October 6, 2010

MILLENIUM PARK AND CENTRAL LOOP

{The Eye: Chicago - an installation by Tony Tasset is a three story replica of his own eye}


{The Legendary Chicago Picasso}


The one thing that I truly loved about Chicago was their open art spaces. The art itself was very contemporary with an industrial feel, ranging from the Chicago Picasso by Pablo Picasso (duh!) to the random gigantic eyeball  The Eye: Chicago  by Toni Tassel. Of course, let’s not forget about the infamous Cloud Gate by Anish Kappor (found at the AT&T plaza at millennium park). More commonly known as “the bean,” a stainless steel sculpture that reflects the Chicago skyline and entertains tourist and locals alike, who photograph their reflections.


{Cloud Gate by Anish Kappor}


{Chicago Girls making memories}


THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO


{That's right! The Art Institute of Chicago has free admission on Thursday evenings}


The Art institute of Chicago, outside of Paris, boasts one of the best collections of Impressionist and Post Impressionist works. If you adore Degas’ ballerinas and love rebellious Van Gogh, you must devote a couple of hours to this place. There's also a big section on American Art and a new site-specific installation by Jitish Kallat titled Public Notice 3 on the stairway going to the second floor.


 { Public Notice 3 connects two important world events - the First World Parliament of Religions
held on September 11, 1893, and the terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center
and the Pentagon on that very date, 108 years later}

{ The LED screens display a speech delivered by Swami Vivekananda
in which he talks about the evolution of religious tolerance/ intolerance}

If art spaces are the soul of the city, then Chicago has a lot of soul and you will be inspired at every corner you turn!

Tomorrow: What to Eat & Where to Party (I go off the beaten path)

Flippin' Funny Show Recap

Posted by Toronto Girl 5 comments
August 30, 2010


On Saturday I had the pleasure of witnessing  the legendary Flippin' Funny Show at the Court House, put on by the producers of The Most Races Show on Earth. It was hilarious from start to finish! A big congratulations goes out to Neil, Keith, Kevin, Ron and Joey for putting on a show that will go down in the history books.   

Pictures taken by Patrick Estebar.

{All in court}


{Pretty Funny}

{Good looking folks everywhere}


{The hilarious Joey Guila}

Lexus Live @ The Distillery

Posted by Toronto Girl 3 comments
August 28, 2010


I have never been seduced by a car, that is, until I met the Lexus CT 200h. I can't talk much about the car, I am no expert, but it is a good-looking car and it's a hybrid. A pretty luxurious hybrid too. I hear that hybrids are all the rage in the auto world.

What I can really talk about is the show that The Stills put on. The show was high energy and the crowd was super enthusiastic. Everyone was dancing and having a great time!

Here are some of the pictures:


{Lexus is bringing sexy back}


{The Stills - rockin' the Distillery District }


{Toronto Girls enjoying the show}


{These Toronto Girls are super stylish ;) } 


 {The crowd}

{And then the night came, but the party was far from over}


So now you know what you're doing today! You're welcome :)


A special thank you goes out to the gals at Rock-It Promo for throwing a great party and inviting us!



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Working For the Weekend

Posted by Toronto Girl 0 comments
August 26, 2010


Many, many exciting things happening this weekend Toronto Girls! And most of them are Free (or under $20).

Lexus Live @ The Distillery



Lexus is launching the sexy CT 200h hybrid and to celebrate they are hosting a series of free concerts at the Distillery District.
Friday, August 27
7:00pm - The Stills
Saturday, August 28
Noon - Lily Frost
5pm - The Midway State
Sunday, August 29
3pm - The Paper Lions


Scotiabank BuskerFest @ St. Lawrence Market Neighbourhood




Known as one of the largest and most exciting busker festivals in the world, BuskerFest will be happening from Thursday, August 26 to Sunday, August 29.  For Schedule Click here.
The event this year features new acts, a "Magic Corner" and the Sultan's Tent - a celebration of Morocco (and since I didn't get to go this year, I will be sure to check it out).


Flippin' Funny Comedy Show



On Saturday night I will laugh my ass off (or LMAO) to the funniest, edgiest and cutest Filipino Comedians.
Read more about it here.
P.S - At the beginning of the month I posted that I would be giving away a pair of tickets. I will announce the winner at 5pm (ish) today. I just need to get through all the e-mails. I am working on it :)



One more day people, one more day!
August 21, 2010


My friend and I headed to The Ossington for the third annual Havana Cultura festival on Friday night. They had a DJ playing hot salsa in the front room  and a band in the red-lit back room. I was impressed by the decor and atmosphere of the place. It was very laid back and unpretentious. This is the kind of lounge that I can see myself at every Friday night.


{The Ossington}


{Mojitos}


{The Band was playing Afro-Cuban Music}


{Afro-Cuban Dancers}


{The Crowd}

The last chance to enjoy Havana Cultura is Sunday night. For schedule click here.



Coming Soon: Havana Cultura

Posted by Toronto Girl 0 comments
August 17, 2010


When it's really hot outside I sit on my front porch, close my eyes and pretend I am in Cuba. The cars passing by are the melodic waves crashing on the ocean, the neighbour's garden hose splashes me once in a while to add authenticity to my scenario. I sit there and sip my mojito. I could do this for hours.


{ Cuban Mojito from La Havana}

Political opinions aside, Cuba's amazing history and culture that have inspired many talents around the world. It was actually in Cuba where I got bitten by the travel bug and fell in love with Latin dance. Don't you want to fall in love too? Lucky for you, the Havana Cultura Festival is on this weekend from August 19-22 at various locations.  Enjoy some delectable Cuban food, dance to the beat of the Cuban Son and hip-hop and learn how to prepare a mojito that will be the hit of every party.

{photo courtesy of Havana Cultura}

For event schedule click here.

GIVE AWAY TIME!!!!

Posted by Toronto Girl 2 comments
August 13, 2010


"You can fake an orgasm but you can't fake laughter" - Bob Dylan

("Omg! this show is HILARIOUS!" photo courtesy of mrsoe)


A good comedy show never disappoints. With that said, I have something special for you. I will be giving away two tickets to see the hilarious Flippin’ Funny on Saturday August 28. This comedy show is brought to you by the same team who produced the always sold-out “The Most RACES Show on Earth!

To win the pair of tickets, just let me know who makes you laugh the most and why? It could be your best friend, a co-worker or someone famous such as Chris Rock or Will Ferrell.

Tweet: @togrlchronicles (enter a name) makes me laugh because (whatever reason) #flippinfunnyshow
Or email me at: torontogirlchronicles@gmail.com You can do both to increase your chances.

A random winner will be chosen on August 25.

Here's a clip of Joey Guila - one of the comedians performing on Flippin’ Funny


August 11, 2010

If I am giddy with excitement today, it can only be because of two things: 1) A free movie (featuring Johnny Depp) , 2) Chocolate!

Yes, the audience choice for the final movie on the Longo's Free Flicks @ The Harbourfront is Chocolat (say with a French accent), starting a very (very) sexy Johnny Depp. If you ask me,  Chocolate + Johnny Depp = Perfect Chick-flick = Perfect Wednesday Night.

Oh! and the movie is also very good. Watch the trailer:


In honour of the movie I made some low-fat but still delicious chocolate truffles. The secret is in omitting the cream and butter and replacing it with honey. You also have two options. You can add coffee to add some kick, or you can add rum if you want to make it fun. A truffle or two are sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings.


INGREDIENTS
1 Bar (200g) of organic dark chocolate (70% cocoa or more)
1/4 cup of strong black coffee (substitute for rum if you wanna have fun)
2 tablespoons of acacia honey
Cocoa powder, to dust (you can also use sprinkles or coconut chunks)

 METHOD
(based on the recipe found on the book Cook Yourself Thin)
  1. Melt your chocolate gently in a large bowl over a pan of boiling water until it liquefies.
  2. Slowly add coffee (or rum*) and stir to mix. The consistency of the chocolate will thicken. Then add honey, mixing it slowly until the consistency becomes smooth.
  3. Put in the Fridge for about 30 minutes at most. You want it nearly solid but not frozen.
  4. Remove from fridge and with a melon scooper scrape out little chocolate balls. Cover with cocoa powder or your topping of choice.


* if you're adding alcohol to the chocolate it has to be at room temperature. If it's not it  will upset the chocolate, and the last thing you need is grumpy chocolate.

Do You Like to Laugh?

Posted by Toronto Girl 4 comments
August 6, 2010


So do I! I attended the last MRSOE at it was super hilarious. My abs still hurt! Need I say more?
Check this out:


The producers from the Most RACES Show On Earth (mrsoe) are putting together another amazing show! Get ready to laugh for two hours straight (I'm not joking!). Flippin' Funny features the funniest and edgiest Filipino comedians across North America. These guys know how to put on an entertaining show. I highly recommend Flippin' Funny!

“First and foremost, expect a hilarious show; these comedians are extremely funny,” said Neil Bansil, creator and producer. “Flippin’ Funny will definitely have an urban feel to it as all the comics were born in Canada or the U.S. Although the show appeals to Filipinos born here, many others will relate because Toronto is such a multicultural city. They either have Filipino friends or grew up in a household where their parents came from another country.”


{These people are having a good time -  Photo courtesy of MRSOE}

Tickets are $20.00 or $18.00 for groups of six or more ( great excuse to round up the gang, don't you think?). For tickets, please visit www.ticketweb.com. Tickets are almost sold out, so do it now!

To watch funny clips click here.

AUGUST BUCKET LIST

Posted by Toronto Girl 4 comments
August 3, 2010


August is here. You know what that means! I won't even dare type it...

What I will dare type though, is my bucket list for the lovely month of August. Hopefully it will inspire you to take advantage of the lovely weather and enjoy Toronto to the max!



Pig out at "A Taste of the Danforth" (August 6-8 on Danforth from Broadview to Jones)
This annual Greek festival is know for its amazingly delicious food, but this year they are adding at little somethin' somethin'.  I am really looking forward to Dancing on the streets at 4pm, August 7. Click here for details.

Watch a Waitress at The Harbourfront Centre (Aug. 4, 11 on the Sirus Stage @ 9pm)
Waitress (playing August 4th) is an endearing story about a girl who escapes her reality by baking cakes and naming them after a life event. Bonus: a happy ending.

Attend the Dusk Dances (Various locations)
Year after year I hear great things about this showcase and this year I am making a point of going. Past performances have included Afro-Brazilian dance, Flamenco and Contemporary dance. If you are into seeing new things (which, you are) then come on out (which you will!) For complete schedule click here.

Enjoy Romeo and Juliet at High Park ( Through Sept. 5, Tuesday -Sunday @ 8pm)
As suggested by the event's website, you can bring a picnic and enjoy a quality theatre production with quality friends.  This is not only a timeless summer time tradition but also a must-see classic.


If you have any other suggestions, you know what to do. Leave a comment!

The Caribana Parade MADNESS

Posted by Toronto Girl 4 comments
August 1, 2010


Despite the gloominess of the day the Caribana parade managed to brighten up the Lakeshore with the jumping music and colourful costumes. De vibe is definitely something to be experienced! As soon as I walked into the Exhibition Place I could hear the the beat of music and I just wanted to dance. Once you're inside the parade it's like being in another wild world. You bump into array of characters jumping and waving...such a great time :)

Check out the pictures:

{Colourful, smiling Toronto Gyals}

{Big up to my girl for carrying around a 200 lbs float all day}


{The Blue Devil was a party animal}

{Playin' Mas and lookin' pretty}

{Mad crazy party, whistles and all}



Wanna see more crazy pictures? Check out our facebook page! Do it NOW!
July 31, 2010


In an effort to get immersed in the Caribbean culture and to prep for today's Caribana, my gal pals and I hit the Harbourfront Centre's Island Soul Festival on Friday evening. The event featured dancers, bands and amazingly delicious food. Everyone was having a great time! This makes me oh-so-excited for my first Caribana ever!!!

Island Soul is running until August 2nd (it's August already?!?). For a full schedule click here. Did I mention it was free?

Here are some of the pictures:

{The band playing at the Sirus Stage had the crowd pumped -The energy in the place was amazing!}


{"Push your butt" - surprisingly the ladies were into it - why not? }


{The Caliente Dance Crew keeping it hot}


{Toronto Girl enjoying the festivities}


{My advice: try the jerk chicken. This one was better than my "edible" version}

Looking forward to the feelin' de vibe at Caribana today- Stayed tuned for my pictures and anecdotes!

July 30, 2010





 {Photo courtesy of Caribanatoronto.com}


There are many exciting events taking place in Toronto this weekend, but none as exciting as the Caribana Parade. What is the Caribana Parade you ask? It's the largest and most colourful celebration of Caribbean culture in North America.  Come for the music, come for the costumes, come for the vibe, it's a guaranteed good time!

Whether you're playin' MAS or watching from the sidelines, here are a couple of survival tips:

1) Sleep well the night before to get ready for a super fun day! Who are we kidding, you`re probably going to all the cool parties the night before.

2) Over a million people are expected to show up at this year's festivities, so if at all possible, arrive early. (Again, this might not happen)

3) Take the TTC. We all know how ridiculous parking can get at these events. I`ve seen lots charge up to $30. Talk about milking it...

4) If you're going to "Jump up!" you better wear comfortable shoes. The parade starts 10 am and ends at 6pm. Stiletto heels will kill you.

5) The Weather forecast on Saturday calls for 31 degrees, with a 10% chance of rain. So pack the sunscreen and pack the umbrella. Although in my opinion, there is nothing sexier than dancing in the rain *wink*

6) Bring a reusable water bottle, some band-aids (for blisters), your camera and your friends. Dance around, jump up and all that good stuff.


{Are you ready for the Caribana Weekend?}


***Check back with us on Saturday for more pictures and anecdotes of the Parade***

Capoeira in the Streets

Posted by Toronto Girl 1 comments
July 3, 2010


I was walking along Bloor Street and I came across this Capoeira (pronounced Cap-oh-air-ah) dance circle. It was a big group, with members of different ages, genres and nationalities, just having fun on a sunny afternoon. Although I've heard that it is mostly a male dominated dance, I must point out that the ladies were kicking butt!

So what is Capoeira? It is an Afro-Brazilian folk dance using martial arts movements. It was developed in the 1500's  by the indigenous and black slaves in Brazil as a form of self expression and self-defence. It requires a great amount of endurance, flexibility and awareness to re-enact these fight scenes. The whole point is to avoid getting kicked and punched, while showing off some air flips and high kicks. All this is done to the sound of drums and claps.












 

Definitely something I'll be adding to that bucket list.  To learn more about Capoeira click HERE.

Invest + Power = ACHIEVE

Posted by Toronto Girl 0 comments

{Melanie & David Miller}


{ Toronto Rappers  -Pierre and RC}


{Melanie owning the stage}


{Mayor David Miller & Hipsters}


{Melanie Fiona & beautiful Toronto Girls}

Last night Mayor David Miller and Grammy Nominated (also nicest/ coolest Toronto Girl in the world) Melanie Fiona hosted “Invest + Power = ACHIEVE” a celebration of our youth and our neighbourhoods. Local Rappers, mural artists, and politicians gathered to talk about the importance of giving our youth opportunities to develop their talents and go somewhere. Toronto is a hot spot for talent, but talent is not everything when it comes to success. Some of these kids for one reason or another, lack opportunities and it’s great to learn that there are organizations out there dedicated to giving our youth opportunities to grow that talent and succeed beyond anyone’s expectations.



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