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Where Toronto’s Michelin-recognized chefs eat cheap: Anthony Rose

By
Jennifer Schembri
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@chefanthonyrose/Instagram

Although inflation has caused the cost of dining out to soar, there are many standout restaurants in the city with quality food at reasonable prices. And when it comes to restaurant recommendations, who better to trust than a chef — and a Michelin chef to boot!

Chef Anthony Rose, recently awarded a Bib Gourmand for Fat Pasha— a hip Annex eatery serving up decadent Middle Eastern and European Jewish cuisine  — recently shared his favourite affordable restaurant in Toronto where two can dine with wine for under $100. Read on to find out which spot he selected.

Chef Rose wants to eat at: Shaker’s Club

“I’ve been going to Shaker’s Club recently. Prawn spring rolls, Japanese curry pie, clam frites — absolutely spectacular,” Rose told us. ” Plus Graham Sterling Pratt is one of my favourite chefs in the city. Just dreamy.” 

Shaker’s Club

The newest addition to the Pinky’s Ca Phe and Pepper’s team, Shaker’s Club is a happening spot in Bloordale Village that harkens back to the retro diners of yesteryear. Featuring an eclectic and playful interior where you can cozy up the bar and take in the views of the open kitchen, this spot is serving up some of the tastiest shared plates in the city including oysters, Niçoise salad and beef and scallop tartare. While the food does most of the heavy-lifting, make sure to try a refreshing cocktail or two, like the spiked Yuzu sweet tea or the Francesca 75, a delicious concoction made with tequila blanco, mezcal verde, honey and lemon topped with a funky Cidre Fermier du Borceliande. 1261 Bloor St. W.

If you want to know where chef Steven Molnar of Quetzal eats cheap, click here, for Rob Rossi of Osteria Guilia click here.  And to find out where chef Anna Chen eats cheap, click here.

10 popular Ontario attractions you can visit for free this weekend

By
Julia Mastroianni
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Free admission to Royal Botanical Gardens in Ontario this weekend
@rbgcanada/Instagram

Thanks to the coronation of King Charles III happening this weekend, Toronto residents will be able to enjoy the city’s first sunny weekend in a while at some of the province’s most popular cultural attractions. As part of the coronation celebrations, Ontario is offering free admission to 10 spots, including the Royal Ontario Museum and Ontario Science Centre.

That’s not all — the province’s coronation celebration includes a “royal fair” complete with free family activities such as carnival rides and live entertainment. Visitors will also be able to enjoy complimentary food and beverages from Ontario farmers and processors.  The royal fair begins at noon and runs until 6 p.m. on Saturday. It will follow a special ceremony happening at 11:15 a.m. to commemorate the coronation featuring a flag raising ceremony, 21-gun salute and drum circle.

The actual coronation will take place at 4 a.m. on Saturday, so head to bed early tonight if you plan on watching what will be the first coronation of a Canadian head of state in seven decades.

But not everyone may be interested in celebrating — and you’d be in good company. It looks like many people are looking to distance themselves from the monarchy and the coronation festivities, including Ed Sheeran, Elton John, Harry Styles and Adele, who turned down invitations to perform at the coronation concert and U.S. President Biden, who declined an invite.

If you’re feeling the same way, spend Saturday visiting these free cultural attractions instead.

Here’s the full list of Ontario attractions you can visit with free admission on May 6:

  • Art Gallery of Ontario
  • Fort William Historical Park
  • McMichael Canadian Art Collection
  • Niagara Parks’ Butterfly Conservatory and Floral Showhouse
  • Ontario Science Centre
  • Royal Botanical Gardens
  • Royal Ontario Museum
  • Sainte-Marie among the Hurons
  • Science North
  • Upper Canada Village

Here are the best Kentucky Derby parties in Toronto

By
Jennifer Schembri
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@woodbinetb/Instagram

It doesn’t matter if you’re a racing fan or you’re just a fan of dressing up, the Kentucky Derby is happening on May 6 and Toronto is getting in on the action  with amazing parties on race day.

Here are Toronto’s best spots to celebrate the Kentucky Derby.

Louix Louis


Get ready to dress to impress — we’re talking big hats and bow ties — at The St. Regis Toronto’s extravagant bar and restaurant Louix Louis as they kick off the race in style with a A Celebration of Kentucky’s Annual Big Race. Festivities began at 5 p.m. and include a Maker’s Mark Tasting, one mint julep per guest, Kentucky-style canapés and live jazz. There will also be prizes for the best dressed like dinner for two at Louix Louis or afternoon tea at Astor Lounge. Tickets are $70 per guest.

Toronto Beach Club

@torontobeachclub/Instagram

The official warm up to summer kicks off at Toronto Beach Club with their first annual Derby Day Soiree. Guests are asked to put on their Derby best for an afternoon on fun. The party kicks off at 2 p.m. with an a la carte lunch featuring a DJ and live entertainment followed by the club’s official viewing party featuring complimentary mint juleps, live horse betting games, best dressed awards and more! Attendees will be able to take in the race from all angles with thanks to the venue’s multiple screens. You can purchase your ticket here.

Woodbine Racetrack

@woodbinetb/Instagram

Woodbine’s 4th annual Derby day party includes a day filled with southern hospitality with gourmet food, drinks and more! The event takes place at Champions’s Bar from 2 to 7 p.m. Tickets are priced at $110 and can be purchased online.

How icon Susur Lee and his son garnered millions of fans on TikTok

By
lindsaylow
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L-R: Kai Bent-Lee, Jet Bent-Lee, chef Susur Lee and Levi Bent-Lee

Chef Susur Lee is amongst the most acclaimed artists to ever don an apron in this country. Winner of nearly every accolade a chef can earn and the recipient of praise from every esteemed publication that writes about food — one of the first Torontonians to receive international raves for his eclectic, fusion cuisine — Lee, long hair flowing, is a fixture in magazines and on TV.

Lee was gracious enough to chat with Post City Magazines, where he’s been a longtime friend, about his recent celebrity turn on TikTok, the youth-centric social media app that’s seen him explode due to his hilarious, mind-blowing remixes of food from Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, Panda Express and Starbucks. His son, Jet Bent-Lee, however, was too busy for the interview.

@jetbentlee

Iron chef dad turns #Starbucks turned gourmet ☕️

♬ original sound – Jet & Susur

“Jet went to better schools and uses bigger words than my other two boys, and he’s just very … unique,” says Lee with an admiring laugh, adding that his youngest son’s cool is part of the intergenerational appeal of the 2022 TikToking Susur Lee. “He doesn’t like to say too much and I admire that. Like, even with me, when he told me that the Panda Express video was one of my best, it touched my heart. To get praised by Jet is very cool.”

Lee has been cool since he opened Lotus, his first restaurant in Toronto, in 1987. To own and manage a restaurant group that’s been setting trends in each of the last five decades is an accomplishment that’s nearly unequalled, not just in Canada, but around the world. He’s not exactly humble, but he’s hungry. Watch the TikTok videos he made with Jet, and you can see someone comfortable both in front of the camera and in his own skin. When, wearing socks, he turns a caramel frappuccino and a cake pop into a gourmet dessert, it’s a marvel of cooking — the reduced sauce, the spontaneous innovation, the exploratory lemon zest and surprise vanilla extract — and a charming glimpse into a warm family life.

Susur Lee
Photo: Transparent Kitchen

“I don’t need an English lesson right now,” Chef tells Jet, who loves good-naturedly ribbing his famous dad. The videos work because Chef is brilliant, the concept is hilarious and Jet brings out his dad’s warmth. Susur Lee is not involved in the video’s editing and it wasn’t his idea. But to see him play around with his boy in the kitchen is so compelling that the Starbucks clip has been viewed more than 17 million times. Chef sounds dismayed and delighted by its surprise success.

“It’s serious, but funny, and Jet knows how to capture me just right,” says Susur Lee, who also appeared on a little show called Iron Chef, where he battled American celebrities like Bobby Flay. “I think Jet’s going to help bring in a new generation to Susur [restaurant], I told my staff: it’s time to start checking ID.”

@jetbentlee

turning #chipotle gourmet ?

♬ Pope Is a Rockstar – SALES

Chef isn’t sure, beyond lowering the average age of his tables, how his popularity on TikTok might impact his business, but he readily admits that his latest dalliance with fame — alongside his celebrity son — is giving everyone an adrenaline jolt just at the exact moment the city is craving some buzz.

“I’m in a happy place and really just want to be creative and focus on the vibe of the city and making things great,” he says. “I want people to get excited and, if the TikToks help do that, I’m happy — cooking, like family, is my life.”

How They Met: Kurt Browning takes a spin at love with Alissa Czisny

By
Julia Mastroianni
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Canadian skating legend Kurt Browning has done it all. He’s a four-time world champion; an Olympic flag-bearer; a Canada Sports Hall of Famer; was a judge, performer and co-host on CBC’s Battle of the Blades; and is the first person in history to land a quadruple jump in competition. He’s also in his 30th year performing with the Stars on Ice tour — and this year, he gets to do so with his new wife, U.S. national champion figure skater Alissa Czisny. Ahead of the tour coming to Toronto on May 5, the couple shares how they re-met on the rink and their accidental first date.

How they met

Face to face, at an ice rink! We have known each other for years through skating. We “re-met” in 2015 when we were both performing in a skating tour together.

The first date

Syracuse, New York, when we were on the tour together (October 2015). A group of U.S. skaters went to a mall in Syracuse. When an incredibly small and minor emergency occurred, the group disbanded, leaving us looking at each other and saying, “Lunch?” Our lunch turned into an entire afternoon of exploring the city together … and the rest is history, as they say! Many years of friendship and trust evolved into something else that day, and we quickly realized that we enjoyed who we were with each other.

The courtship

We spent the first five or so years long-distance dating, travelling between Detroit and Toronto to visit each other. It gave us time to really get to know each other better and figure out what our lives would become if merged. We had many adventures together, including participating in a single-day, 100-mile bicycle ride and a cross-country road trip, highlighted by a visit to the Grand Canyon and  Grand Teton National Park.

The proposal

Fittingly, we were on another skating tour together.

Spontaneity factor: 5 out of 5

Eloquence factor: 4 out of 5

Romance factor: 3 out of 5

Setting factor: 2 out of 5

Creativity factor: 1 out of 5

Ring factor: 0 out of 5

She-said-yes factor: perfect 10

The wedding and honeymoon


We were married in a small, private ceremony in an enchanted forest on the Niagara Peninsula in Ontario on Aug. 11, 2022. We often travel together for work, so we have not yet taken an official honeymoon, but we will be going to Australia together this upcoming summer!

The kids

Kurt has two wonderful, amazing, handsome boys — they made us write that! — Gabriel and Dillon, ages 19 and 15.

Balancing careers and a marriage

On thin blades of steel! With both of us being figure skaters, there’s a complete understanding of what the other one is going through. How many other couples at the end of their work day get to hold hands and bow together!

Shared hobbies and interests

Kurt: We share all hobbies — except for reading. I leave that to Alissa! We both love biking, hiking, rollerblading, antiquing, rock climbing, playing tennis, playing pool, working out, going on adventures, pretty much everything… and we both rather dislike cooking.

The secret to success

Alissa: He buys me a constant stream of blueberries!

Kurt: I like that the further away she is from her glasses, the better looking I get! The most important thing is that we laugh together every day.

The future

If we could look into the future, we would have bought stock in Apple, Google, Netflix and Amazon. But even though we don’t have any stock in those companies, we are very happy with our investment in each other. When we look forward to our future together,  there is likely less time on the ice, but more time off the ice to do lots of other things that we enjoy together!

For our 2013 profile of Kurt Browning, click here.

Residents angry after staff destroy beloved 20-year-old garden oasis

By
Ron Johnson
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0

A community garden oasis was destroyed by Toronto Community Housing staff, and local residents are angry and are demanding answers from the city of Toronto.

The once-stunning garden was created over a number of years by Brian Gorrell and another resident of 133 Broadway Ave.

One resident, Tom Cohen, described it as “the only real human touch in that canyon of tall towers, and full of the most whimsical sculptures and furnishings,” adding that Gorrell is not in good health and the city tore up his work on Feb. 7 while he was at an appointment with a doctor.

In a Toronto Star article, a TCHC spokesperson said the removal was the result of fire hazards present and the use of indoor electrical extension cords.

Jane Auster, of the South Eglinton Davisville Residents’ Association, said that reasoning is “a bit rich since it was deep in winter time when there could not have been fire hazards present.”

Gorrell told the Star that he had not received a single complaint about the garden until January, when he received two letters from TCHC.

“They never gave me any options. They never told me they would take the entire garden,” Gorrell told the Star.

According to Auster, the uproar over what happens has grown steadily especially since local councillor and mayoralty candidate Josh Matlow flagged the incident.

“There have been several letters sent to the city, letters to local media, calls for the city to rebuild the garden as completely and faithfully as possible,” Auster says. “This whole incident has been heartbreaking, as this garden oasis had been a bright and green spot for many years in a neighbourhood surrounded by concrete.”


The building is an older, mid-rise rental building near the corner of Broadway and Redpath. Brian (a.k.a. Bry) Gorrell, is a 53-year-old artist for whom this garden became a passion project over a decade and with an estimated investment of more than $20,000 of his own money, Auster says. 

“Building management never had any problems with the garden or complaints about it. In fact, probably quite the opposite, as this garden was a bright spot in the front of their building,” Auster says. 

Optimistically, Auster is hopefully that there will be a complete rebuild of the garden by city staff with the oversight of Brian Gorrell.

Vibrant Venezuelan bakery is bringing grandma’s recipes to Toronto

By
Jennifer Schembri
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0
@marquin.ca

Marquin is a deliciously authentic Venezuelan bakery that’s a must-try for Latin American cuisine in Toronto’s bustling Yonge and Eglinton neighbourhood.

Since it opened, the bakeshop has been selling out of arepas — cornmeal cakes stuffed with meat, veggies or cheese — and pastelitos, tiny pies chock full of sweet or savoury fillings, including guava and caramel apple. The boutique bakery, founded by Maryelin Quintero and Alonso Montoya, is a way to share their passion for Venezuelan cuisine with the Canadian community.

Quintero was born in Venezuela but lived in Spain before moving to Canada to pursue a career in digital marketing. Montoya was born and raised in Mexico and currently works as a scientist in the pharmaceutical industry, but has a special interest in food. Together the duo believes food can serve as a connector, bringing people
together.

“Marquin is a place where you can enjoy authentic Venezuelan food made with love and care, share experiences with your loved ones,” says Quintero.


Patrons can expect a variety of authentic Venezuelan food made with meticulous attention to detail, prepared using recipes from Quintero’s grandmother, a local of the Andean city of Merida, Venezuela.

Beyond the food, the vibe of the interior echoes the same friendly, warm and fun-loving atmosphere of the founders’ roots. The décor, inspired by European bars, mixes softly coloured walls, gold signage, and pops of boldly coloured floral bouquets. Together, the vibe is chill and stylish with an unmistakably Latin touch.

“We play a mix of Latin music that you can hear on the sidewalk. It creates a happy and lively atmosphere, and we love to see people dancing outside of our store,” says Quintero.

In the coming months, the bakery will be heading downtown to a new space in The Path at  First Canadian Place, but for now, people looking to get their hands on some sweet or savoury-filled Venezuelan pastries can visit Marquin at 2523 Yonge St.

A guide to selecting the ideal management company

By
Dorothy Chudzinski
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In the world of real estate investing, rental properties can provide a steady stream of passive income. However, managing a rental property can be a daunting task that requires a lot of time and effort. This is where a property management company can come in handy, offering a range of services to help you manage your property and keep it profitable.

Selecting the best property management company for your rental property can be challenging, given the multitude of choices available. Royal York Property Management, a prominent property management firm in Ontario, has highlighted essential factors to take into account when deciding on the best property management company.

Reputation and experience

When it comes to property management, experience is key. You want to choose the best company that has a track record of success and has been in the industry for a while. A company with a strong reputation and years of experience can offer valuable insights and knowledge that a newer company may not have. It’s also important to check reviews and ratings from previous clients to get an idea of the company’s performance.

Royal York Property Management is a prime example of the best experienced and reputable company that has been providing property management services in Ontario for nearly 20 years. Their good-standing online reputation and numerous positive reviews from satisfied clients demonstrate their success in the Canadian rental industry.

Services offered

The best property management company should offer a range of services that cover all aspects of managing your rental property. This includes rent collection, maintenance, responding to emergency issues and repairs and more. When considering a property management company, it’s important to make sure they offer all the services you need to keep your rental property running smoothly.

Royal York Property Management offers a full suite of property management services, including tenant screening and placement, maintenance and 24/7 customer care. Their overall business approach is focused on providing transparent, efficient and reliable service to property owners and tenants.

Effective communication

Clear and consistent communication is vital when it comes to managing your rental property. You want a property management company that keeps you informed about your property and responds promptly to your inquiries and concerns. Make sure the company you choose has a system in place for regular communication and provides you with easy access to your property’s information and financial reports. In 2023, it’s expected for the best property management companies to provide an online portal app that allows property owners to track every aspect of their rental property.

At Royal York Property Management, they prioritize effective communication with their clients. They provide monthly statements, annual reports and ongoing updates to keep property owners informed about their rental property’s status. Additionally, they offer a secure online portal that enables property owners to access critical information about their property anytime, anywhere.

With the online portal, property owners can keep track of their property’s activities, view financial statements and more, all in one convenient place. By offering these features, Royal York Property Management ensures that their clients have the necessary tools and information to manage their rental property efficiently.

Fees

When it comes to fees, it’s important to find a balance between affordability and quality of service. While you don’t want to overpay for property management services, you also don’t want to choose a company that cuts corners or provides subpar service to save costs. Make sure to compare fees from different property management companies and choose one that offers competitive pricing without sacrificing quality.

Choosing the best property management company can make a big difference in the success of your rental property. Royal York Property Management has a proven track record of success, offers a full range of property management services, prioritizes communication and provides affordable fees.

Royal York Property Management offers affordable and transparent pricing for their property management services. Their monthly fees start at just $29 for their Silver package and $49 for their Gold package. The Silver package includes basic property management services, such as lease renewals, 24/7 maintenance coordination and customer care. On the other hand, the Gold package offers more comprehensive services, including tenant screening and placement, direct payments, rent collection, move-in inspection, legal notices and 24/7 customer care and maintenance.

To avoid potential financial losses resulting from tenant non-payment, it’s crucial to find a property management company that provides rental guarantee to their property owners. This service ensures that you receive your rental income even if the tenant fails to pay the rent for the month. Royal York Property Management offers Rental Guarantee to their property owners for just $29.

Streamlined technology

In today’s fast-paced world, utilizing streamlined technology is essential for efficient property management. Property owners need to keep track of everything happening with their rental properties, and the right technology can make this process much easier and more organized.

The best property management company should leverage the latest technological advancements to enhance communication, automate processes and provide property owners with easy access to important information. This can include using email notifications, online portals, mobile apps and other digital tools to keep property owners informed and in control.

Clear terms and conditions

When working with a property management company, clear and detailed terms and conditions are crucial. These agreements outline the responsibilities of both the property owner and the property management company, ensuring that everyone is on the same page.

The agreement should include details such as the services provided, the fees charged and the responsibilities of both parties. Having a clear understanding of these terms can help to avoid misunderstandings and disputes down the line, providing peace of mind for both the property owner and the property management company.

Royal York Property Management prioritizes transparency and efficiency when it comes to property management agreements. Their commitment to transparency and overall efficiency ensures that all terms and conditions are clearly outlined, including the services provided, the fees charged and the responsibilities of both parties. This level of clarity in the agreements is just one of the many ways they prioritize effective communication with their property owners.

Operating 24/7

If the company does not operate 24/7, then move on to the next property management firm. As a property management firm, Royal York understands that managing a property is more than just collecting rent and ensuring that the property is maintained. It also means dealing with unexpected situations such as floods, fires and other emergencies. With a 24/7 operation, potential issues can be identified and addressed before they become major problems, reducing the risk of property damage.

The team at Royal York Property Management is trained and experienced in handling emergent situations so that your property is well-kept and secure. Operating 24/7 gives a sense of reliability to property owners, knowing that they can contact the property management company at any time, even on holidays.

How seriously do they take health and safety measures?

It’s always best to ensure that your property has enough fire extinguishers, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to avoid the possibility of incurring a $150,000 bill from the city for non-compliance during an inspection.

At Royal York Property Management, they take health and safety very seriously. Royal York understands that ensuring the safety of their property owners and their tenants is of utmost importance, and they strive to maintain the highest standards of safety across all the properties they manage.

Selecting the best property management company is essential for the success of your rental property. It’s essential to consider various factors such as experience, reputation, communication, fees, streamlined technology, clear terms and conditions and 24/7 operation to ensure that you choose a reliable and efficient property management firm.

Best diners in Toronto for a short stack with a splash of nostalgia

By
Megan Gallant
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Avenue Diner
Avenue Diner

Gordon Lightfoot tributes pour in from all corners as legend passes

By
Ron Johnson
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Yesterday, Gordon Lightfoot, an absolute legend of Canadian music, passed away and the entire country, led by a parade of musicians influenced by his work, is in mourning.

“It is with profound sadness that we confirm that Gordon Meredith Lightfoot has passed away. Gordon died peacefully on Monday, May 1, 2023 at 730 p.m. at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto. He died of natural causes. He was 84 years old,” read the official statement from the Lightfoot family. “He is survived by his wife Kim Hasse, six children — Fred, Ingrid, Eric, Galen, Miles and Meredith, as well as several grandchildren.”

StreetsofToronto.com spoke to Lightfoot over a decade ago, when the legend was about to make yet another appearance at his home-away-from-home Massey Hall.  Here is an excerpt:

Gordon Lightfoot

Born in Orillia in 1938, Lightfoot started working in his dad’s dry cleaning plant when he was 14.

“I wanted to go to work,” he says. “When I turned 16, I started driving a truck and worked all through high school.”

It was around this time that he “started to get the bug” to write songs. His first song was about the Hula Hoop fad. He took the song to BMI Music.

“[It] was the place to go here in Toronto, down on Gould Street,” Lightfoot recalls. “William Harold Moon and Bailey Bird said, ‘Leave your name with the receptionist and we’ll call you.’ They were interested because it was a topical song.”

Many of his songs that would follow adhered to a topical style, and his music was often influenced by actual events.

In 1967, he was commissioned by the CBC to write “Canadian Railroad Trilogy” for their Centennial celebrations.

“I learned songs like a sponge at the beginning,” he says. “I wanted to get to the point where I could do all my songs like Bob Dylan does.” (Dylan would also later cite Lightfoot as one of his favourite artists.)

Part of Toronto’s fabled folk scene of the 1960s, Lightfoot began performing at the Riverboat, a coffee shop in Yorkville.

lightfoot
Gordon Lightfoot performs at the Riverboat in Yorkville (City of Toronto archives)

He held his own beside other musical greats, including Ian and Sylvia, who first heard him play at Steele’s Tavern on Yonge Street, as well as Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Al Cromwell and the Sparrows (later Steppenwolf).

Lightfoot remembers them all: “A lot of those people disappeared, and they were really good,” he says, solemnly.

Did he realize how influential he and his contemporaries would become?

“You really wonder, but you can’t take the dream away. Keep plugging, keep trying, see if something gives. I was lucky.”

Since his debut, Lightfoot has received 16 Juno Awards and has been nominated for five Grammys. He was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1986 and the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame in 2001. This past June, he was also inducted the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame in New York City.

In 1998 he received a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame.

Since his passing, tributes have poured in from all corners including a veritable who’s-who of artists from around the world.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also issued a statement on behalf all Canadians speaking to the profound impact Lightfoot and his music had on the country.

“Mr. Lightfoot gave us so many special moments over the years. With a career that spanned over half a century, Mr. Lightfoot‘s music told stories that captured the Canadian spirit, none more so than his iconic Canadian Railroad Trilogy, which will forever be a part of our country’s musical heritage,” Trudeau wrote, in part.

“On behalf of all Canadians, Sophie and I express our deepest sympathies to Gordon‘s family, friends, and his many, many fans. His legacy will live on in the dynamic Canadian soundscape he helped to shape.”

Back in 2012, when we asked what role his music ultimately plays in the shaping of a Canadian identity, he replied in his typical modest manner.

“The best things I can do is just stay here, in Canada, and be a part of this country and represent it well whenever I go abroad. And be proud,” he said.

As someone who spent the better part of his life making music in Toronto from Yorkville in the ’60s through to his regular appearances at Massey Hall as well as his home in North Toronto, it is essential to find a fitting way to honour Lightfoot’s contribution to the city.

He deserves all the accolades.

RIP Gordon Lightfoot.

Ryan Reynolds, Snoop Dogg face-off in $1 billion Senators deal

By
Jennifer Schembri
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0
Photo: @snoopdogg/Instagram, @vancityreynolds/Instagram

Snoop Dogg is the latest big name-bidder “in an aggressive pursuit” of purchasing the Ottawa Senators.

The rapper confirmed via an Instagram post on Monday, that he was “looking forward” to being part of a bid by Los-Angeles film producer and businessman Neko Sparks, who would be the first Black owner of an NHL team.

“Amazing what @neko_sparks is trying to do in Ottawa & I’m looking forward to being apart of that ownership team. I WANNA BRING HOCKEY TO OUR COMMUNITY,” Snoop Dogg captioned the post.


Last week, Vancouver-born actor Ryan Reynolds was linked to a $1 billion bid  for the Senators, co-led by real estate mogul Christopher Bratty.

During an appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon back in November, the Deadpool actor confirmed his interest.

“I love Ottawa. I grew up in Vancouver which has my heart always but also grew up in Ottawa. I spent a long time in Vanier which is a little town,” he said during the appearance.  “Children are eased out of the womb in ice skates in Canada. NHL ready by the time they’re four.”

The Deadpool actor joked, “If that doesn’t work out I’ll buy a US senator which anyone can afford.”

Reynolds is no stranger to the sporting world.  In 2o2o he purchased Welsh soccer club, Wrrexham along with writer and producer Rob McElhenney for a cool $2.5 million.

Founded in 1883, the Ottawa Senators have been up for sale since the death of Canadian businessman Eugene Melnyk in March of 2022.

According to a report by The Athletic, the Sparks group is “not intimidated by the notion of the final sale price for the NHL franchise eclipsing $1 billion,” however it is not known how much Snoop Dogg would be investing in the venture.

In a recent valuation by Forbes, the Senators were listed at $800 million, ranking them 24th out of the NHL’s 30 teams.

The rise of black windows: Exploring a trend in Canadian home design

By
Dorothy Chudzinski
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0

The trend of new black windows has been steadily increasing in Canadian home design. Ontario homeowners seeking a bold, eye-catching alternative to traditional white windows will install black windows more often in 2023.

Experts from Ecoline Windows Ottawa share their insights into the buzz of black windows and offer helpful tips for those considering a window replacement.

Why black windows?

Black is a traditional colour loved by many home designers, architects and renovation experts. And windows painted black have a unique ability to elevate a home’s curb appeal. 

The bold, contrasting appearance of these units stands out. It complements a wide range of exterior colours and materials, making black windows popular among homeowners looking to renovate their houses in 2023. 

Additionally, black windows are versatile enough to suit various architectural styles, from modern and contemporary to traditional and farmhouse-style homes. Their timeless aesthetic ensures they remain stylish for years to come.

New black windows: Energy efficiency and durability

Many homeowners prefer black windows not only because they look good but also due to the simplicity of keeping the original look while offering the best thermal performance.

Energy efficiency:

  • Modern black windows often feature advanced materials and technologies, leading to improved insulation and reduced drafts. The best windows can offer up to 55 per cent more energy efficiency compared to regular products.
  • The dark colour can help minimize solar heat gain, keeping your home cooler during hot periods.

Durability and little to no maintenance:

  • High-end black window frames easily withstand fading and chipping, keeping the excellent original look for decades after installation.
  • Minimal spring upkeep is required, making them an ideal choice for Ontario homeowners. 

How to install the best black windows for your home

When considering black window replacement, there are a few aspects to remember, just as with any other windows.

Frame materials:

Choosing the right frame material for your new black windows is vital to balance energy efficiency, durability, cost and upkeep. While you can find many options, modern windows are usually equipped with vinyl frames. Vinyl is a cost-effective, energy-efficient and low-maintenance material, making it an attractive choice for Ontario homeowners.

Window types:

The right window style will not only complement the exterior look of your house but also affect ultimate energy efficiency and home value. Some popular options to consider are:

  • Casement windows: Best for energy efficiency and ventilation
  • Double-hung windows: Traditional, easy-maintenance windows 
  • Sliding windows: Modern units for clear views and optimal airflow
  • Picture windows: Fixed units usually installed in living rooms for unobstructed views and maximum thermal performance.

Customization options:

If you want to boost the market value of your house, getting a unique configuration for your new black windows might be a fantastic option.

  • Grid patterns: Select from various grid patterns to enhance your home’s architectural style and add visual interest.
  • Glass options: Choose from different glass types, such as low-E, tempered, or tinted, to meet your specific needs for energy efficiency and safety.

Window replacement in 2023: Where to start? 

Black windows offer a stunning, versatile and lasting addition to any home. But before embarking on a window replacement:

  • Inspect your current units for signs of wear and tear, such as rot, cracks or drafts. 
  • Evaluate your energy bills and overall window performance. This will help you understand whether a full replacement or retrofitting is needed. 

If you decide to go with new windows, consult several local window companies for expert advice on the best black window options for your home’s style and functionality needs. Your preferred window company should:

  • Sell only Energy Star-rated black windows;
  • Have a variety of window styles and configurations;
  • Provide a free quote and consultation for your replacement project;
  • Work with in-house installers
  • Offer a 25-year hassle-free warranty for black windows;

To install the best black windows for your home, visit Ecoline Windows Ottawa or call (613)-706-0319. Window experts will be happy to consult you on the suitable model, help to claim maximum government rebates and ensure hassle-free installation.

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