aToronto Real Estate Agents | Julie Kinnear

Just a quick note to let you know how we can help you or anyone you refer to us.

Our clients Mary & Borys approached us after reading our newsletters, website and stories like this one! They were looking for help in selling the estate sale of their mother’s
west end home.

Estate sale settled, One less worry. continued...

Blind by Tamar Van Den Dop

They say love is blind…The film Blind made by Tamar Van Den Dop is a visually stunning story about love and its supposed blindness. Loving is giving yourself to someone who does not exist. Giving in to a Fantasy, and choosing to reside in it for as long as one is welcome. It is to be transported to a place with no rules, no shame and no self. It stands as the only socially acceptable form of madness.

Blind is a story about Ruben, a boy who goes blind and struggles with the acceptance of his new state. He eventually falls in love with Marie, a woman who is twice his age who believes she is ugly and unworthy of affection. The couple is united when Marie is assigned the job of reading to the frustrated Ruben, caressing his troubled mind and opening the doors of his imagination, and soon the doors of her own. Here, the stories she tells and the lives of Ruben and Marie become entangled. Ruben sees in his blindness the fantastic beauty of Marie that Marie herself hadn’t the courage to see with her eyes open. Their relationship is a perfect match: the blind is paired with one who does not wish to be seen.

The tale is beautifully developed. Dialogue is sparse and the images will haunt your imagination. The film leaves the viewers with the clichéd question: what is love? Giving hints that it is but a construct of our minds - a haven where we hide away from our lives and be who we want to be. This movie suggests that Love isn’t blind- it closes its eyes ‘perchance to dream.’

Film review by Batul Tunio

Toronto Fashion Week 2008
by George Pimentel Photography
www.wireimage.com

An invitation to the last day of L'Oreal fashion week, Friday the 24th of October 2008, came completely by surprise to me the previous evening. Hardly in the know of the fashion industry, I clearly did not know what to expect. This was my first attendance to an internationally acclaimed fashion show. As I wandered, or shall I say strut, towards the big white tent in the middle of Nathan Philips Square, scenes from 'The Devil Wears Prada' came to mind- I imagined gorgeous super models draped in yards of chiffon, carrying beautiful purses and wearing breathtaking heels, sauntering around to the soundtrack of U2's 'The City of Blinding Lights'.

However, I was met with average looking people, average looking clothes, a few feathers, dorky glasses, and men with makeup on, existing quite normally to ambient music. I was actually relieved to find fellow human beings instead of snobbery. I believe Canada is too kind a country to have highbrowed fashionistas strutting around a tent acting like they own it. In fact, it was a wonderful feeling to be around the same highly intellectual, refined crowd of Toronto that appreciates art and fashion and is not prejudiced about sharing it.

I held my breath as I walked in, humbled and feeling completely out of place, waiting to be discovered and thrown out by the bouncers for some fashion crime or another. Contrasting my television influenced imagination, the bouncers at the main entrance were actually very nice. The entrance flaunt a wall of television screens playing the ongoing fashion shows, next to it were a display of cell phones, and some makeup artists advertising L'Oreal products. The lounge area was basic; black and white with colored strobe lights that created the desired ambience. There was a set where FTV interviewed all the designers, an unpretentious little v.i.p area, and of course a centrally located bar especially designed to break the ice between the edgy fashion people, relax the nerves of fashion world first timers, and provide for the thirsty.

Inside this magic fashion tent I was immediately transported to a world where it was okay to openly stare at one another from top to bottom, and calculate the worth of an outfit. Of course, we did this with complete Canadian decency. I saw lots of familiar fashion faces, thanks to the knowledge that the show Canada's Next Top Model provided me. FTV's famous host, and judge on CNTM, Jeanne Becker was interviewing all the designers; contradicting popular opinion, there was nothing 'high-fashion' about her demeanor, but of course, when she spoke, one would realize that she in fact is high fashion. Another Top Model personality amongst us was the spunky diva Stacey Mckenzie, who is now a model/runway coach. In her prime she modeled for a star studded line of designers, and was best known for her expressions that translated well on film and spiced up the runway. Today, she wrapped her self in a white cape of high-fashion-car-cover sorts, and wore a red beret. She was definitely divaesque, and could make any piece of clothing look good. Other than the two people I recognized, I gathered that a lot of whose-who were in attendance based on the ensembles some people don, and the way they carried themselves with nonchalance. These fashion big guns appeared to have tagged along their upstart friends who seemed uneasy in their clearly borrowed clothes that they could not carry. They were obvious nonentity protégé fashionista slaves.

Now on to the shows: The lines I was to see were consecutively; Nada Yousif, Quagmire Golf, melinda-mae harlingten, and Lucian Matis. I was thrown out for the finale with afshin feiz because it was special invites only- that means no clueless first timers, savvy?

We had second row seats for: Nada Yousif, whose designs were mainly decadent dresses in bright colors for punk rock divas. Quagmire Golf, that had designs for the golfing sorts. And Lucian Matis whose work was absolutely stunning with luxurious cuts of flowing chiffon, elegant dresses and beautiful pearls that reminded me of cool crisp breezes in picturesque locations. Really, his clothes took me there! We lucked out and got front row seats for melinda-mae harlingten's collection, which was an array of the kind of clothes normal people, who don't have yachts to cruise in or Grammy's to attend, can wear. Models came out in cute shorts and inspiring twists to flapper dresses. Her show was encored by a half naked brawny man wearing an Indian chief's feather headdress and the kind of tight golden tights you see at the American Apparel store, and wonder who will buy (hint: him). He did some unspeakable things. Any how, to make it all better we landed a front-rowers goody bag, packed with tidbits from all the sponsors. Exciting. We got everything from razors to tea to whitening strips, to a high fashion safety pin with bells and buttons on it, to a divine environment friendly shopping bag from a vacuum cleaner company. It was the loveliest goody bag of treasured trash that I have ever received.

Overall, the atmosphere at Toronto's L'Oreal Fashion Week was fabulous, and the event was a great success. It undeniably bragged a luxurious lifestyle of aesthetically pleasing people and pretty things that one could easily get used to. I am very proud to live in this beautiful city that is now also on par with the fashion capitals of the world.

by Batul Tunio

Kathleen Finlay and David Kokai have just opened a new business! 

Loic Gourmet makes Delicious Lunch and Dinner Easy with free delivery to your home, office or studio with a minimum order of 30.00 in their local area - please check their website www.loicgourmet.ca  to see if you are in their local area.

New to the neighbourhood, Loic Gourmet is a French-inspired purveyor of take-away dishes for busy individuals and families as well as studios and local businesses. Loic Gourmet is owned and operated by fine-dining chef David Kokai. Having spent many years in some of Toronto's top restaurant kitchens, chef Kokai is inspired to offer delicious gourmet food as well as more casual, freshly prepared dishes at reasonable prices, using naturally raised meats, favoring locally sourced products and presented in environmentally responsible containers.

Perfectly roasted chickens, classic French onion soup, bubbling gratins, amazing assortments of paninis, freshly prepared terrines and delicious chocolate mousses are a few of Loic Gourmet's offerings. They also offer soups, salads, platters, sandwiches, paninis, hot mains, side dishes and desserts. They even carry a great selection of frozen foods, pasta sauces, mayonnaise, marinated olives, perfect meat and seafood stocks as well as a wide assortment of dried goods.

Online menus are updated daily. Please call or email for more info.  Loic Gourmet is located just east of Broadview at 722 Queen Street East. Opening Soon. Hours are11 AM to 8 PM from Monday to Saturday.

www.loicgourmet.ca

416.850.8835











 

These days everyone is in a state of anticipation:  what's going to happen to the economy and the markets next?  Is the loonie's big dip a good thing or a bad thing?  Where are rates going?  Why is Ontario running a deficit for the first time in years?

It's really important amid all this turmoil, to keep informed and to consult the experts - those who remain impartial in discussing the facts (neither doom & gloom nor Pollyanna-like wishful thinking will really answer anyone's questions!)  Where should you go next?

WIth the economy readjusting, it's widely thought that the Bank of Canada will start a declining rate trend that will eventually push prime lower.  So if you have a variable rate mortgage, you will want to celebrate!  To find out more about the different types of mortgages, consult an expert who has dedicated her career to advising you on all your options.  We recommend you consult with Carrie Davidson - call her for a free confidential report today at 416 693 6946 or

What about if you are considering entering the real estate market, to take advantage of the first good times for buyers the Toronto market has seen in years?  Back in July, everyone was buzzing about the new stricter mortgage rules, designed to ensure that what happened in the States with all those high-risk mortgages could never happen here.  Please remember that the new rules took effect earlier this month - you can read how they might affect you, here.

Everyone is affected by the changing economy - you are not alone!  The experts are here to advise you and of course, guide you home.

Are you tired of pesky telemarketers ruining your dinner hour - or your Sunday brunch?  Now you can ensure that they never call you again, by registering your phone line on the National Do Not Call List.  Companies who use personal information, such as telemarketers and yes, real estate brokerages (!) will have to purchase this list and ensure that those on it are not contacted.  To register at no charge or find out more information, click here:  https://www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca/insres-regres-eng

http://www.thestar.com/article/519271

Our friend and client Kathleen Finlay is proud to present her exhibit ‘A Clown Story’ showing at Gallery One from October 18-November 8, 2008.

Kathleen Finlay at Gallery One! continued...

Illustration by Steve MacDonald

Used bikes make a big difference in underdeveloped countries – and it’s a great excuse to get yourself some new wheels!

BIKE COLLECTION FOR BICYCLES FOR HUMANITY continued...

Cabbagetown house

Enjoy historic Cabbagetown from an insider’s perspective – by visiting some of its most attractive century homes! While there, take in the culture of this unique Toronto neighbourhood.

Cabbagetown Tour of Homes on this Weekend! continued...

Photo by
Mattias

The Summer Blockbuster Season is officially over. With September just days away its time to look towards the future to the upcoming Oscars race and the greatest film festival right in our own backyard! Read on to see what movies have Elise counting down the days until September 3rd!

Elise’s take on the Toronto International Film Festival continued...

Our client Jim Blokland told us awhile ago that he had edited the film NURSE.FIGHTER.BOY and to watch for it…now it’s been selected for the TIFF!

Jim’s Movie @ the Toronto International Film Festival! continued...

Photo by Hobvias Sudoneighm

Attention art lovers – a great chance for a sneak preview of the Square Foot 2008 art show!

Our friend & client Graham Curry would like to invite you to attend a reception..

Square Foot Art Show Grand Opening! continued...

Photo by Madalena Pestana

Are issues in your career, business or personal life blocking you from ‘living your best life’? Find out how to overcome these obstacles with the help of coaching!

Find Your Bliss – Grand Opening! continued...

We want YOUR photos of Inukshuks to grace our website!

Kinnear’s Summer Photo Kontest! continued...

Photo by David Shankbone

The Other Boleyn Girl starts out slow and it is hard to suspend disbelief when looking at Henry VIII played by hunky Eric Bana. However, as the plot thickens it is easy to get past historical inaccuracies and just enjoy the show.

Enjoy this opulent period piece and remember why a quiet life in the country is sometimes best.

The Other Boleyn Girl review

Demons Ahoy! continued...

Saving the world is a hell of a job continued...

The Happening

We have a JKT first – a movie review actually written while inside the movie! Yes, it was THAT terrible, read on for Elise’s review for the happening. A movie that closely mimicked the mysterious virus it portrayed. It was drawn out, disorienting and made me want to kill myself. (May Contain Spoilers!)

The Happening review

This month's winner is Bambi Alvia. Kongratulations Bambi! We hope you enjoy your meal. A new Kontest will be opening on June 1, be sure to enter for your chance to win a great new prize.

From Saturday Night Live vets Tina Fey and Amy Poehler comes a dull comedy that sets up an interesting premise, but ultimately fails on the 'delivery'.

 Baby Mama review

Help Let’s Make Waves save local school pools slated for closure! Read on for rally details and how you can help make a difference by showing your support so all Toronto citizens get the chance to enjoy our local pools.

Save Toronto School Pools Rally – May 1st 4:15-6:15pm at Queen’s Park continued...

Conceptual drawing

The unofficial Roncy meeting place for dog walkers, parents and local residents, Sorauren Park is proud to announce the official opening of its Fieldhouse where residents can use the great space for all kinds of gatherings & meetings! Come support the Fieldhouse at the offical ribbon-cutting & fundraising BBQ and/or volunteer to help finish the building itself!

The Sorauren Park Fieldhouse Grand Opening May 5 at 7pm! continued...

If you’re up for a free weekend, don’t miss out on our team’s recommendations for some of the top spots of Toronto! This city has much to offer, so we’ve decided to compile a list of the most popular locations and share our knowledge about them.

Attractions in Toronto – 7 Places You Don’t Want To Miss! continued...

The Easter Bunny returns a week later with a very special basket for Marcus Leszek, age 5, winner of the Kolouring Kontest.

Easter Kontest Winner Marcus Leszek to enjoy treats!! continued...

Your treasured memories experienced in your home could be worth more than their priceless sentimental value. Royal LePage in partnership with HBC is offering an amazing contest: you can win a $25000 HBC shopping spree!

Attention Homeowners: Special contest could win you $25K continued...

Learn from the big boys like Donald Trump, the secrets of building wealth through smart investments at this exciting one day event.

Free Tickets for the Real Estate & Wealth Expo!! continued...

Julie’s Scoop: Spring and Snow! Video on the Website | Chit Chat | Chartity of the Month: International Fund for Animal Welfare | Go Green, Go Portable | Toronto Market Watch | The Danforth | JKT Favourite Things: the Boiler House, Cineplex Odeon Carlton, Shiatsu, Style at Home Magazine | What They Got | How to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

Toronto Real Estate Newsletter March 2008 continued...

Daniel Day Lewis’ best performance ever – and that is really saying something – is the best three hours I have spent watching a movie all year!

There Should Have Been Best Picture continued...

An inspiring one-day event for women, Wellspot brings magnificent, influential women (including our fabulous client, Dionne Watson Chiropractic Doctor) together for workshops, performances & networking – don’t miss it!

Women + Wellness = Wellspot 2008! continued...

Believe it or not, the Canadian Diabetes Association makes housecalls to pick up your used clothing & household items – call them for a free pickup!

Put your used clothes & housewares to good use! continued...

Winner of 4 Oscars including Best Picture, Director, Adapted Screenplay and Supporting Actor… this is an excellent movie, caution for kids though – extremely violent! Julie reviews…

Movie Review for No Country for Old Men continued...

Check out what Julie thought about this Oscar worthy movie!

Michael Clayton Movie Review continued...

Spring break Toronto-style is short on frat boys and beaches, long on culture & quality entertainment for the whole family!

March Break Guide continued...

We lose an hour of sleep, but it means Spring is really here – with longer days to come!

March 9 is the big day to “Spring Forward”! continued...

Our client Chris Jones is serving on the board of the Lorraine Kimsa Theatre for Young People. He even thought it might be a good fit for our Team to host events for our clients and their families!

Attention Parents: Great entertainment for your kids! continued...

Julie quite liked this movie. A couple of worthy Oscar nods. More like a drama rather than a Western with a lot of quiet contemplation.

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford continued...

Even though the picket signs have barely left the hands of the Writers Guild members, the buzz was in full force for the 80th Academy Awards Ceremony, being broadcast this Sunday, February 24th. How did The Julie Kinnear Team do on our picks for who will be going home with a Oscar statue?

Julie Kinnear Team Oscar Predictions: Right or Wrong? continued...

Are you tired of the same old dining & entertainment – looking for something culturally interesting and different to do? Check out our client Rosemary Leach’s lovely work, as well as original works by over 350 other artists, for FREE on gala opening night.

Free Tickets for the Toronto Art Expo! continued...

Don’t miss next month’s Kinnear’s Krazy Kontest, starting from the 1st of March. Every entry is an entry in the annual grand prize kontest coming up soon.

February Krazy Kontest Winner continued...

Just as our home buying checklist last week, we’re bringing you the same breakdown for selling. Take a look and get an idea of what you need to think about when selling your house in less than 5 minutes!

Home Selling Checklist continued...

Buying a new home is a rather complicated process, but it’s safely manageable if we break it down to smaller parts. Read this checklist for a quick overview and let it help you clear your visions toward purchasing a new house.

Home Buying Checklist continued...

It’s been described as Godzilla meets the Blair Witch Project and since last summer the hype has been fueled by a complex viral marketing campaign, but is Cloverfield just one big gimmick?

It didn’t happen if it’s not caught on videotape continued...

The harshly beautiful Arizona landscape is the backdrop for this good old fashioned western with (sigh of relief) no modern twists.

Take the Train continued...

Who says Canadian movies are inferior to the big Hollywood productions? Leave your prejudices at the door and take the time to see Juno.

Julie’s Mom Reviews a Hot New Indie Film! continued...

Find out who won Julie Kinnear’s January Krazy Kontest. Congratulations to the winner!

January Krazy Kontest Winner continued...

A Mighty Heart recounts the search for kidnapped Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl in 2002, in Karachi where he was eventually beheaded.

A Mighty Heart continued...

Let’s face it – winter is the time when people think about implementing new energy saving ideas the least. The surprises and regrets come after the next heating bill arrives. Don’t be lazy and at least read our latest article about saving energy in winter – and you may save some extra bucks this time.

Energy Saving in Winter? continued...

We have a new article in the Green Lifestyle section about Recycling in Toronto. Take a look and make Toronto a bit cleaner!

Recycling Unusual Items in Toronto? continued...