Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Disney Star Wars

The Star Wars Empire has been sold to Disney for over $4 Billion. I hope Disney locks some of those episodes away in their vaults. The new Episode 7 is planned for release in 2015 with George Lucas taking the part of creative consultant in the upcoming films.
Disney World even holds Star Wars Weekends which "is an annual special event at Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park that celebrates the legendary Star Wars saga and the animated television series, Star Wars: The Clone Wars. On select weekends in spring 2013, you can join celebrities and characters for special shows, panels, presentations and more!"

Here is part of the Disney news release: "Burbank, CA and San Francisco, CA, October 30, 2012 – Continuing its strategy of delivering exceptional creative content to audiences around the world, The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS) has agreed to acquire Lucasfilm Ltd. in a stock and cash transaction. Lucasfilm is 100% owned by Lucasfilm Chairman and Founder, George Lucas.

Under the terms of the agreement and based on the closing price of Disney stock on October 26, 2012, the transaction value is $4.05 billion, with Disney paying approximately half of the consideration in cash and issuing approximately 40 million shares at closing. The final consideration will be subject to customary post-closing balance sheet adjustments.

"Lucasfilm reflects the extraordinary passion, vision, and storytelling of its founder, George Lucas," said Robert A. Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company. "This transaction combines a world-class portfolio of content including Star Wars, one of the greatest family entertainment franchises of all time, with Disney's unique and unparalleled creativity across multiple platforms, businesses, and markets to generate sustained growth and drive significant long-term value."

"For the past 35 years, one of my greatest pleasures has been to see Star Wars passed from one generation to the next," said George Lucas, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lucasfilm. "It's now time for me to pass Star Wars on to a new generation of filmmakers. I've always believed that Star Wars could live beyond me, and I thought it was important to set up the transition during my lifetime. I'm confident that with Lucasfilm under the leadership of Kathleen Kennedy, and having a new home within the Disney organization, Star Wars will certainly live on and flourish for many generations to come. Disney's reach and experience give Lucasfilm the opportunity to blaze new trails in film, television, interactive media, theme parks, live entertainment, and consumer products."

You can find plenty of twitter mashups, like these babies.....
"Honey, I blew up the deathstar
These aren't the dwarves you're looking for
The lightsaber in the stone
Goofy, I am your Father"


Halloween and ComiCON

Halloween in the Middle Ages was the start of the first ComiCON and now forget dressing up as a Saint, it's Iron Man all the way. Unfortunately this year kids will have to put up with rain on the moist candy run that is Halloween 2012 - Post Hurricane Sandy.

Here are some cosplay outfits from the recent FanExpo Canada. Hobbystar Marketing reminds us that there are still some CONS remaining in 2012: Toronto ComiCON on November 25 and Toronto AnimeCON on December 9.


Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Sandy Frankenhype Storm

The weekend rain continued with the addition of high wind gusts as the dregs of Hurricane Sandy petered out on the run into the the interior of North America. It probably stopped for beer on the way back to the beach. The media told me to stock up on emergency supplies as most of Ontario would be swept away into the ocean. The strongest wind gusts reported at Pearson Airport was 80 km/h while the Island Airport reported gusts of 91 km/h. Georgian Bay's Western Island reported the strongest gust of 106 km/h. There were power outages and storm damage and one fatality in Toronto was caused by a damaged sign.
City of Toronto crews remove storm damaged fall leaves

Environment Canada says that fall rain will continue until Friday. With the winds driving most of the leaves off the trees it will be a dull, grey week.
"For post-tropical storm Sandy. Post-tropical storm Sandy continues to weaken rapidly. Heavy rain and damaging winds associated with the storm have Diminished. Since Sandy has lost all of its tropical Characteristics, this will be the final message from the Canadian Hurricane Centre on this storm. Please consult Forecasts and special weather statements and Any remaining warnings from the storm prediction centre Responsible for your region for weather information."
The Keurig Van Houtte Coffee sampling was a trifle slow during the rain at Yonge-Dundas Square

Almost Everything to do with Sex Show


That's right - it's almost time for @The_Sex_Show at the Metro #Toronto Convention Centre from November 2-4, 2012. If you can gather your courage then make the trip to the South Hall which will be full of frisky exhibitors and add a little spice to this weekend. Once you step through the door you can visit the main stage entertainment, view erotic art or walk through the dungeon area.
"The Everything To Do With Sex Show is a window into the world of the products and services that enhance one’s sex life. Products range from the hottest new sex toys, lingerie and leather fashions and sensual fragrances, to books, body and visual art, erotic massage and health and nutrition."

Sexy fashion shows and performers like Pastel Supernova (at top) and Roxi D'Lite will perform burlesque on the main stage. Oasis Aqualounge will be there so keep an eye out for Naked Toni!

Open your wings, spread your horizons and look for your thongs and latex. See you there!

New Models at #Toronto Motorcycle Show

Plus they will have some new bikes! The December 7th to 9th, 2012 Toronto Motorcycle Show will bring out some new motorcycles from Yamaha at this year's show. Frankenstorm is heralding the return of winter to our fair country and the thrill of the open road is just about gone - even the next Port Dover run is not until Friday September 13, 2013. You can rekindle your motorcycle romance and pick up some accessories, apparel and parts from Motovan and Joe Rocket at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (south) show.
"Yamaha Motor Canada is shining the spotlight on two new 2013 motorcycles, the FJR1300 and the V-Star 1300 Deluxe. According to Yamaha, the FJR1300’s new state-of-the-art innovations include electronic cruise control, traction control system, drive-mode that lets you select performance character, meter panel design with advanced styling and function, and a new aerodynamic front cowl for improved comfort on long distance rides. Their V-Star 1300 Deluxe is the world’s first production midsize “bagger” and the features include a fuel injected, liquid cooled 1300cc V-Twin, stylish fork mounted fairings, hard shell saddlebags, iPod/iPhone ready audio system and a Garmin Zumo 665 Navigation system."

Those crazy three-wheeled roadsters have been increasing in popularity and Bombadier will display the new Spyder ST. 

Celebrity host Dave Hatch of the TSN Motorcycle Experience will join with Joe Rocket for a meet and greet along with a chance to win a Joe Rocket RANT helmet and a riding jacket from Hard Core Canadian.

The event is produced by Power Sport Services, the Toronto Motorcycle Show features top manufacturers, including Arctic Cat, BMW Motorrad, Can-Am/BRP, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, KTM, Piaggio, Polaris, Suzuki, Triumph, Victory and Yamaha. Keep an eye out for exclusive deals and discounted items.

Monday, October 29, 2012

High Park Playground Made Right

Mike Holmes made it right and the #Toronto High Park playground was rebuilt after vandals destroyed large portions of the wooden castles by arson. The Jamie Bell Adventure Playground rebuild was planned with the famous construction expert, City of Toronto Councillor Sarah Doucette and Landscape Architect Janet Rosenburg in may of 2012 and the project was filmed later in July for an episode of Mike's HOLMES Makes it Right.
He left his mark with a plaque on a large rock which also had a sword sticking out of it. I could not remove Excalibur and was not able to become King of the playground.
The community built it the first time and they helped rebuild it this time with the help of corporate donors like Canadian Tire. "Canadian Tire is pledging up to $50,000 to fund the rebuilding of the Jamie Bell Adventure Park - a large wooden castle and play area that was originally built by volunteers in 1998. Additionally, Canadian Tire will work with the City of Toronto and area volunteers to host a community event in High Park. This will be an opportunity for Canadian Tire volunteers and local families interested in helping with the rebuild to contribute. Local Canadian Tire stores and Dealers are also supporting the reconstruction of the facility."

Designing 007: 50 years of Bond

#Toronto spy-craft just got the star treatment as the man with a licence to kill has a lot of secrets on display at tiff. The design of the elements in the movies help set the man apart from run of the mill spies - you know, the type without the licence.
If you want pictures inside the exhibition you will need to bring a spy camera because photography is not allowed. In the hallway you can check out some swimsuits used in the films including Halle Berry's orange number (complete with knife), Ursula Andress' white bikini and the trunks of both Sean Connery and Daniel Craig.
"Making its North American premiere at TIFF Bell Lightbox following its unveiling at London’s Barbican Centre this past summer, Designing 007: Fifty Years of Bond Style is the largest and most comprehensive exhibition ever devoted to Bond, featuring costumes, props, models, gadgets, concept artwork, storyboards and other fascinating artifacts from the series. Signature Bond items featured in the exhibition include the steel teeth worn by Richard “Jaws” Kiel in The Spy Who Loved Me(1977); the Anthony Sinclair overcoat worn by Sean Connery in Dr. No(1962); the poker table from Casino Royale (2006); and multiple gadgets from Q Branch."

#Toronto Zoomers

Baby Boomers and older went to the @ZoomerShows consumer and lifestyle expo at the Direct Energy Centre where they were looked at vacations, healthy living choices and funeral and financial planning. On the way through the many exhibitors they picked up free pens and candy and listened to the live musical entertainment on the main stage.
Argo players Steve Ackroyd (1983) and Chuck Winters (2004) with Argo Cheerleaders

There were some classic cars and Silver Elvis the busker was joined by another Elvis impersonator; which got all the ladies hearts beating wildly. I learned that I really liked greek yogurt and my wife wanted to go to a CFL game. So we are going to a CFL semi-final game with the Toronto Argonauts on November 11.
"Did you know? Zoomers encompass both the Baby Boomers (in Canada, 44-62) and those who are older - It's a vast group of more than 14.5 million and accounts for 44 percent of the population, while controlling more than 70 percent of Canadian wealth."
The Spoons headlined the ZoomerShow with a number of tribute bands getting the crowd swaying to the music.

Sunday, October 28, 2012

NFL Experience

I watched the interactive NFL Experience taking place in Yonge-Dundas Square over the weekend and I didn't see any bone crunching action so it looked safe for all family members. With no hockey due to labour problems the pigskin game is one of the few professional sports that can take the place of Canada's beloved hockey game.
Former Redskins Running Back Clinton Portis was the NFL player making an appearance at Toronto's event.
October 28, 2012 is the last day of the educational and fun football activities in the square.

Climb the Turbine

Teams of two climbed a ladder in the #Toronto Exhibition Place wind powered generator for the 1st annual Climb the Turbine fundraiser.
Participants had to raise $1,000 per team to join the climb. Wearing a safety harness and strap the teams went up the long ladder with a guide. The only break in the climb were three safety platforms where they could rest for short periods. TREC Education (Innovation, Generation and Conservation) will distribute the money raised to sustainable energy and in-class workshops focusing on educating and inspiring students in science.
"Why: a) To have a blast participating in North America’s first and only turbine climbing fundraiser! b) To raise money to inspire and educate youth in renewable energy which - a vital step in fighting climate change. The fight for a sustainable future is at a critical juncture in Canada and across the world. Participants will raise money for Kids’ World of Energy, a program that delivers in-class, hands-on workshops for students across Ontario.Youth are the deision-makers of tomorrow - it is crucial that they are well-informed of the importance of renewable energy and the possibilities it holds."

North America's first and only turbine charity climb takes place this weekend (October 26-28, 2012). The extra bonus is the plexiglass window at top of the tower - you can look at Exhibition Place from a new point of view. the See more after the jump.

Saturday, October 27, 2012

Night of Dread

#Toronto ghouls cried in the night and children shivered in fear during @ClayandPaper Theatre's 13th annual parade of fears. Gathering in the afternoon of Saturday October 27, 2012 the scary creatures headed out of Dufferin Grove Park onto the streets around 6pm. Proper dress code was black, white and dreadful.
"This much-loved community celebration incorporates international folk and theatrical traditions, drawing inspiration from festivals of death and remembrance around the world. Come and dance in the streets with our city's finest musicians, puppeteers and dancers - together we'll laugh at our fears, waltz with death, eat the bread of the dead, and remember those who have gone from our midst."
Volunteers lit up a circle of paper lanterns and waiting for the horrific return of the fears and the bands that provided the beats of terror. The master of ceremonies then introduced the individual fears to the crowd - the fear of snakes, the fears of war and the fears about some elected officials.
If you handle the fear you can see more dread after the jump.

Friday, October 26, 2012

PawsWay Halloween Party

Cute dogs in cute costumes at PawsWay! Here is their party notice.

Attention all Ghoulishly Creepy Canines: Come to PawsWay for our annual Halloween Party Sat Oct 27th from 11-5pm. Enjoy Howlingly fantastic Activities and games for you and your dog including;

- K-9 bobbing for body parts
- Scariest dog costume contest
- Cutest dog costume contest
- Most original dog costume
- Best Owner/Dog costume combo contest
- Audience favourite costume contest
- Face painting and arts and crafts for the kids

Also enjoy a ‘FREE’ walking dead off leash for small zombie dogs from 1-2pm followed by a monstrous large breed session from 2-3pm!! Prizes and giveaways for the best K-9 costumes at 4pm!!

Make sure and arrive early to be seen by our undercover judges that will be wondering around PawsWay all day looking for the winners!!

PawsWay will also be giving away 30 free ‘Frankenweenie’ leather dog collars and 3-D glasses courtesy of the new Disney movie ‘Frankenweenie’!!

WHERE – PawsWay, Toronto 245 Queens Quay W
WHEN - Saturday October 27th 11am – 5pm

Art Toronto 2012

#Toronto celebrates the arts with the international art fair held from October 26 to 29, 2012 in the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. On Thursday October 25 they had an opening night preview of Art Toronto where I had the opportunity to view the incredible breadth of art and also met many of the artists and plenty of friendly art patrons.
I think these guys are ready to buy!

BMW was one of the major sponsors of the event along with RBC Wealth Management and AXA ART Insurance. You can see more of my my photos of the unveiling of the Robert Rauschenberg BMW Art Car here.
The hall was filled with paintings, photographs and art installations
Ann-Louise Seago with AXA ART Insurance which was a presenting sponsor
A Thousand Desires by Ravikumar Kashi from Gallery Sumukha

The show was a great mix of paintings, photographs, art installations and sculptures.

"Art Toronto – formerly the Toronto International Art Fair – is the largest art fair in Canada and is known by members of the international arts community as a world class gathering on par with its predecessors in the United States and Europe. With exhibitors from five continents, Art Toronto is truly international and over the years it has become a “must-do” for top galleries from the world’s culture capitals. This year’s fair features a major presence by galleries from Japan, Israel, Korea, the United Kingdom, Spain, and India, among others."

 See more art after the jump.

BMW Art Car at Art Toronto 2012

Artist Robert Rauschenberg used the BMW 635 CSi for the 1986 BMW Art Car which is on display during Art #Toronto 2012. This is the first Canadian viewing of Rauschenberg’s creation which was number 6 in a series of BMW Art Cars that now numbers 17, one of which was painted by Andy Warhol. The unveiling happened during the Opening Night Preview held Thursday night.
The unique automotive canvas started in 1975 and the first ones were actually used in races – now they are museum pieces. Robert considered them as mobile museums. He was an artist that was successful in many mediums and often combined them in his works. He was also combined the art of Bronzino and Jean Auguste Dominique in his BMW Art Car. The last BMW Art Car was completed in 2010 by Jeff Koons.
Art Toronto (Focus Asia 2012) is an international art fair which opens Friday, October 26 and continues till the 29th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. You can see my photos from the Art Toronto Opening Night Preview on my post here.


See more of the car after the jump.

Doors Open

Scarborough Bluffs

Pride

Redball

Beaches

Graffiti

Lake Ontario

Nathan Phillips Square

Transportation