as the Kick and Push railroad. Today the old station terminus building houses Kingston’s Tourism Information Office and the long abandoned railway line serves as the popular K&P recreational trail. The name for the festival was chosen because the railroad once brought further development to Kingston and connected people to one another, just as the arts do now. The Kick & Push Festival brings together a number of prominent local theatre companies including Theatre Kingston, Single Thread Theatre Company, Blue Canoe Productions, and the Cellar Door
Ambrose – the true story of theatre tycoon and self-made millionaire, Ambrose Small, who sold all his theatres for a profit of $1.7 million on December 1, 1919. He disappeared the next day and his body was never found. The mystery surrounding his disappearance is explored as audiences go behind the curtains of one of his former properties, Kingston’s own Grand Theatre. Produced by Single Thread Theatre Company. A Chorus Line - the ten time Tony award winning musical tale of seventeen hopeful performers auditioning to land a spot in the chorus for a Broadway Musical, presented by Blue Canoe Theatrical Productions. The Cellar Door Project – performing at a mystery location, the Cellar Door Project is a historically motivated, site-specific theatre company, dedicated to reanimating local historical spaces. SHIPWRECKED! An Entertainment – The Amazing Adventures of Louis de Rougement (as told by himself) - a swashbuckling tale of bravery and survival on the high seas in the nineteenth century, presented by Theatre Kingston. The Tale of a Town – a transmedia storytelling initiative, Fixt Point sets out in their storymobile recording booth to gather main street stories from all kinds of people in the community and then present them back to the community through a performance installation celebration. Produced by Fixt Point at various locations throughout downtown Kingston. Festival-goers can also take part in a number of educational initiatives that will also be happening throughout the festival, including theatre masterclasses, “Grand Central chats” (a chance for audiences to meet the artists), and theatre drama camps for kids. The Kick & Push Festival is proudly supported by its partners, including the City of Kingston, Kingston Accommodation Partners, The Great Waterway, Tourism Kingston, Downtown Kingston (BIA), and the Grand Theatre. The Kick & Push Festival runs July 15-August 15, 2015. For more information on the Kick & Push Festival visit thekickandpush.com. Stay in touch at www.facebook.com/thekickandpush. Tickets are available through the Grand Theatre Box Office commencing May 5th. Visit The Grand at http:// kingstongrand.ca/ or call 613-530-2050 to book your tickets. TM
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SHOP TIL’ YOUDROP
TORONTO’S BEST SHOPPING DISTRICTS
BY GABRIELLE TIEMAN In the ongoing battle for the title of Toronto’s best shopping spot, numerous up and coming neighbourhoods, classic shopping centers and famous boutique streets have battled it out for years. In such a diverse and multicultural city, the shopping districts have been posed with the challenge of attracting the attention of the drastically different assortment of local buyers and the broad tourist district simultaneously – a task that has spawned thousands of stores, boutiques and markets in the process. With this abundance of shopping options, it can be hard to find the best place to spend your time and hard earned money. But whether you are on the hunt for frugal shops offering more bang for your buck or looking to treat yourself on some designer buys, don’t loath routing through the city to find the perfect retail therapy hot spot. We have done the work for you and have broken down the best shopping locations and hidden gems in Toronto. >>
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YONGE AND EGLINTON (MIDTOWN) HIGHLIGHTS: RioCan Centre, Indie Boutiques, High-end Kitchen Gear, Jewelry and Book Shops
TORONTO BEST SHOPPIN DISTRICT Known by locals as the “Young and Eligible” district due to its demographic of young business men and women, this shopping district is a mix between your mainstream big box shopping mall classics, hip indie boutique nooks and pricey home outwear stores. RioCan, a four-level mall and indoor shopping concourse, combines your typical Gap and Old Navy favourites with eclectic specialty stores. Looking to stay outside? Head down the street for an influx of stylish shopping. Canopy Blue is stocked to the brim with designer jeans, trendsetting statement jackets and complimentary cupcakes and tea. Degrees, a restaurant quality kitchen supplies and cookware hub holds everything from Japanese teapots to colourful oven mitts. Eko is the one stop shop for the perfect piece of statement jewelry. Contemporary designs will have you questioning whether you should purchase a piece or hang it on your wall as art. No matter what your shopping craving of the day, Yonge and Eglinton have a street to curb your shopping sweet tooth. BLOOR STREET WEST | YORKVILLE HIGHLIGHTS: Big Designer Names and High End Department Stores
Throw on a pair of designer shades and grab your extra hot triple shot Starbucks latte, you have hit the Rodeo Drive of Toronto. Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Harry Rosen, Coach, Lacoste, Chanel, Michael Kors, Hermes – you name it and that designer has picked up a piece of real estate on one side of the street or the other. If this isn’t enough, luxury department store Holt Renfrew holds its flagship location just a block down boasting designer finds for both men and women looking to spend a little more for luxury. But even if your credit card is telling you to stay away, this Canadian fashion hotspot is a must see for window-shopping alone.
QUEEN STREET EAST | LESLIEVILLE HIGHLIGHTS: Eclectic Home Décor, Flower Markets, Urban Accessories
QUEEN STREET WEST HIGHLIGHTS: Boutiques, Canadian designers and all things stylish
CHINATOWN HIGHLIGHTS: Exotic produce and traditional cuisine
Hidden away down Queen Street is an established pocket of home furnishing shops you will fall for after that first scent of mahogany wood. Think of it like your Pinterest board coming to life before your very eyes – these are not your typical cookie-cutter furniture stores. The modern and rustic Zenporium gives new life to old wood with their handmade artsy furniture, adding an extra level of sophistication to living green. Now that you have new furniture, buy perfect pieces to accent your new home at Holy Cow – a plethora of coloured throw pillows, intricate paintings and bright fun patio furniture that takes your home’s warmth and comfort to the outside.
There is no place better for finding great fashions and trying your feet at boutique hopping than Queen Street West. The epitome of cool for decades, Toronto’s Queen Street West is known for merging the hip and young with the classic and eclectic for ages and always being one step ahead of the trends. From the 200 broad retailer one-stop shop Eaton Centre at one end to the one of a kind stores that collect on each side of the street farther west you travel, you will need more than one day to sort through every piece of merchandise Queen Street has to offer. Looking for a really special statement piece? Try The Fashion District for exclusively Canadian merchandise from over 15 designers. For wearable art try Brodawka and Friends’ one-of-a-kind footwear for both men and women. Splattered in between you will find great cafes, trendy clubs and all of your Lululemons and Roots stores to fill any shoppers craving.
Toronto’s Chinatown has the unique ability to transport you overseas without the cost of a plane ticket. As the second largest Chinatown in North America, there is no lack of sights to see and things to do. With plenty of Chinese culture to absorb, you could spend the whole weekend absorbing the plethora of jewelry shops, herb and produce markets, historic monuments and spas or make it a pit stop during your day for a great, authentic Chinese dinner. Overwhelmed by the number of stores? Sign up for one of the guided tours like Taste of the World, an interactive tour that combines cultural education with multiple restaurant tastings and shopping stops.
TO’S DUNDAS STREET WEST | JUNCTION HIGHLIGHTS: Organic fair, handmade indie gifts, retro classic storefronts
NG TS
This shopping hot spot is a new up and comer to Toronto’s must see shopping district. With a new influx of home owners in the area, retailers have flooded to the area to make the once quiet district noisy with Saturday shoppers. Although many of the older storefronts may look like they need some TLC, don’t judge a storefront by its cover – some of the greatest finds can be snatched up. Balloon King’s tiny exterior may be easily overlooked, but inside you will find the greatest party shop you can find with a large selection of party favours, novelty items and traditional supplies. Swayed by the exteriors? New modern shops have intermingled along the street. Check out local handmade products at Beadle – carrying gift ideas like homemade candles, jewelry, bath products and even pottery – or grab organic, fair-trade chocolate at Delight Chocolate.
KENSINGTON AVENUE (KENSINGTON MARKET) HIGHLIGHTS: Vintage clothing stores, organic and ethnic food shops and great restaurants Sometimes, you just really need to take a step out of the mall. The winding multicultural maze of Kensington Avenue makes for a refreshing alternative to any crowded mall on a Saturday. With one of the largest concentrations of retro vintage shops, unique bistros and cafes and diverse food shops, people tend to walk away with a broad combination of purchases. Collector pieces from the 40s to 60s find a home at Bungalow, a great retro shop selling everything from vintage cocktail dresses to furniture and dinner sets. Or try your hand at a new flavour of cooking and pick up cooking supplies, spices and produce from one of the many Caribbean, Middle East, South American or Asian shops.
NORTH END HIGHLIGHTS: Designer shopping malls and big box names You may not be in the downtown core but the North end of the city has just as many exciting shopping spots to offer. Try Yorkdale Shopping Centre – a shopper’s haven with over 250 stores that range from the typical mall inhabitants (Old Navy, American Eagle, H&M and more) to exclusive name brands and designers. The mall holds one of Williams Sonoma’s nine Canadian locations, one of Crate and Barrel’s ten Canadian locations and one of internationally acclaimed designer Louis Vuitton’s mall locations. If you do not have enough to do with all of the shopping, there are 6 restaurants, 13 specialty food and beverage spots and 20 food court favourites. TM
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FREE MAC AND CHEESE FESTIVAL AT ST. LAWRENCE MARKET June 5th-7th Celebrate your favourite comfort food at Toronto’s first ever Mac & Cheese festival. Join fellow Mac & Cheese lovers as chefs and food entrepreneurs from across the city serve diverse dishes while competing for three awards and a $5000 cash prize. The three-day event will take place at Liberty Market. Admission to the festival is free.
CARIBANA TORONTO FESTIVAL July 30th to August 2nd in Toronto The 47th annual Caribana Toronto Festival is a weekend festival full of amazing Caribbean themed events and activities. Whether you are checking out the Caribbean Carnival Parade or rocking out at Drake’s OVO Fest at the Molson Amphitheatre. This weekend is full of fun in the sun and has become a favourite for guests.
See the event’s Facebook page or macandcheesefestival.ca for more information.
For more information visit caribanatoronto.com
SLIDE THE CITY July 18th-19th Slide the City is coming to Toronto this summer and bringing along a 1000 feet slip and slide. The slide will be stationed at Downsview Park from 10:00am to 10:00pm. This is an event that is fun for all ages. Sliders must register in advance to ride the slide.
KRINOS TASTE OF THE DANFORTH August 7th to 9th on Danforth Avenue Want to be a Greek for the day? Come check out all of the vendors, free samples, contests and prizes along Danforth Avenue. This festival is a celebration of Greek flavours, and who knows you may find yourself indulging in many of the delicious food stations and multi-ethnic restaurants.
For more details visit slidethecity.com
Visit tasteofthedanforth.com for more information
PRIDE TORONTO June 19th-28th Come celebrate the LGBTTIQQ2SA* community with one of the largest festivals in Canada. Pride Week in Toronto consists of a variety of events including concerts, pub nights, beach parties, worship gatherings, and guest speakers. The ten-day festival will conclude on the 28th with the Pride Parade.
CANADIAN NATIONAL EXHIBITION August 21st to September 7th at the Toronto Exhibition Place Let’s go to the Ex! What isn’t there to do at the Canadian National Exhibition (Ex)? Full of entertainment, rides, food, festivals, events, you could spend days enjoying all of the activities taking place throughout the entire Exhibition. There will be different events happening every day! Make sure you take all of your friends and family to the Exhibition to enjoy all of the activities taking place.
Visit pridetoronto.com for more details. Check out theex.com for more information. TORONTO INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT RACE FESTIVAL June 20th-21st The Chinese Business Association is hosting the world’s top dragon boat racers in an event that includes over 5000 athletes. Teams from across Canada, the USA, the Caribbean Islands, Europe, and Asia will be competing. Come to Toronto Centre Island to experience one of Toronto’s best summer festivals.
TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL September 10th to 20th at the TIFF Bell Lightbox in Toronto The Toronto International Film Festival is regarded as one of the most important film festivals in the world. TIFF has dedicated itself to presenting and showcasing Canadian and International cinema to film enthusiasts. The Toronto International Film Festival has become a leader is presenting the best Canadian, Hollywood and International cinema.
More information at dragonboats.com For more information please visit tiff.net 2015 PAN AMERICAN GAMES/PARAPAN GAMES July 10th-26th (Parapan- August 7th-15th) Toronto is the proud host city of this year’s Pan American and Parapan American Games. The Games are the world’s third largest international multi-sports games and includes 41 countries and territories. Toronto’s Games will take place both in downtown Toronto as well as municipalities stretching from Oshawa to Welland. Information on volunteer positions, business sponsorship opportunities, and tickets to live sporting events can be found at toronto2015.org
NUIT BLANCHE October 3rd from sunset to sunrise in Toronto Contemporary art will be showcased throughout the entire night. Anyone who attends will be able to enjoy fine contemporary art and entertainment throughout the entire night. Whether it is live performances, sculptures or the interactive installations this event has become a can’t miss! Check out scotiabanknuitblanche.ca for more information.
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TORONTO CONCERT LISTINGS JUNE 2 | Drake at Air Canada Centre JUNE 3 | Lana Del Rey at Molson Canadian Amphitheatre JUNE 6 | Ed Sheeran at Air Canada Centre JUNE 15 | The Kooks at Phoenix Concert Theatre JUNE 20 | Bette Midler at Air Canada Centre JUNE 24 | Shania Twain at Air Canada Centre JULY 6 & 7 | U2 at Air Canada Centre JULY 8 & 9 | Foo Fighters at Molson Canadian Amphitheatre JULY 14 | Def Leppard at Molson Canadian Amphitheatre JULY 25 | Kelly Clarkson at Molson Canadian Amphitheatre JULY 28 | Nicki Minaj at Molson Canadian Amphitheatre AUGUST 5 | Peter Frampton & Cheap Trick at Molson Canadian Amphitheatre AUGUST 7 | Van Halen at Molson Canadian Amphitheatre AUGUST 9 | Ariana Grande at Air Canada Centre AUGUST 20 | One Direction at Rogers Centre AUGUST 22 | Blue Rodeo at Molson Amphitheatre AUGUST 27 | Rascal Flatts at Molson Amphitheatre SEPTEMBER 2 | Idina Menzel at Sony Centre for the Arts SEPTEMBER 10 | AC/DC at Downsview Park SEPTEMBER 20 | Ed Sheeran at Air Canada Centre SEPTEMBER 21 | Josh Groban at Sony Centre OCTOBER 2 & 3 | Taylor Swift at Rogers Centre OCTOBER 5 & 6 | Madonna at Air Canada Centre OCTOBER 8 | Iggy Azalea at Air Canada Centre OCTOBER 15 | Ricky Martin at Air Canada Centre OCTOBER 19 | The Who at Air Canada Centre OCTOBER 20 | Ringo Starr and His All Starr Band at Massey Hall
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THERE IS NO SHORTAGE OF THINGS TO DO, EXPERIENCE AND SEE DURING YOUR VISIT TO WESTERN NEW YORK; WHATEVER KIND OF ACTIVITY YOU SEEK, INDOOR OR OUTDOOR, ACTION PACKED OR CALM AND RELAXED, THERE IS CERTAINLY SOMETHING FOR YOU. FROM THE EXCITEMENT OF THE SENECA CASINO PROPERTIES TO EXPLORING THE SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS OF ELLICOTTVILLE TO THE ADVENTURES AWAITING YOU IN THE ALLEGANY MOUNTAINS, WESTERN NEW YORK REALLY DOES HAVE IT ALL.
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THE WESTERN
DOOR
FOOD FROM THE HEART,DRINKS FOR THE SOUL From professional musician to top bartender, you can find the name Frank Ryan in the Buffalo Bartender’s Hall of Fame and you can see the man in the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casinos fine dining restaurant, The Western Door behind the bar, mixing the best drinks in Western New York. “You have to be where people can find you,” says Frank. Probably a philosophy from his musical days but Frank has approached his bartending career in much the same way and it’s worked for him. Just like mixing music notes together to make his runaway songs, Frank now uses all kinds of spirits, bitters, liqueurs and mixes to create his runaway drinks. His first award winning drink, the Crystal Clementine you’ll find on the Western Door drinks menu. He made it for me during this interview. Crystal Clementine: Svedka Clementine Vodka, DeKuyper Cheri-Berri Pucker and Orange Juice, a melody of tantalizing flavours. Unlike most bartenders who mix drinks based on pure science, Frank mixes cocktails and infuses spirits purely for flavour. He’s a master mixologist proudly boasting that the first eight blended martinis on The Western Door drinks menu are his babies. The signature drink he’s most proud of is the Seneca Sweetheart. It’s the perfect blend of DeKuyper Watermelon, Bacardi Grand Watermelon and Pomegranate Juice. After sipping one I have to say it definitely falls under the category of eyes rolling to the back of your head delicious. I wondered how a musician became an award winning bartender and he explains, “I started out mixing drinks every Tuesday night at home in my basement.” Well, that sounds to me like a band schedule but Frank is a very nontraditional bartender. Behind the bar are two large glass jars with magical concoctions of marbles and fruit. These are Frank’s vodka infusions. Each year he plays with different seasonal fruit and you can look forward to tasting them in one of his specialty drinks. Frank poured me the strawberry infused vodka over ice and I immediately got a bold burst of autumn strawberries, you know the ones at the end of the season that are super, candy sweet? Oh Frank, try to resist mixing these, these are beautiful savoured neat, over rocks. Like me, if you’re wondering about the marbles in a vodka infusion, Frank explains, “You fill the (infusion) jars with marbles until there are enough marbles to reach the top of the spigot. This means the fruit
UNLIKE MOST BARTENDERS WHO MIX DRINKS BASED ON PURE SCIENCE, FRANK MIXES COCKTAILS AND INFUSES SPIRITS PURELY FOR FLAVOUR.
never gets to the spigot to clog it up.” Another brilliant Frank Ryan invention that I’m going to use in the summertime with my own fruited waters. Thanks Frank. I can’t help but wonder if any of this deliciousness spills into the kitchen but unfortunately, it doesn’t. The concept is that the drinks are an accompaniment to the kitchen, but never do the two intermingle. I suppose that makes sense, although I can’t stop thinking of a strawberry vodka infused panna cotta (hint, hint Chef Joe!). Western Door Room Chef Joseph Belardi is a relatively new chef brought in as part of the new culinary program at the resort. He may be young but he’s not inexperienced and he’s already making significant changes to the traditional fine dining restaurant. “My secret is to start with the best (quality ingredients) and do it well. If you cook from the heart your food will be great,” says the Italian with just enough hand gestures to make you salivate over every word. “When you’re paying $75 for Kobe beef, $44 for a porterhouse or $35 for a fillet, it’s got to be great.” Chef insists his beef is full of fine marbling and is dry aged for at least 48 days. The Western Door is a popular steakhouse in Western New York State. The 200 seat restaurant can easily be grilling up 200 steaks on a weeknight and can almost double that on a weekend. So how does each steak get grilled to perfection? “Our steaks are simply seasoned, crisscrossed on the grill four-times then broiled to the customers liking. We don’t cook it in the oven where the air circulates all around it. We broil it so the heat is top down.” Besides a cooking method that gives him ultimate control, chef explains, “it’s either me or Tommy on the grill. Tommy’s great, he can tell the temperature of a steak just by looking at it.” Chef Joe has added a few new dishes to the menu. A man with a love for comfort food, Joe has up-scaled his Pork and Polenta to gourmet levels. He starts with tiny slivers of raw garlic that he inserts into the bone-in (loads of flavour) pork butt. It’s then marinated for 24 hours, seared, submerged in pork fat, covered, and cooked low and slow for 8 hours to become fork tender. On the plate the pork is sitting on a polenta crouton rich in cream and roasted garlic. It’s dressed with shaved fontina and prosciutto. It’s Joe’s signature dish and even though it may be overshadowed in a steakhouse, it truly is out of this world.
On The Western Door menu you’ll find traditional dishes like Clams Casino with new additions like Chef Joe’s Lobster Mac & Cheese. From a man who grew up making home-made pasta with his grandmother, this new reincarnation of everyone’s beloved comfort food includes large chunks of pink and white, sweet lobster, loads of lavishly creamed smoked cheddar cheese and a crispy topping of crumbs make from their popular focaccia bread. Joe is an obsessed chef, he loves to read about other chefs like Thomas Keller and Anthony Bordain on his days off. He’s also a chef full of surprises. He dedicates his life to perfecting steaks but he secretly longs to sear the perfect fish. “When you get a perfect sear on that skin, when it’s cooked properly, it’s, well, there are no words for it. It’s just so good.” When most chefs cook food the way they like to eat it, Chef Joe cooks it until it’s the best it can be. That’s real talent. A typical evening at The Western Door could go something like this. Start with one of Frank’s martinis and a Chilled Seafood Tower of lobster, shrimp, King crab legs, clams and oysters. Sip and nosh in a lingering atmosphere with soft lights and the sounds of chiming silverware at work in the background. Next, a steak. Perhaps the popular 20-ounce Bone-In Rib Eye Steak with a bottle of Cabernet from the wine cellar. If you feel like it, you can add Diver Scallops, Alaskan King Crab or a juicy lobster tail. Wind down the evening with a light Crème Brûlée and one of Frank’s browns (bourbon, Grand Marnier or single malt scotch) For me? I like to buck the trend and dine in style with a Foie Gras Burger, a crock of Lobster Mac & Cheese and one of Frank’s signature martinis. The Western Door can be as casual as upscale allows. It can also be theatrical with tables that look over the gaming floor or if you don’t have a front row seat to the action, Frank will accommodate with a bit of inside theatrics; a tableside mixed, layered martini. The Man Overboard martini is a blend of Malibu Coconut Rum, Midori Melon Liqueur and Pineapple Juice. Just as a Caesar salad can be made tableside, Frank pours a shot of Gaetano Blue Curacao and Grenadine into the martini and it magically layers in the glass. The Western Door may look a little formal, it may be a bit theatrical, it may offer the best food in Western New York, but it’s the friendliest place on earth to share a meal. TM TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 79
MEGALO BY GABRIELLE TIEMAN
Megalomaniac Winery is nothing short of jaw dropping. Original in their product, bold in their flavours and audacious with their branding, this groundbreaking winery continually crafts wines of distinction – but with a touch of sass. This cheeky line is a daring turn for a Niagara homegrown – touting brand favourites SonofaBitch Pinot Noir, Bravado Cabernet Sauvignon, Narcissist Riesling and Bigmouth Merlot. But though Megalomaniac may use their unique branding and attitude to poke fun at the occasionally rigid and traditional Niagara wine industry, each wine remains loyal to the Niagara Region with their elevated homegrown characters; creating a truly unique reflection of a Canadian winery with a global perspective. What began as strictly a retirement side venture for owner John Howard has since rapidly grown – evolving from a brand of limited quantity, hand-crafted wines made by some of the finest winemakers into an established world class award winning winery. Megalomaniac’s 120 acres of vineyard on the Vineland Upper Bench in Lincoln has been cultivated and restored to its natural glory; boasting five varietals on premise and a newly constructed multi-level winery featuring an open concept tasting bar, retail facility, private tasting rooms and a rooftop terrace. The winery is even believed to rest upon the highest vantage point on the Niagara Escarpment between Milton and Niagara Falls; so no matter where you find yourself standing and in which direction you may glance, you receive incredible panoramic views of both the Niagara Region and Toronto and Niagara Falls skylines. Howard, the former proprietor of Vineland Estates Winery and Executive Vice-President for Canon’s North American operations, is no stranger to the evolution and growth of industry. Under Howard’s innovative eye, Vineland Estate’s once petite winery grew into a highend operation with much acclaim; expanding vineyards
by 300 acres and growing production from its humble 2,000 case beginnings into a 50,000 case operation over the course of eight years. Howard has done much the same with his newest venture. What began as a single vintage meant to help financially support his charity Kids’ Health Links Foundation, which provides computers for children in hospital so they can stay connected to family and friends, took off. And though Howard’s initial goal was to limit annual production to a few thousand cases while keeping the bottle price low, the winery has continued to grow exponentially; developing from 2,000 cases to roughly 35,000 cases in a few years and boasting a 50% compounded growth rate for four years running. "I was going to spend my retirement f ly fishing, I was going to spend time in Bordeaux [France], and I was going to farm this property,” said Howard. “I wasn't really keen on the notion of making wine again. For me, I was done making wine in Canada; I had two Wine Chateux in France [With the Jeanoueix family, a dynasty in the wine industry]. So we did one vintage, where a portion of the proceeds would go to the charity, and called it Megalomaniac. “I called it Megalomaniac frankly to poke fun at people in the wine business who take themselves too seriously,” said Howard. “And I didn't care, because it was only going to be one vintage. Everyone will know who I am poking fun at and in a year, it will be over.” But the vintage sold out within 90 days and in tandem with the wine’s success, the foundation established a threshold. It became clear to Howard that the foundation could have a huge impact on children hospitals across the country. The notion of taking it national came up, so he made another vintage. Today, neither the winery nor the foundation has ceased growth; with the foundation currently residing in 11 of the 13 children’s hospitals across Canada.
MANIAC "At the beginning, we were cautioned that wine journalists would beat us up pretty badly because of the name,” said Howard. “But our sense was that if we produced a really good wine at an affordable price, there would always be a place for that product. That has been a bit of a threshold; producing the best wines we can, but presenting them at a very affordable price. Our underlining theme is value and it is very important to us and our customers." Following the success of the vintages, Megalomaniac quickly found themselves at the forefront of interest in the wine world. Their brilliant packaging – which portrays a faceless figure of a male executive wearing a bowler hat – received much acclaim in 2007 when Narcissist Riesling was singled out as the only individual design to earn double-gold honours at the San Francisco International Wine Competition under unanimous vote. "I really think the branding struck a note with wine people internationally," said Howard. "To win gold, first you have to have more votes than anyone else from the tribunal, but to get double gold it has to be unanimous. It's a pretty big deal for Napa [Valley].” Though Howard says he had no aspirations to expand the brand past its original concept, Howard said they had no choice but to build the new building – which opened in 2014 – to accommodate current and future growth. Rising upwards from the Underground Cellar Howard had constructed years previous to house farming equipment, a winery of esteem rose with one reoccurring theme: that it be Canadian. “I wanted it to be Canadian,” said Howard. “And I wanted it to be organic. All of the stone is from the escarpment. Majority of the wood is Canadian. It’s supposed to look Canadian and I want it to look Canadian because we are in Canada. This idea of trying to emulate Italy, France; I don't get that. You want property that looks French? Buy in France!" Though they farm a variety of Bordeaux varietals imported from France on the property, this passion for a true Canadian winery can be found flowing effortlessly among the grapes surrounding the vineyard – with Howard’s patriotism mirrored by the Crimson King Maple Trees that line the drive into the winery. “Anyone who takes a photograph - there is a maple leaf in front of it," said Howard. "That's who we are. But it was natural that we would
have Bordeaux varietals here because of what we were doing in France. Some of the same vine clones we have on our properties in France are planted here so it gives us an interesting dynamic." The winery farms a traditional blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot on the home vineyard and an evolving crop of five varietals on the rolling fields of the main vineyard including all Bordeaux varietals – Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc – and Pinot Noir and Riesling. “We are very keen on farming what we put into the bottle,” said Howard. “We want people to see that and see the commitment we have got in terms of owning and operating and maintaining the amount of vineyard that we have.” The winery also features on premise labs and state of the art fermentation and barrel rooms for on-site wine tasting, testing and experimentation. Megalomaniac chose to invest in both high end cigar barrels and traditional round barrels for developing their wines – allowing their wine makers the opportunity to experiment and test aging and development components on the same grapes. But expansions are not set to cease in the near future. Howard said the winery is currently working on the addition of an 8,800 square foot patio accompanied by large stone pillars that will surround the tasting bar and retail facility in order to help soften the concrete exterior and provide even greater views of the surrounding region. Another 1,800 square foot balcony will rest above and a 4,200 square foot roof garden that will offer a seating area with breathtaking views will adorn the top of the building. Howard said they are also looking to build an experimental kitchen for catered events and add drone technology into the vineyard for live profiles of the grapes. All renovations sit with the same goal of creating an all-encompassing Niagara wine experience. “We really want people to come out here and have fun and get a perspective of Niagara that is traditional," said Howard. "If it wasn't for this industry, all of this land on the horizon could soon be planted with basements. We’ll always pride ourselves in protecting our Agricultural Heritage." “We’re proud of our Niagara Heritage and we’re certainly proud of our Homegrown Wines!” TM
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RHEA ANNA
All the City ’s a Stage What were once known as the “lively” arts are exactly that in Buffalo –
brimming with vitality, energy and uncompromising creativity. More than 20 theater companies entertain audiences year round, including the summertime pleasures of Shakespeare in Delaware Park, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2015. Buffalo’s musical offerings are just as eclectic with clubs and concert halls presenting the kind of diverse programming you’d expect to find in a much larger metropolis. Of special note this year is the 75th anniversary of one of the most renowned concert venues in the country – Kleinhan’s Music Hall, home of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. Let us entertain you!
Shakespeare in Delaware Park has been going since 1976. The setting, only 10 minutes drive from downtown, is superb, in a venue designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the man behind Central Park, on a gently sloping hill where all of Buffalo brings folding chairs and picnics to enjoy the show.
The admission is free, the experience priceless. THE TORONTO STAR
JOE CASCIO
A T R AV E L E R ’ S R E V I E W
Stunning!
SHEA’S PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
Reviewed by Annma, a TripAdvisor traveler » New York, NY » October 14, 2014
“There were no performances scheduled at Shea’s for when we were in Buffalo, so we decided to go on the behind-the-scene tour instead. Are we glad we did. Our very knowledgeable and engaging tour guide gave us a thorough tour that highlighted the history and restoration of this marvelous space – the last surviving Tiffany-designed theater in the U.S.! We can’t wait to come back to see performances here.”
PAUSA ART HOUSE FIVE STARS ON YELP
What a wonderful place to gather, hear great music, view original art with the changing exhibitions, grab a glass of wine or local beer on tap, attend a wine tasting, have a small bite to eat. They are all about showcasing local visual and musical talent. What a tremendous addition to the strong local art movement! Karen M., Buffalo, NY
A T R AV E L E R ’S R E V I E W
IRISH CLASSICAL THEATRE COMPANY
“Wonderful Theatre Experience!!!”
RHEA ANNA
“If you love live theatre and are visiting Buffalo you’ll love the Irish Classical Theatre. The stage is done in the round which creates a unique perspective for the audience. The price is right and you’ll enjoy your evening out. Then go to Mother’s for a late night 5-star dinner.” Reviewed by Timothy V, a TripAdvisor traveler Oklahoma City, OK » November 27, 2013
A JOURNEY THROUGH THE PEOPLE’S PAST AT THE SENECAIROQUOIS NATIONAL MUSEUM THE SENECA NATION OF INDIANS The Seneca Nation of Indians is the largest of six Native American nations, which comprise the Haudenosaunee or Iroquois Confederacy, also commonly referred to as simply the Six Nations. The confederacy is a democratic government that pre-dates the United States Constitution. As the Seneca Nation is the Westernmost of the Six Nations, they are known as “The Keeper of the Western Door”. This door to the symbolic longhouse is shared with the other five nations which include Cayuga, Oneida, Onondaga, Mohawk, and Tuscarora, which are collectively called “Hodinöhsö:ni’” or “People of the longhouse”. They are known as the People of the Great Hill or “Onöndowa’ga’:”, but referred to as Seneca with many spelling variations by the non-natives. The Onöndowa’ga:’ is comprised of eight different clans, with an animal side, or a bird side. “Lineage, or the blood line, is matrilineal (through the mother). So mothers, sisters, and daughters in the Onöndowa’ga:’ world define the family,” explains Sue Grey, External Relations Manager, Seneca-Iroquois National Museum. Members of the animal clans, which include the bear, turtle, wolf and beaver, marry those from a bird clan, including heron, hawk, snipe, and deer, to prevent marrying a family member.
Seneca keeps their rich history and proud traditions alive by promoting their culture through awareness, education, and festivities to encourage both natives and non-natives to learn about their interesting past. Unlike some other Native American cultures, Seneca has not assimilated entirely into mainstream, North American culture, and has even kept alive their own language that is separate from English. Today the Seneca Nation of Indians is comprised of a population of over 8000 enrolled members. They are the fifth largest employer in Western New York, creating thousands of jobs and playing an integral role in the region and New York State’s economy. THE SENECA-IROQUOIS NATIONAL MUSEUM Visitors are invited to join the Seneca people as they are guided through a history of their past, and are presented with an informative overview of their culture and traditions. The collection of permanent and temporary exhibits provide guests with an introduction to the ideas and values that reflect those of the Onöndowa’ga:’ and Hodinöhsö:ni’ people. The permanent exhibits deliver an exceptional analysis of the most important part of the Seneca’s roots and the history of the Six Nations. The “This Is Where We Walked Exhibit” guides visitors through a journey of the hardships endured by the Seneca Nation of Indians, and the challenges they faced with losing their homes, land, sense of community, and lifestyles. Attendees are welcome to check out two models of real Iroquois dwellings including a log cabin and a longhouse room, where they can learn about daily life as a member of the Seneca Nation. Additionally, the “Ga’säde:ngö (clans) - “Why Animals
and Birds” exhibit explains why these clans are an essential and lasting component of Hodinöhsö:ni’ culture. Non-permanent exhibits are also vital to the changing curriculum of the museum’s programming, as there are always new and exciting presentations that cater to visitors of all ages with different interests. One of their most recent temporary exhibits during the later months of 2014, the “We Play Lacrosse Exhibit” attracted local lacrosse teams to the museum to learn about the history of their favourite sport and a background about the culture it came from. The Seneca museum also frequently hosts educational and leisure events open to the public. These include language classes, farmer’s markets, and spiritual wellness sessions to unite both native and non-natives by experiencing the traditional ways of life of the original settlers. A majority of the Seneca population continues to reside today in the Allegany Territory (Salamanca, NY) and the Cattaraugus Territory (Irving, NY). VISIT THE SENECA-IROQUOIS NATIONAL MUSEUM Be sure to discover all that is offered at the Seneca-Iroquois National Museum during your next trip to Salamanca and the beautiful surrounding towns in the Allegany Territory. The area is rich in divine natural beauty and offers many activities in which to enjoy the spectacular scenery. The spirit of the Seneca-Iroquois Nations is kept alive at the museums’ superior exhibitions. Authentic Native American made souvenirs are available for purchase at the museum’s gift shop. Seneca-Iroquois National Museum is located at 814 Broad Street, Salamanca, NY 14779. For a current listing of hours or more information, visit senecamuseum.org TM
“THE ONÖNDOWA’GA:’ ARE WHO THEY ARE BECAUSE OF OUR RESILIENCY, OUR LANGUAGE, HISTORY AND CULTURE. ONCE ONE OF THESE DISAPPEARS, WE WILL DISAPPEAR AS A UNIQUE PEOPLE.” - SUE GREY, EXTERNAL RELATIONS MANAGER, SENECA-IROQUOIS NATIONAL MUSEUM
DON’T SETTLE FOR ANYTHING LESS THAN
SPECTACULAR Just minutes away from Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino is Seneca Hickory Stick Golf, WNY’s premier course – a course so beautifully designed, it doesn’t stand “on par” with the region’s best courses… it soars like an “eagle” above them. So much so, the course was recently recognized by Golfweek magazine as one of the Best Casino Courses, and Golf magazine ranked Hickory Stick as #12 public course in the entire New York state area. Located in scenic Lewiston, N.Y., Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course offers 18 holes of championship-level golf on a challenging PGA-style terrain designed by world-renowned course architect Robert Trent Jones II, who has designed more than 270 golf courses in 40 different countries. For avid golfers this is sure to be on everyone’s “must-play” list. Named to reflect the presence of rare and protected shellbark Hickory trees on site, Seneca Hickory Stick features a picturesque layout highlighted by tranquil lakes and ponds, native plants and grasses that are surrounded by large mature trees. The course fits in and feeds off of its natural surroundings to create an experience that those who play the course will appreciate and enjoy. It will take golfers on a unique
journey throughout their round. Several years in the making, the 257-acre, 7,026-yard course provides a test of skill and finesse for every shot. The largest hole is a massive 620-yard, par-5 at the 11th hole, and the shortest hole – a 159-yard, par-3 at the 18th hole – presents a challenging water hazard. Additionally, Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course features a unique double green at the ninth and 18th holes. It’s a fitting way to cap off the perfect round of golf. No membership is required, and golfers are encouraged to purchase the Seneca Hickory Stick Loyalty card that provides benefits like discounted green fees, advance tee-time booking options and a special birthday bonus. In addition, members of Seneca Resorts & Casinos Players Club can use their points earned through their casino play to pay for green fees, retail merchandise or food & beverage at Hickory Grill, located in the Clubhouse. Call 1-877-8-SENECA and ask about Golf & Stay packages in conjunction with Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino. Visit SenecaHickoryStick.com for more details.
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KC KRATT
Built to Last
The list of masters behind Buffalo’s most beautiful buildings and neighborhoods reads like a “Who’s Who” of some of history’s greatest architects: Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan, Stanford White, Eliel & Eero Saarinen, Henry Hobson Richardson, Frederick Law Olmsted. Buffalo’s extraordinary collection of architecture and urban design is a proud reminder of the city’s heyday and a catalyst for its renaissance. Explore Buffalo’s vast outdoor museum of American treasures on one of our many five-star house and walking tours.
Buffalo has one of the most extraordinary concert halls in the United States. A gift to the city from a deeply generous music-loving family whose name graces the building, Kleinhans Music Hall combines elegant simplicity with vibrant acoustics. Once new seating is installed to celebrate the hall’s 75th Anniversary in October 2015, it will comfortably seat 2,400 people while making each person feel the concert is being played for them alone. JOANN FALLETTA, MUSIC DIRECTOR, BUFFALO PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
DARWIN MARTIN HOUSE
CINDY KINCAIDE
Buffalo seems to be built of the Wright stuff. Spread throughout the city are a collection of homes and buildings – some that were only dreams of architect Frank Lloyd Wright – that in some way rivals the cluster in the Chicago area. PITTSBURGH TRIBUNE-REVIEW
I guarantee that this will be the strangest, most unusual tour bus you will ever have the pleasure of riding. Built from a vintage school bus and retrofitted to be sans-roof, the Open-Air Autobus sports leopard-print seats and has some of the most enthusiastic architectural tour guides this side of the Erie Canal. DESIGN SPONGE
A T R AV E L E R ’S R E V I E W
BUFFALO CITY HALL TOURS
“Wonderful tour” BUFFALO AERIAL PICTURES
This beautiful art deco building is a treasure. Our guide was full of information and anecdotes. View from the observation deck is amazing!” Reviewed by SkanLaker, a TripAdvisor traveler Skaneateles, NY » September 22, 2014
A T R AV E L E R ’S R E V I E W
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT’S GRAYCLIFF ESTATE
“What genius” “If you are going to visit the Darwin Martin House, be sure to take some time to drive to Graycliff. We purchased in-depth tours for both properties before we traveled to Buffalo and I would recommend doing this.” Reviewed by don9290, a TripAdvisor traveler » Minneapolis, MN » October 1, 2013 NANCY VARGO
WE ARE NIAGARA FALLS HORNBLOWER NIAGARA CRUISES
VOYAGE TO THE FALLS BOAT TOUR The legendary boat tour of Niagara Falls is Canada’s most iconic visitor experience. It’s been thrilling millions from all over the world for more than 150 years. You may have seen the Falls before, but you’ve never seen them quite like this! So why just look at them when you can get right in? Hold onto your heart and get ready for the thrill of a lifetime. Hornblower will take you on a ride you’ll never forget. Into the very heart of the mighty Horseshoe Falls! Prepare for an awe-inspiring journey aboard Hornblower’s state-of-the-art 700-passenger catamaran boats. You’ll experience the famous boat tour of the Great Gorge, American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and of course, an up-close and personal connection with the world’s most famous cataract – the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Hornblower’s Voyage To The Falls boat tour is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and an absolute must for every visitor to Niagara Falls. Open daily from 8am, boats sail every 15 minutes until dusk.
FALLS ILLUMINATION CRUISE & FALLS FIREWORKS CRUISE Featuring on-board licensed bars, light snacks and music, these extended 40-minute cruises are Niagara’s ultimate evening entertainment. Set to the backdrop of starry skies, the dazzling city skyline and amazing coloured illumination of the Falls these intimate cruises are the very best way to view the Falls at night. Guests can savour fine Niagara wine and beverages on-board while cruising the Gorge and taking in the magic of Niagara Falls at night. There’s no other evening entertainment quite like this! Falls Illumination Cruises operate daily in season and sail 9:45-10:25pm. Falls Fireworks Cruises include a bonus 10pm fireworks spectacle directly overhead. This is a Niagara Falls experience not to be missed. As colours whirl and sparks fly above, this incredible Falls cruise is the ultimate highlight of any evening out. Falls Fireworks Cruises operate every Friday, Sunday and holiday from May 15 through September 7. Boats sail 9:45 to 10:25. With limited availability tickets sell out fast.
If daytime thrills aren’t your cup of tea, then be sure to enjoy Hornblower’s all new night-time Falls Illumination Cruise or Falls Fireworks Cruise.
If you’re one of the lucky few who can snag tickets to the Falls Illumination Cruise or Falls Fireworks Cruise, be sure to go early and take in the evening sunset while relaxing at Hornblower’s unique new Fallsview Patio. Nestled in the gorge at the river’s edge there is nowhere else you’ll get a view anything like this. Enjoy the remarkable setting, great music and Hornblower’s famous hospitality before or after sailing. If you’re lucky and the breeze is just right, you can sometimes catch a soft waft of fine Falls mist. It doesn’t get any closer than this! Whatever you do while visiting, be sure to plan an evening out with Hornblower Niagara Cruises. They are certain to deliver an amazing experience and memories that will last a lifetime. To reserve your ticket book online at niagaracruises.com or call toll free 1-855-264-2427. Located at 5920 River Road (Niagara Parkway) at the foot of Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls CANADA.
GET OUTSIDE + GET ACTIVE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES NEAR SENECA ALLEGANY RESORT & CASINO
Cattaraugus County is comprised of Olean, Salamanca, Ellicottville, Gowanda, Ashford and numerous other small towns. There are tons of different outdoor activities to partake in, and the best part is, there is something to do year round. Given it’s location in the Allegany Mountains, the activities are as varied as downhill skiing, golf and hiking. It’s a place that is not only picturesque, but a veritable outdoor playground.
DOWNHILL SKIING There are a couple options for great downhill skiing and they are only about a ten minute drive from the Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino. Holiday Valley is a large ski resort located in Ellicottville, and has 58 day slopes and 37 night trails. Both day and night skiing are available. There are slopes for all levels of skiers, as well as instructional classes for all ages. Rates vary on weekdays and weekends, and passes can be purchased for different time increments (4 hrs., 8 hrs., night, weekend) There are 13 chair lifts, and several lodges with food and drink options. Ski rentals are available right at Holiday Valley if you don’t have your own equipment. More information at holidayvalley.com Holimont is also located in Ellicottville and is North America’s largest private resort offering 52 runs and 8 lifts. During the week, non members are allowed, rentals are available on location. More information at holimont.com
TUBING Just down the street from the Holiday Valley ski area is the Holiday Valley Tubing Company. The tubing area has 12 different lanes and a tow rope to get you up the hill. During open hours at Holiday Valley, there is a free shuttle service that runs to and from the tubing area. Winter time hours are Thursday and Friday from 4:30 to 9pm,
Saturdays 11am to 9pm and Sundays from 11am to 6pm. Make sure to dress warm and dress in appropriate snow clothing (no cotton). Prices vary depending on how long you want to slide for. More info at holidayvalley.com/explore-our-mountain/other-winter-activities-tubing
ZIPLINING/TREE TOP TREKKING SKY HIGH ADVENTURE PARK This aerial park sees you climbing through trees, up on platforms, and zipping from tree to tree. This all happens while you are harnessed in, so you get all the exhilaration and none of the danger. There are 13 different courses available, and they all range from very easy to very difficult. There is also a “climbing forest” and a mountain coaster that winds down through the mountains. Riders are able to control their own speed as well, so the ride can either be thrilling or a scenic glide. More information at holidayvalley.com/explore-our-mountain/ sky-high-adventure-park
CROSS COUNTRY SKIING/SNOWSHOEING/HIKING If you are not up for the fast speeds of downhill skiing, why not try cross-country? It’s definitely a great workout and when you are in Western New York, it will be scenic as well. The Allegany State Park is full of different trails that can be used for cross country skiing, snowshoeing or when the weather gets warmer, hiking. The park has 18 trails which span over 20 miles, most of which are used year round. Stop by the visitor center and grab a map so you can see an outline of all the trails and how to access them. A good reference is also enchantedmountains.com. Holiday Valley also offers cross country course area. To get to the hills on top, you need to buy a 2 ride cross country ticket. >>
GOLFING There are numerous golf courses in the area: Double Black Diamond Course is a picturesque 18 hole, par 70 course located at the foot of the mountains. St. Bonaventure Golf Club is located in Allegany, New York. 9 holes par 36. Elkdale Country Club is a challenging 18-hole course located halfway between Salamanca and Ellicottville. It is a semi private course, you just need to make a tee time reservation. Concord Crest Golf Course is located close to Seneca Allegany casino, just off Genesee Rd. There is wetlands, creeks, ponds and trees. It is a 18 hole course with a par 71. Bird Run Country Club is located in Allegany and is a great 9 hole course if you are looking for a quick and fun round of golf.
RAFTING If you are up for a bit more adventure, why not go for a wild ride down the Cattaraugus Creek? Trips take about three hours and run from March 21 to May 17 on Saturdays and Sunday. Weekday trips are available, but only upon special request. Costs are either $50 or $40 a person, depending on the part of the river you raft on. All costs include a pizza party at the end of the trip and as a bonus, if the price is paid two weeks in advance of the trip, wetsuit rental fees are waived. The rapids can be strong in this area, especially in early Spring. There are two different sections of river this company rafts on, and the one chosen for each trip is determined by water flow in the river. You’ll be rafting through the Zoan Valley State Forest Preserve, a very remote and beautiful area of western New York. Depending on which section of the river you are rafting, you’ll either encounter class II/II + rapids or III & IV rapids. More information is available at adventure-calls.com
CYCLING/MOUNTAIN BIKING There are tons of great trails to explore in the region, everything from paved paths to old railway lines to rough terrain for the mountain bikers. The Allegany River Trail runs along the river and covers 5.6 miles through Olean out to St. Bonaventure University. Allegany State Park has several miles of both paved and unpaved trails. The Pat McGee Trail is an old converted railroad line. It winds 12.14 miles and is quite scenic. State Bicycle Route 17 is part of a path that covers almost the entire state. The portion in this area runs parallel to Interstate 86. For the adventurous mountain bikers, Holiday Valley offers a 4.5 mile race loop at the top of one of mountains. There is no cell service available, so you’ll need to use a map to find your way up and around once you get here. There are maps available for download on enchantedmountains.com TM
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June 19 at 7 PM June 20 at 8 PM
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June 26 at 8 PM
June 21 at 5:30 PM
PAT BENATAR & NEIL GIRALDO July 3 at 7 PM
FEATURING JULIANNE HOUGH & DEREK HOUGH
July 11 at 8 PM
July 4 & 5 at 8 PM
Seneca Niagara Events Center
Seneca Allegany Events Center
BRIAN MCKNIGHT July 18 at 8 PM
GRAND FUNK RAILROAD
July 25 at 7 PM
GLORIANA
August 1 at 8 PM
1-800-745-3000 JOAN JETT & THE BLACKHEARTS August 14 at 8 PM
MONTGOMERY GENTRY August 28 at 7 PM
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THE SPLENDOR OF SPRING AWAITS YOU AT ALLEGANY STATE PARK By: Jg Bailey Imagine it; you step from the stuffy confines of your car surrounded by a world of rich evergreen and deep brown tones. You roll up your collar and zipper your jacket a little higher as the cool damp air of spring hits you with a sudden shock to the senses, but it’s a pleasant shock as it brings an instant memory of the deep rich scent of the wild and free air that you have been longing for. A wave of exhilaration washes over you as you realize, you’re here. You’re in a place where you have been longing to be for many weeks now, outside of the confines of winter and once again free to roam. You’re in Allegany State Park, the heart of the Enchanted Mountains. You’ve parked at a trailhead, one of many in Allegany State Park’s 100 square mile wilderness; but this one you have never explored, so as with any adventure the excitement builds with every stride you take down this unknown path. You stride away from your daily routine, and the distance between you and the intimately known grind is ever increasing. With a growing lightness in your step, you are lured ever forward into the natural world while absorbing the majestic sights, the earthy smells, and the whispering sounds of the forest and streams that surround you. The glistening gray wetness of moss laden rocks catches your eye as you pass through a soft meadow of green ferns that are beginning to unfurl for the ever increasing sunlight of growing days. Ahead a steep hollow, crowned with the solemn majesty of giant hemlocks that tower over a babbling run of clear cold mountain water with wide pools brimming with native brook trout. The melodious sing-song of nature’s avian choir swells in crescendo each day as the migration floats in on southern winds like an aerial flood overtaking the rich forest. Then in the near distance, a flash of black, so stark it seems as if darkness itself has come to life; and there you freeze still as stone, without breathing and with your heart racing you realize you are witnessing the first appearance of a wild black bear that has slumbered through the passing of winter’s cold.
It is in places like this we all seek to roam. We roam in the wild to lose ourselves, in a bid to rediscover ourselves amongst nature’s divinity. In our own unhurried time, each of us finds what we are searching for within ourselves. You may find it hiking miles of rugged trail abounding with wildlife, to witness incredible vistas unseen by scores of men, while you push yourself physically to unwind mentally. Or, perhaps you’ll find it roll casting a dry-fly upstream of a densely covered pool, the tiny fly and gossamer tippet gently kissing the water’s surface with a subtle dimple, and the fly drifts down on delicately rolling currents, bending around a sleek bolder into the slack water behind where a miniature monster lurks in the deep. In the end though, it doesn’t matter how you find it, it only matters that you take the time to look and renew. So, if this magical place sounds appealing, its splendor awaits you now – right now. You only have to take the first step to get there. Whether you plan a short day trip to the Enchanted Mountains to witness the wonders of Allegany State Park, or you plan an extended stay for several days to immerse yourself in nature, you have a wide variety of options to take advantage of in your recreational pursuit. Don’t put off the opportunity to commune with the outdoors in solitude, or have a meaningful outing with family and close friends. If you enjoy hiking, fishing, cycling, mountain biking, jogging, canoeing, kayaking, birdwatching, learning, or dozens of other activities; there is something here of value for you, your family, and your friends. The park offers camping in cabins and full service cottages in early spring as well as campsites starting in May, or you can take advantage of upscale lodging accommodations with lively entertainment immediately adjacent to the park, and in the local area.
IT’S IN PLACES LIKE “THIS WE ALL SEEK TO
ROAM. WE ROAM IN THE WILD TO LOSE OURSELVES, IN A BID TO REDISCOVER OURSELVES AMONGST NATURE’S DIVINITY.
“
For more information including maps, events, and lodging details please visit nysparks.com, EnchantedMountains.com, and senecaalleganycasino.com. TM
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LEWISTON, NY
MINTS & SOCKS
MUST HAVES FOR A GREAT WEEKEND BY LYNN OGRYZLO
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The rooms at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino are spacious and modern with the silkiest bed sheets, most luxurious bathrooms and magical views. My room faced north. I could see the snow covered buildings and ancient churches of Niagara Falls, New York and the Niagara Falls, Ontario skyline. The thundering Falls with a soaring cloud of billowing mist rose into the sky and drifted westward. The sight outside is sheer magic and drama, and so is it inside. This is about a girl’s weekend away: no children, no husbands, no dishes and no cares in the world except each other and the amount of fun we can have. My friends and I try to do this every year, we’re not always successful but this year we hit it big. The Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino is centrally located on the U.S.A., Canada border meaning it’s a short 90-minute drive from Toronto or Rochester and an ideal location for a girls weekend away. Giddy like schoolgirls, we pile into one car and head out. The Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino has just undergone a $26 million gaming floor renovation complete with a culinary face-lift and an enhanced Spa. This is going to be a great weekend! >> Everyone in our small party of four are coming for different reasons. The resort fits with Debi’s wanting to be pampered sensibilities. It’s a self-contained entertainment complex that satisfies Julie’s wild side. The gaming floor has limitless options giving Jeannie her lust for a thrill and the nine on-site restaurants feed my demand for eclectic dining. In addition to all of this, if we ever wanted to leave the casino, it would be for the unlimited shopping options that are within a few minutes drive. I’m thinking a weekend may not be enough. Friday night we start the weekend with a show in The Bear’s Den. It’s an intimate theatre and we get up-close and personal with Canadian rockers, Honeymoon Suite. After the show, the night is still young and we’re pumped. We crossed the lights and action of the gaming floor towards the giant 42-foot television screen that towers over Stir. Stir is an impressive ultra-lounge and our idea of big-city fun. The giant circular bar glows purple and blue, a live band rocks on 20-feet above us and we can let loose on the dance floor. We slink into the gold covered curved benches and bury our lips into a few foggy blue martinis. There’s nothing more self-indulgent than four ladies living a fantasy existence in exciting surroundings, even if it is only for a few days. The resort easily transports us into a make-believe world complete with the safety of knowing that after a few drinks, we can simply walk upstairs to our room. Late the next morning we all order breakfast in bed. Eggs, maple smoked bacon and thick slices of buttery toast with orange juice and coffee. We nibble, giggle and take turns in and out of the shower. I search my bag feverishly looking for the matching sock to the one in my hand; it’s nowhere to be found. I find myself deep in domestic thought about dirty laundry, aggravating mismatched socks and resentment over lack of time to pack when, the girls pull me back. What’s wrong with one sock on, one sock off? What’s left of the morning is reserved for a little retail therapy in the shops that flank the north and south side of the massive gaming floor. Besides a new pair of navy socks with glittery icons of Paris, France we stock up on Watson’s sponge chocolate, some lavender sea-salt body bath crystals and a manicure set complete with nail buffer; Julie splurges in a Swarovski crystal bracelet. We all get an ice cream at Cold Stone Creamery, it’s the perfect portal to friendly bliss. In-between the shops we’re hard at work reading menus and checking our appetites. We settle on the lighter fare of Koi Noodle Bar. I dig into my Cantonese Crispy Noodle Bowl, Julie is expertly managing her
I’M THINKING A WEEKEND MAY NOT BE ENOUGH. sushi with chopsticks, Jeannie is savouring her Sea Scallops with Black Bean Sauce and Debi is diving into her Cashew Thai Chicken. We giggle and make serious decisions on how much we’re going to invest into an afternoon of good fortune on the gaming floor. We decide on slot machines, Debi wants to play Keno. We walk the floor trying to invent reasons to play the Ghost Busters game or The Walking Dead slot machine. We are certainly not what you’d call hard core players and have long given up any pretense of knowing what we’re doing. We sip on complementary drinks and the fun snowballs. Some of us play, others watch and cheer and the afternoon turns into early evening. In the end, there are winners and there are losers. Julie runs out to get an old-fashion vanilla milkshake from Blues Burger Bar. Debi gets a loaded ice cream from Cold Slab Creamery, Jeannie comes back with chocolate and I find white peppermint bark. These are the icons of celebration. Exhausted we regroup back at the room; like great weekends that preceded this one, we’re ahead enough on our winnings to afford four glorious spa treatments. We book the last treatments of the day and head down to the swanky spa facilities. I sink into a massage table, Julie dunks into the hot tub, Debi gets in a few laps in the pool and Jeannie relishes in the yoga studio stretching her body into total relaxation. That evening we dress up and head for the Western Door steakhouse. We don’t know Bartender Frank Ryan but he becomes our best friend, mixing, stirring, shaking and muddling lavish drinks to begin our evening. I order the lamb and it is like butter, the steaks are juicy and flavourful and the lobster sweet and bright. It’s late at night and while we’re still at dinner working our way through a Chocolate Molton Cake and some of Frank’s strawberry infused vodka, sleep starts to creep up on us. Eventually we make our way back to our rooms and surprisingly, there are little mints on our pillows. It’s never too late for chocolate so we unwrap and indulge. The little mints have soft, brilliant blue inside, enrobed in milk chocolate. They’re spearmint not peppermint, they’re deliriously good and it brings on our second wind. We’re up for another hour of giggling and story telling before we all fall into a deep sleep. It’s now the morning we leave, but not before lounging, taking our last bubble baths and polish our nails. We lunch at the Three Sisters Café and say good-bye to another great weekend at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino. As each of us walks through the doors into the real world we switch back into our wives and mothers’ roles chatting about groceries and errands before heading home. We’re ourselves once again but for a few exciting days, we were away in an exotic place where we could be pampered and indulged. TM
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