All that glitters is gold in North Toronto

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5:29 pm

Remembering the address of Studio1098 shouldn’t be hard; the new jewellery store is located at 1098 Yonge St. “We really liked that the location was in a neighbourhood,” says Tamara Kronis, a certified gemologist who opened the store with Kathryn Dieroff. The owners are trained goldsmiths who both do custom work (1098 Yonge St., 416-944-1098).

Over the past 20 years, Italian restaurant Grazie has seen its family grow. “You tend to hear stories from regular customers about their first date here, how they got engaged here.…” says manager Marco Puntillo, who owns the restaurant with four others. “We argue and love each other just like family,” says Puntillo (2373 Yonge St., 416-488-0822).

Saati Fine Jewellery, just opened, has been seven generations in the making, says owner Albert Saati. “My great-grandfather was a watchmaker, and my grandfather switched from watchmaking into jewellery,” says Saati, who runs the store with his wife and two adult children. “‘Saati’ means watchmaker in our language,” he says (512 Mt. Pleasant Rd., 416-361-0296).

It was an offer they couldn’t refuse. Owners Paul Oliver and Jeff Tekavcic opened up a third Urban Nature Store location after several requests from locals. “So many people in the Leaside area said, ‘You should open up here,’” says Oliver. The store offers mainly wild birding products, including more than 100 bird feeders (939 Eglinton Ave. E., 416-646-2439).

Just because Susan Dyer’s two daughters are grown up, it doesn’t mean she can’t enjoy the magic of childhood. Which is why Dyer decided to open up Advice from a Caterpillar, a children’s shop that carries furniture, fashion, toys, collectibles and books (8 Price St., 416-960-2223).

Sir Sandford Fleming Academy on the move

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5:27 pm

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A recent decision to relocate Sir Sandford Fleming Academy’s students (grades 9-12) to Bathurst Heights Secondary School for September 2011 has Maria Rizzo, the local trustee for the Catholic school system, up in arms, defending space that is currently home to hundreds of her students.

The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) plans to end a lease with the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) that expires in the summer of 2011 to accommodate the move. Since Bathurst Heights Secondary School was closed, the public school board has been renting space in the building to a variety of tenants. Among these are 350 students from Dante Alighieri Academy which is part of the Catholic school board.

Rizzo said that these students will be staying put. “They would have to come and kick us out with the police,” she said. “I have nowhere to put the kids.”

Rizzo would like to keep renting the space until the overenrollment that has Dante Alighieri’s students spread out over three campuses is addressed. She said she believes there is enough space for both sets of students.

Rizzo dismissed the idea of leasing Sir Sandford Fleming’s current building as a potential solution. Howard Goodman, the local trustee at the TDSB, said he is simply acting on staff recommendations, in the best interests of his students. The Bathurst Heights Secondary School building is better situated, with better facilities. “It’s going to be a richer program space for them,” Goodman said.

He explained that the Sir Sandford Fleming school community has been asking to move into the Bathurst Heights building for years now. The TDSB’s decision to relocate these students came at the end of a two-year accommodation review. “If they [TCDSB] want to come to us with a proposal that would work, I’m sure we’ll consider everything,” Goodman said.

For Seán Cullen, T.O. means hooch, heights and hockey

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9:51 am

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Last call

For my last city drink, I would probably go to Crush on King — the wine bar where my wife and I shared our first drink together. I would have a whisky. She would have a kir royale. It was close to her work (she was working for Canadian Idol at the time). It’s a nice exposed-brick venue with really nice food. Just a nice place.

Last supper

I think I would go have a meal at Cowbell in Parkdale. It’s got this really great 100 kilometre radius menu — locally made food, beautiful food. It changes all the time. They have really great charcuterie plates, great burgers as well, great atmosphere.
Really nice local restaurant. They do all their own butchery. If they were willing to make me anything, I would have this lavender dessert, a crème brûlée I had there once that I loved.

Last of the big spenders

I would splurge on a leather jacket at this store called M0851 around Bay and Bloor. It’s a leather place. They do all kinds of bags and things. I’ve always wanted to buy something there.

Last crime

I would build a giant ape robot that would climb up the CN Tower. Once at the top, this ape would throw giant coconuts at the city, which would subsequently burst open and be full of candy. They might crush someone’s home, but at the very least there would be candy everywhere.

Last dance

My wife and I would go to the Windsor Arms, a jazz night, and we’d dance to “Pennies from Heaven.” The dance that I would do would probably be something quite frenzied and violent.

Last good deed

I would find the guy I used to give money to all the time — his name was Frosty — around the icon at Wellington and Blue Jays Ways. I would give him a hundred dollar bill.

Last chance

If I had one last chance to do something that I’ve never done in Toronto, hmm. I’ve done so much. I’ve been to the zoo, I’ve been to Ontario Place, to the CN Tower.… Maybe I would take to the sewers and hunt alligators.

Last view

The Park Hyatt at Bloor and Avenue has a beautiful bar, and the view from the balcony is stunning. I think I’d like that to be my last view.

Last from the past

My best Toronto memory that I would have to scribble down is the opening night of The Producers in 2003. It was just really fun, the atmosphere was amazing. Mel Brooks was there and was meeting us all for the first time. It was at the Canon Theatre. It felt like we were all at the centre of everything for a moment.

Last a lifetime

As a final souvenir, I would have to take a Toronto Maple Leafs hockey jersey. Yes, I’m a fan.

Last words

If I could say but one last thing to my fellow Torontonians before leaving, it would be that no matter how much the rest of the country hates us, we’re still an amazing place to live.

Last act

I’d set off a bunch of firecrackers, drink whisky and parachute off the CN Tower.

Splash from the past

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9:39 am

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FIRST PLACE: SAND, SUN AND FUN

NORMA KAMALI SWIMSUIT $430 PRADA SPRM04 SUNGLASSES, $389

“That hot, steamy weather speaks of swimwear, and we all love a bit of nostalgia. There are some incredibly hot looks out there with a retro vibe. This is a fantastic suit that would look good on a wide variety of body types, very flattering, a nice control inside. Paired with a little pair of white sunglasses, it makes for the perfect beach ensemble!”

Where to get it:

Suit: Sandpipers Sports & Funwear, 87 Yorkville Ave. Glasses: Dillon Opticians, 2657 Yonge St.

Watch video of Jeanne picking the perfect combo

CANARY ISLAND

JANTZEN SWIMSUIT $120 DAVID YURMAN SUNGLASSES $905

“You can’t get any brighter than this. A wonderful suit, great construction and very flattering for the perfect tan.”

Suit: Seychelles Swimwear, 1749 Queen St. E. Glasses: Kaltenbock Opticians, 1560 Yonge St.

BOHEMIAN BREEZE

AGUA DE COCO THAI SILK SUIT $255 GUCCI SUNGLASSES $320

“A lot of great colour in this suit. The halter neckline is very flattering. Team that with wire glasses and you’re really ready for the sun.”

Where to get it: Suit: Fragola Swimwear, 2901 Bayview Ave. Glasses: Karir Fashion Eyewear, 3401 Dufferin St.

SURFER GIRL

SPEEDO CORAL SWIMSUIT $60 VINTAGE CARRERA SUNGLASSES $250

“Very classic and athletic, great support in the bust area, a beautiful colour that’s really hot for the season. Dramatic sunglasses!”

Where to get it: Suit: Aqua Palace Ltd., 80 Glenshields Ave., Unit 3, Concord. Glasses: Spectacle, 3342 Yonge St.

PSYCHEDELIC SEAS

ROIDAL ORIA BATHING SUIT $315 JACQUES DURAND GLASSES $269

“This psychedelic ’70s type print is huge news this season, and paired with funky sunglasses it makes a great statement.”

Where to get it: Suit: Fragola Swimwear, 2901 Bayview Ave. Glasses: Dillon Opticians, 2657 Yonge St.

BREATHTAKING

LISA MARIE TWO-PIECE $365 RAY-BAN WAY FARERS $143

“Very sportif. This is a two-piece with a strong scuba motif, a bit of an edge with the zipper. With black glasses, a very cool, edgy look.”

Where to get it: Suit: Holt Renfrew, 3401 Dufferin St. Glasses: L F Optical, 1450 Centre St. Unit 5

MODERN MERMAID

ERES VERUSHKA SUIT $450 CHRISTIAN DIOR SUNGLASSES $405

“The plunging neckline — could be very sexy. Very lightweight. Add a pair of two-toned sunglasses to jazz it up a little.”

Suit: Melmira Bra & Swimsuits, 3319 Yonge St. Glasses: Kanda Optical, 10755 Leslie St.

Watch video of Jeanne picking the perfect combo

Jeanne Beker is the host and segment producer of Canada’s leading fashion series FashionTelevision. Catch her Sunday nights at 5:30 p.m. ET on CTV or visit www.FashionTelevision.com

Sail of the century

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7:53 am

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I am here to meet Laura Vanek from the RCYC — my chaperone for the day. Members have their own ferry to, well, ferry them to the 23-acre RCYC island. The boat runs every 30 minutes to and from the island.

Unlike the ferry to Centre Island, this boat is small, calm, not crowded and just plain enjoyable. There is no lineup.

“Wait until you get over there,” says Vanek. “You can’t help but fall in love.”

She’s right. Less than 10 minutes later, when the ferry docks, I’m walking on the boardwalk toward the gorgeous Southern-style clubhouse where we will have breakfast.

Apparently, Prince Edward laid the cornerstone for this clubhouse in 1919. It is love at first sight. This is a clubhouse I can get used to with a beautiful veranda that just calls out for summer cocktails and flowing white dresses.

All my Toronto stresses fade away. Today, on this beautiful Friday afternoon, as the sun beams down, I believe the RCYC is one of Toronto’s best-kept secrets. It must be.

For one thing, they still take members (as opposed to other private clubs with multi-year waiting lists.) For a $21,000 initiation fee for a family, and less than $3,000 in yearly dues, this could work out being more affordable than buying a cottage (and you don’t have to worry about traffic and threehour drives). Do the math.

RCYC was founded in 1852 as a recreational yachting club, but also as an unofficial auxillary to the Royal Canadian Navy. Apparently, they guard Lake Ontario or something.

But, I’m not sure what these guys will be guarding with grounds that are like a playground for adults—pleasant diversions abound. As I eat my breakfast on what is called the Veranda, I take in the surroundings. It’s so lush and green. The flowers are so colourful. It smells good! What can I say, except it’s stunning.

The grounds are home to a huge outdoor swimming pool, a lap pool, squash courts, tennis courts, full-day care and camps for children (Yay!).

A bulletin board at the restaurant — which has an adults-only section to boot — lists all the social events for summer. There are wine lunches and dinners with high-profile chefs pairing wines. It’s a different world.

Here, there are sailing camps (more than 50 per cent of Canadian Olympic sailors have been members here), lawn bowling, cruises, spring dinners, barbecues and frog races for kids.

Members can also borrow bikes, already on the property to get around, so they don’t have to bring their own. The RCYC is connected by ground to the other islands, so members can take leisurely bike rides and explore at their own pace. Maybe even sneak down to the nude beach at Hanlan’s, if that’s your thing, or over to Centreville with the kids.

Belly full, it is yacht time. Vanek takes me over to the Maggie Kelly, a Beneteau 40.7 boat. It sleeps eight, has a kitchen (the fridge is usually filled with beer, but not today) and is owned by a member named Chris Steer.

Although Steer is at work, today’s pampered princess crew is made up of his good friends Dale King and her husband John Golding, who met while sailing, as well as a 21-year-old Olympic hopeful named Billy Gooderham (Yes, those Gooderhams).

Yes, I have my own crew! King, Golding and Gooderham are racing sailors, but today they’re taking me out on what is called in the yachting world a “pleasure sail” or “pleasure cruise.” (This princess is all about pleasure.)

“Being on the water like this,” says Golding, “is like looking into a fireplace. Your mind just goes somewhere else.”

At least I think that’s what he said. I was too busy sun tanning and relaxing to the point of sedation to really pay attention.

I’m woken up when I learn that we have just diverted some sort of disaster. “We almost ran into that,” says Vanek, pointing out a massive tank ship. (I knew Billy was running around me like crazy … but, hey, I’m on a pleasure cruise. And that’s why I have a crew!)

Sailors and yachters have they own little society. After a good sail, they meet at the clubhouse for food, beer and discussion. No one knows each other by their last names. They only know each other by their given names or by the name of their boats.

And how do they feel about cottagers?

“We get into little arguments with friends who own cottages,” says Dale. “They’ll invite us up, and then we’ll say, ‘Come on our boat!’ Why should I drive three hours when I can take a 10- minute ferry and be on my boat?” I pull Dale aside.

“So, if I become a member, but can’t afford a boat, how do I get an in with the boat owners? Like, now that I’ve been on Chris’s boat, will he lend it to me?” Dale laughs. “Oh, yeah. He’ll for sure let you take out this $400,000 boat, no problem.”

Though the RCYC island is only open from May to October, they have a second indoor location on St. George where members can play squash, work out or swim in the pool. It turns out that I am a yachter. I’ve made friends who can introduce me to other friends, and before you know it, I’ll be “pleasure cruising” with the best of them.

After all, there are more than 300 boats docked at the RCYC. Surely, one of them wouldn’t mind a petite sidekick coming along for a pleasure sail. Who knows, maybe I’ll even learn to hoist the main sail or two.

Forget gelato, here’s the scoop on T.O.’s top ice cream

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7:02 am

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CREAM OF THE CROP
DUTCH DREAMS, ESPRESSO, 78 VAUGHAN ROAD

Susur Lee takes a bite of the first ice cream, then stares off into the distance as he lets the flavours register. Minutes pass, and the only sound is the clinking of his spoon as he proceeds on to each new dish. Then, after five minutes of silence, this: “I’ve got it.

Thank you.” And with that, he enumerates his top five. Dutch Dreams’ espresso wins for its lightness and rich, distinct flavours: “You taste the chocolate and then you taste the coffee. But at the same time, it melts in your mouth like a liquid. Sometimes ice cream doesn’t melt in your mouth because the fat content is really high,” says Lee.

Price: $3.99

FIRST RUNNER-UP

Ed’s Real Scoop, choc. & PB fudge

“You know what would be really good? Just Wonder Bread. Spread this on, freeze it again, cut it into little cubes. After a barbecue with little kids? They would love that.” One little improvement? “The only wish is I need to have a little bit more chocolate,” says Lee.

920 Queen St. E. Price: $4.41

MINTY FRESH

Village Chill, mint chocolate chip

“Mint is a very sensitive thing. A lot of people love it; a lot of people don’t love it.” Lee falls into the former category. “If you have something melt in your mouth and it’s minty fresh tasting and has a bit of that rich chocolate, that’s great. Ideal for a Sunday walk in the park.”

325B Lonsdale Rd. Price: $4.35

PASSION AND PRIDE

Xococava, saffron passion fruit

“This ice cream is very neutral. It’s good [for] introducing tropical fruit to people who don’t understand what ripe fruit is.” He wishes the passion fruit were stronger, to give it more acidity, and is surprised by the saffron–passion fruit mixture, but the overall blend works well.

1560 Yonge St. Price: $4.00

SWEET TOOTH

Not Just Yogurt, mocha almond fudge

“I’m not so crazy about this one. There’s some kind of accent they’ve put in. It’s almost a banana-caramel-coffee that I’m having a hard time identifying, but it does not taste natural.” He also finds it a bit too sweet and suspects the nuts weren’t roasted. Good, not great.

7117 Bathurst St. Price: $2.60

NO COTTAGE? NO PROBLEM!

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6:38 am

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1. S’MORES ’N’ MORE AT MINI FAUX CAMPFIRE

Gorge yourself on s’mores, the classic campfire confection of melted chocolate and gooey marshmallow sandwiched between graham wafers, at your table over a mini campfire. MoRoCo, 99 Yorkville Ave., 416.961.2202

2. PERFECTLY PACKED PICNICS

Get up early, hop on your bikes and stop by any of the following for a prepared gourmet picnic, then hit the trails knowing a delicious feast awaits. Pimenton, 681 Mount Pleasant Road, 647.343.4870; Pusateri’s custom picnic basket, 1539 Avenue Rd. or 57 Yorkville Ave., 416.785.9100; Take It Easy personal concierge, gourmet picnic baskets prepared by Scott Stubbins of Roo Foods, 416.578.2890

3. CORN ROAST

Come out to St. Lawrence Market for the annual corn roast festival usually at the start of August. St. Lawrence Market Corn Roast, 92 Front St. E., 416.392.7219

4. STRAWBERRY, RASPBERRY BLUEBERRY

For fruit as fresh as it gets, try these farms around Toronto: Whittamore’s Berry Farm (strawberries, raspberries), 8100 Steeles Ave. E. Markham, 905.294.3275; Reesor’s Farm (strawberries), 10825 Ninth Line, Markham, 905.640.4568; Applewood Farm Winery (strawberries), 12416 McCowan Rd., Stouffville, 905.642.4720

5. BBQ IN A BAG

Your ultimate summer barbecue is in the bag, literally: meat with marinades, spices, sauces and instructions as well as sides, appetizers, desserts, all in a bag, ready to go. Wildfire Steakhouse and Wine Bar, 3438 Yonge St., 416.483.4800

6. STRAWBERRY CREAMSICLE

For a grown-up dessert, try a strawberry creamsicle (strawberry liqueur, amaretto, vanilla ice cream, fresh strawberries, vodka) to end the day. Jawny Baker’s Restaurant, 804 O’Connor Dr., 416.285.1165

7. MAKE YOUR OWN CIDER

A delicious late-summer treat as the evenings start to cool. Make your own on the Danforth. Fermentations! 201 Danforth Ave., 416.778.9000

8. ROASTED MARSHMALLOWS

Far and away the most popular flavour of ice cream at this downtown hot spot. Greg’s Ice Cream, 750 Spadina Ave., 416.962.4734

9. BODACIOUS BURGERS

Some of the most delicious patties you’ll find south of cottage country. Stop in for a burger, shake and onion rings. Steer Inn, 9839 Yonge St., Richmond Hill, 905.884.3032

10. OUTDOOR GAMES

Remember playing hide-and-seek with the cottage neighbours until it was too dark to see? Manhunt Toronto (a spinoff on the classic hide-and-seek) brings it all back, right here in T.O. www.manhunt-toronto.com, Thursday evenings

11. HORSEBACK HIJINKS

The CNE goes country farm starting August 3. Kids get the chance to see the horses and go for a wagon ride. HorseCapades at the Canadian National Exhibition, Aug. 3, 200 Princes’ Blvd., 416.393.6300

12. RAINY DAY BOARD GAME BONANZA

The Great Canadian Board Game Blitz brings together lovers of classics such as Risk, Monopoly and Scrabble for a full day of old-school gaming. July 17, ww.gcbgb.ca, 276 Carlaw Ave., Unit 204

13. GET SOAKED

The kids will have a blast at Ontario Place’s Soak City. Favourites include river rafting, the purple pipeline and hydrofuge. 955 Lake Shore Blvd. W., 416.314.9900

14. MOUNTAIN BIKING IN THE DON VALLEY

It’s not the drumlins of the Kawarthas, but with ten kilometres of shrouded trails etched into the ravine and difficulties ranging from beginner to expert, you’d be hard-pressed to tell the difference. Access via Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Bayview Avenue, Pottery Road

15. BLITHE & BLISSFUL IN BLYTHWOOD RAVINE

Enter the gorgeous, hidden ravine at the gardens just south of Yonge and Lawrence and enjoy six kilometres of hiking, biking and walking trails.

16. FRISBEE GOLF AT CENTENNIAL PARK

Everyone knows about Toronto Islands’ edenic Frisbee golf course, but few know of the more rugged one at Centennial Park: higher elevations, vaster expanses and far less crowded. 56 Centennial Park Rd. For discs ($13 to $20): Discsports Canada, 416.570.4755

17. FLY FISHING

Calming, mildly aerobic and a whole new way to snag the big one, fly fishing abounds in Toronto at the Credit River, Scarborough Bluffs and Leslie Street Spit. Wilson’s on Queen provides a one-day instructional course ($189.99) and all the equipment you need. Wilson’s, 199 Queen St. E., 416.869.3474

18. CANOE & KAYAK

Pack a lunch, lather up the sunscreen, then launch into the great blue beyond of Lake Ontario. At $60 for a canoe and $70 for a kayak, an all-day rental is an affordable way to escape the hubbub of the city without leaving town. Harbourfront Canoe and Kayak Centre, 283A Queen’s Quay W., 416.203.2277

19. STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING

The biggest craze to hit the water this summer, stand-up paddleboarding blends the radness of surfing with the self-propulsion of canoeing. To buy: Board Sports ($1,100–$2,500); to rent: Harbourfront Standup Paddle ($30 an hour). Board Sports, 2010 Yonge St. 416.485.9463; Harbourfront Stand-up Paddle, 283A Queen’s Quay W., 416.993.4224

20. YACHTING

Gather the neighbours, a few bottles of your favourite vintage and head out for a relaxing evening yacht cruise on Lake Ontario. GTA Exotics, 416.992.9809; Toronto Yacht Charters, 416.545.7245; Harbourfront Centre Sailing, 416.203.3000

21. LIFE’S A BEACH

Toronto’s dotted with beaches, but Cherry Beach is the prettiest (and one of most kid friendly). Nestled in an idyllic crook between the Port Lands and the Leslie Street Spit, Cherry Beach offers plenty of shade and a shallow wade in for kids. Bottom of Cherry St.; Toronto water quality hotline, 416.392.7161

22. KITEBOARDING

Windsurfer plus giant kite equals massive air when you catch a wave. About as hard-core as it gets, so be warned: instruction very necessary to avoid being dragged across the parking lot or pulled underwater for days ($60 per hour, wetsuit extra). Call Fred Telesforo at Surfuzion, 416.706.3323

23. PEDAL BOATING

Send the kids off to play at Ontario Place while you relax, unwind

24. WILD WINDSURFING

Harness the power of the wind and carve a wake across Lake Ontario on your windsurfer. For lessons and rentals, try the Toronto Windsurfing Club.They offer private lessons from their location just east of Cherry Beach. 2 Regatta Road, 416.461.7078

25. BIRDWATCHING ALONG LESLIE SPIT

Often overshadowed by the glitzier Toronto Islands, the Leslie Street Spit might just be a T.O. naturalist’s best-kept secret.Miles of beautiful hiking, biking and walking trails in Tommy Thompson Park and one of the country’s finest places to spot rare birds. Bottom of Leslie Street, parking available

26. NUDE & RENEWED

Shed your clothes and the stresses of your urban existence as you get reacquainted with your bod the way God made it. You’ll feel liberated, titillated and won’t have to worry about any tan lines. Hanlan’s Point clothing-optional beach, western edge of Toronto Islands; take ferry; follow the nudes

27. SENSATIONAL SCUBA DIVING

Expert scuba diver trainers Chris and Peter will train you in a warm water pool at Bishop Strachan School. For $500 you get a full basic dive open water certification. Advanced divers can join their trips to the wrecks in the St. Lawrence near Brockville twice yearly. Toronto Scuba Club, 416.792.3483

28. GARDEN VARIETY ATTRACTION

Visit “the oasis” for 12 themed gardens, including a teaching garden where kids and families can learn about sustainable farming and how to grow vegetables. Summer schedule highlighted by a private tour of Royal York’s rooftop herb and vegetable garden (Aug. 17, $130). Toronto Botanical Garden, 777 Lawrence Ave. E., 416.397.1340

29. BEADS, BRAIDS AND BRACELET MAKING

Recreate camp memories with your kids (or on your own!). Bracelets, anklets, necklaces adorned with semi-precious stones, crystals, wood beads. Bead Girl, 2445 Yonge St., 416.322.2202

30. MUSKOKA AND MEAT AT THE MILLER

Lounge in Muskoka-style chairs on the sheltered patio while you hunker down at their Cottage in the City Summer Burger Festival. Chicken, lamb, beef, veggie burgers galore! Miller Tavern, 3885 Yonge St., 416.322.5544

31. FRESH AIR ART SHOW

The largest outdoor art show in Canada. Grab a hot dog, cruise the vendors, haggle over price, leave happy. Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition, July 9, 10, 11, Nathan Phillips Square (free), 416.408.2754

32. GO BACK TO NATURE AT HARBOURFRONT

Funky group exhibition spotlights the intersection of nature, humans and animals. All summer, 231 Queen’s Quay W., 416.973.4949

33. MIDSUMMER CRAFT SHOW

Bask in the summer sun with a Balzac’s coffee in hand as you check out the innovative new crafts by Artisans at the Distillery, a gathering of Canada’s best craftspeople. Distillery District, 416.507.3454, July 31 to Aug. 2

34. DRIVE-IN MOVIE THEATRE

Put the top down and snuggle under a blanket under the open sky as you take in a doublefeature by the water. Polson Pier, 11 Polson St., (off Cherry St., south of Lakeshore Blvd.), 416.465.4653

35. STARGAZING

Recreate summer nights spent stargazing on the dock. If peering into the cosmos won’t reconnect you with your sense of wonder, nothing will. Bring the kids, stretch out on the lawn and listen to the Star Talk series featuring renowned astronomers, Saturday evenings throughout the summer. It’s $5 for adults, $2 for kids (7–17).David Dunlap Observatory, 123 Hillsview Dr., Richmond Hill, 905.883.0174

36. DEEP SPACE GAZING

For a deeper gaze into the great starry beyond, you’ll need to wander further from the bright lights of the city. Check out the EfstonScience program at Palgrave Conservation area (north of Bolton) and mix and mingle with other cosmos enthusiasts. 416.787.4581

37. CINEMA EXTRA-VERITE

We’ll trade stadium seating for the personal touches at the Mt. Pleasant any day, all of it reminiscent of the iconic Highland Cinemas in Haliburton. 675 Mt. Pleasant Rd., 416.489.8484

38. STABLE RELATIONSHIP

Beginners or advanced can ride horseback in a stunning park. Sunnybrook Stables Limited, in Sunnybrook Park, 416.444.4044

39. GREAT LAKES BREWERY AT THE EXHIBITION GROUNDS

Crack a tall can, close your eyes and you’re on the shores of Lake Superior; open them and you’re at T.O.’s Bandshell Park. Sample hundreds of craft beers, including the ever-cottagey Great Lakes beers. Toronto Festival of Beer, Aug. 5–8.

40. KAWARTHA LAKES BREWERY BY THE LAKESHORE

The beer flows like wine at the Session 2010 craft beer festival, June 26, Sunnyside Pavilion. KLB sponsors the Redpath Sugar Waterfront Festival, June 30 to July 4.

41. CREEMORE BREWERY EVERYWHERE

Creemore Brewery takes over Toronto this summer. Catch them at the Taste of Lawrence, July 2; Thrill of the Grill, July 16; Hart House, July 30; Toronto Festival of Beer, Aug. 5; Conscious Food Festival at Fort York, Aug. 14

42. CASUAL DINING, FIRESIDE

This cozy Irish cottage has one of the best patios in town, and its best feature is the fire pit crackling away on cool summer evenings. Smuggle in a stick and marshmallows, and you’re set. Ceili Cottage, 1301 Queen St. E., 416.406.1301

43. BONFIRE BROUHAHA

For about $100 (permit plus insurance), host your own rip-roaring bonfire at a park near you: Olympic Island, Sunnybrook,Taylor Creek, Earl Bales,Downsview Dells, Etienne Brule and Morningside. City of Toronto Parks & Recreation, permits department, 416.392.8188 with your significant other in a pedal boat built for two. Ontario Place, 955 Lake Shore Blvd.W., 416.314.9900

44. BEACHES JAZZ FESTIVAL

July 16–25: Dan Hill

45. JACK JOHNSON

July 19, Molson Amphitheatre

46. SIMON AND GARFUNKEL

July 19, Air Canada Centre

47. JANE BUNNETT

July 20, Hugh’s Room

48. JASON COLLETT

July 21, Mod Club

49. SARAH MCLACHLAN, CHANTAL KREVIAZUK

Lilith Toronto, July 24,Molson Amphitheatre

50. SOUTHERN VOICE TOUR

Tim McGraw with Lady Antebellum, Aug. 7,Molson Amphitheatre

51. CITY AND COLOUR WITH TEGAN AND SARA

Aug. 28, Molson Amphitheatre

Style Q&A: Beat the heat in T.O. this summer

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12:52 pm

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I sweat a lot during summer, what kind of fabrics/outfits/colours do you suggest?

Sleeveless shirts and dresses in pure cottons and linens are your best option in hot weather.

Remember, skin-tight clothing — even summer jersey dresses and tops — can make you feel more constricted and add to your perspiration problems.

Instead, stick to looser-fitting shapes in cool fabrics.

Also, make sure you wear light colours instead of black if you’re sitting, walking, or driving in the sun.

Click here to check out more style tips from Franco.

With three corporate stores in Toronto, Franco Mirabelli continues to distinguish himself as one of Canada’s strongest fashion talents. Keep up with him by following his weekly blog at PostCity.com or by visiting mirabelli.com.

This Weekend: NXNE, Father's Day Royal Brunch, Beethoven 9, Taste of Little Italy

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Stumped on what to do for Father’s Day? Take a look at our list of what’s going on in the city and make it a Father’s Day he’ll never forget.

NXNE

Indie audiophiles rejoice as 650 musicians play Toronto at the North by Northeast Music & Film Festival and Conference. Iggy and the Stooges, Sloan and Mudhoney are just a few of the stars rocking T.O. this weekend.

June 14-20. Various locations. 416-863-6963.

Father’s Day Royal Brunch

Treat your dad like royalty and take him to Casa Loma’s Father’s Day Royal Brunch. Pegasus Hospitality Group is catering the affair in the castle’s library, and afterwards dad and the family can roam the grounds.

June 20, 10:30 a.m. Casa Loma, 1 Austin Terrace. For reservations, call 416-923-1171.

Taste of Little Italy

If you’re craving an Italian getaway but can’t afford the flight, get a Taste of Little Italy this weekend. The festival boasts the best of Italian food, culture and live entertainment.

June 18-20. College Street between Bathurst and Shaw. 416-698-9053.

Found in Translation – Life in Translation

Love foreign authors but find yourself lost in translation? Check out Harbourfront Centre’s Found in Translation – Life in Translation. French language authors from Argentina, Italy, China, and Haiti will translate their fiction into English and talk about the creative process (in English).

June 19. 235 Queens Quay West. 416-973-4000.

Beethoven 9

For one night only the Toronto Symphony Orchestra brings Beethoven back to life. Peter Oundjian conducts the Orchestra, which is accompanied by The Toronto Mendelssohn Choir. After taking in the classic symphony, join the TSO for a late night soiree featuring live music.

June 19. Roy Thomson Hall, 60 Simcoe Street. 416- 872-4255.

The Source: Father's Day finds on Bayview

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With Father’s Day just around the corner, why not dedicate this weekend to shopping? Grab a gift for your dad at one of this weekend’s menswear sales and browse some boutiques for yourself.

Rudsak

Dads are notoriously tricky to buy for, so if you’re still without a gift for yours this weekend, fear not. Rudsak’s father’s day promotion includes 20 per cent off menswear. Unisex accessories are also on sale, so pick something up for yourself while you’re there.

June 16-20. Bayview Village, 2901 Bayview Avenue. (416) 226-2221.

Rock N’ Rouge

Remember the good ol’ days of classic menswear? Lost + Found and Stacked do. They’re bringing it back with a vintage twist at this weekend’s Rock and Rouge sale. Vintage t-shirts, pocket squares, bow ties, hats and quality leather briefcases and shoes are on sale.

June 19-20. Hotshot Gallery Cafe, 181 Augusta Avenue. 416-840-5447.

Robber

You’ll feel like one stylish Robber with bounty from this Queen West boutique on sale. Airy, modern spring designs from the likes of Lover, Steven Alan, Rittenhouse and Karen Walker are 25 per cent off and finds from last summer are 75 per cent off.

June 15-til it’s all gone! 863 Queen Street West. 647-351-0724.

Leigh and Harlow

Don’t walk, run! Leigh and Harlow is having a sale on casual but chic boutique wares. Light spring jackets and tees are 50 per cent off and L&H will put 10 per cent of regular-priced items right back to you on a gift card.

June 16-June 18. 634 Queen Street West. 647-430-7774.

ComplexGeometries and Morales Sample Sale

Off-kilter and thoroughly modern designs will have daring fashionistas lining up at the door of ComplexGeometries and Morales‘ first ever Toronto sample sale.

June 18-19. 358 Dufferin Street, suite 104.

Toronto's best eco-friendly haircut

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Eco-conscious and wicked-cool salon Parlour celebrated its 1st Anniversary this week with a righteous bash. Earlier in the day, multi-talented stylist Matthew gave me an eco-friendly haircut and showed me what the Parlour experience is all about.

So what exactly is an eco-friendly haircut, you ask?

My fears of wind-powered clippers and patchouli-based unguents were unfounded.

It turns out it’s really quite similar to a standard haircut, except that Parlour takes pains to reduce their footprint at every step of the process.

My hair was washed with paraben-free shampoo from Kevin Murphy. Customers are encouraged to bring their empty product containers back for refilling, with a nice discount provided for your efforts.

Finally, and most impressively, all the "waste" hair that gets swept up at the end of the day is sent to an organization called Matter of Trust, where the hair is stuffed into stockings (creating a hyper-absorbent hair "sausage") and sent wherever it’s needed to sop up oil spills. One would imagine Matter of Trust is sending a few hair sausages to the Gulf of Mexico these days…

Denied my first choice of a Justin Bieber look by lack of working material (male pattern baldness is a bummer), Matthew and I settled on a Don Draper-esque look, which he executed with surgical precision. It was the best haircut I’ve ever had, eco or otherwise, and I swear I’m not just saying that because it was free.

After admiring myself in the mirror all afternoon, I returned to Parlour later that night to find the Pabst Blue Ribbon flowing and a party in full swing. It seemed like mere mortals such as this blogger were vastly outnumbered by models and very beautiful persons, but at least I had my awesome haircut to fit in with all the other amazing coifs. I have never seen so many well-styled people in one room.

Photographer Joe Fuda (who shares a space at 134 Ossington with Project Runway Canada winner Evan Biddell) had set up a mind-bending installation he called a "Multigraph Photobooth" to document all the very attractive and cool people. If you’ve ever wanted to play euchre with yourself, you need one of these.

When the festive Happy Birthday keg cups ran out, I took my cue to leave. I raised a final Pabst to Matthew, who was on his way to play a show with his band isle of dogs. All in all, a great vibe and a very fun party. Kudos to Parlour’s first year, and here’s to many more anniversary parties. Next year, I’ll remember to bring my own reusable beer cup.

Stick it to BP and go get your hair cut at Parlour now!

6 Ossington Ave., just north of Queen St. W, 647-345-6663

Father's Day in Toronto: Top five gift ideas

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How to shop for dad? It’s a question almost as popular as the classic chicken or egg primacy debate. However, this year, PostCity.com has put all the eggs in one basket — we’ve hatched the top five Father’s Day gifts and made it easy to shop for pops.

1) Top Barbecue: The Napoleon Prestige I

With less effort, and less time, dad can still look like an expert griller. While the Napoleon is not new, it remains a best-seller, and for good reason. The infrared rotisserie burner means you can grill a chicken in less time, while the optional charcoal tray and built-in temperature gauge means quality won’t suffer.

The Biggest Plus: the barbecue comes with condiment trays and a removable grease cup, ensuring dad stays organized and has less mess to clean up.

How Much: $799 for propane gas and $849 for natural gas

Where to Get It: Sobie’s Barbecues, 162 Willowdale Avenue, 416-224-2526

2) Top Gadget: the iPad

In every dad, there’s still a little boy excited about his newest toy. This year, dad can be extra cool on the playground (a.k.a. workplace) by sporting Apple’s latest genius invention: the iPad. Using the handheld device, he can browse the internet, watch movies, and finally catch up on magazine, newspaper and book reading.

The Biggest Plus: the kids will think dad is cool too.

How Much: starts at $549

Where to Get It: Apple Store, Eaton Centre, 220 Yonge Street, 647-258-0801

3) Top Cigars: Partagas Cigars, series D, number 4

What father doesn’t like the idea of finishing dinner with a nice, smooth, strong, full-bodied cigar? The Partagas cigar more than fits the bill, and the impressive Robusto is still unique enough for the seasoned cigar smoker.

The Biggest Plus: The cuban cigar gives Canadian dads one more reason not to live south of the border.

How Much: $22.00 per cigar

Where to Get It: Thomas Hinds Tobacconist, 8 Cumberland Street, 416-481-6909

4) Top Scotch Whisky: The Macallan 18-year-old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky

A lot of wisdom comes with raising a child. Inevitably, one of the benchmarks is being able to tell a 12-year-old scotch whisky apart from an 18-year-old scotch whisky. With an 18-year-old Macallan, there’s no comparison. Matured in three oak casks with sherry and then bourbon, the taste is bolder and smoother — revealing fruity, chocolate and malt notes worthy of the world’s best dad.

The Biggest Plus: The drink is in stock; the 18-year-old version is so popular that one year Macallan plumb ran out.

How Much: $249.95

Where to Get It: Summerhill LCBO, 10 Scrivener Square, 416-922-0403

5) Top Hat: The Panama Traveller

While Indiana Jones’ fur felt fedora will always be a classic, there’s a new hat in town: The Panama Traveller. Light, sleek, and supple, this Monaco-style straw hat fits just about every father’s head and wardrobe — whether he is of the khaki-adventurer pedigree or the button-up-shirt pedigree.

The Biggest Plus: For dads that travel with little luggage space, the hat can be squished and rolled up to fit wherever.

How Much: $78.00

Where to Get It: Big it Up Hat Shop, 58 Spadina Avenue, 416-591-0864