Bells On Bloor

Last Saturday, I joined about a thousand other cyclist for the Bike Lanes on Bloor, aka Bells on Bloor.



We got a pep talk from one of the organizers, and the owner of Sweet Pete's Cycle Shop, who donated bicycle bells to all those in need.

We started at the entrance to High Park, and pedalled our way east along Bloor Street towards the downtown core.


The reason for this ride is to bring to the attention of everyone, that this street is in need of bike lanes.
Everyone was very supportive along the way...they waved, honked and some even clapped as we passed. 
It was very a empowering day ride.
Many cyclists joined in along the way, and I think the numbers may have doubled by the time we reached Spadina.


Since as early as 1990, Bloor Street has been designated by cycling organizations, and their advocates as a prime candidate for bike lanes.
It's the perfect route - being long, flat and parallel to the subway. But it is not a very safe route. I personally have had some close calls with drivers on this route. So much so that most times, now I will opt for another route, a back alley, even a park, or a parking lot.

Spacing Magazine

On Tuesday of this week Spacing Magazine held a launch party for their first ever National Issue.


Now this publication has been around since 2003, and has, in the past, focused on public spaces, pedestrians, art and transit in Toronto.

The Creative Director/Publisher, Matthew Blackett explains that they decided to publish more about what's happening in other cities across Canada.

With this issue they have done an in-depth ranking of the top 100 public spaces in Canadian cities.

The party was held in the old Toronto Stock Exchange building on Bay Street, which now houses the Design Exchange.

I decided to attend this function, at the last moment, but I found it more interesting to look at the dresses worn by the late Princess Diana.

I also picked up a program guide while roaming around (our access was limited to the third floor).

There is, of course, tours, exhibits and workshops, as well as a museum.

There is even a Special Events room on the restored Trading Floor for weddings and such.With its 40 foot ceilings and grand staircase, it would be a great venue for someone with a lot of money.

The Toronto Stock Exchange, Trading Floor, picture is courtesy of the City of Toronto Archives, Series 1057, Item 461.

In October, the DX will be hosting "Canstruction", which by the way is FREE!

This is a design/build competition, where engineering and architectural firms create structures that are built entirely out of canned and packaged food to benefit the Daily Bread Food Bank.