Winnie Czulinski –
This newspaper bridges several communities that may offer the perfect, meaningful, December-seasonal local gifts you seek. Such as:
Cabbagetown, Riverdale and Downtown small-batch honey (with local tasting notes) from Bee Local 416, founded in 2016 by Joseph Curry. “Our honeybee hives are kept in back yards and on rooftops in Toronto” and “cared for by urban registered beekeepers using sustainable organic methods.” https://www.beelocal416.ca/products/small-batch-toronto-neighbourhood-honey
Spirit of York craft whisky, gin and vodka from the heart of Toronto’s historic 180-year-old Distillery District. Also mixology, tours and tastings, and make-your-own-gin. The company dedicates 10 percent of profits to local/social cultural groups. 12 Trinity Street, Toronto ON M5A 3C4 https://spiritofyork.com/
First Métis Man of Odesa book, the real-life story of a love affair and marriage that transcended war, pandemic and an ocean. It reflects Cabbagetown couple Matthew MacKenzie and Mariya Khomutova’s much-loved play of the same name – a touring Canada-wide sensation. https://www.playwrightscanada.com/Books/F/First-Metis-Man-of-Odesa
St. John’s Bakery organic sourdough and sweet goodies, in South Riverdale. Award-winning non-profit social enterprise with bread made in the traditional French tradition. Also English muffins from a Goose Bay, Labrador recipe; ginger cookies, cream scones, jams, and more. 153 Broadview Avenue, Toronto, M4M 2E9. See website for other retail locations. https://www.stjohnsbakery.com/
The Mother of all Degrassi, a memoir by TV producer Linda Schuyler, who created a Downtown East Toronto empire of hip, hard-hitting and heartwarming young-people’s TV series. Published by ECW Press in Riverdale; book proceeds go to Kids Help Phone. https://ecwpress.com/products/mother-of-all-degrassi
Regent Park Sewing Studio handmade items: Dresses, bags, masks, eyeglass cases, laptop cases, fabric coffee filters, custom orders, re-creations, etc. Fashion shows and sales. Skills learned at this sewing initiative lead to employment, small businesses and design careers. For items and updates: https://www.instagram.com/regentparksewingstudio/ For orders: [email protected]
