Social Heroes: Urban Ex

By Mikhail Saavedra

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“Social Heroes” is Alternavox Magazine’s attempt to bring forth those in our communities that are making a genuine difference in the lives of others. Among others: Social workers, social activists, exceptional volunteers, NGO’s and truly all those that take that extra step to give of themselves. Ultimately it is that unique breed of people that make it worth living in a big metropolis.

Our very first “Social Heroes” choice is none other than the incredibly unique and creative outfit “Urban Ex”. I must admit that when I first met them I was so overwhelmed with the scope of their idea that it took me some time to make sense of it all, but the more I heard the more I convinced myself that they are up to something of genuine consequence and a unique way to open all of our eyes to issues of social justice and how we see ourselves in relation to our social environments.

While many organizations focus on the structural causes of social issues, and rightfully so, I have a feeling that Urban Ex is also very much interested in the human interaction aspect of it all, which makes them quite unique.

The core of Urban Ex comes from two very charming individuals, Em Johnson (Founder/Director) and Alan Waugh (Associate Director) who are the faces and hearts of UrbanEx. This is what they have to say: Read the story »

Taste of the Danforth…It’s that time of the year again!!!

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Taste of the Danforth is one of the big summer event that no foodies should miss. The festivities kick off tonight at 6pm, and end Sunday at 8pm. Aside from the food, there are live entertainment, shops with bargains, contests and wine + beer samplings.

Each year, I would have three shifts: Fri, Sat and Sun, each with a different set of friends. My foodie pals and I would start at around Donlands, eat our way all the way to Broadview, have a break at Willows Mexican Restaurant for a nice Sangria, chat a little, then nibble our way back with desert stands along the way.

Game Plans:

Friday —  early birds: if you don’t like too many crowds, as the vendors are just getting set up, but not everything is in place yet

Saturday — the gong show: if you love a good crowd, and you want to have an eating marathon.  The day starts from 11 am, you will have time to eat, drink, rest, shop and repeat it a few times, then head over to the local bars for more partying after 11pm.

Sunday — bargain hunters: if you like a good bargain, as they are trying to clear all of their inventory before the end of the festivities.

See you all there!!!