Miss Elizabeth's Ghost

School of Rap

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:59:00 +0000

If L.L. Cool J is the “professor, the teacher, the hip hop dean” then he must standing before a classroom of Midwest college students. According to CNN, McNally Smith College of Music in St. Paul, Minnesota is the very first to offer a diploma in Hip Hop. That’s right! The classes combine hands on music and textbook history lessons in a three-semester course. Toki Wright and DJ Freddy Fresh are among two of the instructors teaching this years accredited diploma program.

All I can picture is a classroom full of kids reading Ego Trip’s Book of Rap Lists and cramming for a pop quizzle. All jokes aside though, if KRS-One’s Temple of Hip Hop can be officially accepted by the United Nations as a culture, well there’s no reason why we can’t study it like one.

Instructor Toki Wright (left) and hip hop Columnist Davey D. (right) at the program kick-off ceremony in June.

Diego's Horror Corner: 80's

noreply@blogger.com (Jillian) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 20:18:00 +0000

I'm pleased to present the long-awaited 1980's addition to Diego's Horror Corner by Diego Bergia

There's something special about the 80's, I spent the ages of 3 to to 12 in them. I was in the prime of my youth renting dusty VHS boxes filled with saturated red gore and gratuitous nudity shots. It was such a rush running back to a friends house to watch them cause my parents wouldn't let me get near anything rated R. The horror films early on in this decade were the 1970's continued, and you'll see nothing on my list is past 1984. There were lots of good one past that point, but to be honest near the end they got too campy.

MANIAC (1980)
In this urban slasher, Frank Zito is a serial killer stalks pretty women in grimey New York City. He uses their scalps to dress up female mannequins he keeps in his apartment, something about an abusive mother I think. This movie is pretty much perfect. Frank Zito is so effing amazing.

THE SHINING (1980)
I often wish David Lynch would make a horror movie, or Alejandro Jodorowski, Lars Van Trier just did. These guys have insane visions and I'd consider them artists before filmmakers. Anyway, if Stanley Kubrick never made The Shining, he'd be on that list too. Except he did make it. [note from Jill: agreed 100%]

SLEEPAWAY CAMP (1983)
If somebody hasn't already spoiled the ending for you yet, go out and rent it without telling anyone. It is the best summer camp slasher movie ever made, filled with great kills and amazing non-politically correct humour that disappeared in movies with the end of the 80's.

FRIDAY THE 13TH PART 4 - THE FINAL CHAPTER (1984)
Friday the 13th movies are like comfort food to me, like chicken soup and grilled cheese. I feel so cozy and safe watching them. This is the ultimate Friday movie to me because of a few things: Crispin Glover (The Man), Corey Feldman (right before Goonies) and Tom Savini (make-up and fx master). This is also near the end of the "strings" era, when the musical score was still awesome.

A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET (1984)
In my group of friends, you're either a Freddy man or a Jason man. I'm a Jason man, but there's no right answer. This first Nightmare movie is amazing and scary, nowhere near where the franchise went after a sequel or two. I would even go as far as saying that on it's own, it might be better than any Friday movie. The thing is, Friday movies are solid 1 through 6. Nightmare I'll only give you 1 though 3. That's basically why I'm a Jason man.

HONORABLE MENTIONS:
THE THING, FRIDAY 1, POLTERGEIST, THE BURNING, DAY OF THE DEAD, DEMONS, THE HITCHER.

"Flags Are Bullshit"

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 15:40:00 +0000

Or so says skate legend Steve Olson when talking about his art show at Sleeping Giant Gallery this past Friday.

Jillian and I arrived on the scene bombarded by loud music, a handful of skaters and a wall of pleather and faux fur American and Canadian Flags. Intrigued by these S & M ish national symbols we were eager to get the deets from the artist himself.

In his west-coast-half-baked kinda way Steve agreed to chat and snap a few photos. In between drags of his smoke he let me in on the meaning behind his flag pieces. At first glance one may only see gold pleather and leopard print faux fur before noticing the political implications of these works. According to Olson flags have been used to 'rip us off' and 'brainwash us' through ideologies and nationalism. In a sense you could say he's 'making fun' of the political machine and revealing it as nothing more then a guise. (Or a burlesque show).

Aside from talking about art he was stoked to be in Toronto as it was his first time chillin' in Hog Town. To show his appreciation he made a series of Canadian flags. I wonder what Harper would think? Either way I could tell this seasoned vet was prepared to show Toronto a good time. No doubt his weekend was going to be one filled with cigarettes, whiskey, and maybe a couple of babes!

Steve Olson's first Canadian exhibit is on until September 17th at Sleeping Giant Gallery. Check it out and let us know what you think.

Image Credit: Jillian B.

The Burnout Store

noreply@blogger.com (Jillian) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 20:31:00 +0000

Where else can you pick up an ice-cold case of summer?

Straight Up Coffee Talk

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 17:26:00 +0000

When I wake up in the morning the first thing I do is brew a cup of joe. Usually some of that dark roast business that is sure to wake me up. Without it I tend to be like Jack Nicholson in The Shining = Scary. So when I leave my house I have to think about the next coffee spot I'm going to hit before things get a little dicey.

One Saturday afternoon I stumbled upon the Communal Mule on Dundas. It's your typical independent cafe but for me this place stood out. They treat their coffee and espresso as if it were fine wine. They describe the various characteristics of different batches and recommend a different brew depending on your taste. Attention has been put into every detail of the place and that counts more to me then a formulated chain.

Grab an Americano then stroll to Bellwoods for a relaxing day in the park. I promise you won't be disappointed.

Recession Proof Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 17:15:00 +0000

Some people think it takes money to have fun and do you know what I say to that? Hula Hoop! That's right that big round plastic thing that you spin around your waist. It's fun and it's like a buck at Honest Eds.

Hula Hoop parties are where it's at! To learn more check out this Snuggies hula hoop party.

Peter Bagge - for the person who has everything

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 14:49:00 +0000

We've been obsessing over Peter Bagge's Hate comics all summer. So when our good friends Robin Nishio and Olivia Go came back from Japan with presents, and they were Peter Bagge toys I pretty much awarded them the friendship championship belt. Are these toys cooler than the time Robin bought like 5 pizza from Gi Gi and had them delivered in time for post party hangouts? Or are they more sweet then when Olivia made Diego delicious granola bars wrapped and tied with a ribbon for his birthday? Maybe not, but the point is: our friends are solid.

Thanks Robin and Olivia!

Captain John's Seafood

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 13:50:00 +0000

You know Captain John's Seafood, that big ship restaurant down by the harbor front? You've probably seen it a million times and wondered what kind of cheesy tourist would dine there. If you google it's name you'll find a bevy of horrible reviews.

For example, "Avoid Captain John's at all costs. This place is awful - literally the worst food I've ever had", and "Captain John's - quite possibly the worst restaurant in Toronto, with staff who appear to be indentured. An aging floating party boat offering ineptly prepared frozen seafood to tourists who don't know any better."

Despite the criticism we decided to skip the food and do Sunday evening cocktails on the decrepit floating Wes Anderson set.

I recommend the gin martini. Although, the waiter handled a wrinkled up $10 bill before fishing out two olives from a fruit fly infested plastic jar and plopping them in my drink, it was really boozy, and a good value. Besides, I had low expectations for the service and high expectations for the weirdness. I was not disappointed.

TGIF - Happy Pictures

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 21:14:00 +0000

I Scream for Nouvelle Nouvelle

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 20:02:00 +0000

Some may scream for ice cream, while I scream for hot summer fashion. In between coffee breaks and busy lives I frequent Nouvelle Nouvelle, virtually that is. Their blog is updated frequently and has me mouth watering on the regular.

To peep this post hit up the link above. When you do you'll love the red hot skirt by Velvet Leaf and zip bikini top by Cheap Monday!

Garbage Take Over

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 03:12:00 +0000

In response to Jillian's most recent post I thought I would share a picture I snapped last weekend. If you were cruisin' down Spadina around midnight like I was, then you would probably agree that this was quite the sight.

Toronto rules minus when the city workers go on strike!

oh messy life

noreply@blogger.com (Jillian) — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 06:59:00 +0000

How disgusting our city has become. Here's to resolving the garbage strike before Toronto's rats give birth. Yuck.

ending soon- 3D film fest

noreply@blogger.com (Jillian) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 17:43:00 +0000

3D films are experiencing a rebirth with the success of Up and a wagonload of animated flicks following suit. Why not see classics the same way? Canada's oldest and greatest theatre, The Fox, began it's 3D Film Fest on the 17th with House of Wax and Friday the 13th. With a choice selection of movies, there's no reason not to check one out after a picnic in the Beaches.

If you haven't caught the first few days, here's the schedule. There's still hope!

I choose you, Micachu!

noreply@blogger.com (Jillian) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 20:01:00 +0000

Brittany and I hit up the Micachu and the Shapes show last week at the El Mocambo. It was exactly what I'm used to hearing from Mica- pinging noises, gravely english-english and cutesy lyrics with a little hard guitar. Afterwards, the band told us they were headed to one of our top spots: Ronnie's patio.

I've been trying to persuade everyone to listen to her since the new year and now is the time. Peep this video of them playing "Lips"

TGIF Tribute - Miss Elizabeth

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 16:19:00 +0000

While pondering the weekends activities, I asked myself WWMED. Well, personally I think she would probably kick some serious ass, wear some unbelievable kit, and make every chick jealous that she was married to Randy Savage. OK, he's a bit loony for me, but c'mon they are by far the coolest celebrity couple. And his proposal to the lovely Miss Elizabeth is so mind blowingly romantic, I can't even handle it! If my man proposed to me like this, I'd probably be a mess of tears and yeses! Check it out for yourself!

perfect summer food - 1959

noreply@blogger.com (Jillian) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 15:00:00 +0000

Oh hi guys!
Found this hilarious section on summer recipes in an old ladymag and thought I'd share.

But seriously, wanna get to the good stuff? I've been coordinating bike rides around the City of Toronto farmer's market schedule to make sure fruit salads and stirfries stay in high supply. Leave that cheese sauce on the shelf.

NXNE - Black Lips w/ The King Khan & BBQ Show at the Amsterdam Brewery

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 17:20:00 +0000

By far one of the best shows I've ever been to. Two of my favorite bands came together to make a rainy Wednesday in June, one to remember. Apparently they have a new album coming out, and well, I can't wait!!! The show was held at the Amsterdam Brewery with free admission and free pints to boot. I'm not kidding, FREE BEER!!!!! It was somewhat of a gong show, but by the end it was well worth it! The space is amazing, and I suggest heading there the next time they throw a party/show.

This was a collaboration a long time comin', and as Jill was lucky enough to hear them perform 'Too Much in Love' at Dundas Square, it was this song that got the crowd in a frenzy at the brewery.

If you were lucky enough to see them at either or both events, I hope you had as much fun as I did!!

Soul Food - Tuesday Night Dinner Dates

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 17:10:00 +0000

I'm totally over making typical mid-week meals. It's not hard to make something as basic as chicken into a gourmet feast, with a glass of vino, and some candles. For me, food is more then just feeding my hunger, it's about awesome hangouts and great company!

Last Nights Recipe:

PC Free Range Large Chicken Breasts

Stuffed with PC Sundried Tomatoes, Kalamata Olives, and PC Goatscheese

Cooked for 35 Minutes

Topped with Warmed PC Bruschette Mix

Grilled Red Peppers, Zucchini, and Garlic Mash

It was a complete success!!! Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

Ronnie's 069 -- Best Patio, Best Crew, Best Memories

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 14:28:00 +0000

It seems that every time the snow melts in Toronto, and things get a little warmer people flock to the patio's. Whether it's Future's Cafe on Bloor,or Sweaty Betty's back patio, or my personal fave Ronnie's Local 069.

The sign says it's been there since 1958, suggesting over 40 years of patio hang outs. Over the years some pretty rad people have graced this retro establishment. Two summer's ago when the Hulk was being shot actor Tim Roth frequented the place. He's pretty awesome, especially in Four Rooms and Reservoir Dogs, obviously. But aside from celebrities occasionally stopping in for a brew, it's just an all around great place to chill with friends. It's consistent in it's awesomeness and undeniably the best patio in the city!

Now I'm sure we could debate where the best patio is, but let's be serious for a minute. What other bar will let you order food and have it delivered to you while you're catching rays and slingin' pints? That's right, Ronnie's Local 069! Ok, I know there's some others but everything is location. It's in the heart of the city and close to everything.

It's the place where hours slip away, day turns into night, and good times and memories keep adding up! *sigh* I love you Ronnie's.

Summer.

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 02:38:00 +0000

I know, I know, it's been a minute.

My excuse?

The summer sunk her teeth in.

Drained dry, not a drop of juice to blog with.

However, I did take pictures.

Let's get caught up old friends.

A fist fight fell on my foot.

Home-wrecking girls at NXNE minimalist art parties.

I make the capital liquid.

Ferocious forest dweller.

Rod Barahas is the ghetto bird.

Canadiana.

Sir Greek and Sir Sub is now open.

Shout out to cupcakes and Jeff.

yea yea yea

noreply@blogger.com (Jillian) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 15:27:00 +0000

Finally caught up on all that forgone sleep of NXNE weekend? The city was taken over by great bands and parties, last call was forgotten (shouldn't it be?) and you likely forgot something important in one of the million cab rides.

Relive Black Lips and King Khan at Y&D square!

Fireflies and Father's Day

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:29:00 +0000

Top 10 Reasons Why June 21st Ruled:
10. It was the first day of summer!

09. It was Father's Day!

08. I came home for the weekend!

07. Ate my Mom's home cooking!

06. Bought my Dad his favorite beer!

05. Mowed the lawn!

04. BBQ!

03. Went to a Flea Market!

02. Drove through the countryside!

01. Watched fireflies flicker on and off with my Dad!

how the East end [dinner] parties

noreply@blogger.com (Jillian) — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 17:01:00 +0000

drinks: Micro brews; whomever is sipping the most off-putting name wins (Hobgoblin). Club soda with lime cordial.

hors: A hunk of whatever was steaming hot at Brick Street and can be dipped in oil. Something wriggly from T&T supermarket. Miso soup.

entrée: Fancy platter from Sushi Marché, with oysters and heavy on the sashimi.

dessert: Usually a walk to Ed's Real Scoop... but this time strawberry rhubarb from The Pie Shack ("Keep your fork dude, there's pie!" = best slogan) with a scoop of PC Organics vanilla. Cranberry-apple tea from Pippins.

converstaion topics: The vitality of the island airport. Various "best patio" columns and snubbed patios alike. Next weekend's ribfest at Woodbine Park... are you bringing your father?

shots:

This week in food: 011

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 13:19:00 +0000

What's better than chilling outdoors on a spacious apartment patio in Little Italy, tons of good food, solid crew, and a couple of cold brews?... Maybe like, jumping into a waterfall or holding your newborn child. But that's it.

Our friends Rob and Marie hosted the third official barbeque of the summer, here's a taste.

Jon brought marinated steak despite already having put in a full days work of cooking for patrons and pay. He persisted on to bring us a bounty of succulent steak sandwiches.

What's a picnic without fried chicken?

This is the only time of the year you get mangos at 3 for $5. Make of the most of it salsa.

A potato salad styled after the beloved Aunties & Uncles breakfast option.

Shredded daikon sprinkled with sesame seeds, accompanied by miso dressing.

With a generous spread of whole grain mustard. Very masculine.

Marie's trifle was much anticipated.

Wanda's Pie In The Sky, apricot.

Suffice to say were were stuffed.

Tree or Bush?

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:37:00 +0000

Bush.