"Spies" coming to downtown Barrie, Ontario streets; free burgers at Webers

   One-Tank Trip for Aug. 31/13

   (c) By Jim Fox

   I spy with my little eye something that is happening in Barrie.

   “Spies” will be taking to the downtown streets of this city north of Toronto on Sept. 14 and 21 looking for clues in an “interactive puzzle adventure game.”

   “Your mission, if you choose to accept it: solve as many of the 30 puzzles hidden around downtown Barrie as you can within 60 minutes,” says “mastermind” Vanessa B Baylen.

   Double agents lurking

   Spies of Barrie – similar to the Amazing Race, geocaching, Professor Layton or MIT’s Mystery Hunt – is a game designed to challenge the minds of players and celebrate local businesses and artists.

   But be careful: double agents lurk at every corner.

Vanessa B Baylen is the “mastermind” of the Spies of Barrie. (Jennifer Klementti Photography)

   And, a word of warning: “Good spies often go unnoticed by the general observer. A good rule of thumb is to sneak around town; if you draw too much attention to a hidden puzzle or solution, you may well reveal information to a competitor or double agent.”

Italian Divas reschedule Casino Rama concert to Sept. 29

(News Release)

 

Rama, ON – Casino Rama announces that the Italian Divas concert featuring Iva Zanicchi & Gigliola Cinquetti, originally scheduled for August 25, is rescheduled.  Iva Zanicchi was involved in a minor motor accident late last week and has been advised by doctors not to travel.

The concert has been rescheduled for Sunday, September 29th, 2013 (8pm).  Ticket holders are asked to retain their tickets as they will be honoured for the rescheduled concert date.

Mary Stuart extended for a fourth time at the Stratford Festival

The Stratford Festival is extending Artistic Director Antoni Cimolino’s production of Mary Stuart for an unprecedented fourth time.

The production, described as “electrifyingly entertaining and intellectually exciting” by the Toronto Star’s Richard Ouzounian and “edge-of-your-seat suspenseful” by The Globe and Mail’s J. Kelly Nestruck, features Seana McKenna as Elizabeth I and Lucy Peacock as Mary Stuart, with Ben Carlson as Lord Burleigh, Brian Dennehy as the Earl of Shrewsbury and Geraint Wyn Davies as the Earl of Leicester.

“Mary Stuart is striking for the clarity of its storytelling, the constant intensity of its dramatic stakes and, especially, for the evenhanded excellence of Lucy Peacock and Seana McKenna in the leading roles,” says Chris Jones in the Chicago Tribune. “This is one for the memory books, with two remarkable actresses at the peak of their powers,” says Postmedia’s Jamie Portman.

Hammer Town Comic Con Comes to Hamilton this October

Back to the Future Cast Members, Star Trek Actors the first of many celebrity announcements

Hamilton, ON – Fans of comic books, pop culture, movies and television will be happy to learn that a Comic Con is coming to the Steel City.  Officially titled Hammer Town Comic Con, the event will take place at the Hamilton Convention Centre on Saturday, October 5^th. 

“After doing some location research for a Comic Con in Southern Ontario, I was really surprised that Hamilton didn’t have one of its own,” said Chris Dabrowski, Owner and Show Manager for the October event. 

“There’s definitely preliminary interest from the public, and with the line up of celebrities we have secured, there will be something for everyone’s taste,” he added.

Doors Open Waterloo Regon 2013 features modern architecture theme

NEWS RELEASE

Waterloo Region – Forty-two sites, many of which are not regularly open to the public, will participate in the eleventh annual Doors Open Waterloo Region (DOWR), Saturday, September 21, 2013. 

Doors Open Waterloo Region, a free architecture and heritage open house event, began in 2003.

Thousands of people visit dozens of noteworthy buildings and heritage sites through DOWR every September.  Close to 14,000 individual site visits were tallied during the 2012 event.

Most sites are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., but several have shortened hours, so visitors are encouraged to carefully read the individual listings on the map/guide or on the website.

Elora Gorge adds zipline, ropes course; Grand River great for fly fishing

(News Release)

ELORA, Ontario -- Outdoors lovers with a taste for adventure can take in the amazing Elora Gorge from one very unique vantage point.

For those who get an adrenaline rush from heights, there’s a zipline that whisks thrill seekers between two 22-metre rock cliffs high above the beautiful Irvine River at the Grand River gorge.

Want more? Consider completing a skill-based ropes course that will see you skillfully lowering yourself 80 ft down to the river below by the end of the day, where you can cool down and soak up the stunning scenery.

Visitors who prefer to stay closer to firm ground can enjoy a relaxing time on the Grand River, Ontario’s Number 1 Fly-Fishing River.

Come and get it! SummerFeast in the Hills of Headwaters

Continuing to September 1, 2013

Celebrating the best of SummerFeast with a new twist and new restaurants for 2013!

It's that time of year again, when some of the finest restaurants in the Headwaters region showcase their exceptional menus and culinary prowess for visitors and residents.

 To showcase our rich local food culture, this year we've tasked participating restaurants with spicing up their SummerFeast menus with extra "Headwaters inspired" flavour.

Change of Seasons – An Exhibition of Watercolours, artist Sue Goossens

Defined Path

 Station Arts Centre, Tillsonburg  

August 23 - September 25 

 

As the seasons change so do the colours. 

Nature provides us with a constant array of artistic moments just waiting to be interpreted - spring, summer, fall and winter. 

And then not to be outdone, the sun delivers shadows that become artistic marks of punctuation.

These are the inspirations for my watercolours.

Sue Goossens

For more information 

41 Bridge St W  Tillsonburg, ON
(519) 842-6151

office@stationarts.ca

Monday - Saturday 9am - 4pm

What's happening at Rondeau Provincial Park

(News Release)

Although the summer is winding down, we still have some exciting programs for you to mark on your calendars. This Saturday August 31 we are once again hosting the Ontario Falconry Centre.

This is a must-see presentation that we know you will enjoy. Meet at Beach Access #9 at 1:00pm to get a closer look at some of Ontario’s coolest birds! What a great way to spend the last weekend before the kids are back at school.

We are also gearing up for this year’s Monarch Migration Festival which will be held at the Visitor Centre on Sunday September 15^th from 10:00am to 4:00pm.

Monarchs and Migrants Weekend at Presqu'ile Aug. 31 to Sept. 1, /2013

NEWS FROM PRESQU’ILE PROVINCIAL PARK:


The migration season is now underway at Presqu’ile and Monarchs and Migrants Weekend at the park celebrates this natural spectacle.

Come and join us on the Labour Day Weekend to witness a spectacular scene repeated for millennia by migrating bird and Monarch populations.

The birds and butterflies are stopping at the Park to refuel on their long journeys to the south. Their destination? Mexico to the tip of South America, and points between.

On August 31st and September 1st, Presqu’ile will offer Bird Banding demos, Monarch Tagging and informative guided walks and children’s programs. 

Diamonds in the Rough Music Festival set for Niagara-on-the-Lake winery

(News Release)

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, Ont. – Put on your dancing shoes and head over to the Diamonds in the Rough Music Festival taking place on September 21 at Diamond Estates – The Winery.

The Diamonds in the Rough Music Festival is celebrating the 2013 harvest with three Niagara bands covering everything from new country to indie rock. The lineup includes Chippawa Dirty and Crush in June with co-headliners The Box Socials and the Goodfellas.

Many more Doors Open Ontario 2013 events still to come

(Media Release)

Half of this year's Doors Open Ontario events are taking place this fall - many incorporating the theme of the 2013 program, "Cultural Expressions." Ontario's architectural and artistic showpieces, community landmarks and natural wonders are waiting to be explored - all free of charge. 

This year, participants have the opportunity to showcase their talent with the Doors Open Ontario 2013 Art Contest. This visual arts contest celebrates the Cultural Expressions theme and the many artistic traditions that have helped shape the province.

Toronto's Nuit Blanche to feature 112 art projects

Forever Bicycles

News Release
City of Toronto announces full program for Scotiabank Nuit Blanche 2013
The City of Toronto has released the entire artistic program for the eighth edition of Scotiabank Nuit Blanche, which will take place Saturday, October 5 from 6:51 p.m. until sunrise.

This year's lineup includes 112 art projects created by more than 500 local, national and international artists who will transform the streets of Toronto for a single night.

"With over a million people attending Scotiabank Nuit Blanche, and 20 per cent of them tourists, it's a great event both culturally and economically for Toronto," said Mayor Rob Ford. "An event of this scale puts Toronto on the map globally as a cultural tourism destination and strongly positions us as a creative hub internationally."

Shizen you way into fall with weekday specials and friends and family rates

Shizen Friends promotion gives guests 35 per cent off treatments

TORONTO, August 28, 2013 – Toronto Shizen Spa locations in the Cosmopolitan Hotel and Pantages Hotel Toronto Centre are welcoming guests into their circle of friends with a new summer promotion. “Shizen Friends” gives guests the royal treatment with access to the spa’s exclusive 35-per-cent friends and family discount*.

The Shizen Friends discount is available on all services and products (except 15 per cent off RMT rates) booked between Sunday and Thursday through September 30.

Niagara Land Trust fund-raiser includes Botany and Birding and Windmill Point luncheon

September 6^th 2013 weekend…please register ASAP, thank you!

Botany & Birding on the Beach and Luncheon at Windmill Point Cottage, with the option of overnight accommodation!

A fundraiser for the Niagara Land Trust (NLT), we have two packages to choose from, for this unique and one-time opportunity.  From Carla Calson, Niagara Nature Tours.

  

 This same information is available, with photos, under the Events tab at www.niagaranaturetours.ca   Also, please click on the facebook link https://www.facebook.com/events/450981888349736/ …to Like and Share.

Foodies find Waterloo Region is tasty with farms, markets and chefs' creations

   One-Tank Trip for Aug. 24/13

 

   (c) By Jim Fox

   The Kitchener-Waterloo area has become a mecca for foodies with farms, markets and chefs savouring local ingredients.

   Popular across Waterloo Region are old-style farmers’ markets and “food that schmecks (tasty and flavourful),” thanks to the large Mennonite population.

   *** News update** Fire has destroyed the main building overnight on Sept. 2 at the market, causing more than $2 million damage. The cause is not yet known.
   *** It is expected the outdoor market with fruit and vegetable vendors, etc. will continue as usual on Thursdays and Saturdays and the other buildings at the market will be open.

   It will be soon fall harvest time and a great way to enjoy this bounty is to taste what the region has to offer, says publicist Stephen Murdoch.

Paige from Thorne Farms offers new-crop potatoes at the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market. (Jim Fox photo)

   Going to market

   “We’re known across Canada as one of the best places to find fresh, locally grown food and we’re now approaching the peak of the season,” said Minto Schneider of the Waterloo Regional Tourism Marketing Corp.

   The area’s farmers’ markets – St. Jacobs, Kitchener and Cambridge – are about one hour east of London and an hour west of Toronto.

   Called “Canada’s largest year-round market,” St. Jacobs has hundreds of food and craft vendors with farm-fresh produce, meat, cheese, baking and more.

A Mennonite vendor offers a colourful crop of seasonal fruit in St. Jacobs. (Jim Fox photo)

Romantic picnicking in September at Ontario Parks‏

Scenic kayaking in Ontario Parks (Photo: Ontario Parks)

With the kids back in school, September is the perfect time to pack a picnic-for-two and really go out for lunch! Here are five parks with romantic picnic areas that are easy drives from Ontario centres. You'll find more on the Park Blog at http://www.parkreports.com/parksblog/?p=3921. For recipe ideas and other picnic tips, check this post, http://www.parkreports.com/parksblog/?p=3850.

In the Greater Toronto Area

Forks of the Credit Provincial Park is only 24 kilometres northwest of the City of Brampton. The Credit River narrows in the park and plunges into a deep gorge. Hiking trails include the famous Bruce Trail. Mid-week is the best time to visit during peak fall colour time. http://www.OntarioParks.com/english/fork.html

Fun for everyone in Niagara’s backyard

MEDIA RELEASE

NIAGARA FALLS, Ont. –This August, you don’t have to travel too far to have fun; there is something for everyone at the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark.

“Tots, kids, teens, parents and even grandparents can all have a good time at our three acre Fallsview Indoor Waterpark,” says Sarah Vazquez, Vice-President of Marketing for the Falls Avenue Resort.

“We always see people coming and going with smiles stretched across their faces – a day at the water park is a day of fun. Add to that the bonus of being located directly across from the Falls and in the heart of the tourist district.”

VIA Rail Connection – August treat

	AUGUST 2013 PLAN | DESTINATIONS | FARES | INFO | VERSION FRANÇAISE
	We’re making going back to school easy Classes are starting soon, and we’ve got several affordable travel options for young people 12 to 25. Travel broadens the mind – so get a head start on your education! Find out more

Honest Villains and Noble Killers: The Iago/Othello Character Dynamic at Stratford Festival

MEDIA RELEASE

The Festival hosts second annual Symposium:

August 27, 2013… In the second annual Stratford Festival Symposium, Honest Villains and Noble Killers: The Iago/Othello Character Dynamic, influential theatre artists and intellectuals will express their views on Shakespeare’s Othello with a particular focus on its famed villain and hero.

A part of The Forum, the new festival within the Festival, the event will be held at the Studio Theatre on Thursday, September 12.

Comedian John Pinette's shows postponed at Casino Rama and Caesars Windsor

(News Release)

Rama, ON (Wednesday, August 28, 2013) - Casino Rama regrets to announce that the 
John Pinette comedy concert originally scheduled for Thursday, October 3rd (8pm) 
has been postponed.

(Pinette's show on Sept. 18 is also postponed at the Colosseum at Caesars Windsor.)

Earlier this year Mr. Pinette underwent surgery and developed a reliance on his 

prescribed medication.  In order to improve his health, Mr. Pinette has decided

to check himself in to a rehabilitation clinic.

Running for your life at Bingemans in Kitchener

(News Release)

KITCHENER, Ont. – You’ve watched the TV shows and movies and outrunning a horde of zombies sounds like a piece of cake – so here’s your chance to prove it!

The Running Dead, a 4km survival race, is returning once again to Bingemans in Kitchener, Ont. on September 29. This fun race is designed to test runners’ endurance by pitting them against more than 100 zombies on the hunt for souls.

Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons and Craig Ferguson return to Caesars Windsor

Windsor, ON – Back by popular demand – a show that our audiences never stop loving – Caesars Windsor is thrilled to welcome Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons to the Colosseum stage at 9 pm on Friday, November 8. 

As members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons are one of the best-selling musical groups of all time – and are adored by fans worldwide for hit songs such as, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”, “Sherry”, and “Big Girls Don’t Cry”. Tickets start at $35 Canadian.

Rehearsals begin for the Toronto premiere of Les Miserables

Performances from September 27, 2013

at Toronto’s Princess of Wales Theatre

CAMERON MACKINTOSH’s

Acclaimed New Production of

BOUBLIL & SCHÖNBERG'S

LES MISÉRABLES

Excitement is building for the Toronto premiere of the new Cameron Mackintosh production of Boublil & Schönberg's masterpiece LES MISÉRABLES, the first show of the 2013-2014 Mirvish Subscription Season. 

Full company rehearsals for the predominantly Canadian cast begin Monday, August 19.  Performances for the limited engagement at the Princess of Wales Theatre begin September 27, 2013.

Women's art in settler society and Paul Kane - French River Rapids -- at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto

       Brushing It In the Rough:

Women, Art & Nineteenth-century Canada

___________________________________________________________________________

   Women’s art in settler society is showcased in ROM exhibition opening August 24

(Toronto, Ontario, August 13, 2013) – Continuing to highlight its strong Canadiana collection, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) presents Brushing It In the Rough: Women, Art & Nineteenth-century Canada.

 This intimate display showcases the pictorial responses of three nineteenth-century women – Anna Jameson, a traveler; Susanna Moodie, a settler; and Alice Killaly, a native-born resident – to their Canadian experiences. Each woman produced art within society’s parameters and their stories reveal the circumstances behind the use of their talents for financial gain.

The Good Lovelies are coming to Oxford County to picnic

MEDIA RELEASE – For Immediate Release

Woodstock, ON – Oxford Fresh will be hosting “The Good Lovelies Picnic” on August 29th at the Stonecroft Folk, just outside of Ingersoll, with exceptional picnic fare including Berkshire pork & fresh local corn.

Following the picnic “The Good Lovelies” will be performing under the stars. “Returning to Oxford County for their third performance, this world-travelled group are known for their upbeat music and their intimate connection with the audience. It’s been a long wait, but oh my, will it be worth it”, said Cathy Bingham.

Experience a 19th century rural fair at the Fanshawe Agricultural Fair

MEDIA RELEASE

London, Ontario – On Saturday, August 17^th and Sunday, August 18^th, experience all the pleasures of a 19^th century rural fair at Fanshawe Pioneer Village.

Village volunteers have worked all season to present their best examples of arts and crafts and garden produce in fair exhibits.  See rare breed poultry presented by the Great Lakes Poultry Club and learn how to raise chickens.

Aerial Acrobatics Show – Tic Toc overview -- at the Canadian National Exhibition

TORONTO -- Aerial Acrobatics ascend to new heights at the CNE this year in Tic Toc, a spectacular new show.

The colourful extravaganza will explore the theme of “time” and feature cirque performers, trapeze and trampoline artists, jugglers and more.