ISSUE: 2 - MAY 2022
EMILY MISURA Trigger Warning
I cannot believe that we just published our second issue of Toronto Pages! Time is really moving very fast. I have already started enjoying this new journey and compiling this issue was so much fun!. I was very excited to find so many talented people in Toronto to meet and interview for this issue. For example, interviewing Emily Misura for our cover was such a great experience and she truly kept us entertained with her jokes.
ON THE COVER: EMILY MISURA (@stringinghimalong ) INTERVIEWED BY: JAMEEL ARIF (@jameelarif)
As it is the time for JUNOs, we have two great artists for you in this issue: Manic Drive, and Sydney Blu. I am sure you will enjoy reading their interviews. I am also excited that in this issue we had our first two food reviews. Savorology is certainly has become my favorite destination already and our team really enjoyed the amazing teas at THE ALLEY. Flip through the pages for more exciting read for everyone.
Till next time...
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Amel Zaouali Dr. Nazia Nausheen Jim West Jose Berrocoso Latifa AlHazza SALES TEAM Altaf Hussain
JAMEEL ARIF Chief Editor
www.thetorontopages.com Instagram: @thetorontopages For all enquiries: thetorontopages@gmail.com
COPYRIGHTS & DISCLAIMER
Copyright © 2022, All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photography or illustrations without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations. Views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the magazine and accordingly, no liability is assumed by the publisher.
SWIMWEAR THAT ISN'T EXCLUSIVELY SWIMWEAR VUKSWIM.COM
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Photographer: DOUBLE D @david_dubreus
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AUTOMOBILE
FEATURE
ART & CULTURE
HEALTH
BEAUTY
INTERVIEWS
92. New Life For World’s Oldest Bentley T-Series 12. Montblanc Haus 88. Benefit Cosmetics Introduces They're Real!
ENTERTAINMENT
8. A Tear In The Sky 54. Writing Movie Wrongs 76. New May Releases
FASHION
32. Gold Fish - Fashion Editorial 78. Fila Collaborates With Paris Baed Label Y/Project 80. Karl Lagerfeld Strengthens Green Commitment 82. Tommy Hilfiger's Adaptive Collection 84. Johannes Wohnseifer X Mcm Edition 86. Jaeger-Lecoultre Presents The Master Control Memovox Timer In Pink Gold 90. Swarovski Announces Newbrand Ambassador
28. How To Plan The Perfect Bathroom 20. Maskne 22. Emily Misura 38. Chelsea Charles 46. Larissa Raponi 56. Manic Drive 66. Sydney Blu
NEWS
10. Highway Of Heroes Tree Campaign
REVIEW
52. Savorology 72. The Alley
TRAVEL
14. Inside Instagrammers' Favorite Hotel 44. A Room With A View 62. 10 Best Restaurants In New York To Splurge On
ISSUE: 2 - MAY 2022
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REGULARS
96. Horoscopes 98. Homework For Grownups
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1091 PICTURES ACQUIRES WORLDWIDE RIGHTS TO CAROLINE CORY’S NEW UFO DOC
A TEAR IN THE SKY
Featuring Sci-fi Icon William Shatner, the Film is Slated for a VOD and Digital Release on May 3, 2022 1091 Pictures, a Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment (Nasdaq: CSSE) company, has acquired worldwide rights to Caroline Cory’s documentary A Tear in the Sky. Written, directed, and produced by Caroline Cory, A Tear in the Sky features William Shatner, Michio Kaku, Travis Taylor, Caroline Cory, Kevin Day, Gary Voorhis, and Kevin Knuth. The film will be available to rent and own worldwide on digital HD internet, cable, and satellite platforms through 1091 Pictures on May 3, 2022. This award-winning documentary A Tear in the Sky takes you on an unprecedented journey into the UFO / UAP phenomenon. A team of military personnel, scientists and special guest William Shatner will attempt to re-capture, in real time, the US Navy “TicTac” UFOs and other space anomalies, using state-of-the-art, military-grade equipment and technology. What they find instead are thought-provoking clues into the true nature of the UFO phenomenon and the very fabric of our spacetime reality. The UFO / UAP subject has been around for decades, however lacking credibility and acceptance from society in general and certainly the establishment. It wasn't until 2017, when the New York Times came out with an article featuring three leaked videos from the US Navy taken by military servicemen, that defied explanation, that the conversation began to shift. 8 MAY, 2022
The film features William Shatner and Prof. Michio Kaku Ph.D, worldrenowned physicist and best selling author who offer fascinating insight on the phenomenon and Kevin Knuth, Ph.D., Associate Chair in Physics and Matthew Szydagis, Ph.D. Associate Professor at the University of Albany who carry out the investigation. The film has already won multiple awards and official selections for “Best Documentary” including The Malibu Film Festival, The LA Film Awards, The New York Film Awards and The New Media Film Festival.
The Navy and the Pentagon eventually confirmed the veracity of these sightings and Senator Reid and Senator Rubio prompted Congress to investigate these events and publish an official report on their findings, the “UAP Report”, which turned out to be inconclusive. The filmmakers felt it was time to take it upon themselves to investigate the subject from a new scientific perspective by teaming up with scientists and experts in an attempt to capture these anomalous objects themselves and offer the public some real answers.
“I am very proud and excited to be the first filmmaker to film a large-scale, real-life scientific expedition of UFOs and space anomalies, using militarygrade, state-of-the-art equipment and academic methodologies to study the data and the phenomenon,” said Caroline Cory. “Working with William Shatner was phenomenal, and the hundreds of hours of data that we have collected during the filming, which will be released publicly along with a university research paper for peer-review, has now made history beyond any government or organizations investigating the subject. I'm looking forward to seeing the results of our hard work. This is all so very exciting!" “A Tear in the Sky was hands down the most unique filming experience of my life. The challenges of working unscripted with the most renowned UAP scientists in the world, top secret military-grade scientific equipment, and William Shatner made every day a new unpredictable adventure! I am excited for everyone to see what we found!" said Lenny Vitulli, Director of Photography. “We’re excited to be joining forces with Caroline Cory on her new documentary A Tear in the Sky. The film is the first of its kind and will show the public what’s really happening in our skies with UFOs," said Jim Martin, head of paranormal acquisitions for 1091 Pictures. The deal was negotiated by Caroline Cory on behalf of the filmmakers and by Jim Martin on behalf of 1091 Pictures.
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HIGHWAY OF HEROES TREE CAMPAIGN HONOURS THE LIFE OF SUB-LIEUTENANT ABBIGAIL COWBROUGH WITH TREE PLANTING On Friday April 29th, the second anniversary of the CH-148 helicopter crash that took the life of Sub-Lieutenant Abbigail Cowbrough and five of her colleagues, the charity, Highway of Heroes Tree Campaign (HOH), held a special memorial tree planting event at Abbigail’s elementary school in Toronto. Abbigail’s mother, Tanya Cowbrough, school officials and local dignitaries and students gathered at Regal Road Junior Public School to plant the tree, honour Abbigail’s legacy, and place a plaque in remembrance. The tree and plaque will be a reminder to current and future students of the sacrifice heroes like Abbigail have made for Canadians.
partly in Toronto and attended Regal Road Junior Public School from pre-kindergarten through Grade 4. From a young age, Abbigail had a goal of going to Royal Military College (RMC) and joining the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).
Tanya spoke of her daughter’s legacy, and how she loved to help her community. “When a tree puts down roots, it is preparing itself for a future that will benefit its surrounding environment for years to come,” said Tanya Cowbrough. “It will provide shade, filter air and water, nourish pollinators, provide habitat for wildlife, and so much more. This is why I feel it’s fitting that we are planting a tree at Abbigail’s childhood school, where she put down her own roots that allowed her to grow into such a caring adult who always made the lives of those around her better.” Abbigail was a caring and determined young woman. She grew up
In 2012, Abbigail was thrilled to join RMC, and then entered the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) in 2016. Her first childhood dream to enter the military as an officer was accomplished. During her time in the CAF, Abbigail had several deployments including: Bahamas, Vancouver, Scotland and the Mediterranean. 10
MAY, 2022
In early 2020 Abbigail was participating in a NATO exercise aboard the HMCS Fredericton (known as "Freddy") in the Mediterranean. On April 29, 2020 Abbigail took part in a helicopter maneuver. The helicopter was on a fly-by of the Freddy when tragedy struck. The helicopter Abbigail was in crashed into the Ionian Sea. She, along with five fellow officers, perished during their final approach to the Freddy. Abbigail was only 23 and sacrificed her life proudly serving her country. Attendees at today’s event included; Mark Cullen (Highway of Heroes Tree Campaign), Stephanie Donaldson (Public School Board Trustee, Ward 9), Michael Morris (Regal Road Junior Public School Principal), Marit Stiles (MPP, Davenport), and Commander Paul Smith (HMCS York), and many of Abbigail's family and friends. 'As we plant this memorial tree we honour one of our own. Sub-Lieutenant Abbigail Cowbrough who died along with 5 others when their helicopter crashed off the coast of Greece during a NATO training accident,” said Principal Michael Morris. “Sub Lt. Cowbrough was a former Regal Road Student who loved her time at school, honoured the hard work ethic promoted throughout her years here and had a special bond to the Regal Heights community. She had been described as strong, resilient, brave, honest, intelligent and beautiful inside and out. I know that she will be missed and as I have been told did not die for her Country, but rather “lived for her family, her faith and her country.” Over six years ago, the Highway of Heroes (HOH) Tree Campaign set out with a goal to plant 2 million trees to honour every Canadian who served in the country’s Armed Forces, including the 117,000 who paid the ultimate sacrifice, like Abbigail. To date, 1.6 million trees have been planted in partnership with many municipalities, sponsors and donors across the country. “Throughout the Highway of Heroes Tree Campaign we have had the incredible honour of meeting several Silver Cross Mothers and their families,” said Mark Cullen, Chairman and Co-Founder of the Highway of Heroes Tree Campaign. “Each and every one that we have met has taken solace in knowing that we have planted a living tribute in honour of their lost loved one. It warms our hearts to help these families that have been affected by tragedy in our own small, but special way and today we were proud to do that for Abbigail’s family and friends especially in a location that will ensure Abbigail’s memory will live on for generations to come.” The Highway of Heroes Tree Campaign expects to reach and surpass its 2 million tree goal by the end of 2022.
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Montblanc Haus A Place Built to Inspire Writing Montblanc invites visitors to immerse themselves in the world of handwriting with the opening of a new permanent experience in Hamburg chronicling the role Montblanc has played in inspiring generations of thinkers and dreamers to leave their mark
Montblanc opens the doors to Montblanc Haus, a destination that tells the story of Montblanc from its founding days to the present, of the women and men that craft Montblanc’s writing instruments and of those who have used them to share their imprint on humanity. Set across 3 levels and 3600sqm, the immersive brand experience brings to life Montblanc’s belief in the value of writing and the ways in which it helps people express their full potential and ultimately leave their mark on the world. Montblanc Haus is located at the very heart of Montblanc, right next to its headquarters and the manufacture where its writing instruments including the iconic Meisterstück are crafted. Designed by Nieto Sobejano Arquitectos and inspired by Montblanc’s heritage, the building concept is an homage to the historical shape
of writing instrument packaging with the iconic colour combination of the Montblanc brand evident in the building’s dark silhouette with shades of white on the inside. 12
MAY, 2022
“The Montblanc Haus has allowed us to uncover some treasures from our archive that we are eager to share with the world. This experience is not only dedicated to all the incredible stories that have been written over time including our very own, but to all the great stories that are yet to be written, as we invite our visitors to be inspired to leave their mark”, adds Vincent Montalescot, Montblanc EVP
Marketing. Throughout Montblanc Haus, visitors are invited to experience the wonder of writing by hand in a very personal way. They can test Montblanc writing instruments and send postcards with their thoughts around the globe. Montblanc Haus offers a series of classes in its Writing Atelier to visitors including the art of calligraphy, creative writing and kids classes. Furthermore, as part of its commitment to the culture of writing, Montblanc will host special classes dedicated to disadvantaged children and young adults to inspire them to use writing to their advantage, to express themselves creatively. The artistry that comes with handwriting as a means of self-expression comes to life in the works of art commissioned for Montblanc Haus. The work of Parisbased artist Wendy Andreu is the first thing visitors encounter, art from wool coloured with ink and filled with surprising details that reveal themselves with every look: words, waves, the shape of mountains. For Studio Marianne Guély, paper is an unlimited source of inspiration used as the signature material for its creations, one of which is suspended inside the dome of Montblanc Haus. In addition to the permanent exhibition, Montblanc Haus welcomes visitors to enjoy temporary exhibits, the Montblanc Archives (by special arrangement), a café as well as a boutique that features exclusive Montblanc Haus products.
“We envisioned to create a special home for the art of writing, a place where people could discover or rediscover the incredible power of handwriting and the creativity, imagination and emotion it unlocks in everyone. Montblanc Haus was conceived as a journey of discovery, told through the eyes of a company that has been at the heart of the culture of writing for over 115 years. It is our hope that Montblanc Haus becomes a meaningful landmark for Hamburg, a city that is so important to the history and identity of Montblanc, and for local communities and faraway visitors to discover and enjoy” says Nicolas Baretzki, Montblanc CEO.
Montblanc Haus opens on May 10th, 2022 in Hamburg. For more information visit www.montblanc.com
Under the banner of Montblanc’s brand purpose to Inspire Writing, the permanent exhibition at Montblanc Haus invites visitors to explore different themes: lThe Pulse of Writing is an immersive experience that highlights the power and value of writing. lMontblanc’s Legacy and Vision tells the story of the Maison and its icon the Meisterstück. lHandwriting from around the World spotlights different types of handwriting translated into artwork. lCraftsmanship and Innovation showcases the knowhow of the brand’s writing instrument creation and production. lMontblanc Collections explores different collections including Limited Editions and the exclusive High Artistry pieces lThe Mark Making space is dedicated to visitors and to those who have left their mark, featuring an Autograph Library with 30 original handwritten notes from Ernest Hemmingway and Albert Einstein, to Frida Kahlo and Spike Lee combined with a digital guestbook experience for visitors to leave their own mark.
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INSIDE INSTAGRAMMERS' FAVORITE HOTEL 14 MAY, 2022
JOSÉ BERROCOSO TRAVEL EXPERT joseberrocoso
BioHabitat connects architecture with nature, offers accommodation and a breathtaking view in the heart of the Eje Cafetero in Colombia.
www.biohabitathotel.com
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You only have to enter the lobby of Bio Habitat Hotel to be amazed by its 360-degree view, which allows you to appreciate the natural beauty of the Central and Western mountains in Colombia. Located just 30 minutes from El Eden airport in Armenia and 35 minutes from Pereira Matecaña airport, the hotel is an ideal based camp to visit the charming towns of Quindío, Filandia and Valle del Cocora declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Julián Escobar and Jorge Andrés González founded the hotel following the vision to connect their self with the best of Colombian nature. And itś a dream come true! Bio Habitat Hotel is a collection of glass tree-house-style suites surrounded by lush forest. The master suites are the largest rooms and have an outdoor jacuzzi; in addition, their names correspond to the view from the place where each one is located: cordillera, ocaso, atardecer y serranía. On the other hand, the suites are similar to the previous ones, but without the outdoor jacuzzi. 16 MAY, 2022
But if you're an adventure traveller who enjoy going deep into the forest, the aviaries are the ideal choice. These glass cubes are elevated above the three hectares of native forest that surround the hotel, and each one is named after the birds that can be spotted in the area: hummingbird, raccoon and toucan. The snowy cabin is the best option for families. This is a typical cabin of the coffee region that has been remodelled to receive groups of families or friends.
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There’s an infinity pool, a wellness center, and a slow food restaurant, Basto, from chef María Clara Roa. Passionate about honest and conscious food, Maria Clara has been working to bring the best of our local cuisine to your table, making every region of Colombia her inspiration. BASTO reflects her work, respecting every local ingredient and making our culture the star of her dishes. When booking a room, the hotel offers the option of adding experiences to your stay; local biologists lead these experiences. In this way, the habitantes (as they call their guests) can go bird watching, coffee picking and tasting, walk night trails in the native forest and visit the Bio trail, where they can learn in detail about the hotel's sustainable processes
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It seems that the place is designed to take photos at every turn and share them on social media. Perhaps that's why actresses, presenters and instagrammers have posted their best photos showing them enjoying the hotel. At a time when climate and environmental activists are raising their voices, Bio Habitat understands the importance of consistency between its experiences and its operation. To this end, they have created different strategies, such as a compost bin in which 100 per cent of the organic waste is turned into compost that is then used by the guests themselves to plant native trees in a forest restoration project. 19 www.thetorontopages.com
DR. NAZIA NAUSHEEN drnaznaush
Maskne — the most common kind of which is Acne Mechanica, a.k.a. the type of acne that is common in athletes and soldiers and often results from wearing sports gear such as helmet or baseball cap — is might be new to many of us, it did not originate out of nowhere. It has always been an issue in professions where you have to wear a mask regularly but now that the general public has to wear masks, the incidence of it has certainly increased. When you breathe or talk, your mask tends to trap in a lot of hot air. Besides irritating the skin, this air creates a warm, humid environment — and an ideal setting for yeast, bacteria, and other flora to grow, and thus creating the perfect breeding ground for breakouts. 20 MAY, 2022
k s a m a g n i r a e w m o r f acne HOW TO AVOID MASKNE?
HOW TO TREAT IT?
1. Type of mask.
Use a gentle cleanser and facial moisturizer - suitable for your skin type. Moisturize as
Only you can decide how you want to balance the weight of the mask material with the level of protection it will give you, but 100 percent cotton is a good compromise because it allows skin to breathe a bit. As the temperature rises and you sweat more, you will need to keep the mask clean so wash your mask frequently, you don’t want all of that oil and sweat and dirt to sit there and then you reapply it to your face constantly.
needed throughout the day.
Spot treatment – At night, after you are done with your face mask for the day, use a benzoyl peroxide spot treatment of 2.5% to 5% concentration (not 10 percent) directly on pimples. Clean any excess benzoyl peroxide from your skin in the morning before putting on your mask.
2. Simplify your skin care routine.
Retinols – If you do use a retinol treatment for breakouts, apply these products only at nighttime when you won’t be wearing the mask anymore, and be sure to completely clean them from the skin and apply a moisturizer before putting on your mask in the morning. If you use spot treatment, apply retinol one night and the spot treatment the next.
Many of us use too many beauty products anyway, so consider mask wearing a good excuse to adopt the most basic skin care routine: a gentle non-soap cleanser and a mild, fragrance-free moisturizer. The moisturizer does double duty here. Besides, well, moisturizing the skin, it can protect it from mask friction. Another reason for using fewer products: The mask will intensify product delivery to your skin especially with acids or retinols, which can be irritating, intensifying delivery is not likely to be a good thing.
Combat hyperpigmentation – Maskne can
cause hyperpigmentation (skin darkening), so using glycolic acid-containing products can help to combat the pimples and skin darkening. To ensure proper use, consult with a dermatologist, especially if you plan to use these products frequently or for more than a few weeks.
3. Break up with makeup (at least temporarily).
If you put on makeup for a video call, consider taking it off when you go out and for those who absolutely cannot break the habit, you can use a tinted moisturizer with sunscreen. If you sweat underneath your mask, try using micellar water or a gentle cleanser to do a quick wash when you take it off. Over washing your face dries it out, tricking it into thinking it needs to produce more oil, which can give you more of the acne you’re trying to avoid. Either apply moisturizer or, if it is late enough in the day, whatever products you would use at night.
Sunscreen – Applying sunscreen also helps to prevent unnecessary damage and irritation from the sun, and it can also help to reduce the risk for hyperpigmentation. Hydrocortisone cream – While cortisone shots are used to shrink large pimples, hydrocortisone cream needs to be used intentionally and only under the advice of a dermatologist. Used improperly, hydrocortisone can actually exacerbate maskne breakouts. 21
www.thetorontopages.com
stringinghimalong
y l i Em
a r u s i M T r ig g e r W a r n in g
Classically-trained violinist and comedian from Toronto Emily is a classically-trained violinist, comedian and an up and coming DJ in the GTA. She spins all genres of music under the pseudonym DJ EmV. She has played at various corporate events ranging from 150 to 5000 attendees. DJ EmV has performed for companies such as Microsoft, MAC Cosmetics, and Ferrari. She is a vibrant & energetic DJ who is also able to add violin to any event to make a performance that much more unique. Emily moved to Toronto in March 2021 where she hopes to experience all that this great city has to offer. We sat with Emily for this exclusive interview for our readers. We hope you will enjoy reading this interview as much as we enjoyed interviewing her.
22 MAY, 2022
23 www.thetorontopages.com
Which composer[s] do you feel the most comfortable with? The most comfortable with?
Please introduce yourself to our readers:
I am a classically-trained violinist and comedian in Toronto - the irony of that dichotomy isn’t lost on me. I moved here about a year ago and have been trying to assimilate even despite the pandemic forcing everyone to distance themselves from literally everyone else.
That’s an interesting question. On a personality level, the one I relate to the most is probably Beethoven. He was a hard ass. He was depressed. He still continued to find beauty in a world of pain, aka the original emo. He’s pretty much my idol in a philosophical sense. I obviously love Bach, but I won’t be popping out twenty kids any time soon. I share a birthday with John Williams, so maybe I should’ve led with him. Whomp whomp.
Tell us about your education:
I received two Bachelors of Music from Stetson University in a wee town called DeLand. (It’s about 45 minutes from Orlando, Florida.) I studied Violin Performance and Music Technology. Since they were both BMs, I had to give TWO fiftyminute recitals. The classical recital was one of the hardest things I had ever done up to that point – I didn’t eat for a day and a half. The tech recital was only difficult in the sense that one of the “professors” was giving me grief and didn’t want me to graduate on time. I did though, so joke’s on him.
What inspires your music?
I’ve been doing covers for a while now, and really just find songs I like and record them. That’s why they’re sort of all over the place genre-wise. But in terms of the musical comedy… I get inspired by anything I think is ridiculous. It’s not always about what’s funny as much as it’s what should be examined in a comedic light.
Share some of your childhood memories:
What kind of violin do you have?
A memory I have about classical music (since I was “late” to the game by starting at twelve) is my mom making pancakes and playing Arthur Grumiaux's recording of Bach’s partitas and sonatas for violin. There was something very beautiful in the simplicity of making pancakes while listening to such complicated, virtuosic performances. I think of that any time I play those as an adult now… and then crave pancakes.
My wooden violin is a Strad copy from 1927. It’s the first (and surprisingly only) traditional one I own. I also have a Luis & Clark carbon fibre (what I used to record my album), a five string MIDI Zeta Nimbus reissue, an Aeyra GVS electric, and one of the coolest (and rarest violins): an asymmetrical organic violin by Scott F. Hall. I’m hoping to make some videos with that one since it’s so unique.
Where all have you performed so far?
How and when did you get interested in music and why violin? What or who influenced you?
My biggest venue brag is Carnegie Hall (New York); I performed there when I was eighteen. But other notable venues include Mandalay Bay & MGM Grand (Las Vegas), EverBank Field (Jacksonville), The Fountainebleau (Miami) and The Amway Center (Orlando).
I didn’t get the chance to start playing until my school introduced orchestra and band as electives. I actually had band first and knew I wanted to learn an instrument, so I tried trumpet. I could NOT get the hang of the breathing, so then waited until switching to orchestra to seriously consider what I would play (though I really loved French horn.) I did consider upright bass for a while, but only because my orchestra teacher was a bassist who could really shred.
How and when did you discover the comedian in you?
I took a stand-up class in Orlando after years of making myself laugh. I figured I’d try it and either fail miserably or find a new passion. Luckily, it was the latter. Now I can still loudly proclaim I’m funny while desperately trying to convince others that I am, too.
How would you best describe the type of music you play? I play everything, really. I’ve been in prog metal, indie, alternative, and even country bands. I play with orchestras that do classical and more contemporary programs. And now, I’ve released a musical comedy album called “Trigger Warning” that I wrote, performed and mastered myself that contains a lot of strings. I’m all over the place. Keeps me on my very medically unsound toes (which I also have a song about. I said my style was “diverse.”)
How did you realize to mix both your talents?
I don’t think I really thought about doing it until the pandemic destroyed performing arts overnight. I had time (since everything was cancelled) and recording gear, so I started to think about a way to dysfunctionally marry comedy and music. It gave me something to do since my career had effectively disappeared until the restrictions were lifted. 24
MAY, 2022
Where do you take the inspiration for your jokes?
I get a lot of inspiration from social media. It’s funny because I talk about staying off of social media a lot on “Trigger Warning,” yet often don’t heed my own advice. But I think as long as the outrage leads to something productive, it’s not always a bad thing. In this case, I got an entire album out of it. Feels like a score to me.
What special preparation you do before a show?
I don’t eat. I get nervous to the point where I sometimes throw up (cheers!) so I never eat until after a show. A lot of the time before going onstage, be it for a musical or comedic performance, I wonder why I do this to myself. I have very debilitating performance anxiety. But comedy has been unique in the sense that I can hide behind comedic personas. That helps a lot with the fear of failure and rejection. I don’t get nervous when performing with bands. But anything classical, even if I’m just plopped as a section violinist, I still stress about. It’s probably some form of PTSD from music school. There’s a joke in there somewhere. I just need to find it. 25 www.thetorontopages.com
What challenges do you face as a female comedian?
The comedy scene is often male-dominated. That can lead to a lot of sexism, misogyny, power imbalances, etc. Sometimes, people are less willing to see how much work I put into my jokes or songs because they just see a blonde woman saying gauche things and write me off. That’s unfortunate, but the people who get it, GET IT. I’d rather be performing to two people who really understand what I’m going for than 200 people who just want to sexualize or demean me for my material. But to automatically assume the scales are tipped against your favour just because you’re a woman is also cheap, so I try to just keep up with the boys. Sometimes I fart loudly or give encouraging butt pats to my mellow male comics. Maybe that’s why I keep getting asked back on gigs…
What are some of your other hobbies?
I write poetry. I’ve always wanted to publish a poetry book and maybe will someday. But before making music, I really wanted to write. It was probably a good indication that I was mentally ill even as a child, since writers are never well-adjusted.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m going to keep promoting “Trigger Warning” and hope that it goes somewhere. I’ve got a busy gig calendar coming up as it gets warmer out, so it’s nice to be booked again. Definitely looking forward to putting out some new cover video - and maybe even a music video for a song on “Trigger Warning”!
What are your favorite hangout spots in Toronto?
The local dumpster. Because everything since the start of the pandemic has been a dumpster fire. At least it’s warm, feel me? But in all seriousness, I haven’t done a lot of post-pandemic hanging. There’s a really brilliant Indian restaurant called The Host that I’ve frequented a lot. Otherwise, any place that serves coffee is a fine hangout - yes, that includes your mom’s house. Call her more often!
How do you unwind?
I don’t know that I ever do, really. I feel constantly wound up. Yes, I know that isn’t healthy. The one thing I do to “unwind” is clean, so even that’s not fully unwinding. Something bad coping mechanisms. Cake is a good way to unwind, whether it involves baking it or eating it. And then cleaning up after baking it so you can truly come full circle.
Your favorite quote?
Anything and everything I’ve ever written. Because it’s all about the journey to self-love, am I right? (Please do not repeat selflove in your mind lest you want a REALLY different image.)
Your message for our readers and your fans.
I hope you’ll give my album “Trigger Warning” a listen (available on all streaming platforms) and know that it’s a SATIRICAL COMEDY ALBUM. Find me on socials (@EmilyMisura on IG & TikTok / @EmilyMisuraComedy on Facebook) and come hang at a show! Then you can tell me some places that are a better hang than a dumpster in the GTA.
Your message for us at TorontoPages (TOPS)?
Thank you for letting me do this! I tried to keep it relatively clean, but I appreciate your feedback! 26 MAY, 2022
27 www.thetorontopages.com
How to Plan the Perfect Bathroom Good bathroom design and highquality products are essential if you want to make the most of your space. From bathroom layout ideas to choosing sanitaryware, Phil Etherden, the Managing Director behind Essexbased The Albion Bath Co, gives his expert advice on how to achieve the ultimate bathroom.
PHIL ETHERDEN
How to Design a Bathroom
The key to good bathroom design lies in careful planning. Phil explains “We all aspire to the sumptuous free-standing bath in the middle of a large room with a massive chandelier hanging over the top. However, consider that most bathrooms, even in large houses, are no more than 12 square metres! So, even with this amount of floor space, plan carefully and you can still create a stunning result.” When approaching a bathroom design, start by analysing the current room, noting what works well and what doesn’t. Phil comments “One of the most important considerations when creating a new bathroom design is defining who will be using the room the most, their individual needs and how these might evolve over time. For instance, a family bathroom will need to be practical and usually requires a bath, lots of storage and splash proof surfaces, whereas a master ensuite can afford to focus a little more on luxury and fixtures.” 28 MAY, 2022
Layout considerations
The bathroom layout is largely dictated by the shape and size of your space. Phil advises “When it comes to deciding where you’re going to position your bathroom fittings, my advice is to think about how they're used and in what order. I often recommend that the sink or basin is placed closest to the door, as it is often the last stop in most bathroom routines. The toilet and other fittings can then be further into the room. This not only provides more privacy but saves you from walking through puddles left behind by people stepping out of the bath of shower.” Small bathrooms will require meticulous planning. Phil offers the following tips “With a smaller space, the trick is to maximise the visible floor area, so use a free-standing bath on feet or a plinth. High Level Toilets will create more visible space as the cistern is above eye level and wall mounted basins won’t take valuable floor area. If possible, position your bath so it’s the first piece seen when you open the door. Bathtubs are now considered decorative as well as functional, so use the bath as a feature piece. Conversely, position the toilet in a discreet area but give thought to the soil pipe routing. Above all else, don't be tempted into cramming large items into a small room. The effect will be to lose all aesthetic value while making the room look small and cluttered.”
Choosing a Basin
Whatever the bathroom dimensions, don’t skimp on the size of your basin. A double basin works particularly well in a luxurious ensuite setting, whereas in smaller spaces, wall-mounted basins or semi-pedestal designs are great for creating the illusion of more floor space. “When choosing the right basin for your bathroom, it is important to take your plumbing into consideration. Pedestal basins are ideal if your wall cannot support the weight of a wall hanging option and will cover your plumbing routing if this cannot be hidden into the wall easily.” Phil advises.
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Choosing a Bath
When choosing the bath itself, there are many styles and sizes to choose from. Phil explains “It is important to consider whether you are wanting a traditional or contemporary feel for your room; bathtubs are available in many styles with roll-top or flat top, single or double ended, along with many possible feet or plinths options. There is also the option to have a freestanding bath that is designed to fit flush against a wall or even to use as a shower bath.” Phil continues “Don’t assume just because you have a small space you can’t accommodate a bath. We have over 50 models available including our perfectly proportioned 'Tubby' baths that are only 1200 mm long, all the way up to luxurious baths that are an impressive 2200 mm long for the most generous sized bathroom spaces.”
having to spend hundreds on reinforcing their bathroom floor. Believe it or not, the average weight of an Albion tub is a mere 70kg.” Colour is another area to consider, with more and more people moving away from the idea of a plain white bathroom. Incorporating a freestanding bath in a bold shade really does change the feel of the whole scheme. “We’ve seen customers combine a brightly coloured bath to a feature wall for a really strong look, while others make a statement by making a metallic bath the star of the show.” Comments Phil.
While cast iron is traditional for baths, it does have inherent drawbacks including extreme weight and heat loss. Acrylics or cast stone resin composites are modern alternatives but remember that some cheaper substitutes may not provide sufficient strength. Phil suggests “The baths we supply are made from our unique Iso-Enamel material. This was developed from an amalgam of special minerals and stone powders, which ensures that our baths will retain heat in the bathing water, giving bathers the ultimate luxurious experience for longer. It is also less than half the weight of cast iron - so customers can have the cast iron look without
Choosing Brassware
Taps are the only true mechanical component in the bathroom, so durability and reliability are key. The fitting cost of expensive or cheap products will be the same - so make sure you buy products that will last. Phil offers the following advice “Don’t overlook practicality for look. Choose materials that have a luxury feel, are durable and won’t stain. I recommend not using bare brass taps for example, as it will look awful in years to come and will also stain surrounding materials with the inevitable verdigris. Taps that are unbelievably cheap won’t be made from good materials, so choose wisely. The saying 'buy cheap - buy twice’ is certainly true of many bathroom fittings, so consider carefully which products need to be sturdy and durable.”
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Choosing Bathroom Furniture
Bathroom storage can often be overlooked as the bath or shower usually takes centre stage. Phil recommends “Storage is incredibly important and is worth serious consideration. There are two general schools of thought on the subject - either hide the storage area or go bold and make it a design feature. A beautiful vanity unit can make your basin a focal point, as well as providing that much needed storage for cleaning materials and lotions and potions. For a more contemporary theme, a wall hung unit with sliding drawers is a popular solution.” Coloured sanitaryware has made a firm comeback and is great for injecting personality into what can often be a clinical space. “We are seeing a huge increase in interest for coloured baths and bathroom furniture from our customers, and often in luxuriously bold shades such as navy, emerald green and deep crimson. Personally, I love to see a bath in a dramatic jeweltoned colour, it adds an instant luxurious feel to any bathroom.” Phil adds.
Choosing a Shower Solution
The flow rate into a shower enclosure is one calculation that needs to be considered. Check with your boiler manufacturer as to flow and pressure. Phil offers his expert advice “Water systems fall into three main categories; Gravity – which generally suffers from low pressure, Combination Boiler – often good pressure but can lack water flow, or a Pressurised System with a storage tank. This last option can combine good flow and pressure and is the preferred system for good showering. Find out what you have and choose a shower system to suit.” Phil adds “To get high water flow in low pressure gravity systems, you can also use shower valves that have large internal bores and water ways. There’s no need to compromise on performance, your plumber can install a special pump to create an exhilarating shower experience. Naturally, you want the shower controls to match your basin and bath taps, so choose a range that covers all areas of bathroom water control.” In terms of trends, Phil summarises with the following insight “His & hers ensuites have been rapidly growing in popularity with features such as double basin vanity units and twin showers. Not only do they provide an aesthetically pleasing room symmetry often found in luxurious hotels and spas, but they also offer practical advantages. The trend has been largely driven by the professional couples who require a space to prepare for the day ahead simultaneously, thus maintaining relationship peace and harmony!” 31 www.thetorontopages.com
Photographer & Retoucher: Hylie Marie Lee (@hylie.photography) Model & MUA: Ashley Hoang (@hoangartistry)
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CHELSEA CHARLES
chelseacharlesillustration
Chelsea Charles is an illustrator who resides in Brampton, Ontario, and has received her BAA in Illustration at Sheridan College.
Chelsea creates her illustrations through a combination of digital and traditional mediums. Her dream job is to illustrate children’s books. She’s built a career from illustrating everything from sports stars and actors, to dreams and political concepts. In her spare time, she enjoys listening to music, being a nuisance to her cat Charcoal and dog Stokley, while daydreaming about travelling to Japan. We had the opportunity to sit with Chelsea for this exclusive interview for our magazine this month.
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39 www.thetorontopages.com
Please introduce yourself to our readers.
What is your process for creating an illustration? Do you start with an idea in mind? Or do you draw something and let it evolve naturally?
Hi everyone! My names Chelsea Charles and I’m an illustrator from Brampton, ON.
Tell us about your education.
For personal work, an idea can stem from a dream I had, photographs I take, or from music I hear. For editorial work, when I get a story, I highlight key words that stand out to me which often sparks an idea and I begin sketching from there.
Back in 2016, I graduated from Sheridan College and received my BAA in Illustration.
What was your journey to becoming an illustrator?
I’ve been drawing ever since I was a kid so becoming an illustrator seemed inevitable.
What kind of projects have you worked on recently? What was the most challenging? The most rewarding?
Have you always been a digital illustrator or do you also do illustrations with a pencil?
Recently I’ve been working on children’s books which are a lot different from editorial work as there are more illustrations required. I think the most challenging part was dealing with imposter syndrome. I felt as though I couldn’t accomplish a project at this scale as I usually create single illustrations. As soon as I regained belief in my skill and my ideas and saw what I had accomplished, it was very rewarding seeing it all come together!
Growing up, I’d use anything I could get my hands on. From crayons, colored pencils, markers and watercolors! Now I create my sketches traditionally with pencil or pen and finalize it digitally.
How would you describe illustrations in three words?
your
Abstract, Emotive, Colourful
How do you get inspired?
When someone commissions a project from you, what’s the first thing you do? Where do you start?
I love film, music, photography and art so keeping up with these hobbies really help me stay creative.
For commissions, I usually start by providing 40
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the client with an outline of questions, such as: a brief idea of what they’d like, due date, what their budget is, dimensions of the piece etc. Once these details are finalized, I can start creating!
Describe your studio space.
Currently it’s my bedroom but hopefully in the near future I’ll have a separate room I can work in!
Color seems to have such a special place in your drawings. How do you choose the colors for each illustration?
Colour really helps me set the mood to my work. If I’m working on a more serious piece I tend to use blues and reds as they’re moodier colours. For more lighthearted pieces, I love using yellows, oranges, and greens!
What’s your favorite thing about being an illustrator?
I love being able to do something I’m truly passionate about and I love being able to bring someone’s ideas to life.
What is it like being an artist in Toronto?
Because most of my business is done online, being in Toronto isn’t necessarily a pro or a con. 41 www.thetorontopages.com
Tell us about some of your achievements?
A few of my proudest moments were creating a book cover, re-designing the packaging for Village Ice Cream, and now having illustrated a children’s book!
What are your plans for the future?
Ideally, my dream is to be an illustrator fulltime so doing whatever it takes for me to accomplish this.
What is compelling to you about art?
Being able to see how other people visualize and create certain ideas in a way that maybe I wouldn’t have thought of myself.
Are there any messages you are trying to convey with your art? My goal is to have the viewer instantly feel the mood that I’m trying to portray.
Do you think art is a mirror of the artist? I think it can be! Speaking for myself, my personal work tends to reflect how I’m feeling. It’s almost like a visual diary of sorts.
Your favorite quote?
Unfortunately I’m too boring to have a favorite quote. haha!
Your message for our readers and your fans.
If you’re reading this and you’re a creative, keep grinding at your craft and don’t be afraid to put yourself and your work out there!
Your message for TorontoPages (TOPS)?
us
at
Thank you so much for interviewing me! I really appreciate it.
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A ROOM WITH A VIEW KITZBÜHEL
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JOSÉ BERROCOSO TRAVEL EXPERT joseberrocoso
WHERE GLAMOUR MEETS A CLAMOUR FOR THE SKI SLOPES Stylish design meets traditional ambience in Kitzbühel’s Hotel Kitzhof Mountain Design Resort, member of Preferred Hotels, in Austria. Centrally located at the city park and offering views of the Kitzbüheler Horn and Hahnenkamm peaks, Hotel Kitzhof is just a five-minute walk from Kitzbühel’s idyllic town center. The luxurious hotel offers a total of 162 guest rooms, studios and suites. Natural materials and warm color schemes dominate the look. Through the generous implementation of glass, the interior is bathed in natural daylight, further enhancing the creative concept. The use of local materials throughout the hotel lend a sense of place and familiarity to the modern interior while larch wood flooring, antique wooden and leather features and furnishings held in red and grey loden define the overall ambience. The treasured Tyrolean style is accented by sepia photography from “the good old times”.
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larissaraponi
Feel good doing what you love.
Meet Larissa Raponi - a 24 years old half-Italian and half-Fijian, born and raised in Brampton, Ontario. Larissa is trained in gymnastics and dance and is now actively coaching children in gymnastics. Larissa began her modelling and dancing career in 2018, which has given her opportunities to meet new people and experience new things. Larissa has done several photoshoots, music videos, and performed as a background dancer in concerts. We sit this month with Larissa to know more about her and here is our exclusive interview with her. 46 MAY, 2022
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Photographer: DOUBLE D @david_dubreus
Tell us about your education
and they had a photoshoot with all the dancers for the company. That was my first experience modelling and having professional photos of myself. Once I posted that photo on instagram, I had a lot of photographers reaching out and wanting to work with me! It all happened so fast and I was not expecting myself to fall into the category of a model. But I realized how much I enjoy it, and how confident I felt being in front of a camera and expressing myself. I think it also showed me that we are so much more than the societal standards of beauty and being able to model has truly made me understand how much we are evolving not only in the industry but in society more broadly.
In high school I was still figuring out what my strengths and weaknesses were, and what I wanted to pursue in university. I realized I enjoyed learning about law and sociology, so I applied for the Criminology and Socio-Legal Studies, minoring in Philosophy and Sociology at the University of Toronto. As challenging as my program was, I graduated in April of 2021 successfully. I have volunteered and interned at law firms, and hoping to eventually pursue a career in law, specifically youth justice. This is something I am passionate about, and I am hopeful that I can make a difference in youths lives who were negatively impacted by the system. I think that my experience training young gymnasts will be vital to that field as it has taught me how powerful physical activity, expression, and group building can be for young children who might otherwise be struggling in this society.
What do you like about modelling and what are its drawbacks?
I love modelling because it gives me an opportunity to express myself. I’ve always felt more confident leaving a photoshoot than coming in. I also love having the opportunity to meet new people who are just as passionate about creating as I am. There are definitely drawbacks of modelling. Rejection is always hard to deal with. It’s difficult when you apply for certain gigs that you’re really excited for and you aren’t chosen. But I have learned to not take it personally, be patient and to keep a positive attitude. It makes it bittersweet once you do land a gig.
Share some of your childhood memories.
Some of my favourite childhood memories would definitely be training in gymnastics with my friends, as well as dancing in shows and competitions. It was where I felt most myself. I have always been an active person so I enjoyed playing sports and games with my friends in my neighbourhood and at school. I definitely think these experiences have shaped who I am by making me stronger, teaching me perseverance, and giving me a platform to learn more about myself and my interests on a broader scale.
How did you get into music videos?
I believe my first music video was with Navneet Sharma, who is an incredible artist and an wonderful person. We have shot two videos now and each has been an amazing experience. He’s so extremely talented and I love working with him. Ever since I filmed the first video with him, I began to have more people reach out wanting to work with me in music videos. I’m really appreciative of the skills he taught me and the confidence I developed from our shoots.
How and when did you get interested in gymnastics?
I started gymnastics when I was three years old. My parents always told me that they knew to put me in gymnastics because I was always climbing and jumping around. They realized that it would be a sport best suited for me and I’m so thankful that they started me at such a young age. I think physical exercise and art are so important for our youth, they help kids develop healthy, strong, and nurtured minds, bodies, and souls.
Tell us about your favourite music video projects.
I think every music video I have done has been an incredible experience and I don’t think I have a favourite. Most of them I have gotten to film with friends of mine, who are also models and dancers, so it made the experience even more enjoyable. Networking is a really important part of the industry and even though it might feel intimidating at first, it’s important that artists develop the skills necessary to be good networkers.
How do you feel teaching gymnastics?
I started teaching gymnastics as soon as I quit training, which was at age fourteen. I have coached preschool, recreational, and competitive levels. It’s always a positive environment, and it is great to work with children who are excited and eager to learn new things. It is also incredible being able to pass on the things I’ve learned from this form of artistic expression as it is about so much more than perfecting the craft. It is about building character and confidence, which I think is reflected in the way I coach.
What are your secrets to being fit and looking beautiful?
My secret is to be completely authentic and confident in yourself. Real beauty is reflective of the inside, and that’s what I hope to pass on to other young artists who are just starting out in the industry.
How did you get into modelling? What was your first project? I joined a dance company in Toronto in 2018
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What are some of your other hobbies? Some of my hobbies are reading, cooking and baking, photography, working out, and travelling.
What type of dance do you do?
I was trained in ballet, jazz, acro, heels, hip hop, and commercial dance.
Give us some of your favourite hang out spots in Toronto
Some of my favourite hang out spots in Toronto are Lavelle, Kost, The Porch, and the Distillery District. I love places where a lot of artists hang out. As someone in the industry, I find it inspiring to be around people who aren’t afraid to express themselves.
What are some of your plans for the future?
Now that restrictions have lifted, I would like to start travelling more. As well as getting more opportunities in my field of work. I’d like to find a job in the youth justice field and see where that takes me. But for now, I’d also like to meet new people and gain more experiences in my modelling and dancing career. When I have time to myself I like to focus on my self-care. That includes manifesting, journalling, taking a candle lit bath, watching Netflix, and reading a good book. It’s so important that people understand the value of self love and really take the time needed to focus on themselves so that they can be better not only in their work but also their interactions with people. Self love allows people to develop confidence and strength, which is so important as an artist. You really have to believe in yourself and focus on your mental well-being in order to perform your best at gigs.
Your message for our readers and your fans. If I could give a message to anyone reading this, I know firsthand what it’s like to put yourself out there in this industry and the societal expectations that come with it. My message to young up and coming artists, as I said before, is to stay true to themselves, love themselves, break boundaries and stereotypes, and feel good doing what they love because that’s all that matters at the end of the day.
Photographer: MUSAEL DEBRETSION @mossy__prod
How do you unwind?
Message for us at Toronto pages
I wanted to thank you for the opportunity to share my story and my perspective of the industry. It’s great for a magazine to want to focus on real people and their lives. It’s given me another opportunity to promote myself and what I believe in, which is authenticity and confidence. 49 www.thetorontopages.com
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s o d a n o i c i f A t r e s Des ! e c i o j Re
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guessed, were all sorts of Japanese-Western fusion. The staff was so friendly and willing to provide suggestions and information about anything that we wanted to know. Everything looked so tempting that we had to select a few different ones to try. We ordered the rouge cake, strawberry white chocolate cake, and Tiramisu Crepe Roll Cake and we were absolutely blown away by the taste. The rouge cake had just the right amount of bitterness and sweetness while the tiramisu was light and airy. The strawberry white chocolate cake was our personal favorite as it was bursting with flavor. In addition to mochi and crepe cake, Savorology also offers a variety of other Japanese-inspired desserts, including matcha tiramisu and yuzu cheesecake. If you're in the mood for something sweet, you'll want to check out Savorology Artisan Bakery in Toronto. This charming bakery offers a delicious selection of freshly baked goods, made with only the finest ingredients. The swiss rolls are particularly noteworthy - they're soft and fresh, with just the right amount of sweetness. The cakes are moist and flavorful, with unique and beautiful designs. Whether you're looking for an afternoon pick-me-up or a special treat for a special occasion, Savorology Artisan Bakery is sure to please.
Matcha Millie's Crepes Cake If you love matcha and you love crepes, then you're going to love Matcha Millie's Crepes Cake. This beautiful cake was made with layers of matcha-infused crepes, filled with a fluffy matcha pastry cream, and topped with a decadent whipped matcha ganache. The entire cake is dusted with a light layer of matcha powder, giving it a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness.
Ammie Zhao - Founder of Savorology I am so obsessed with sweets and whenever there is something new that I hear about, I make sure to visit and try it. Savorology is one of such new places that has been making quite a noise lately.
Durian Bomb
Last week, I finally made the plans to visit Savorology with two friends and try this place and what they offer.
Savorology's Durian Bomb is an indulgent dessert that is sure to please any durian lover. The dish consists of a passionfruit mousse, mango confit, original sponge, durian puree, and durian cheese mousse. The various components come together to create a rich and flavorpacked experience.
As we reached the location, we were all curious to see what Savorology had to offer. The display was full of beautiful and colorful desserts and cakes and we were already amazed to see them. We were surprised to know that, Ammie Zhao - the founder of Savorology was present at the store.
The passionfruit mousse is light and refreshing, while the mango confit adds a lovely sweetness. The original sponge is fluffy and moist, and the durian puree and cheese mousse provide a rich decadence. Overall, the Durian Bomb is a delicious and well-executed dessert that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
I took this great opportunity to request to meet Ammie and know more about the concept. I was lucky that Ammie accepted to talk to us and we were privileged to sit down and have a chat. We discovered that Ammie was a medical student. During her studies, she felt the fragility of life. While searching for life’s purpose, she fell in love with baking. In the beginning, she only made desserts for herself, then slowly progressed to share it with others.
Ten Flavor Mix Millie Crepes Cake Millie Crepes Cake from Savorology Artisan Bakery is a work of art. This dessert is made with ten different flavors of crepes, all besides each other to create a flavor explosion in your mouth. The crepes are made with a variety of fresh fruits and nuts, and the cake is finished with a dollop of whipped cream.
The more she shared her desserts and new creations with those around her, the more she saw the smile, joy and contentment that they could bring. Unexpectedly, through this process, Ammie understood the meaning of life; it is not only about physical healing, but also emotional healing. As a result, Ammie gave up her medical studies to pursue a different type of “healing”.
Durian Yomogi Mochi The word “yomogi” means mugwort in Japanese. This plant is used in a lot of traditional Japanese cuisine, from soups to rice cakes. It has a slightly bitter taste and is known for its healing properties.
During her baking journey, she experienced many challenges. Ammie traveled to countless countries, including Japan, France, Canada etc., learning baking skills from different Pastry Chefs. Finally, in 2019, Ammie opened her own original brand “Savorology” in Toronto. The name “Savorology” is derived from “Savour” meaning delicious, and “-Ology” which represents a field or branch of science.
Yomogi mochi is a type of rice cake that is traditionally made with yomogi leaves and glutinous rice flour. The dough is steamed and then formed into balls or small disks. It can be eaten plain, or wrapped around a filling such as sweet bean paste or fruit. Durian is a tropical fruit that is beloved by some and hated by others.
Savorology is a Japanese-inspired Dessert shop, with focus on Japanese Style Mochi and Mille Crepe Cake. The first thing that we noticed was the display of all available desserts which were, as you might have
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combines the two flavors, resulting in a rich, sweet treat that is sure to please any durian lover. Savorology Artisan Bakery’s take on this classic dish uses only the finest ingredients, resulting in a truly delicious experience.
Savoroloy again and try many other amazing cakes and desserts available with them.
We were so impressed with the unique taste of every dessert that was available that we surely will visit
So next time you're in the mood for something sweet, be sure to check out Savorology.
Located at 4271 Sheppard Ave E, Scarborough, ON M1S 1T6, Canada, this sweet bakery opens at 11 in the morning and sold out by 7.30 pm.
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Morbius Directed by Daniel Espinosa Written by Matt Sazama and Burk Sharpless
JIM WEST jimwestauthor
Anti-heroes are common nowadays because they embody the tropes of chaotic neutral characters who are trying to contain themselves from being the monster they are. These characters play by their own rules and try their best to not hurt others in being the rebels they are. Venom is a recent popular character played to perfection by Tom Hardy. In this case of the symbiote we have two distinct personalities vying for control. With Dr. Morbius we just have a single personality dealing with the thirst for blood as the cure to his physical condition and the moral compass of not killing people for blood. The struggle is there in the plot, but the devil is always in the details. Details that this film left out.
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Here comes the spoilers. A young Michael meets his adoptive brother Milo who both suffer form a rare blood disease. Their adoptive father sends Michael to New York to medical school. Years later Michael is declining the Nobel prize for his invention of artificial blood. Michael begins to experiment with bat blood in search for a cure for his rare blood disease. Due to the legal ramifications of the experiments he gets funded to take a mercenary vessel into international waters to conduct his experiments. He injects himself with his experimental cure which turns him into a vampire. He ends up killing all of the mercenaries on board, and when he regains his senses he erases camera footage and escapes back to New York.
killing criminals which is the path the writer's took with Venom. Nope. Missed opportunity. Then the blatant foreshadow of his brother Milo (Matt Smith) eyeing the cure vials. You already know when he leaves his cane he took the cure. Next we have a rushed villain going on a killing spree and forced brother versus brother climatic fight that was not very emotionally driven at all. Such a shame and waste. Marvel script writers listen... your audiences are smart and patient enough to allow a villain to survive a film and continue to antagonize the hero(s). Craft and create a universe of villains who survive and continue to give our heroes their constant struggles. You don't always need a bow-tie ending. Let villains live to grow stronger, smarter, and more menacing. Your hero is only as great as the challenges they face. Morbius's greatest challenge is the inner addiction struggle in the form of his thirst for blood versus his do no harm as a doctor. That did not get played up to the levels that a audience needs to connect with his fight.
The film goes on to show case him trying to ween himself off real blood by using his artificial blood. Here is where they really need to consult with drug addicts to add in details of drug withdrawal. The film doesn't show him reverting back to his former physical condition. Loss of muscle and strength would make the struggle to cross the line and kill more intense. Yet the film doesn't go there and it doesn't give us the level of empathy needed to really connect to Morbius as a human character struggling with the cure and the morality of killing people. Then perhaps have him consider
The devil is in the details and Morbius lacks volumes. Marvel please give us villains that can live to fight another day (film). A universe of villains is far more interesting than a world of Avenger's.
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manicdrive
Hailing from Toronto Canada, Manic Drive has been known for their energetic live show and infectious pop-rock anthems. Since their #1 hit “VIP” took over air-waves in 2014, their list of achievements continue with winning a Juno Award (Canada’s most prestigious music award), topping multiple Billboard Radio Charts, and an impressive touring career. Their songs also have made their way into commercial success with appearances on NBC Universal, McDonalds, and some of YouTube top Channels including “Dude Perfect” and “MrBeast” which collectively boast almost 150 million subscribers. Their latest album “Vol 1”, will feature 6 new tracks produced by Joël Bruyère (Thousand Foot Krutch), which includes songs like “High Life” featuring Mr. Talkbox, internationally known for his collaboration with Bruno Mars’ “24 Karat Magic”. The series of songs will take listeners on a journey from explosive high energy anthems like “Champion”, to somber eye-opening moments as portrayed in their single “Thank God I’m Alive”. We are thankful to Manic Drive (brothers Michael and Shawn Cavallo) for their time for this interview for our readers.
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The award-winning pop-rock duo 57 www.thetorontopages.com
Please introduce yourself to our readers.
Tell us about your earliest musical memory? What was the first instrument you picked?
Hello readers! We are brothers Michael and Shawn Cavallo hailing from Mississauga. When our powers unite, we form the Rock N Roll, PopEdge Duo Manic Drive.
Our parents picked up a used $10 drum set at a garage sale and would borrow a beaten up bass guitar from our church at the time. We might have been 5 or 6 just jamming out these things til they wore out haha. A few years later, our parents were moved by the love we had for music and gifted us with better gear.
Tell us about your education.
Oxford and Cambridge are schools we've read about online. They seem very impressive! However, we as brothers pursued music full time straight out of High School (Clarkson Secondary) We had studied music business throughout our teenage years. We had become so passionate about the industry, we took seminars and classes both in Nashville and Toronto, learning the ropes. It was a bold move, supported by our parents.
How and when did your band came to be? Did you play in any other bands or did you decide that it’s best for two brothers to start their own band? As brothers, we both had become obsessed with music and performing. In fact, when we saw our 58
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first hard rock concert in a basement of a church, we were hooked. As if destiny called out to us haha. It was a natural process, especially since we had a bunk bed and could build a fort, get our flashlights and write songs...true story by the way... we sometimes still do that. Our chemistry was good and we were listening to the same bands so we were vibing musically.
can honestly say we proud of everything we have released. As far as songs held close to our hearts, would probably have to go to our most recent release "Thank God I'm Alive" regarding our Mothers passing. That particular song is so sewn to our soul, as it would be anyone losing someone close. That was really just a gift for her and for those who is suffering loss.
To get into more specifics, how are you dividing up who's playing versus who's singing, and is the process uniform across all of your albums?
What would you say are some of the highlights of your career to date?
Amongst our proudest moments would be performing at the ACC (Scotia Bank Arena), Winning a Juno in 2015, Winter Jam Tour and working with Grammy Award winning/nominated artists such as Switchfoot, Skillet, For King and Country, dc Talk and of course, touring with the legendary Stryper.
As far as our roles in the band, that too came naturally. One fell in love with the guitar and singing to the other. We've been uniformed like this since the beginning. We both did however picked up different instruments, drums, piano, bass which assisted greatly in our songwriting process growing up.
For anyone that hasn’t heard it yet, how would you describe your sound?
Speaking of your other albums, I was wondering if there'sany particular album or few songs that you are particularly proud of ?
As if energy itself could not be contained. It's an unleash of a wild musical fusion, exploding elements of Rock, Pop, Funk, Electronic, and even time. A wizarding sound that cannot be caged, but instead roams free, soaring to the limitless skies....with a guitar lick.
It 's fun to re-visit older albums and see where we were musically. Experimenting with different styles and finding ourselves over the years. We
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Speaking of collaborating with other artists, can we expect any sort of collaborative releases with other local bands or artists in the near future? We most recently collaborated with Mr Talkbox (Bruno Mars, Toby Mac) on our Hip Hop/Rock track "High Life"...who knows what new alliances will be made in the days to come. We love working with different artists all the time. Michael Buble, you down?
What inspires you outside of music? What do you turn to when the creative well runs a little low?
When creating new music is there a lot of jamming or how do you approach it? We constantly throw arrangements at each other, sitting with the idea, re-writing, re-visiting, adding different elements. Shawn has a home studio and really loves to sit with an idea for along time and really fine tune a track. He's actually become quite the producer, co-producing on our last several projects. We are very involved in the recording process.
Shawn just recently became of father of two little boys. It is amazing how that will stir not just emotions, but artistic inspiration. "Vol 1" carries that theme in songs like "Pinky Swear". It's an experience watching the world through the eyes of a child.
What are your favorite hangout spots in Toronto?
What are some of the most important musicians that influenced your own style and what in particular did they employ in their playing that you liked?
Reservoir Lounge (great live music), Historic Distillery District, Cafe's on College, Restaurant hoping on King St W.
Now that is a long list. In our earlier albums artists such as Linkin Park, Muse, Lenny Kravitz, dc Talk and Incubus were incredibly influential. More recently, we really enjoying Lights, Post Malone, Imagine Dragons, One Republic, Bruno Mars and The Weeknd. But we never leave out the classics. Which seem to always be rooted in our music. Our parents raised us with The Police, Stevie Wonder, Phil Collins, Doobie Brothers, among others. Strangely, all these artists are fused in our music.
Your message for our readers.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter Manic Drive. Become a MANIAC today! Would love to connect with you.
Your message for us at TOPS (TorontoPages) magazine.
Thanks for taking the time to hear our story. Appreciate the love and support. Blessings, MD
How do you feel about your 2020 record, Vol 1, being nominated for Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album Of The Year at the 2022 Juno Awards. We are incredibly moved and honoured. To be honest, as this is our third time being nominated, we never thought as kids watching the Junos, we'd ever be nominated. It's truly walking into a dream. We will always be forever grateful for this blessing.
Our parents picked up a used $10 drum set at a garage sale and would borrow a beaten up bass guitar from our church at the time.
What do you think is next for you in terms of projects? Anything exciting you’d like to share?
Yes! We are currently in the midst of working on our next project "Vol 2" looking to hit the streets this Fall 2022. Our leading single "Love You To Death" will be released May 2022. Incredibly excited to continue our musical saga.
What are some of your other hobbies?
Soccer (you know in Europe they call it football? Crazy!), foos-ball, Blue Jays games, Nintendo, making pizza, movies, pool, gym, ski-dooing, boating, fencing (yes Michael plays with swords. Nerd!) chess, bowling, axe throwing, travel, writing, tattoos, riding bikes, playing catch, hanging out with our kids (these little creatures seem to take up most of our time). 60 MAY, 2022
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LATIFAH AL-HAZZA tifahtravels
THE 10 BEST RESTAURANTS IN NEW YORK TO SPLURGE ON One of the most difficult questions to answer is: “Which restaurant should I try in NYC?” Even more of a difficult question to answer is: “Which restaurant is worth splurging on in NYC?” The type of cuisine, service, presentation, and occasion are just a few factors to consider when planning to drop big bucks on a meal. Luckily, we’ve listed our 10 favorites in New York City that we think are worth every penny. 63 www.thetorontopages.com
Le Bernardin
Expect utmost service and exceptional fish-forward French cuisine at this three-Michelin-starred dining experience. Le Bernardin was birthed in Paris and expanded to New York in 1986. Diners are in good hands as Chef Eric Ripert of Le Bernardin has run the kitchen for over 20 years. Le Bernardin offers a few tasting menu options; the four-course menu is split into three categories – Almost Raw, Barely Touched, and Lightly Cooked. Think Kampachi Crudo with grated yuzu, lemon, and extra virgin olive oil and Poached Black Bass with braised cippolini, spinach, and shaved turnip bacon-green peppercorn sauce. The chef ’s tasting menu (which we highly recommend), consists of eight courses from Osetra caviar on a “potato cloud” to poached lobster with black trumpet and baby turnips to brown sugar curd, oats, and apple-pomegranate sorbet. While seafood remains Ripert’s passion, there is an option of a vegetarian tasting menu as well. Le Bernardin serves 99% sustainable and wild fish from between Maine and North Carolina.
Vestry
Located in SoHo, one-Michelin-starred Vestry places heavy emphasis on seafood and vegetable-focused dishes. The menu, with Asian cuisine influences, includes a variety of small, shareable plates and larger, main course items. Menu highlights are the shiitake handroll with nishiki rice, wrapped in wasabi leaf; chu toro with yuzu and fresh wasabi; sushi rice mixed with egg yolk, shiso, and trout roe; Atlantic salmon with butternut squash and kombu; and homemade cheesecake with Honeycrisp apple.
Rezdôra
Nestled in a narrow, brick-walled space, Rezdôra is an unassuming upscale one-Michelin-starred Italian restaurant. Pasta is the route to take here, and if you really want to commit to that route, try the five-course pasta-tasting menu. Dishes to try include burrata with royal mushrooms and black truffle puree; strozzapreti pasta with tomato sauce, lobster and basil; uovo raviolo di nino bergese pasta with ricotta, egg yolk, sage, and white truffle; and scallops with roasted squash, hazelnuts, and saba. The bulk of the produce comes from nearby Union Square Green Market and Rezdôra is committed to working with local farmers.
Atomix
The food on the 10-course Korean tasting menu at two-Michelinstarred Atomix is genuinely excellent. There are several details that make dining at this restaurant worth the dent in your wallet. To begin, to enter you must ring the doorbell of an unmarked small residential building. A host will then greet you and walk you down a set of stairs to a counter with 14 chairs. A few snacks arrive, but the fun part is that a tray of chopsticks, each unique, are presented to you and you’ll have the option of selecting your perfect pair. After this fun step, dinner begins. Every course commences with a notecard. The notecard gives specific details about what you’re about to consume, even down to little ingredients such as water. The notecards also have a short description of the inspiration behind the dish as well as the IG handle of the person who made the plate. The courses start small and progressively get larger. At the end of your meal, you’ll be given an envelope to take all of your notecards home.
Marea
You know that the food will be exceptional and the service incredible the moment you step foot into one-Michelin-starred Marea. The pasta dishes are the restaurant’s claim to fame, but Marea is a seafood restaurant before it’s an Italian one. Marea can be experienced through a tasting menu or a la carte. Outstanding dishes include the crudo; grilled octopus with fregola, sundried tomato, castelvetrano olive, almond, and charred raisin; and the grilled lobster with mushroom, castelfranco, and caramelized sunchoke. The house-made pastas are the star of the show with the gnocchetti tossed with tomatoes, shrimp, chilies, and rosemary oil, and the squid ink lobster ravioli with coral bottarga being our favorites. 64 MAY, 2022
Jean-Georges
Superior French cuisine makes this twoMichelin-starred restaurant worthwhile. Dishes present everything from attention to detail and immaculate seasonal products to distinct flavor combinations. Dishes may include foie gras terrine with glazed sour cherries and candied almonds coated in a thin brûlée shell, while steamed black sea bass is dressed tableside with a mild red curry broth, a splash of lime and a sprinkle of sesame seed. Desserts are more elaborate such as a plum sorbet, verbena-poached pear, and a palate cleanser of melon soup with “vanilla noodles.” A vegetarian tasting menu with the likes of butternut squash purée with minced chives and brunoised mushrooms is also available.
SAGA
Located on the 63rd floor of the Art Deco building, Saga is a multi-course seasonal tasting menu with Moroccan influences. The average dinner lasts about 3.5 hours and spans several different rooms. There’s no menu to peruse in advance, so a server will come to you and ask a couple of questions (this dish or this dish?). After answering, you’ll be summoned to be seated in one of the dining rooms. Execution of the dishes at Saga is critical. After finishing the meal, you’ll be taken to a different terrace for tea service followed by dessert.
Bâtard
Bâtard is home to a multi-course European tasting menu with touches of the chef ’s native Austrian roots. Menu highlights include foie gras mousse with almond streusel, apple, sunchoke, and cranberry; carnaroli risotto with forest mushrooms, chives, parmesan, and jus; and Amish chicken with roasted salsify, ricotta, chicken ragu, shallot confit, and sage jus.
The Modern
Two-Michelin-starred, The Modern, overlooks the MoMA’s sculpture garden and is designed to capture the feel of the art museum. Dishes such as seed cracker with aged cheddar and butternut squash butter; or soft-boiled eggs with sturgeon caviar; or turbot roasted on the bone alongside rich parmesan cream may be found on the carefully curated pre-fixe menu. We recommend a reservation while it’s still daylight to be able to look out at the garden while the sun’s still out.
Indian Accent
Don’t be fooled by Indian Accent’s seemingly rigid prix-fixe and chef ’s tasting menu options. Yes, it’s fine dining, but the restaurant isn’t above letting you have some fun and even get a little authentic by eating with your hands. Menu favorites are the beet and peanut butter tikki and goat cheese raita; sweet pickle ribs, sundried mango, and onion seeds; crispy jackfruit, cauliflower rice, and kerala pumpkin curry; paper roast dosa, wild mushrooms, water chestnuts, and gunpowder; and for dessert, makhan malai, saffron milk, rose petal jaggery brittle, and almonds. 65 www.thetorontopages.com
djsydneyblu
Sydney Blu Sydney Blu’ - a proudly Canadian artist, Sydney’s success is largely attributed to her relentless touring schedule which she upheld for several years. In 2009, Sydney Blu founded her imprint, Blu Music, on the principle of authentic, dance floor rich house and techno, the following year she extended her brand to another branch introducing her legendary Blu Party series which curates some of the greatest names of the underground house.
2018 marked another milestone for the top-selling electronic artist, as she hit Top 10 on the Beatport Progressive House Chart for her single “Escape” on Underground Audio UK and earlier in the year she hit Top 20 on the Beatport Tech House chart with her single “Mind Games” on Hot Since 82’s Knee Deep in Sound. One of Sydney’s greatest accomplishments to date has been her recent successful lobbying for a new category at Canada’s largest award show ‘The JUNO Awards’. For four years, Sydney gathered Canada’s top managers, agents, publicists, festival owners, club owners and artists in dance music to help urge The Canadian Academy of Arts and Sciences to make a new award that represents the origins of electronic music called ‘Underground Dance Single of the Year’. The category was successfully accepted by the JUNO’s in June 2021 and will present its first award in 2022 with Sydney Blu as its Chairwoman. We were lucky to sit with Sydney Blu for this exclusive interview for our readers. 66 MAY, 2022
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Please introduce yourself to our readers.
Tell us about your earliest musical memory?
My name is Joanne Hill and I go by the artist name Sydney Blu. I own a record label called Blu Music and I'm the chair of a category at the JUNO Awards called Underground Dance Single of the Year. I've been touring the world performing for the last 15 years and I've been actively involved in Electronic Music in Toronto for 22 years.
Dancing to Cyndi Lauper, 'She's So Unusual', the first record I ever owned.
How did you begin to get into electronic music? What was it that made you want to take it a step further and become a DJ? I would go to a club in Ottawa called 'Atomic' and dance to House music and watch DJs perform and was always inspired. When I moved to Toronto I bought turntables and picked up the craft quite quickly.
Tell us about your education.
I went to Algonquin College in Ottawa for several years for Travel and Tourism administration then I attended Audio Engineering School at Trebas Institute. 68
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For anyone that hasn’t heard it yet, how would you describe your sound?
My sound is Deep Hypnotic Tech house and Indie dance.
For How Long Have You Been Producing?
16 years I have been releasing and making electronic music.
What would you say are some of the highlights of your career to date?
In 2011 I performed with Deadmau5 at the Rogers Centre Stadium in Toronto and I have had incredible shows all over the world. Burning Man was extremely memorable as was Electric Island Toronto, Stereo Montreal, Avalon Los Angeles, Space Miami, and Pacha New York.
What Inspires You and what Makes You Want to Keep Producing Music?
I love dance music. It's in my blood. I love discovering fresh new sounds and beats. It comes naturally.
What is that you enjoy most about DJing and producing? What do you find challenging?
I love performing in front of people and connecting with the crowd. I find it hard to do everything because I always have too many projects on the go.
Who are the artists that excite you and who do you count as among your influences?
I think Danny Tenaglia is my top influence as a DJ and Hot since 82 currently inspires me right now as a producer.
How do you define underground music and how do you see your work as part of the underground? Photographer: Lindsay Anne Delaney
Underground dance Records have slow builds, hypnotic and repetitive arrangements that may or may not include vocals, they are often extended in length, and all developed for maximum utility on the dance floor by Club DJs. These songs are hypnotic, repetitive, the sound is focusing on the low end of the record (baseline, drums), and they are not necessarily played on the radio. Underground is noncommercialized electronic music. Some of the subgenres are Techno, House, Tech house, Deep/Melodic House, Organic House, Classic/Detroit/Modern Electro, Progressive House & Trance, BreakbeaDrum’n’bass, Deep Dubstep, Indie Dance & Synthwave, Soul/Disco/ Funk, and Afrohouse. I make a lot of these sub genres so that's why I'm part of these communities.
How do you feel about you newest record Conviction being nominated for “Electronic Album of the Year'' at the 2022 Juno Awards. I'm excited! I worked hard on this album. It took 2 years to write and I wrote half of it in 69 www.thetorontopages.com
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Photographer: Lindsay Anne Delaney
What do you think is next for you in terms of projects? Anything exciting you’d like to share?
Berlin then finished it during the pandemic in Canada.
How did you successfully campaign and managed to convince the awards ceremony to add the “Underground Dance Single of the Year” category?
I'm going to release a lot of music over the next year and get reacquainted with Toronto because I haven't lived here since 2018.
I was on the Dance Recording of the Year committee first and realized the second half of the electronic music industry was not being nominated. They were only nominating commercial EDM. I got together with some key players in our industry and made a proposal, collected letters, and got the category in place. It took about 3 years of campaigning and we were the most submitted to category at The JUNOs this year.
What are some of your other hobbies?
I love yoga, hanging out with my dog, and I love skiing!
What inspires you outside of music? What do you turn to when the creative well runs a little low? I take time for myself. I go somewhere quiet, often in nature, and relax. Stillness is the key. I like to read books.
Can you please describe your Conviction album?
What are your favorite hangout spots in Toronto?
It's a combination of Melodic House, Tech House, Deep house, and Minimal House. The lead song Monologue also has an old-school 80's vibe that's similar to New Wave. Definitely influenced by Berlin.
I love Trinity Bellwoods and all of the parks downtown. I also love Kensington Market!
Your message for our readers.
Support your local clubs and musicians now that they are open. They were closed for 2 years!
How has the last year affected you, particularly where COVID has been concerned? Any positives from the experience?
Your message for us at TOPS (TorontoPages) magazine.
I completed my album and released it during the pandemic. It was also great to re-connect with Canada because I had been living in Berlin. I'm excited to be back in Toronto now and head back on the road this summer.
Come see me play in Toronto this summer! Either at CODA Toronto or Electric Island Canada Day weekend! 71
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THE ALLEY
A great place for bubble tea and more! Last month, we were invited to the newly opened branch of THE ALLEY at Erin Mills Mall, Toronto. For those not familiar with THE ALLEY, it's a bubble tea chain from Taiwan that has now opened its one of many stores in Canada. The moment we stepped into the place we were transported to a different world. It was like being in an alternate reality where besides the traditional tables, chairs with comfortable cushioned sofas, there was a soothing and inviting atmosphere. The place was adorned with bright lights, and there was comfortable seating available. It felt like a lounge more than a tea shop. The menu was quite extensive, and it took us a while to decide what to order amidst the wide variety of drinks. THE ALLEY is known for making their own sugar cane syrup. By picking the all-natural, high quality sugar canes, boiling process in house creates the most original flavour. We did get on one track since all three of us had eyes on different drinks. Here is a list of everything we tried at THE ALLEY.
called the Deerioca series. The series features three different drinks, all of which are made with brown sugar deer balls. THE ALLEY launched the three flavors: Deerioca Fever, Deerioca Matcha, and Deerioca Puff. The Deerioca Fever is a brown sugar deer ball fresh milk/soy milk product. TheDeerioca Matcha is a brown sugar deer ball matcha fresh milk/soy milk product. The Deerioca Fever and Deerioca Matcha are both made with brown sugar deer balls. The Deerioca Puff is made with shikamaru pouri. All three products are available in Fresh milk / Soy Milk variants. With its three delicious flavors, the Deerioca series is sure to become a favorite among Toronto's foodies. THE ALLEY insists on making the Deerioca from scratch: making the dough, kneading and rolling the dough into small balls, this procedure creates better texture and aroma for the tapioca. Each bite is unique, satisfying the craving for the perfect taste.
Taro Ball Series
Deerioca - Newest Launch
Hojicha Milk Tea with Mashed Taro & Taro Balls is a delicious and healthy drink that is perfect
THE ALLEY just launched a new line of drinks
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for any occasion. This tea is made with hojicha, a type of green tea that is roasted, which gives it a unique flavor. The tea is then mixed with milk and sweetened with sugar. The taro balls are made from boiled taro root that is mashed and mixed with tapioca flour, sugar, and water. Green Milk Tea with Taro Ball is everything you could want in a winter beverage. It's warm, it's comforting, and it's packed with flavor. The jasmine green tea provides a light and refreshing base, while the mashed taro and taro balls add a creamy richness. The snow velvet and hojicha topping give the tea an extra depth of flavor, making it the perfect drink to enjoy on a cold winter's day.
Strawberry Green Tea The Strawberry Green Tea combines raspberry-infused green tea with fresh strawberries and chewy tapioca pearls. The result is a refreshing and slightly sweet drink that is perfect for hot summer days. Other popular flavours include the Honeydew Milk Tea, which is made with fresh honeydew melon, and the Brown Sugar Bubble Tea, which features brown sugar-infused black tea. Regardless of what you order, you're sure to enjoy the delicious drinks and friendly service at THE ALLEY. THE ALLEY is a great place to get your bubble tea fix. With a wide variety of flavours to choose from, there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a refreshing summer drink or a comforting winter beverage, THE ALLEY has got you covered. So, what are you waiting for? We strongly recommend you to visit any of their several branches and try one of their delicious drinks. To find your nearest branch visit their website: www.the-alley.ca You won't be disappointed.
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NEW MAY RELEASES Trust
Hernan Diaz
My Seven Black Fathers: The Men Who Made Me Whole Will Jawando
A call to action and a narrative that runs counter to every racist stereotype that thwarts the lives of men of color today.
Even through the roar and effervescence of the 1920s, everyone in New York has heard of Benjamin and Helen Rask. He is a legendary Wall Street tycoon; she is the brilliant daughter of eccentric aristocrats. Together, they have risen to the very top of a world of seemingly endless wealth. But the secrets around their affluence and grandeur incites gossip. Rumors about Benjamin's financial maneuvers and Helen's reclusiveness start to spread--all as a decade of excess and speculation draws to an end. At what cost have they acquired their immense fortune? This is the mystery at the center of a successful 1938 novel entitled Bonds, which all of New York seems to have read. But it isn't the only version. Hernan Diaz's Trust brilliantly puts the story of these characters into conversation with other accounts--and in tension with the life and perspective of a young woman bent on disentangling fact from fiction. The result is a novel that becomes more exhilarating and profound with each new layer and revelation. Provocative and propulsive, Trust engages the reader in a quest for the truth while confronting the reality-warping gravitational pull of money and how power often manipulates facts. An elegant, multifaceted epic that recovers the voices buried under the myths that justify our foundational inequality, Trust is a literary triumph with a beating heart and urgent stakes.
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My Seven Black Fathers is a memoir like few others--both the story of Yemi, a boy with an African name who feels awkward and alone as he is shunted from school to school, and a powerful consideration of the role of race, masculinity, education, and family in the lives of Black boys in the United States today. Inspired by Will Jawando's experience as a civil rights and education policy attorney, as well as by his involvement in My Brother's Keeper, President Barack Obama's hugely effective mentorship program for young men of color, this book explores the bonds that developed between the author and the host of father figures who formed him: Mr. Williams, the math teacher who taught him how to tie his first tie; Joseph, the stepfather who altered his understanding of family; Jay Fletcher, the openly gay colleague of his mother's who introduced him to the theater; Mr. Holmes, the high school chorus director who taught him to use his voice and saw him through a crushing disappointment; and Deen Sanwoola, who helped him bridge the gap between his American upbringing and his Nigerian heritage--eventually leading to a reconciliation with his biological father.
There Are Places in the World Where Rules Are Less Important Than Kindness: And Other Thoughts on Physics, Philosophy and the World
Book Lovers
Mother Noise
Emily Henry
Cindy House
Nora Stephens' life is books - she’s read them all - and she is not that type of heroine. Not the plucky one, not the laidback dream girl, and especially not the sweetheart. In fact, the only people Nora is a heroine for are her clients, for whom she lands enormous deals as a cutthroat literary agent, and her beloved little sister Libby. Which is why she agrees to go to Sunshine Falls, North Carolina for the month of August when Libby begs her for a sisters’ trip away - with visions of a small-town transformation for Nora, who she’s convinced needs to become the heroine in her own story. But instead of picnics in meadows, or run-ins with a handsome country doctor or bulging-forearmed bartender, Nora keeps bumping into Charlie Lastra, a bookish brooding editor from back in the city. It would be a meet-cute if not for the fact that they’ve met many times and it’s never been cute. If Nora knows she’s not an ideal heroine, Charlie knows he’s nobody’s hero, but as they are thrown together again and again - in a series of coincidences no editor worth their salt would allow - what they discover might just unravel the carefully crafted stories they’ve written about themselves.
Mother Noise opens with Cindy, twenty years into recovery after a heroin addiction, grappling with how to tell her nine-year-old son about her past. She wants him to learn this history from her, not anyone else; but she worries about the effect this truth may have on him. Told in essays and graphic narrative shorts, Mother Noise is a stunning memoir that delves deep into our responsibilities as parents while celebrating the moments of grace and generosity that mark a true friendship—in this case, her benefactor and champion through the years, David Sedaris. This is a powerful memoir about addiction, motherhood, and Cindy’s ongoing effort to reconcile the two. Are we required to share with our children the painful details of our past, or do we owe them protection from the harsh truth of who we were before? With dark humor and brutal, clear-eyed honesty, Mother Noise brilliantly captures and gorgeously renders our desire to look hopefully forward—while acknowledging the darkness of the past.
Son of Elsewhere: A Memoir in Pieces
Half-Blown Rose
Carlo Rovelli
One of the world's most prominent physicists and fearless free spirit, Carlo Rovelli is also a masterful storyteller. His bestselling books have introduced millions of readers to the wonders of modern physics and his singular perspective on the cosmos. This new collection of essays reveals a curious intellect always on the move. Rovelli invites us on an accessible and enlightening voyage through science, literature, philosophy and politics.
Leesa Cross-Smith
Elamin Abdelmahmoud
Written with his usual clarity and wit, this journey ranges widely across time and space: from Newton's alchemy to Einstein's mistakes, from Nabokov's epidopterology to Dante's cosmology, from mind-altering psychedelic substances to the meaning of atheism, from the future of physics to the power of uncertainty. Charming, pithy and elegant, this book is the perfect gateway to the universe of one of the most influential minds of our age.
Carlo Rovelli Carlo Rovelli is an Italian theoretical physicist and writer who has worked in Italy and the USA, and currently works in France. His work is mainly in the field of quantum gravity, where he is among the founders of the loop quantum gravity theory. He has also worked in the history and philosophy of science. He collaborates regularly with several Italian newspapers, in particular the cultural supplements of Il Sole 24 Ore and La Repubblica.
At twelve years old, Elamin Abdelmahmoud emigrates with his family from his native Sudan to Kingston, Ontario, arguably one of the most homogenous cities in North America. At the airport, he's handed his Blackness like a passport, and realizes that he needs to learn what this identity means in a new country. Like all teens, Abdelmahmoud spent his adolescence trying to figure out who he was, but he had to do it while learning to balance a new racial identity and all the false assumptions that came with it. Abdelmahmoud learned to fit in, and eventually became "every liberal white dad's favorite person in the room." But after many years spent trying on different personalities, he now must face the parts of himself he's kept suppressed all this time. He asks, "What happens when those identities stage a jailbreak?" In his debut collection of essays, Abdelmahmoud gives full voice to each and every one of these conflicting selves. Whether reflecting on how The O.C. taught him about falling in love, why watching wrestling allowed him to reinvent himself, or what it was like being a Muslim teen in the aftermath of 9/11, Abdelmahmoud explores how our experiences and our environments help us in the continuing task of defining who we truly are.
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Vincent, having grown up as the privileged daughter of artists, has a lovely life in many ways. At forty-four, she enjoys strolling the streets of Paris and teaching at the modern art museum; she has a vibrant group of friends; and she’s even caught the eye of a young, charismatic man named Loup. But Vincent is also in Paris to escape a painful betrayal: her husband, Cillian, has published a bestselling book divulging secrets about their marriage and his own past, hinting that when he was a teenager, he may have had a child with a young woman back in Dublin—before he moved to California and never returned. Now estranged from her husband, Vincent has agreed to see Cillian again at their son’s wedding the following summer, but Loup introduces new complications. Soon they begin an intense affair, and somewhere between dinners made together, cigarettes smoked in the moonlight, hazy evenings in nightclubs, and long, starry walks along the Seine, Vincent feels herself loosening and blossoming. In a journey that is both transportive and intimate, Half-Blown Rose traverses Paris, art, travel, liminal spaces, and the messy complexities of relationships and romance, with excerpts from Cillian’s novel, playlists, and journal entries woven throughout. As Cillian does all he can to win her back, Vincent must decide what she wants . . . and who she will be.
FILA COLLABORATES WITH PARIS BAED LABEL Y/PROJECT
The 110th anniversary, for FILA, is the occasion to celebrate the innovative and daring spirit of the brand with unexpected collaborations that propel the action one step further. The next one is Y/PROJECT. 78 MAY, 2022
Since the appointment of Glenn Martens as Creative Director in 2013, the Paris based label Y/PROJECT has been carving a niche of its own, combining a conceptual drive with intricate constructions and inventive, playful detailing. Martens’ silhouettes are as thought provoking as they are grounded in real life, with quite an emphasis on individuality and independence. Having won the renowned ANDAM Grand Prize twice in 2017 and 2020, Y/PROJECT keeps growing as one of the most original voices in contemporary fashion, focusing on an unmistakable identity in which unisex styles share space with the hyper masculine and the hyper feminine, and insouciant historical references. The collaboration with FILA is the marriage of two identities, resulting in a unique collection that fuses the design aesthetic of both brands. Glenn Martens gave a warped Y/PROJECT twist to FILA staples such as the t-shirt, the hoodie, the polo neck dress, and the windbreaker, as well as caps, sneakers, weekend, and tennis bags. Each piece is characterized by details that allow multiple ways to wear the garment, making it one’s own: double collars, strategically placed snap buttons, asymmetrical buttoning, double sweats, and a shoulder strap that looks caught in the wind. There is not one single way to own an item: everything is possible, and independent interpretations are welcome. As a whole, the collection exudes a bold streetwear feel that is made even bolder by the graphic play of juxtaposed logos. “I see this collaboration, really, as a marriage of Y/PROJECT’s experimental spirit and FILA’s innovative drive grounded in sportswear - says Glenn Martens - The process was as easy as it was fun, and it allowed me to openly explore a streetwear direction that felt new. There is a fresh, happy vibe to the endeavor that I think is right for this moment”. 79 www.thetorontopages.com
KARL LAGERFELD STRENGTHENS GREEN COMMITMENT IN THE SECOND COLLABORATION WITH SUSTAINABILITY AMBASSADOR AMBER VALLETTA
and are comprised of tailored styles with neutral-toned hues that retail from €89 to €545. These include a jumpsuit and a blazer with matching wide-legged trousers and pencil skirt as well as a classic, crisp white shirt dress. Recycled linen striped trousers in an extra-wide leg silhouette bring casual sophistication to the line. The collaboration’s standout hero piece is a reimagining of the iconic KARL LAGERFELD Odina biker jacket in vegan alternative to leather by Desserto while a figure-skimming little black dress crafted from cutting-edge circular material TencelTM x RefibraTM completes the collection. In addition to ready-to-wear styles, the new capsule collection sees the return of the K/Kushion bag, the design of which was inspired by a tailor-made cushion that Karl Lagerfeld was known to carry with him on his travels. Building on the accessory’s success, the Spring-Summer collection introduces two smaller shapes, including a pleated clutch and crossbody bag. Accessories retail from €295 to €395 and all styles are made from vegan cactus leather colored with organic pigments.
KARL LAGERFELD is pleased to announce a second ecofriendly collaboration for Spring-Summer 2022 with the brand’s Sustainability Ambassador, model, and activist, Amber Valletta. Building on the extraordinary success of their SS21 Sustainable Accessories Collaboration, including a PETA fashion Award, this new Capsule Collection further demonstrates KARL LAGERFELD’s passionate pledge to become more sustainable. The ready-towear pieces are crafted from mostly natural materials such as certified 100% organic cotton and GRS certified recycled linen. Environmentally mindful materials like the vegan alternative to leather made from the leaves of cacti engineered by Desserto as well as the pre-consumer upcycled material TencelTM x RefibraTM by Lenzing are also used. Where feasible, production houses were selected close to the fabric/fiber source to minimize the garments’ environmental impact. The effortlessly chic ready-to-wear pieces can be worn all year 80
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“Working with Amber has pushed us to think outside of the box, even more, when it comes to innovation and design. This collaboration with her gives us the drive to continuously improve how we move through the world with sustainability at the forefront of our values,” said Pier Paolo Righi, CEO of KARL LAGERFELD.
“It was important that the collection be designed with timelessness in mind since this idea is closely tied with sustainability and extending the life of our clothes. These are classic, seasonless pieces that can easily be interchanged to create multiple looks,” said Amber Valletta. 81 www.thetorontopages.com
Tommy Hilfiger's adaptive collection Tommy Hilfiger presents new inclusive and accessible fashion collection
Tommy Hilfiger’s newest Adaptive collection has been thoughtfully created for ease of movement and more effortless dressing. The brand is committed to bringing accessibility and inclusivity to the fashion industry with stylish high-quality clothing that is a right for everyone. 82 MAY, 2022
83 www.thetorontopages.com
UNVEILING
JOHANNES WOHNSEIFER x MCM EDITION
The artist Johannes Wohnseifer has collaborated with the German luxury fashion house MCM to create a DJ case that incorporates pop culture. Wohnseifer has not only designed the case as a hybrid, with classical elegance on the exterior and futurism on the interior but he has also selected different media to fill it with life. In addition to a collection of pieces from MCM's history it contains works and influences that equally appeal to collectors of his art and MCM's customers.
record included in the case. It contains an unreleased track by the DJ duo and friends of the artist, Schaeben & Voss. Two artworks by Wohnseifer are part of the selection. The first is a unique aluminium painting, which the artist exclusively created for this collaboration, in individual combinations of different shapes and colours. The second included is a Diasec print limited edition of a photographic collage by Wohnseifer. It is based on a car spotter’s picture of a luxury car in New York, printed with the MCM monogram.
“I have been a big fan of Johannes Wohnseifer for a long time. His approach to pop culture, his humour, and love of music strike a chord with me and also match my idea of MCM,” states Dirk Schönberger, Global Brand Officer of MCM Worldwide.
As a new addition to the MCM Zoo, Wohnseifer has designed a leather toy giraffe. The artist specifically opted for the oracular animal of Greek mythology to represent the gaze into the future, while a poster with motifs from the earliest MCM catalogues captures impressions from the brand's history. Finally, a metal card in a red and silver MCM leather case indicates the edition number of the DJ case.
The interior of the case is lined with mirrored leather and orange mesh. As a reference to the brand’s flagship store, an inner lid picks up the façade of the MCM building in Seoul. Wohnseifer additionally picks up the shapes of the windows in his cover design for a vinyl 84
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The Johannes Wohnseifer x MCM Edition premieres at Gallery Weekend Berlin and will be showcased at Frieze in Seoul this September. It will be available from April 27th, 6 pm CEST, exclusively on koeniggalerie.com 85 www.thetorontopages.com
JAEGER-LECOULTRE PRESENTS THE MASTER CONTROL MEMOVOX TIMER IN PINK GOLD THE MEMOVOX LEGEND CONTINUES
Since Jaeger-LeCoultre launched the first Memovox watch in 1950, it has become the reference in wristwatch alarms, with various useful and innovative functions added to create different Memovox models over the decades.
The dial of the Master Control Memovox Timer is laid out in concentric circles – the black sunraybrushed background provides a rich contrast with the grey of the outer minutes ring and the alarmindication disc. The innermost ring is engraved in bas-relief with highly polished numerals standing out against the granular texture of the background. Here, the elapsed hours-until-alarm are indicated by a small hand tipped with a red JL logo. Set at the outer edge of the ring, the Memovox’s signature triangular marker points to the time at which the alarm will ring, indicated on a second concentric ring.
In 2020, the Manufacture’s engineers developed an entirely new alarm-setting mechanism – the Memovox Timer. With the initial steel-cased model now highly sought-after by collectors, JaegerLeCoultre introduces a new aesthetic interpretation: the Master Control Memovox Timer in pink gold.
Adding refinement, the elongated triangular shape of the applied hour indexes – a signature of mid-century Memovox models – is echoed by the elegant simplicity of the Dauphine hands.
The Timer function enables the watch owner to set the alarm based on the number of hours that should elapse before the alarm rings. Alternatively, the owner may set the alarm in the traditional way, based on a particular time (such as the time of an appointment or a wakeup alarm). The indicators are linked, so that whichever alarm-setting method is chosen, the second indicator will automatically move to the corresponding position.
Contrasting with the deep shades of the dial, the pink gold 40-millimetre Master Control case exudes a relaxed and timeless elegance, with its sloping bezel, dynamically curved lugs and mix of polished and satin-brushed surfaces. 86
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A Redesigned Movement
For the latest generation of alarm watches, the Manufacture’s engineers comprehensively revised the self-winding Calibre 956, which – like all JaegerLeCoultre calibres – had been entirely conceived, developed and produced in-house. Previously, Memovox watches had a closed case-back, to which the gongs were attached; however, the new Master Control case has a transparent sapphire back, allowing the wearer to enjoy watching the hammers in action. This demanded a complete redesign of the striking mechanism, with the gong now attached to the case side. An open-worked pink gold rotor, decorated with Côtes de Genève to match the fine finishing on the movement plates, ensures an unobstructed view of the strike-works. One important element remains unchanged from previous generations, however: the signature “school bell” sound of the alarm, which lends such charm to the Memovox.
The Origin of the Memovox Legend
Despite being one of the most useful – and charming – of all complications, the alarm remains surprisingly rare in horology. The Memovox story began in 1950, a time when the world experienced a great burst of energy and inventiveness. Against this backdrop, JaegerLeCoultre harnessed its mastery of chiming mechanisms to develop an alarm watch – a highly practical timepiece that seemed perfectly suited to the times. In common with other chiming watches, an alarm mechanism has a hammer and gong; however, its particular technical challenge is that the hammers must strike the gong multiple times at very high speed, for a relatively extended period.
The Master Control Memovox Timer in pink gold will be produced in a limited edition of 100 pieces, available exclusively from Jaeger-LeCoultre boutiques. 87 www.thetorontopages.com
Benefit Cosmetics introduces They're Real! Xtreme Precision Liner XTREME precision, major versatility and eye-opening innovation!
Our 36-HOUR* volumizing BADgal BANG! mascara is now available in waterproof! It’s the cult-classic mascara you know and love, combining original BADgal BANG!’s gravity-defying formula with lightweight-feeling, waterproof volume! Workouts, breakups and rainstorms don’t stand a chance. 88 MAY, 2022
Waterproof Volumizing Mascara 89 www.thetorontopages.com
SWAROVSKI ANNOUNCES NEWBRAND AMBASSADOR,
BELLA HADID
A multifaceted portrait of Bella Hadid, the new Swarovski brand campaign mirrors the many sides of crystal in the image of a new-generation icon. Conceived by Creative Director Giovanna Engelbert and photographed by Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott, the portraits capture the transformative and versatile nature of Swarovski Crystals through diverse expressions of style. It’s a contemporary quality personified by Bella Hadid – the new face of the Swarovski campaign – whose transformative look serves as a muse for the campaign, embodying the multidimensional mindset of a fresh fashion mentality: a free and fluid approach to dressing that defies the codes of tradition. The attitude inspires a portrait series founded in a new generation’s informal and effortless relationship with bold crystal jewellery and its storied connotations of glamour. No longer reserved for ballroom opulence, Swarovski Crystals embodies joyful glamour. Casually adapted to our contemporary wardrobes, crystals become an everyday tool for self-expression. This evolution is illustrated in six faces of Bella Hadid represented by six colour of crystal jewellery. Symbolic of a window into the world of Swarovski, each portrait is framed by a coloured crystal aperture a cut in the octagonal shape of the brand’s logo, packaging, and signature Millenia Family. “Bella Hadid sums up the individualistic and transformative attitude of a new global generation. She is a multifaceted character who evades the boxes of rules and conformity. She goes from sporty to glamorous while remaining the same girl – the same Bella – with confidence and authority. In that sense, she conveys the values of Swarovski to perfection. Today, crystals are a dynamic part of our everyday wardrobe: a way of accentuating your individual style in a way that can be as casual as it can be elaborate. Bella is the poster girl for this state of mind.” – Giovanna Engelbert, Creative Director of Swarovski “I was very familiar with Swarovski already. It really is such a timeless and iconic brand. I love the new collections and what the brand has been doing, especially these past two years under the creative vision of Giovanna, and I really see Swarovski as the contemporary jewelry brand of the future. Jewelry is about expression and celebrating individuality – Swarovski celebrates all people and the idea of modern glamour, and I love that” - Bella Hadid Yellow: Sporty Bella highlights the energetic and invigorating properties of yellow in an upbeat and affirmative styling proposition centered around the Lucent Family’s full cut crystals which radiate pure sunlight. The bold, joyful pieces celebrate color in its most vibrant form. Additionally, Bella Hadid wears Matrix earring, and Harmonia, Millenia and Ortyx necklaces. 90 MAY, 2022
Pink: Sweet Bella captures the bubbly and girly codes of pink with empowered overtones reflective of the colour’s sweet but potent impact. As a counterpart to her cheeky look, Bella Hadid wears Lucent hoops constructed in bold rings of octagonal crystals – designed as a quintessential element of a modern wardrobe – Lucent ear cuffs, and Millenia and Gema necklaces, and an Orbita stud earring.
Blue: Bohemian Bella embraces the serene and soothing effects of blue in a chilled-out, insouciant and carefree attitude to styling. Effortlessly stylish, she freely mixes dress codes and adds her own laidback touches of glamour. On Bella Hadid, it’s an approach illustrated in stacks of the agelessly versatile Millenia bracelet worn with a matching necklace, Lucent hoops, and Lucent rings.
Green: Cool Bella epitomizes a casual approach to crystal jewelry in a styling language inspired by the inherently natural and carefree qualities of the color green. Symbolic of growth and process, green embodies the values of a new generational attitude. Paired with a cropped hoodie, Millenia green necklaces and bracelets evoke the impact of layered chains. Here, two Millenia necklaces are joined to create a longer drop chain effect, illustrating the flexibility of the design. They are complemented by Gema earrings, a Lucent bracelet, and Millenia clip earrings. 91 www.thetorontopages.com
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After decades of being off the road and in storage, the very first Bentley T-Series is being brought back to life after the start of a complete wheelsup restoration. The 6¼-litre pushrod V8 has been started for the first time in at least 15 years, and the engine and gearbox have proven to be in good condition despite their extended rest. After a restoration project slated to take at least 18 months and that will return the car to outstanding condition, it will be added to Bentley’s expanding Heritage Collection of road-going cars that together describe all 103 years of Bentley’s history.
NEW LIFE FOR WORLD’S OLDEST BENTLEY T-SERIES 93 www.thetorontopages.com
The oldest T-Series completed manufacture on the 28 September 1965. Owned by Bentley Motors and destined for trials work around the world, the T-Series was finished in Shell Grey exterior paint and complemented with a Blue Leather interior. The T-Series was originally announced and displayed for the first time at the Paris Motor Show on 5 October 1965 and was significantly different from its predecessor, the S-Type. Notably, the T-Series was the first Bentley to use a unitary construction method, using a monocoque in place of the separate chassis and body technique of every Bentley before it. The 225 bhp, 6¼-litre V8 was originally designed and introduced in 1959 in the Bentley S2. At the time the engine achieved the highest specific output by weight of any production car in the world of 2.7 lb/hp (1.2 kg/hp). The engine was considered over-engineered at the time, but its inherent strength, reliability and development potential led to it becoming Bentley’s mainstay engine for the next 50 years. By the time the engine was retired in 2019, it was delivering more than double the amount of power and three times the original torque whilst producing 99 per cent fewer emissions. In October 2016, a group of apprentices started the rejuvenation process for T-Series VIN 001. Starting with the removal of trim and the reconditioning of the Body-inWhite, the T-Series started its journey to return to active duty. After initial preparations the work was put on hold whilst the introduction of the current product range and future electrification activities became more of a priority – but with renewed attention on developing the Heritage Collection, the car is now on course to make its return.
The T-Series Story
In 1958, work began designing the first monocoque Bentley. Bentley was known for coachbuilt bodies underpinned by a separate chassis but customer expectations and requirements were changing at a time where the coachbuilding trade was also declining. Customers wanted their Bentleys to be externally smaller but maintain the space, luxury and comfort they had come to expect. By 1962, John Blatchley - famous for styling the R-Type Continental – had completed a new exterior design for a steel and aluminium monocoque body. The design improved on the passenger space of the preceding S3, but with the overall car now seven inches shorter, five inches lower and three and a half inches narrower. Overall cabin space was increased and a bigger boot provided more capacity for luggage. Using the freshly developed V8 engine, seven prototypes undertook significant testing including endurance runs of over 100,000 miles. Design innovations included separate subframes to carry the engine and transmission, suspension, steering and rear axle assemblies., with ‘Vibrashock’ rubber subframe mounts developed to isolate road noise and vibration. The T-Series had an advanced chassis with independent suspension on all four wheels with automatic height control according to loading. Pressure for the self levelling suspension came from the triplicate hydraulic braking system which had disc brakes on all four wheels. The suspension comprised of double wishbones and coil springs at the front and semitrailing arms at the rear. 94 MAY, 2022
The Bentley T-Series was hailed as a clear example of revolutionary engineering given it was the first Bentley to move away from a separate chassis build, and tis relatively lightweight construction gave impressive performance for a four-sedan in 1965, with a maximum speed of 115 mph and 0-62 mph achieved in 10.9 seconds. 1,868 examples of the first-generation T-Series were produced, with a pre-tax list price of £5,425 and the majority being standard four-door saloons. A two-door version was created in 1966, and a year later a convertible version was launched, although production numbers were kept low at just 41 cars. A second-generation car, known as the T2, was launch in 1977 and stayed in production until 1980.
95 www.thetorontopages.com
ARIES
CANCER
(March 21 - April 19)
(June 21 - July 22)
You’ll feel the love this month, dear Aries, as Venus, the planet of romance and money, makes her way into your sign on May 2. These vibes are perfect for embracing the sweeter side of life, though there will certainly be a passionate and exciting energy to go along with this planetary placement.
You and your friends can bring stability to one another this month, sweet Crab, because the Taurus sun activates the sector of your chart that governs community. This cosmic climate is perfect for laying down foundations for new relationships while helping you feel secure in the process. These sentiments receive a significant boost when the sun cozies up to revolutionary Uranus on May 5, creating a breakthrough in any new connections you’ve had trouble growing.
While matters of the heart will be on your mind, make sure you’re using this cosmic climate as an excuse to prioritize your needs while indulging in plenty of self-care. The universe wants you to feel adored and pampered, not only by the people who surround you but by yourself as well.
While it’s certainly important that you invest time and energy in your friendships right now, you’ll also want to keep one eye on your career as Jupiter enters Aries on the tenth. This planetary placement is set to bring prosperity and luck to your solar tenth house, making it important that you invest your energy in the professional path of your dreams. If you’re unhappy in your current situation, now would be the time to shift your work in a new direction. You might also want to touch base with the other side, whispering your hopes to the wind, because the universe will look for ways to help you achieve such goals.
Luck will be on your side beginning when auspicious Jupiter enters Aries on the tenth. Use this opportunity to check in with your personal goals, because you’re sure to see growth wherever you put your energy over the next several months. For this reason, it’s important that you gravitate only toward positive people, experiences, and behaviors that can help elevate you to new heights.
May 20 marks the beginning of Gemini season, which will require you to go within as the cosmos ask you to sort through your psyche. Give yourself plenty of space to honor your deepest thoughts and feelings, especially if it has been a while since you spent some time alone. Unfortunately, these vibes could get a bit upsetting and cerebral if you aren’t gentle with yourself, so don’t hold back on your self-care should you find yourself in need of pampering.
Mars, your ruling planet, enters your sign on the evening of May 24, bringing a flurry of activity your way over the next several weeks. You should feel inspired, motivated, and passionate about your ambitions, making it an ideal time to start new projects and pursue your dreams relentlessly.
TAURUS
LEO
(April 20 - May 20)
(July 23 - August 22)
This will be an exciting month for you, dear Taurus, because the sun makes its way through your sign and brings attention and new activity your way. May 5 will feel particularly thrilling thanks to a cosmic alliance between the sun and revolutionary Uranus, which is bound to shake things up in your personal life. These vibes are ideal for going off-script, so don’t feel guilty if you opt for adventure over responsibility, if only for a day.
You’ll have cosmic support to build something solid in your professional life, dear Leo, because the Taurus sun activates your solar tenth house. This energy brings a lucrative and stabilizing energy to your career, helping you make steady headway toward your goals. However, this energy tends to move at a slower speed, so it will be important that you remain patient with each step. This is also a great time to work a little money magick around your income, so don’t hold back if you feel drawn to light a candle and make a wish.
The Scorpio full moon on the fifteenth brings intensity to your relationships, helping you connect with your partner or bestie in profound ways. However, these vibes could also put you in a private or secretive mood, causing you to pull away from your nearest and dearest. If you find yourself walking a solitary path during this lunar event, make sure you’re using the time to embrace self-love. Venus, your ruling planet, is cozied up to healing asteroid Chiron in the sector of your chart that rules the subconscious. This can act as a cosmic salve for whatever it is that’s ailing you internally.
The vibe shifts significantly as Gemini season emerges on May 20, amplifying your position within your communities. Use this energy to build up your connections, but don’t be afraid to share the wealth by linking any friends or colleagues you believe might benefit from the introduction. You might also feel inspired to invest in your neighborhood, choosing to support small businesses rather than give your hard-earned dollars to faceless megacorporations. Meanwhile, action planet Mars enters fiery Aries on the twenty-fourth, providing you with the motivation needed to implement any major changes you’ve been building up to.
You’ll feel a shift when the sun enters Gemini on May 20, activating the sector of your chart that governs finances, your sense of security, and the material realms.
GEMINI
VIRGO
(May 21 - June 20)
(August 23 - September)
This month could be an intriguing one for you, dear Gemini, because the Aries sun shines a light in the sector of your chart that governs secrets, revealing information that was once hidden. Even the subtlest of clues could crack open a mystery you’ve been struggling with, so be sure to pull at any threads that pique your interest or intuition. These sentiments could feel particularly pronounced when the sun cozies up to unpredictable Uranus on May 5. It could lead to moments of clarity that strike like lightning.
You can be a master manifester this month, dear Virgo, because the Taurus sun shines brightly in the sector of your chart that governs spirituality. These vibes can create a portal-like connection between you and the other side as the universe looks for ways to guide and support you. However, you’ll need to back up your dreams with any work required to achieve them. While the powers that be might send you the opportunities you ask for, you won’t see any actual payoff unless you can keep up with the responsibilities that inevitably come with every blessing.
Mercury, your ruling planet, enters its retrograde motion while traveling through your sign on the tenth, which is sure to leave you feeling a touch out of sorts. Watch out for low energy levels, brain fog, miscommunication, errors, and clumsiness now as the universe plagues you with some cosmic funk. Luckily, this energy will also give you full permission to reflect, providing an opportunity to tie up any loose ends in your personal life.
Unfortunately, this month won’t be without its tests, because your ruler Mercury heads retrograde on May 10. This planetary backspin could create issues in your professional life, plaguing your career path with new obstacles. Luckily, this energy can also present you with an opportunity to break patterns and learn from past mistakes, giving you a chance to overcome such hurdles. Survive this cosmic climate by staying centered, monitoring your stress levels, going early to the office, and proofreading every communication before sending it.
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LIBRA
CAPRICORN
(September 23 - October)
(December 22 - January 19)
This month could put you in a transactional headspace, sweet Libra, because the Taurus sun activates your solar eighth house. This cosmic climate won’t have you in the mood to mince words or play games, bringing out an uncharacteristic directness that could throw your loved ones and colleagues for a loop. Don’t feel guilty about stepping into your personal power, negotiating, or advocating for yourself, especially if you feel as though others haven’t been taking you seriously of late. Just try not to let a desire to cut to the chase take away from your ability to engage in pleasantries, since not everyone will be in the same place as you.
It’s okay to build yourself up right now, dear Capricorn, because the Taurus moon activates your solar fifth house, asking your ego to come out and play. While you’ll certainly gain a new appreciation for your capabilities and talents, these vibes also encourage you to nurture your existing interests. Take some time to reconnect with a creative outlet right now, because the universe is blessing you with inspiration and a desire to express yourself. Embracing your artistic side can offer healing and personal transformation, especially when the sun forms a supportive connection to Pluto, currently camped out in your sign, on May 19. While you’ll certainly be in a more free-spirited mood throughout Taurus season, you’ll notice a shift in your priorities when the sun enters Gemini on the twentieth. This solar placement can motivate you to achieve greatness, pushing you to bring steady organization to your daily routines. These vibes are also ideal for mapping out your path forward so you can break down your big picture into small, manageable steps. Just try not to put too much pressure on yourself, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Your heart will have plenty of room for romance and connection beginning when Jupiter enters Aries and the sector of your chart that governs love on May 10. Whether you’re dating or in a stable partnership, this planetary placement brings some sparkle to your aura, helping to breathe new life into your connections. These vibes can also strengthen any chemistry that exists between you and that special someone, and your charm and charisma can reach new heights. However, you should be cautious about rushing into a commitment just because someone sweeps you off your feet, no matter how tempting it might be.
May 25 could act as a powerful day for you as Mercury in the midst of its retrograde connects with Pluto. This cosmic climate is perfect for editing your work, helping you scrap ideas or details that are taking away from any professional or passion projects that are nearing completion. These vibes can also help you shed any people or behaviors that are no longer serving you, so don’t be afraid to metaphorically clean house.
A shift occurs as the sun makes its way into Gemini and the sector of your chart that governs spirituality on the twentieth.
SCORPIO
AQUARIUS
(October 23 - November)
(January 20 - February 18)
Get ready for a month full of love, luxury, and romance, dear Scorpio, because the Taurus sun activates the sector of your chart that governs matters of the heart. While this energy should bring more stability to your relationships, that doesn’t mean there won’t be a good dose of excitement to go along with it. Shocking gestures or declarations of love could find you when the sun cozies up to unpredictable Uranus while aspecting your passionate ruler Mars on May 5. Whether you’re in a committed relationship or looking for a hookup, you can bet that these steamy vibes will bring plenty of excitement to your day.
Your focus will be on domestic affairs this month, dear Aquarius, because the Taurus sun shines a light on your solar fourth house. These vibes are perfect for embracing luxury from the comfort of your own home, which could inspire more evenings in and perhaps a proper staycation. However, you might also feel drawn to freshening up your interior aesthetic, causing you to reach for a bucket of paint and some brushes. You’ll want to make sure to complete such projects before Mercury enters its retrograde on May 10, or you could end up regretting your decisions.
Creative inspiration will find you when Mars forms a cosmic alliance to dreamy Neptune on the seventeenth. Lean into your artistic side even if you don’t consider yourself a master crafter. Playing in your imagination is sure to bring you healing while giving your confidence a little boost. These vibes are also perfect for taking action toward your dreams because your efforts can transform fantasy into reality. Just remember to stay grounded and clearheaded in the process. Emotional investment in any given situation could cloud your judgment if you’re not careful.
Expansive Jupiter enters Aries and your sector of communication on the tenth, helping your voice grow in the coming months. For this reason, it will be particularly important that you avoid lies, gossip, or meanspirited comments. Your words could reach further than you imagine. Maintaining a positive attitude can help you make the most of this cosmic climate, though you should also take some time out to reconnect with your spiritual or philosophical studies. You’ll notice a shift when the sun makes its way into chatty Gemini on May 20, putting you in a more social mood. This solar placement encourages you to lean into your creative side, helping you bond with existing or new friends over shared interests. You’ll also find that new information and feeling intelligent bring a nice, healthy boost to your ego, making it a great time to recommit to any personal studies that have been dancing in the back of your mind recently.
You’ll begin to see your efforts elicit change beginning when the sun enters Gemini and your solar eighth house on May 20. This luminary placement asks you to cut ties with any people, situations, or behaviors that might be holding you back to help make space for the many blessings the universe is conspiring to bestow upon you.
SAGITTARIUS
PISCES
(November 22 - December)
(February 19 - March 20)
Though you’re known for your exuberance, sense of adventure, and fierceness, dear Sagittarius, you might want to slow things down this month. When the sun shines brightly in Taurus and your solar sixth house, the universe is pushing you to bring solid foundations to your daily routines, especially if you’ve been burning the candle at both ends. Use this cosmic climate as an opportunity to recommit to a more consistent schedule, which is sure to pay off in a boost to your efficiency, physical stamina, and mental well-being.
You’ll learn more easily through hands-on experiences this month, dear Pisces, because the Taurus sun brings a rush of activity to the sector of your chart that governs learning, communication, and curiosity. These vibes can inspire you to get your hands dirty when it comes to expanding your knowledge, especially if you have a mentor to help illuminate any new mental journeys you choose to go on. However, this energy moves at its own pace, so you’ll want to make sure to be patient with your progress.
You’ll feel invigorated by a renewed belief in yourself starting when your ruler Jupiter moves into fiery Aries on May 10. This planetary placement can take your image and artistic genius to new heights over the next several months, helping you find and use your voice while inspiring others to do the same. Just try not to abandon your grace in the process, and be aware of whether or not you’re maintaining a healthy ego.
Jupiter, the planet of luck and expansion, moves into Aries on May 10, helping you grow your wealth over the next several months. An increase to your prosperity is on the horizon, though you’ll need to be willing to take a few chances and say yes to opportunities. Be on the lookout for new work, career paths, or investments during this time, because the financial decisions you make right now are likely to pay off in big ways down the line. Mercury will be in the midst of its retrograde journey, so make sure you fully understand the terms of any new agreements you sign.
97 www.thetorontopages.com
HOMEWORK FOR GROWNUPS JUMBLED WORDS
TEST YOUR VOCABULARY
1. Which Middle-Eastern country is controversially set to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup? 2. Which British star of shows such as Broadchurch and Peep Show won the Academy Award for Best Actress in February 2019 for her role as Queen Anne in The Favourite? 3. Which British band was formed by former members of Joy Division following the tragic suicide of their lead singer, Ian Curtis in 1980? 4. An etymologist is someone who studies words. What is an entomologist a specialist in? 5. Which small Central American state was known officially as British Honduras until it was changed to its current name in 1973 - 8 years before it gained independence? 6. The explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark were aided in their survey of the Lousiana Purchase by which Native American woman of the Lemhi Shoshone tribe? 7. Which small European country's name is derived from the Venetian for "Black Mountain"? 8. What was the stage name of the legendary rock star born Farrokh Bulsara, on the island of Zanzibar in 1946? 9. Which Roman emperor moved the capital from Rome to the city previously known as Byzantium? 10. Which French striker holds the record for most goals scored in a single FIFA World Cup, from when he scored 13 goals in just 6 games at the 1958 tournament? 11. Alongside Buddhism, which indigenous religion is one of the most practiced faiths in Japan? 12. Fletcher is a professional surname, derived from individuals who plied their trade making what kind of items? 13. Liza Minnelli is the daughter of Vincente Minnelli and which famous American actress and singer of the mid-20th century? 14. The Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings are major North American franchises that compete at which sport? 15. The Flying Fox is a species of which airborne mammal? 16. The Rams, Chargers, Dodgers, Lakers and Clippers are all major sports teams based in which major American city? 17. China - the fourth largest country in the world spans how many separate time zones? 18. The capitals of Brazzaville and Kinshasa lie on opposite banks of which major African river? 19. From 1947 until its independence in 1971, which Asian country was known as East Pakistan? 20. Which singer has released hit albums named 19, 21, and 25, after the age at which she began writing the music for each?
Along with studying moral transgression, we should celebrate people who do the right thing when pressured to do wrong. In this sentence, right means:
a. perpendicular
c.
b. precise
d. honorable
opportune
Many times this word has something to do with what is good, proper, or correct, like the right thing to do. You can get the right answer to a question. You can be morally correct or "in the right." You can right a wrong by making up for an injustice. People have rights: in this country, we are guaranteed life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The first 10 Amendments to our Constitution are called the "Bill of Rights."
ANSWER: d. Right is a direction, the opposite of left. Most people are right-handed. Right is also correct: the opposite of wrong.
JUMBLED WORDS 1
S
I
2
T
H H C
3
D E
4
T H H C
5
M R
6
R
P E O A
R N O V
R
I
P
E
I
P N I
A
S
E
ANSWERS: 1.POISE, 2.HATCH, 3.VENDOR, 4.HITCH, 5.PRIMER, 6.SPRAIN
MATH CORNER Solve: 200 – (96 ÷ 4) A. 105 B. 176 C. 26 D. 16
ANSWERS: 1.Qatar, 2.Olivia Colman, 3.New Order, 4.Insects, 5.Belize, 6.Sacagawea, 7.Montenegro, 8.Freddie Mercury, 9.Constantine, 10.Just Fontaine, 11.Shinto, 12.Arrows, 13.Judy Garland, 14.Ice Hockey, 15.Bat, 16.Los Angeles, 17.1, 18.River Congo, 19.Bangladesh, 20.Adele
ANSWERS: B
98 MAY, 2022
