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Here are the best beaches in Southern Ontario for an epic summer road trip

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long point beach
Photo: Long Point Beach Provincial Park

The warm weather has arrived which means it’s time to get back to the beach. And while Toronto is known for a decent but modest offering of spots to soak up the sun, the beach scene in the rest of Southern Ontario – some just a few short hours away, is alive and kicking, full of personality and definitely worthy of a drive.

Whether you fancy some swimming and sunning, or prefer a volleyball game in the sand, check out our list of the best beaches in Southern Ontario to escape to.

Sandbanks Provincial Park, Prince Edward County

Sandbanks beach
Sandbanks Provincial Park

If you take a trip to The County, a stop at Sandbanks Provincial Park is a must. Just two-and-a-half hours east of downtown Toronto, this popular vacation spot is the place to be thanks to a bunch of hip restaurants, quaint B&Bs, and white sandy beaches that have been ranked among the best in Canada. It’s also the home to the world’s largest freshwater dune formation, stretching 12-kilometres across Lake Ontario. There are three beaches located in the park – Outlet, Dunes, and Lakeshore, with Outlet being the most popular. Set on two kilometres of perfect beach, it’s got plenty of amenities like watercraft rentals, a pet-designated area, and a park store and grill.

Southhampton Beach, Bruce County


Located on Lake Huron, thirty minutes from Owen Sound, Southhampton Beach is the kind of beach you escape to. Known as being the quieter of the neighbouring beaches (I’m looking at you Sauble), it’s got a relaxed vibe and features several miles of fluffy sand (four-kilometres to be exact), and while the water is known as being a little rocky, its nothing that a pair of water shoes can’t fix. From the shoreline is a view of Chantry Island and its historic 1856 Imperial Lighthouse, and best-of-all, the paved boardwalk is the perfect spot for a stroll.

Long Point Beach, Port Rowan

long point beach
Photo: Long Point Beach Provincial Park

Known as having the warmest waters of the Great Lakes, Long Point Beach is located on the shores of Lake Erie within Long Point Provincial Park, famous for attracting thousands of birdwatchers each year. The beach checks all the right boxes: a 40-kilometre sandpit (recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve), crystal-clear waters with a shallow entry – great for the kiddos, and two kilometres of sandy beach. Before you leave, make sure to pay a visit to the charming lakeside town of Port Rowan where you’ll the best fish and chips in the area.

Providence Bay Beach, Manitoulin Island


A bit further afield, Manitoulin Island offers a serene and stunning getaway destination for ambitious Toronto weekenders looking to find solace and sunshine aplenty. Well, Manitoulin Island is just that. And Providence Bay Beach could be one of the best and most beautiful natural beaches in the province. Because of its length and unique characteristics, there is always a private place to burrow into the sand and enjoy a summer’s day. You’ll need at least a weekend to truly enjoy Manitoulin Island, but it’s well-worth the effort.

Turkey Point Beach, Norfolk County

Photo: Turkey Point Provincial Park

Within Turkey Point Provincial Park on the shores of Lake Erie, you’ll find Turkey Point Beach. A popular destination for families, the beach stretches over two-kilometres and features a designated, buoyed section to keep kids safe in the shallow area. A number of water activities are on offer including canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and flyboards. Located two hours from Toronto, if you plan to stay the night, there are also 235 campsites onsite where you’ll find playgrounds, picnic shelters and even a laundromat.

This $6.888 million Annex home with a wine cellar and luxury loft is perfection

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Nestled in the lively heart of the Annex, 16 Bernard Ave. is a masterpiece. Built in 1915, this four plus one -bedroom Edwardian beauty, listed at  $6.888 million, marries modern luxury renovations with classic elegance.

Featuring an outrageously fabulous wine cellar, five bathrooms (including one that’s pure marble) and a dreamy loft retreat, this house has it all.

Courtesy Andre Mckenzie/SilverHouseHD
Courtesy Andre Mckenzie/SilverHouseHD

Upon entering the home, notice how much natural light there is thanks to multiple skylights. Notice also the exquisite marble detail on the entryway.

Courtesy Andre Mckenzie/SilverHouseHD

With a modern gas fireplace, the living room has a welcoming ambiance. This room also has a beautiful bay window that faces the street.

The contemporary kitchen features white stone countertops, top-notch appliances, and ample storage. Conveniently situated between the living room, dining area and family room, it’s made to be the heart of the house. What’s more, the breakfast bar is the perfect spot for lively morning chit-chat.

Courtesy Andre Mckenzie/SilverHouseHD

This is the dining room. The custom shelving is made of pure onyx.

Courtesy Andre Mckenzie/SilverHouseHD

At the back of the house is this fabulous family room fit with another gas fireplace. Those doors open onto an enclosed back garden. It’s a great space to entertain guests.

Courtesy Andre Mckenzie/SilverHouseHD

Upstairs, notice all the lovely natural light streaming in. And look at the ornate detailing in the hall.

Courtesy Andre Mckenzie/SilverHouseHD

Here’s the primary bedroom. It has a private balcony that overlooks the backyard. Look at that avante garde fireplace — it’s such a luxury. Beyond it is an opulent ensuite bathroom.

Courtesy Andre Mckenzie/SilverHouseHD

Not only does the ensuite bathroom have a marble walk-in shower, but it also has a deep soaker tub that will make you feel like you’re in a spa.

Courtesy Andre Mckenzie/SilverHouseHD

Here’s the second bedroom. Look at that charming window nook with antique stained glass — what a great place to relax and read a book. This room also has its own balcony overlooking the leafy, tree-lined street.

Courtesy Andre Mckenzie/SilverHouseHD

And here’s what that balcony looks like — it’s like a treetop hideaway.

Courtesy Andre Mckenzie/SilverHouseHD

Take a look at this delightful loft space. Look at that beautiful hardwood floor and those high ceilings.

Courtesy Andre Mckenzie/SilverHouseHD

This is the loft’s breathtaking ensuite bathroom. It’s all marble, and it’s spectacular.

Courtesy Andre Mckenzie/SilverHouseHD

Here’s the second loft room. It’s such a versatile space. Currently, it’s used as an office, but imagine it as anything you like — a bedroom, a hangout, an art studio — you name it!

Courtesy Andre Mckenzie/SilverHouseHD

The green marble fireplace is strikingly gorgeous. Outside is another large balcony.

Courtesy Andre Mckenzie/SilverHouseHD

In the basement, this custom-built wine cellar is a sommelier’s dream come true.

Courtesy Andre Mckenzie/SilverHouseHD

Here’s a view of the backyard. It’s a green oasis right in the heart of the city. What a great place for entertaining — imagine the cookouts you could host.

16 Bernard Ave. is listed with Nelson-Denham-Brown & Associates of Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, Brokerage.

How to make Sara chef Mary Dinh’s summer-ready chopped salad

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sara chopped salad recipe

“This recipe is extra special because each bite can offer a different experience in flavour and texture as you eat it,” says Sara chef Mary Dinh of this chopped salad recipe. “Some bites will offer more anise flavour from the fennel and watery crunch from the celery, while others pack that wasabi bite from the wasabi peas and creaminess from the cashew cheese.”

 

Tamarind Vinaigrette

  • ½ cup tamarind concentrate
  • ½ cup rice wine vinegar
  • 2 tbsp tamari or light soy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp fresh garlic, finely grated
  • 1 tbsp ginger, finely grated
  • 1 tbsp agave syrup
  • 1 cup grapeseed oil

Method

  1. In a bowl, combine all ingredients except grapeseed oil.
  2. Vigorously whisk the ingredients while gently streaming in all the grapeseed oil.
  3. Continue whisking until combined.

 

Cashew Cheese

  • 2 poblano peppers, de-seeded and diced
  • 1 jalapeno pepper, de-seeded and diced
  • 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
  • 6 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup cashews, soaked overnight and drained

Method

  1. In a container, generously cover cashews with cold water and let soak overnight.
  2. Drain cashews and set aside.
  3. In a blender, combine poblano, jalapeno, nutritional yeast, lime juice and salt. Blend until smooth.
  4. Add cashews. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Salad

  • Kale, shredded
  • Nappa cabbage, julienned
  • Fennel, diced
  • Celery, diced
  • Mint, chiffonade
  • Thai Basil, chiffonade
  • Wasabi Peas
  • Roasted Cashews, crushed

Method

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine vegetables.
  2. Dress salad with tamarind dressing to taste.
  3. Transfer into a serving bowl.
  4. Garnish with a dollop of cashew cheese, roasted cashews and wasabi peas before serving.

Veterans rights in Canada

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See all posts by Diamond and Diamond Lawyers

Being the largest personal injury law firm in Canada, Diamond and Diamond is no stranger to the reality of workplace personal injuries for retired veterans. Michael Blois, partner at Diamond and Diamond shares the answers to many commonly asked questions regarding veteran rights in Canada and where to turn for help.

What Type of Cases Can Diamond and Diamond Help Veterans With?

Dealing with service-related injuries is hard enough without the added stress of navigating the often overwhelming Veterans Affairs Benefits process. Unfortunately, the process is far from perfect, and many veterans fall through the cracks and are left feeling abandoned by the Veterans Affairs system. As a law firm with expertise in this area, Diamond and Diamond can help with:

Veterans Affairs Disability Benefits Appeals

When veterans have already made an application for benefits through the VA Benefits portal and get denied or have their injury deemed not service-related, we can help with tackling the first appeal process. This stage often involves a high volume of military records, medical records, and documentation that can be overwhelming without professional help.

Civil lawsuits against Veterans Affairs, Veterans Affairs Case Managers, or the Government of Canada

We represent both individual veterans and groups of veterans with interactions between Veterans Affairs, Veterans Affairs case managers, or the Government of Canada in civil lawsuits. We advocate for veterans to ensure they get the help and support they need.

What Steps Should Veterans Take After Experiencing Personal Injury?

If you or someone you know is suffering from a service-related injury, it’s crucial to take action right away. As Michael Blois says, “It might be tempting to ignore the problem and soldier on, but small problems can turn into big issues if they’re left untreated. The Veterans Affairs Benefits system can be convoluted and overly bureaucratic, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek help.”

Diamond and Diamond, has both the legal expertise and the knowledge of military culture, structure, and job-specific duties that may result in injuries. The firm understands the needs of veterans and how to navigate the system to ensure those needs are met.

Why is Diamond and Diamond Passionate About Helping Veterans?

Veterans rights is a cause that is close to the hearts of the Diamond and Diamond team.

Being a veteran who served eleven years in the Canadian Armed Forces, Michael Blois knows the serious and potentially life-altering impact that service-related injuries can have and how important good quality support is for veterans who may be suffering.

“We feel an obligation and duty to help our veterans get the support that they deserve after serving our country.” – Michael Blois, Partner at Diamond and Diamond.

If you’re experiencing friction from Veterans Affairs Canada while trying to receive benefits, call Diamond and Diamond right away at 1-800-567-HURT to schedule a free consultation to discuss your rights.

About Jeremy Diamond

Jeremy Diamond is a lawyer and member of both Ontario and Florida Bars. Jeremy practices in the area of Plaintiff personal injury litigation. Click here to learn more about Jeremy Diamond.

 

The best places to shop the ’70s trend in Toronto this summer

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@mamalovesyouvintage/Instagram

And the vintage shopping trend continues! With decades upon decades to choose from, consumers have ample selection when it comes to garments. The ’70s were full of fashion trends. Some are better than others. However, corduroys, bell-bottoms and circular sunglasses are alive and well. So here are five of the best vintage shops in Toronto to fulfill your ’70s vintage needs.

Black Market 


Heralded as one of the best and most affordable vintage shops in Toronto, Black Market is a jack of all trades. The store offers an endless amount of unique and rare finds, sprinkling in some designer discoveries here and there. To enter the store, you embark on a journey up into the clouds. Or at least that’s how long the walk feels. However, when you get up there you’re treated to a well-organized array of clothing. Amidst the Yohji Yamamoto and Roberto Cavalli are enough bellbottoms and corduroy to drain your bank account. Currently at the shop is a pair of deep purple, Japanese bellbottoms with a Grade A condition from the buyers. Do they remind you of Prince, or Daphne from Scooby-Doo? That’s for you to decide.

Chosen Vintage


Chosen Vintage was founded in 2009, opening the shop with the sole purpose of offering clients gently loved, relevant and affordable pieces with sustainability in mind. When it comes to the ’70s, the store offers jackets, pants, shirts and accessories in a classic medium that can never go out of style … leather. In the shop right now are three leather pieces, all of which vary in weight, thickness and colour. The trio are from all around the world, with the full-size grey trench reigning from Korea and the lighter, men’s cut shirt leaving its home in Quebec.

Mama Loves You Vintage


Another Queen Street staple, Mama Loves You Vintage is a mother and daughter-run store that has been killing it since 2012. The store carries an interesting mix of pieces that were created in the 1900s to the late 1990s, and it’s the place to be for authentic ’70s vintage in Toronto. Ranging from graphic tees and denim to bags and glasses, their racks prove that mama really does love you. However, the specialty pieces come in the form of women’s dresses and skirts for any occasion. Right now, the shop has a special section of spring-ready dresses and skirts. A favourite is their rare, 1970s YSL rive gauche floral dress in red. It’s a stunning dress that will put you right back into the ’70s!

Dancing Days


Sporting good vibes since 1989, this vintage shop is another family business that deals specifically with boho and hippie gear. Dancing Days offers more than just clothing items. They offer a shopping experience. With singing bowls chanting their best tune and incense holders ready for a new home, their storefront allows shoppers to put themselves in the era these clothes were made. The shop is chock-full of flowy, breezy clothing that can be paired with their array of accessories. Dancing Days offers many graphics tees with your favourite ’70s sitcom or band. Fancy some jazz?

Fashionably Yours


Definitely the most upscale on this list, Fashionably Yours offers vintage designer which has been consigned from Toronto locals. The shop carries everything from luxury handbags to designer clothing garments. Louis Vuitton and Balenciaga are scattered around the store. And truly, you won’t believe how many A-list brands are found in this brick and mortar. However, their most unique offerings come in the form of sunglasses. Miu Miu and Chanel dominate the ’70s-style, round lenses which are all the rage right now. The Chanel pair is decorated with pearls around the exterior of the frame and are a metallic pink colour.

7 things to do in Toronto this weekend including a Stranger Things outdoor watch party

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@evan_dubz/Instagram

Summer is around the corner and spring is in full swing, meaning it’s the perfect opportunity to get out and enjoy everything the city has to offer. And with another warm weather weekend upon us, there’s plenty to see and do. From food and beer festivals to car-free Kensington streets, here are some of the best things to do happening in Toronto this weekend.

Visit the Upside Down


Hyped for the new season of Stranger Things that dropped today? Grab tickets to a watch part under the stars at RendezViews. The downtown patio has given their place an Upside Down transformation, including a flipped over Hawkins police car and some spooky decor to really get you in the mood for all things thriller. The event starts at 7 p.m. on Sunday, but doors open at 5:30! You can book a table in advance here.

Check out Doors Open


If you’ve ever wanted to explore some of Toronto’s most significant sites and buildings, this weekend offers up the opportunity in the form of Doors Open, happening Saturday and Sunday. Whether on a guided or self-guided tour, there are over 100 sites of architectural, cultural and social significance to check out. In addition, there will also be indoor and outdoor events at City Hall, talks, an online film series and other virtual events.

Go for a paddle on Humber River


Spend an evening on the water with a scenic paddle on Humber River that ends in a musical performance you can watch right from your canoe or kayak. Starting this Friday and running until October, Music on the River gives you the chance to enjoy a meandering paddle along the river before enjoying a 45-minute set from a local Toronto artist.

Take a stroll through Kensington Market


Pedestrian Sundays in Kensington Market are back for the season, running from May 29 through October 30. Make your way to the beloved neighbourhood between noon and 7 p.m. this weekend to take advantage of the car-free event of the season in Toronto as well as music, food, an art fair and a community yard sale.

Taste and sip at an open-air food and wine fest


This Saturday from noon to 9 p.m., Stackt Market will be home to Spring into Spice, an outdoor food and wine festival featuring Caribbean, African, Indian, Thai, Latin American and other cuisines known for packing a flavourful punch. There will 30 food vendors on site as well as a wine tent so you can try various wines with your snacks of choice.

Head to a beer festival and carnival


Beer fans might want to make their way to Henderson Brewing co this Saturday for Under the Big H, a beer festival and carnival running from noon to 8 p.m. The celebrations are to honour the 250th birthday of Henderson namesake and Toronto’s first brewer, Robert Henderson. There will be a variety of beers on offer from a range of breweries as well as several food vendors. Circus performers from LookUp Theatre will be providing the entertainment.

Make a splash at Splash Works


Nothing screams summer (or almost summer) quite like a day spent careening down waterslides – and you can do just that starting this Saturday, which marks the opening of Splash Works at Canada’s Wonderland. The 20-acre water park features 17 different water slides and water attractions ranging from nice and easy to totally thrilling.

Spot birds at the Spring Bird Festival


Aspiring birders (or anyone wanting to get out into nature) should plan on visiting Colonel Samuel Smith Park on Saturday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for the Spring Bird Festival. There will be guided bird walks every hour starting at 10, as well as activities for kids, art workshops, educational displays and more.

Toronto restaurant spends $20K on a patio and now the city wants it gone

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La Paella patio
La Paella on Instagram

While the COVID-19 pandemic caused many restaurants to permanently shut their doors, many had the fortune to adapt. In 2020, the CafeTO program was launched and gave hundreds of restaurants the opportunity to have safe outdoor dining areas through the opening of patios along sidewalks and curb lanes. 

And though the program continues to be a success – this year, more than 1,000 applications have been received by the city so far,  a recent tweet is making the rounds on social media, and shows that small businesses are still being hit hard and just trying to stay afloat.

“My neighbours spent $20K to install a covered patio so their restaurant could operate during COVID Now the @cityoftoronto is making them remove it The City has nothing better to do than to kick small business owners while they’re still down @PaulaFletcherTO @ LeslievilleBIA”

The unfortunate restaurant in question, La Paella, has been a fixture for Toronto foodies since first opening in 2017. Located in Leslieville, the restaurant serves up authentic Spanish cuisine, including an extensive list of paella dishes and tapas.

La Paella patio
La Paella on Instagram

It didn’t take too long for those who saw the tweet to voice their opinions.

“Toronto looks at everything that makes life in European cities great (patios, walkability, functioning transit, not being afraid of beer, general enjoyment of life and community), and thinks to itself ‘let’s do the opposite’” tweeted one user.

“This is a disgusting display of authority by the @cityoftoronto. Irrespective of the rationale, whether it be compliance with technical standards, or permit status, a degree of flexibility and compassion is warranted. #TOpoli said another.

But just when we thought another small business might have to throw in the towel, at 2:23 p.m. today, city councillor Paula Fletcher, who represents Ward 14-Toronto Danforth, tweeted some great news.

“Thanks so much for bringing this to our attention. I visited today with @LeslievilleBIA and the patio will stay open. Also working with the owner on the structure issue.”

Celebrity chef David Adjey is back again with a trendy French restaurant

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Bouffe
Bouffe on Instagram

David Adjey has emerged yet again. After a short stint in the Junction that saw him open and promptly shutter Nectarine, the celebrity chef is back with his latest concept, Bouffe.

Adjey closed Nectarine earlier this year, following landlord disputes that saw Adjey emerge from silence to open a small, bistro-style eatery. The spot opened and closed within a few months, with the chef saying he didn’t want to pay the high fees the landlord was expecting for the Nectarine space. Bouffe is his first foray back into the restaurant scene since Nectarine’s closure.

Bouffe
Bouffe on Instagram

French cuisine like mussels served in sauce with fries and a meat and cheese charcuterie board dot Bouffe’s menu, which can be shared and paired with wines from ten regions of France, including Champagne, Burgundy, Beaujolais and more. Enjoy a glass of chablis while slurping oysters by the half dozen or dozen alongside a salted beet salad, and then switch to a gin and prosecco-based cocktail called the French 75 and enjoy a slice of fish, meat or the chef’s special.

For dessert, creme brulee in a trendy jar and crepes Suzette can be shared or enjoyed as individuals, paired with another traditional cocktail.

Bouffe
Bouffe on Instagram

Adjey notes that, after getting the keys to his new space, it took him eight weeks to transform it into Bouffe, creating an intimate, contemporary space with bold, colourful artwork and a back bar where new friendships can be forged. The clean-lined decor is painted in shades of grey, black and white, letting the art that hangs over the custom tabletops take centre stage. Park-style wooden banquette seating lines the walls, below modern, circular light fixtures that set a moody scene.

Bouffe is located at 1173 Dundas St W.

 

This seltzer brand is launching Truly Flavour Trail, a two-week outdoor art experience featuring local artists

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Courtesy Truly Hard Seltzer

To celebrate the arrival of Truly Hard Seltzer in Ontario this spring, Truly has partnered with five of the city’s most flavourful artists – along with a number of bars and restaurants – to create the ultimate art and community experience: the Truly Flavour Trail. Launching Friday, May 27 and running until Friday, June 10 in Little Portugal, Torontonians are invited to stroll one of the most vibrant streets in the city and immerse themselves in one-of-a-kind artworks found along the Trail between Ossington and Lansdowne on Dundas West.

Courtesy Truly Hard Seltzer

Along the Trail will be unique installations and murals from Durothethird at Grasshopper Records and Ness Lee at Ode Toronto. Bar Mordecai is not only serving Truly, but it’s also where you can find Maria Qamar’s work, known online as HATECOPY. You can ponder Raquel’s Da Silva’s colourful forms while sipping on a can of Truly at Churchill. And, if you’re looking to do some shopping on your journey, Lauren Pirie’s art can be found at Rose City Goods. At the end of the route, if you’re feeling a little parched – feel free to stop at The Dock Ellis Bar, Nothing Fancy Comedy Club and The City Pool for some more Truly. No matter where you go, along the way you’ll find something for both your artistic and flavour palate.

Courtesy Truly Hard Seltzer

Truly understands that flavour isn’t just how something tastes. It is a representation of self-expression, identity, passions and pursuits. It’s a personal combination of things that make you, you. And so, Truly posed a simple question to the Truly Flavour Trail artists they commissioned as they created their works of art: how do you let your flavour speak for itself? And this is the question the Truly Flavour Trail is asking passersby to ponder, too.

The Truly Flavour Trail is a great opportunity to engage your senses while also immersing with our local art community. It’s only available for a couple weeks, so be sure to pick up a Truly Flavour Trail Map in person at participating businesses or visit trulyflavourtrail.ca to learn more!

About Truly Hard Seltzer

Truly Hard Seltzer is bursting with true-to-fruit flavours. With a 5 per cent ABV, 130 calories and 1 gram of sugar per serving, every can is specially crafted with simple ingredients – no artificial flavours or sweeteners. Truly balances the healthier appeal of seltzer with bold flavour; it’s perfect for a house party, a park hangout or a chill night in with friends. Truly Peach Iced Tea and Truly Strawberry Lemonade are now available at LCBO locations across Ontario.

Margaret Atwood jumps into censorship debate with ‘unburnable book’

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atwood

Never one to shy away from politically charged issues, Toronto’s beloved author Margaret Atwood jumped into the censorship debate south of the border with two feet by teaming up with her publisher to produce an entirely new version of her classic novel The Handmaid’s Tale. But this one is unburnable.

“I never thought I’d be trying to burn one of my own books… and failing,” said Atwood, in a statement.

“The Handmaid’s Tale has been banned many times — sometimes by whole countries, such as Portugal and Spain in the days of Salazar and the Francoists, sometimes by school boards, sometimes by libraries. Let’s hope we don’t reach the stage of wholesale book burnings, as in Fahrenheit 451. But if we do, let’s hope some books will prove unburnable — that they will travel underground, as prohibited books did in the Soviet Union.”

Atwood’s big move is in response to the increase in book banning in the United States and to raise money to support PEN America’s crucial work to counter this national crisis of censorship.
The fireproof edition of The Handmaid’s Tale serves as a powerful symbol against censorship.
In the video accompanying the launch, Atwood, a graduate of Toronto’s Leaside High School, and one of the country’s best-known and beloved authors actually does a little quality control test by trying to torch the book with a flamethrower.

This single-copy special edition of The Handmaid’s Tale was produced by creative agency Rethink, and fabricated in Toronto by the graphic arts specialty and bookbinding atelier The Gas Company Inc.

The Unburnable Book, unveiled on May 23 at the PEN America Literary Gala in New York City, is currently being presented for auction online by Sotheby’s until June 7.

This Ossington snack bar offers a fancy selection of small plates and drinks

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There’s a new eatery on the trendy Ossington strip. Taking over the former Crosley’s space, Wilma Snack Bar offers visitors a cozy place to connect with friends and enjoy good food and drinks.

Wilma Snack Bar
Wilma Snack Bar on Instagram

The impressive lineup of snacks pays homage to Italian fare, offering menu items like finocchiona and prosciutto di Parma fresh off the slicer. There’s also a raw bar that offers up oysters and tuna crudo alongside spring vegetables and vitello tartare ‘Piedmontese.’

The most appealing part, though, is that Wilma’s snack menu rotates weekly and includes mouthwatering dishes like duck liver crostini, fried artichokes and papaya. Arugula is served with cacio e pepe vinaigrette and grilled Maitake mushrooms are seasoned with chili condimento and lime.


The snack selection at Wilma can be paired with an extensive cocktail menu that is populated by beer and wine (including a difficult-to-find selection of orange wine) and one-of-a-kind spins on traditional cocktails. For example, Wilma crafts a twist on a negroni, making a blood orange version with Tromba Blanco, Mandarino, vanilla, brown sugar and lime. The restaurant also serves a mojito made with kombucha.

Unique creations, including the Lauren’s After Hours, are available. It’s made with Tromba Blanco, Averna, Kahlua, nutmeg and Lark cold brew, and is offered alongside the Pretty in Pink, crafted with Tanqueray gin, strawberry balsamic, cucumber juice and prosecco.

The snack is open from Wednesdays to Sundays from 4 p.m. until late, offering a late-night casual spot for people to come together and hang out.

Wilma Snack Bar is located at 214 Ossington Ave.