Elvis (Steve Michaels)' Grace To Gloryland "Sweetheart Deal" - Up to 50% savings

From TVB Productions,

Happy Valentines Day!

Treat you and your "Sweetheart" to Grace To Gloryland, our brand new concert experience showcasing the heart, soul, and passion of Gospel music through the voice and performance of music’s most influential and cultural leader of the twentieth century – Elvis Presley.

Featuring an incredible cast of musicians, gospel vocalists, and choir, Grace To Gloryland will take you on an extraordinary journey of one man’s life long musical passion that comes straight from the heart.

We invite you to join us at The Meeting House, Oakville’s magnificent 1600 seat church amphitheatre and performing arts centre - Saturday, March 1st @ 7:30 pm.

Four Points by Sheraton London (Ontario) raising hope for Children's Health Foundation

LONDON — The Four Points by Sheraton London is partnering with the Children’s Health Foundation (CHF) to help raise funds and awareness for Children’s Hospital at London Health Sciences Centre, Thames Valley Children’s Centre and the Children’s Health Research Institute.

For every CHF Corporate Meeting Package booked at the Four Points by Sheraton December 31, 2015, the Four Points by Sheraton will donate $2 per person to the Children’s Health Foundation up to maximum of $20,000.

Any meeting convener aware of the program just needs to alert the hotel meeting coordinator that they want to participate in this raising hope initiative. 

Stratford Festival dedicates productions to the memory of Jean-Louis Roux, Suzanne Turnbull and Jack Merigold

January 20, 2014… In the past few months, Canadian theatre has lost some champions, each of whom made a vital contribution to their discipline. The Stratford Festival will commemorate the lives of three of these people, who had close ties to Stratford, through a series of dedications in the 2014 season.

King Lear dedicated to Jean-Louis Roux

King Lear will be dedicated to actor and director Jean-Louis Roux.

“Jean-Louis Roux was a pioneer, creating companies, leading institutions and promoting the critical importance of the arts in our society,” says Artistic Director Antoni Cimolino, who will direct the production. “He was a valued member of the Stratford company over many years as an actor as well as a director. I last worked with him at the Festival Theatre along with Colm Feore in Coriolanus. Therefore it is with affection that we dedicate this season’s production of King Lear to Jean-Louis, who was ‘every inch a king.’”

Sheraton Ottawa hotel offers preferred room rates for Valentine’s and Family Day Weekend

CHEF FREDERIC FILLIODEAU ROMANCES THE HEART
AT THE SHERATON OTTAWA HOTEL WITH SCRUMPTIOUS VALENTINE’S DINING OPTIONS IN THE CARLETON GRILL

OTTAWA, January 24, 2014—Executive Chef Frédéric Filliodeau at the Sheraton Ottawa is passionate about his craft.

With more than 25 years of culinary experience from all corners of the globe, Chef Filliodeau is delighted to call the nation’s capital his home.

For Valentine’s Day, he has created two memorable dining experiences for the Carleton Grill located on the lobby level of the Sheraton Ottawa Hotel. The Carleton Gourmet Club, a signature series created by Chef Filliodeau, will be presenting a seven-course lovers’ feast to be served on Friday, February 14^th.   

Additionally the Carleton Grill will also be serving a special table d’hôte five-course menu on Valentine’s Day.

HarbourKIDS Skating Festival presented by RBC Play Hockey

(News Release)

February 16-17, 2014. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 
 
TORONTO, ON–January 30, 2014 – How better to deal with the extreme cold of Winter 2014?

At Harbourfront Centre, we celebrate the polar vortex – we say bundle up the family in scarves and toques and head for HarbourKIDS Skating Festival, presented by RBC Play Hockey, Sunday, February 16- Monday, February 17, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Natrel Rink, hosted by comedian Megan Fraser, will be buzzing with skating activities, performances, ice sculptures and cool canvasses. When you’ve had enough of the chill, head indoors for dance workshops, a hip theatre production, crafts, science experiments and lots more.   Make it a Family Day weekend of skating and creating.

"Polar (bear) Vortex" at the Toronto Zoo

Toronto Zoo Weekly Feature - Friday, 2014-01-31   POLAR VORTEX? NO WAY... POLAR BEAR! Get outside and enjoy the "warmer" winter weather this weekend.   February is Polar Bear Month at the Toronto Zoo - and what better way to celebrate than by visiting the zoo this weekend with our very own POLAR BEARS! Join "Aurora" and "Nikita" our two truly Canadian polar bear siblings and show as Canadians, we are not afraid of winter!   The Toronto Zoo has so much to offer, including six warm tropical pavilions full of exotic animals at every turn, daily keeper talks and 10 km of scenic trails. The Toronto Zoo is open 364 days a year and is the destination for winter adventure!

Niagara Falls Comic Con will feature more than 30 pop culture celebrities

(News Release)

(Niagara Falls, ON) January 30 - More than 30 pop culture celebrities from yesterday, today and tomorrow will in Niagara Falls next June part of the Niagara Falls Comic Con taking place over three days on June 6, 7 and 8, 2014.

The event, which will take place at the Scotiabank Convention Centre just steps away from the majestic Falls will feature more than 150,000 square feet of exhibitors, comic books, movie cars, cosplay contests, celebrity autographs and photo-ops, a video gaming arena, Falls Horror Fest and more.

 

"Niagara Falls Comic Con is one of the area's premier events that has grown immensely in popularity over the years, said Chris Dabrowski," Show Manager/Producer for Niagara Falls Comic Con.  "More than 20,000 people came through the doors at last year's event, and with our star studded line up, we expect the same sort of turn out.  It's one of those can't miss events in Niagara Falls.  There’s something for everyone," he added.

Matchbox 20’s lead singer Rob Thomas to rock solo show at Caesars Windsor on May 11

For immediate release: January 30, 2014

Windsor, ON – Caesars Windsor is proud to welcome the return of singer-songwriter and modern rocker Rob Thomas at 8 pm on Sunday, May 11 in the Colosseum.

Thomas is one of modern music’s most compelling and commercially successful artists for well over a decade between his solo work, lead singer of Matchbox Twenty and collaborations with Santana and Mick Jagger, he has sold over 80 million albums worldwide.

He made history in 2005 when his multi-platinum, Grammy nominated solo album …Something to Be became the first album by a male artist from a rock or pop group to debut at #1 with hit singles “Lonely No More,” “This is How a Heart Breaks” and “Ever The Same”.

Shot by Cupid's arrow at the Aloft Vaughan Mills

(News Release)

TORONTO -- Far from ordinary, the Aloft Vaughan Mills offers guests a new experience with a fun scene where guests can mix and mingle.

Enjoy a glass of vino or a signature cocktail at the W XYZ^SM Bar, play a game of pool in the re:mix^SM lounge or just surf the internet with free WiFi throughout the hotel.

If cravings start to kick in, explore re:fuel by Aloft^SM, the hotel’s 24/7 grab and go pantry, or take a dip in Splash, the hotel’s indoor heated pool. Chic shopping at the Vaughan Mills Shopping Centre is located right across the parking lot from the hotel.

Toronto Zoo's polar bear cub explores the outdoors for the first time

(News Release)

    TORONTO --We know how much everyone has enjoyed sharing videos of our polar bear cub, so what better way to stay warm during this Polar Vortex then by watching another heart warming video of our cub exploring the outdoors for the first time! Does it get any CUTER than this?

CLICK HERE to watch the polar bear cub in the snow for the first time.

CLICK HERE to check out our web page with pictures and videos of the polar bear cub.

Toronto Zoo is accredited by CAZA (Canada's Accredited Zoos and Aquariums).

Look for this logo whenever you visit a Canadian zoo as your assurance that you are 
supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience 
for you, and a better future for all living things.

Yamaha Snowmobile Adventures comes to Muskoka's Deerhurst Resort

Guests now able to book training and guided snowmobile tours, while seasoned snowmobilers get 20% off accommodations

HUNTSVILLE, ON, January 28, 2014 –Deerhurst, a Skyline Resort is now partnering with  Yamaha Snowmobile Adventures to offer guests the opportunity to ride the trails like a pro with guided tours.

 

Perfect for families looking for a fun winter activity to enjoy together, Yamaha Adventures even offers mini sled rides for younger children ages 6-9.

With a variety of ride options, 90 minute training and tours start at $129/person and are available Tuesday, Thursday and on weekends with start times at 9am and 1pm.  Guests need not worry about having the proper gear; Yamaha’s warm winter outerwear is provided to all participants.

“Deerhurst is proud to be partnering with Yamaha to give our guests another way to get outside and enjoy the winter,” says general manager Chris Lund. “There’s over 2,000km of networked trails in Muskoka alone and Deerhurst is right on the trails.  We’re the perfect place for both seasoned experts and beginners.”

Drury Hotels receives eighth consecutive J.D. Power Award

Drury Inn and Suites in Troy, Michigan (Jim Fox photo)

St. Louis-based Hotel Company Recognized with The Award for "Highest in Guest Satisfaction Among Mid-Scale Hotel Chains"

ST. LOUIS -- J.D. Power has again recognized Drury Hotels with the award for "Highest in Guest Satisfaction Among Mid-Scale Hotel Chains” for the eighth consecutive year.

"For 40 years, Drury Hotels has been focused on being No. 1 in friendly service with every guest," said Chuck Drury, President and CEO of Drury Hotels.

Drury Inn and Suites, Troy, Michigan team: (From left) Joe Del Serrone, General Manager; Keia and Luli, Guest Service Agents; and Dan, Maintenance Technician. (Jim Fox photo)

 "Receiving our eighth consecutive J.D. Power Award is a tribute to our team members and the passion they show every day for giving our guests the best experience possible."

Celebrate your love in Toronto this Valentine’s Day

TORONTO – Valentine’s Day in Toronto offers whatever your heart desires for an unforgettable and unique romantic experience.

Book your romantic Toronto getaway on seetorontonow.com, where you can find the perfect Toronto Valentine’s Day experience with the best rates and availability from over 50 of Toronto’s hottest hotels, as well as the latest information on events, attractions and gastronomic offerings.

While in Toronto, check out the endless possibilities of things to do:

ATTRACTIONS:

As part of the Toronto Zoo’s Adult Program, they present First Comes Love on February 14 and 15. Join them for an evening of fascinating conservation facts on parenthood where you will learn facts such as how the male sea horse, and not the female, carries their young or that giant pandas only have 72 hours in which they can mate. Their Valentine's Program includes a romantically inspired dinner, special animal encounter, an interactive group presentation and a tour of the Reproductive Labs. The mystery of birth, and parenthood, has been explored throughout the ages and it's no surprise that many of the most interesting discoveries have come from the animal world. www.torontozoo.com

 

CN Tower (Barbara Fox photo)

Take your love to new heights by visiting the CN Tower for a romantic adventure. Love is always in the air at 360 The Restaurant at the CN Tower, one of Toronto’s most romantic restaurants and home to World’s Highest Wine Cellar.  You see the best views of Toronto from the SkyPod, or stand on the world’s first Glass Floor too. www.cntower.ca

Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band return to Casino Rama to launch 2014 tour

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RAMA, ON (Tuesday, January 28, 2014) - Casino Rama is pleased to welcome the 
legendary Ringo Starr back to the Entertainment Centre stage this June to 
perform with a little from his friends the 12th All-Starr Band.

Starr and his All-Starr Band appeared on stage on Sunday night at the Grammy Awards, first 
performing solo Starr's hit "Photograph" from his 1973 album, Ringo, then with 
Sir Paul McCartney in a long anticipated and rare reunion of the surviving 
members of the Beatles.

Niagara Falls Sports Expo features legends, exhibits, memorabilia and more

(Niagara Falls, Ontario) January 21 – Fans will have the chance to rub shoulders with NHL, NFL and MLB greats when the Niagara Falls Sports Expo invades the Scotiabank Convention Centre on Saturday, March 29, 2014. 

The event will feature more than 50,000 square feet of exhibitors, attractions, sports memorabilia, autograph sessions, seminars and more.

"Sports fans span many generations and we’re hoping to make this an annual event,” said Chris Dabrowski, Show Manager for the NFSE.  “This is a rare opportunity for fans to get up close with some of their favourite professional athletes.  From exhibits to interactive games to sports legends, there will be something for everyone,” he added. 

Winter fun at Deerhurst Resort; hockey on the pond in Gravenhurst; Willie's prediction in Wiarton; great writers at Toronto gala

   One-Tank Trip for Jan. 25/14

   (c) By Jim Fox

   Yuk it up in Huntsville, enjoy hockey on the pond in Gravenhurst, watch a furry rodent predict the fate of winter in Wiarton or hang out with a great author in Toronto for seasonal fun activities.

   Laughs and cool fun

   Saturday Night Live alumnus Jim Belushi headlines Huntsville’s Winter Comedy Carnival weekend at Deerhurst Resort.

   The event from Jan. 31 to Feb. 2 includes winter fest activities in the Muskoka town including more laughs with Brent Butt of CTV’s Corner Gas fame.

Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville, Ontario (Jim Fox photo)

   “Deerhurst, along with the town of Huntsville, are making winter a laughing matter,” said Katie Thomas, public relations manager for Skyline Hotels & Resorts.

   Belushi and the Board of Comedy Improv show on Feb. 1 also features Robert Belushi, Larry Joe Campbell, Joshua Funk and Brad Morris.

Jim Belushi and the Board of Comedy Improv show headlines the Huntsville’s Winter Comedy Carnival at Deerhurst Resort. From left: Robert Belushi, Larry Joe Campbell, Jim Belushi, Joshua Funk and Brad Morris.

   “Laughter is the best medicine for the winter blues,” said Deerhurst general manager Chris Lund, whose resort hosts the Saturday night show in the expanded carnival weekend.

   Guests can also enjoy Deerhurst’s winter wonderland at the historic 117-year-old, 400-room year-round resort.

   Options include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, skating, snowmobiling, dog sledding, sleigh rides and ice-carving demonstrations along with the Shizen Spa.

   Huntsville’s downtown will be transformed into a “snow-covered playground” for Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, live music, an ice bar and outdoor adventure sports demonstrations by Algonquin Outfitters.

   Visitors can also take a “fat bike” for a spin, build an igloo, warm up at bonfire and enjoy something tasty from food vendors.

   Butt launches the weekend on Jan. 31 with his “Almost a Movie Star” stand-up tour at the Algonquin Theatre.

Horse-drawn sleigh rides are among the activities at Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville.

   Deerhurst’s Winter Comedy package is from $234 a night per room (based on a two-night stay and double occupancy with two adults per room). It includes a breakfast, pre-show dinner and Belushi show tickets.

   The optional Friday night show with Brent Butt is an additional $44.55 a person. deerhurstresort.com/winter-comedy; 1-855-462-5164; wintercomedycarnival.com

   Pond hockey is back

   The Original Pond Hockey Classic returns to Gravenhurst from Feb 7 to 9 featuring ex-NHLer Kris King.

   This huge tourney has a four-on-four format in five divisions, including one for the ladies, competing for the North American Cup.

Teams play for the North American Cup at the Original Pond Hockey Classic in Gravenhurst. (Photo credit: Explorers’ Edge)

   “The tournament is at the Muskoka Wharf and is a beautiful setting for the games,” said publicist Kate Monk.

   Things begin with an NHL alumni game played under the lights on Friday night, followed by a gathering at an indoor beer tent, and live entertainment on Saturday night. onthepondcanada.com; (705) 313-6702

   All eyes on Willie

   When will this “real” winter end?

   That’s a question that folklore says will be told by wily groundhog prognosticator Wiarton Willie.

There’s lots of pomp and ceremony when Wiarton Willie gives his prediction on when winter will end.

   Thousands will gather on Feb. 2 at 7 a.m. for a pancake breakfast in Bluewater Park awaiting Willie’s official prediction at 8:07 a.m.

   Willie will be roused from his hibernation for the ritual that says if he sees his shadow we endure another six weeks of wintry weather. No shadow means spring’s just around the corner.

   This is the highlight of the winter festival packed with activities from Jan. 30 to Feb. 2. visitwiarton.ca; (519) 534-4545

   Write on

   Sixty of Canada’s top authors will mingle with some 600 guests at the Book Lover’s Ball on Feb. 6 in Toronto.

   The “black-tie” gala to support the Toronto Public Library system takes place at the Fairmont Royal York hotel.

Novel-inspired entertainment is a feature of the Book Lover’s Ball in Toronto. (Photo by George Pimentel)

   Presented by Sun Life Financial, featured authors include former Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff (Fire and Ashes); former ceo and president of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, Richard Peddie (Dream Job); musician and author Dave Bidini (Keon and Me); and erotic literature’s L. Marie Adeline (S.E.C.R.E.T. Shared.

   Also there will be international bestselling novelist Steven Galloway (The Cellist of Sarajevo); Member of Parliament Olivia Chow (My Journey); and Neil Pasricha (The Book of Awesome).

   A “culinary extravaganza” will be designed by Food Network’s Lynn Crawford and there will be a “sparkling reception, dazzling silent auction, ‘Adopt-a-Branch’ fundraiser and five chapters of entertainment,” said publicist Andrea McLoughlin.

   Each chapter is based on a novel by best-selling authors Jason Mott, Steven Galloway, Kamal Al-Solaylee, Eva Stachniak and Suzanne Collins.

   Individual tickets are $750. The ball raised $530,000 last year to help with enhanced library collections, programs, services and community spaces. bookloversball.ca; (416) 393-7237

-30-

Jim Fox can be reached at onetanktrips@hotmail.com

For more One-Tank Trips: http://1tanktrips.blogspot.ca

Sheraton Centre and the Westin Harbour Castle hotels offer best rates of the season

LIMITED TIME TO ENJOY SAVINGS IN TORONTO 

January 23, 2014 – The Sheraton Centre and The Westin Harbour Castle in Toronto are offering exclusive savings with a limited time offer on stays this February and March.

If looking to get away for Valentine’s Day with someone special or the kids for Family Day and March Break, the two downtown hotels are offering their best rates of the season.

The Sheraton Centre and The Westin Harbour Castle are offering a rate starting from $129 per night for select dates in February and March. To enjoy these savings guests must book by January 29, 2014.

This special offer can be booked by calling 1-866-716-8101 and mentioning the FMHOT rate plan or visiting www.sheratontoronto.com for stays at the Sheraton Centre Toronto or www.westintoronto.com for stays at The Westin Harbour Castle.

Polar Bear Cause, walk and run set for the Toronto Zoo on Feb. 22

Toronto Zoo Weekly Feature - Thursday, 2014-01-23

MOVE YOUR PAWS FOR THE POLAR BEAR CAUSE - 1K & 3K WALK/RUN

Saturday, February 22, 2014 

Join the cause and walk or run in support of our polar bear family, including our new cub!

Open to all runners, walkers and fitness folk of all ages and abilities. Bundle up and bring the whole family for a day of outdoor fun, fitness and fundraising. All proceeds raised from the event go towards Polar Bear Conservation! For online entry, pledge forms and further information and start times go to CanadaRunningSeries.com. Please note registration includes admission for the day, non-transferable. Parking is $10.

CLICK HERE and register today!

Event beverages supplied by Coca-Cola.
Toronto Zoo saves and protects animals and their habitats at home and abroad.

---

First Comes Love (Ages 19 and over)

Friday February 14 or Saturday February 15, 2014, 6:30pm to 9:00pm

Our Valentine's Program includes a romantically inspired dinner, special animal encounter, an interactive group presentation and a tour of the Reproductive Labs led by our Reproductive Specialist Team! Please note this is a registered event.

METAMORPHOSIS: Toronto premiere of internationally renowned spectacular show

Directed and adapted by David Farr and Gisli Örn Gardarsson

METAMORPHOSIS

January 28 - March 9, 2014

Royal Alexandra Theatre

260 King Street West

“The triumph of the production is that it uses physical ingenuity to get to the tragic heart of Kafka’s fable.”
  The Guardian (London)

“It’s grimly disturbing, but illuminated by such brilliant theatricality that it’s impossible to tear your eyes away. Potent, startling, visceral and thoughtful.”
 The Times (London)

”When Cave’s famous baritone emerges in the twisted euphoric final scene, it marks the climax of truly special night of theatre”
 Time Out, Hong Kong

“Very possibly, the finest, highest expression of theatre to I´ve ever seen”
 Australian Stage

TORONTO -- Frank Kafka’s terrifying but bizarrely comic story Metamorphosis bursts onto the stage in a theatrically explosive new version by renowned British playwright and director David Farr (Associate Director of Royal Shakespeare Company) and actor/director Gisli Örn Gardarsson, of the award-winning Icelandic theatre company Vesturport. 

This hugely acclaimed production combines breathtaking physicality and daring aerial action.

After touring around the world, it comes to Toronto. Metamorphosis plays at the Royal Alexandra Theatre, January 28 - March 9, 2014.

A haunting story

The ordinary, unremarkable life of the Samsa family is turned upside down when their son, Gregor, the sole provider for the family, emerges one morning to find himself inexplicably transformed into a gigantic insect. His family’s feelings of revulsion turn to resentment with horrifying results. 

Celebrating Igloofest with W Montreal

January 16, 2014 - As the official partner hotel for the 8^th edition of Igloofest, W Montréal invites you to experience one of the coolest events in Montreal this winter. For four weeks, thousands of electronic music fans will come to Montreal to dance under the stars at the Old Port for Igloofest with the best local and international DJs.

Igloofest takes place just minutes away from W Montréal. As the official hotel, a special Igloofest package was created including tickets for the night of your stay (up to a maximum of four adults) and two complimentary cocktails to savor at Bartini located in the lobby of the hotel.

As well, after dancing the night away, guests can enjoy some well-deserved rest with a late checkout of 3 p.m. This package is available for Thursday through Saturday arrivals through the run of Igloofest from January 16^th - February 8, 2014.

Out of the box: Sneaker culture exhibit at the Bata Shoe Museum

   One-Tank Trip for Jan. 18/14

   (c) By Jim Fox

   A visit to the Bata Shoe Museum in Toronto is good for the sole.

   This is a great time to “sneak” a peak as the current exhibition is Out of the Box: The Rise of Sneaker Culture.

   At the shrine to the evolution of footwear over 4,500 years, the exhibition explores the history of the sneaker.

A pair of “exceptionally rare” Nike Lebron James’ Stewie sneakers from 2009 is part of the sneaker culture exhibition. (Jim Fox photo)

   And, Elvis sang about not stepping on his blue suede shoes, but instead has a pair of loafers among the celebrity footgear on show here.

   Information with Marilyn Monroe’s red leather stilettos quoted her saying: “I don’t know who invented high heels, but all women owe him a lot.”

   The museum on Bloor Street is “cultural gem” in a four-storey, shoe-box-like structure designed by famed architect Raymond Moriyama.

   It all came about from the shoe fascination of Sonja Bata who developed a “keen interest” in all things shoes after marrying shoemaker Thomas Bata.

The Westin Trillium House, Blue Mountain, completes extensive renovation

January 20, 2014 – The Westin Trillium House, Blue Mountain today announced the completion of an extensive, multi-million dollar renovation to the resort.

The resort now offers fully refurbished guest rooms and public areas offering the full suite of Westin signature amenities, designed to rejuvenate and inspire well-being. The Westin Trillium House is ideally situated adjacent to the slopes of Blue Mountain just two hours northwest of Toronto.

The Westin Trillium House features 224 newly renovated rooms, all with ski-in ski-out access to the slopes. The refresh to the resort is done to reflect the Westin brand and the focus on well-being. The sensory-rich environment at Westin offers a respite from the rigors of travel and sets a welcoming tone. 

Upon entering the renovated lobby, guests can breathe more easily as they are greeted with soothing elements like relaxed lighting, natural botanicals and stimulating music. All guestrooms have been renovated and feature the world-renowned Westin Heavenly^® Bed and now feature the invigorating Heavenly^® Shower. In-room, high-speed Internet access and an ergonomic work space offer travellers convenience and productivity in a tranquil setting.

World renowned food festival makes North American debut in Toronto

Taste of Toronto to become the city's best outdoor food experience at Fork York in July

 

TORONTO -- This summer, Taste of Toronto will bring the excitement of 'one of the world's greatest restaurant festivals' (Time Magazine) to North America for the first time at the Fort York National Historic Site, July 24 to July 27.

Featuring specially created menus and exclusive opportunities with the city's most acclaimed chefs, the inaugural four-day festival will offer Torontonians a new and exciting food experience, distinguishing itself from other local culinary events.

An international sensation, IMG's Taste Festivals are held in 20 cities around the world including London, Sydney, Cape Town, Milan, Dubai and Moscow.

Rob Thomas, Paul Anka added to spring concert lineup at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel

 

 

NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. – Seneca Casinos announces the addition of two world-class performers to its already rock-solid lineup of spring entertainment. Coming to Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel in Niagara Falls USA will be Matchbox Twenty front-man Rob Thomas on May 10 and longtime singer-songwriter Paul Anka on April 19.

Tickets go on sale Friday, Jan. 24 at noon to see Rob Thomas at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel as part of a 40-day North American solo tour. Ticket prices start at $55 for the Niagara Falls performance, which takes place at 8 p.m. on Saturday, May 10.

Thomas is one of the most distinctive vocalists and accomplished songwriters in contemporary music, garnering a string of accolades – both for his work as lead singer and primary composer with Matchbox Twenty as well as for his solo work and collaborations with other artists.

Romantic Valentine's Day getaways await at Ontario's Finest Hotels, Inns and Spas

Accommodation, dinner packages offered across the province.

TORONTO, ON – January 16, 2014: A romantic escape to a charming inn, boutique hotel or spa makes for the ideal Valentine’s Day getaway – and a variety of perfect escapes await couples across the province.

Ontario’s Finest Hotels, Inns and Spas’ member properties are offering a selection of Valentine’s Day packages this year, with romantic amenities included, such as chocolate-dipped strawberries, fine wine, spa gift certificates – and even tickets to a Bon Jovi tribute concert!

Valentine’s Day packages from Ontario’s Finest Hotels, Inns and Spas include:

Valentine's Day Tribute Show Package: Elm Hurst Inn & Spa - Ingersoll, Ontario

Spend time with the loved one while rocking out to a live tribute to Bon Jovi with dinner and music. This package includes overnight accommodation in a Deluxe Room, tribute tickets, chocolate truffles in guests’ room, and buffet breakfast. Priced at $295 based upon double-occupancy, available from 14/02/2014 to 14/02/2014.

Come to Detroit for the cars, plan extra time for the attractions, tours, shopping and other activities in The D

Detroit, Mich. – Visitors coming to Detroit for the North American International Auto Show Jan. 18-26 will be wowed by the cars at Cobo Center and just as impressed by all the things to see and do outside the show.

From tours of the city and world-class museums, to shopping and delicious dining options, visitors should plan a few extra days to see it all.

   The Bentley cars attracted a lot of attention at last year’s auto show gala. (Jim Fox photo)

Motor City Brew Tours and Show Me Detroit Tours are partnering to present four Detroit Bumpers & Brew Tours on Jan. 18 and 25. The tours start in Midtown at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

The 3.5-hour tours will look at Detroit’s earliest automotive history, get visitors up to speed on all the new development in downtown and Midtown, and will conclude with a Michigan craft beer sampling and light lunch at Traffic Jam & Snug Restaurant in Midtown. Go to showmedetroittours.com or motorcitybrewtours.com to register.

Get a better understanding of Detroit while in town for auto show by going on a D:hive tour. D:hive will be offering free walking tours and practically free bus and bar tours including an Insider’s Downtown Highlights Walking Tour on Jan. 18 and 25 from 2-3 p.m.; an Insider’s Bus Tour on Jan. 25 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; and an Auto Show Bar Tour on Jan. 28 from 6-9 p.m. Register at dhivedetroit.org.

Continue to learn more about the history of Detroit and how it became the Motor City at the Detroit Historical Museum. Exhibits include America’s Motor City, Detroit: The Arsenal of Democracy, Doorway to Freedom,- Detroit and the Underground Railroad, The Glancy Trains and the Kid Rock Music Lab. 

Shakespeare Theatre Association international conference set for the Stratford Festival

January 15, 2014… As Shakespeare lovers everywhere prepare to mark the 450^th anniversary of the birth of the world’s greatest dramatist, members of the Shakespeare Theatre Association gather at the Stratford Festival for their annual conference.

“We are extremely proud to have this prestigious gathering in Stratford during this year of celebration,” says Artistic Director Antoni Cimolino, who will deliver the keynote address.

“We’ll be joined by theatre professionals from all over this continent and beyond. It’s wonderful to be reminded of the extent and variety of work being undertaken by companies that specialize in Shakespeare. We’re looking forward immensely to this gathering of friends, old and new.”

STA conferences have been a valuable resource to Stratford Festival staff from various departments for almost 25 years.