downtownpeggy

Last Weekend to Visit Santa at Fairmont Winnipeg!

Published on December 18, 2018December 18, 2018 by downtownpeggyLeave a comment

I recently received a special invitation from Santa Claus himself to visit his suite at the Fairmont Winnipeg! I was blown away with the incredible décor that included colourful details like twinkling Christmas trees, an elegant dinner table set, a letter-writing station, and amazing giveaways for all his visitors.

Santa has been taking off the weekends to spend some time with everyone who wants to visit him. Sadly, this weekend will be his last one before leaving town to get ready for Christmas Eve. If you haven’t gone yet there’s still time to take a photo with him. He will be receiving visitors from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. up until December 23.

The great thing about it is that you don’t need to make a reservation in advance. Stop by with your family and friends to get a professional digital photo with Santa for $10. You can also purchase a package of 3 digital pictures for $25 with all proceeds going to support The Dream Factory.

Be sure to share your pictures on social media and don’t forget to use #WPGSantaSuite to win a one-night stay at Fairmont Winnipeg.

Happy Holidays!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! (In the most wonderful part of the city)

Published on November 28, 2018 by downtownpeggyLeave a comment

I love how the downtown lights signal to the whole city that it’s time to get jolly.

And, as the epicentre of the city, downtown brings some major holiday cheer, with the whole neighbourhood coming together to offer the best shopping, holiday movie-watching, and live entertainment the city has to offer.

In case you haven’t mapped out your holiday schedule yet, anchored in the downtown, here’s a rundown of where I’ll be over the month of December (the countdown is on!).

Breakfast and a movie (Hudson’s Bay Downtown, 4^th floor, 450 Portage Ave.)

I’m not sure there’s a better deal out there for a family-friendly viewing party. For just $10, enjoy breakfast served by the Best Western Plus Downtown before a screening of two of my personal favourite holiday classics.

On December 1, find out how Kevin gets left behind and fends off the bad guys in Home Alone 2.

On December 8, watch Will Ferrell’s Elf eat way too much pre-chewed gum in downtown New York (I guess any, really, is too much).

Remember to get tickets in advance if you want to take part in breakfast (available at the Best Western Plus Downtown or Hudson’s Bay downtown). Movie admission is free!

Breakfast is served from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., with holiday activities to follow!

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Local artisan pop-ups at The Forks (1 Forks Market Rd.)

My holiday shopping hack has always been to do it at The Forks (I mean, breaking for wine on tap is never a bad thing for morale!).

This year, plan your purchasing around one of the Third + Bird market pop-ups, so you have even more local goodies to choose from.

For three weekends leading up to the big day, The Forks will be host to over a dozen local makers filling the second-floor bridges and balconies with unique finds for your whole list.

Visit the pop-ups at The Forks Market on Dec. 8 and 9, 15 and 16, and 22 and 23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Plus, The Forks’ Holiday Bazaar kicks things off this Friday, Nov. 30, with in-store specials, mimosas and mulled wine served up by The Common, and festive shopping beats from DJ Mama Cutsworth to help you shop ‘til you drop from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Looking for something that truly says it all? Order a custom script from Kal Barteski, who’s popping up at the Market Nov. 30 (until Dec. 2).

The Forks food hall

Another pop-up not-to-miss is happening at Manitoba Hydro Place Dec. 16, where indigenous artists will come together to showcase their wares in the main floor gallery from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

JP Hoe Hoe Hoe Holiday Show (Burton Cummings Theatre, 364 Smith St.)

Favourite local crooner JP Hoe plays holiday classics in a campy, collaborative way that will make you a lifelong fan! Get tickets quickly as this show always sell out! A part of the proceeds from the show go to the Christmas Cheer Board. Join JP Hoe on Dec. 14 at Burton Cummings Theatre!

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Cirque Musica Presents Wonderland (Bell MTS Place, 300 Portage Ave.)

A spell-binding performance of the world’s most popular Christmas music played by the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra (WSO), paired with the best circus performers in the world – does it get any better?

Bell MTS Place will host this holiday spectacular for one night only on Dec. 6.

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Then, join the WSO in my favourite holiday tradition, accompanying the Nutcracker ballet from Dec. 19 to 29. The sounds will be even fuller with the WSO joined by a full choir in this year’s rendition.

For even more downtown events over the merry month, visit www.downtownwinnipegbiz.com/event/all-together-downtown-for-the-holidays/.

DT Peggy Signature

Kids Are Dreaming Bigger Than Ever Thanks to Dream Streets!

Published on September 21, 2018September 21, 2018 by downtownpeggyLeave a comment

With support from the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ, The Dream Factory recently launched Dream Streets – their new annual initiative which will run throughout the month of September.

Led by Fools + Horses co-owner Kendra Magnus-Johnston, and U of M Landscape Architecture student Emily Sinclair, Dream Streets brings together the creative minds of designers, the enthusiasm of local business owners, and the generous spirit of volunteers in Manitoba. Through the construction of temporary dream-inspired installations, each life-size 10’ by 10’ interactive pop up showcases the dreams of Manitoba children suffering from life-threatening illnesses, while also raising awareness and funds for The Dream Factory.

The Dream Factory is a locally-based non-profit charitable organization dedicated to making once in a lifetime dreams come true for these children to help make their lives a little brighter. The organization is recruiting Dream Team volunteers and sponsors throughout the entire month of September to help raise online donations to bring these dreams to reality for Manitoba kids who could really use them. Getting involved is easy! All participants have to do is login online, donate, and share the cause on social media. 100% of online donations are going towards the kids!

This first year is an exciting experiment The Dream Factory is hoping to build on in years to come. It’s made possible in large part by the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ’s Host It program, in tandem with on-site support from ManyFest and the Winnipeg Design Festival, and the support of some incredible local businesses.

The installations popped up during ManyFest and will be back again during Nuit Blanche, effectively book-ending the month of September at two of Winnipeg’s biggest end-of summer occasions. On Nuit Blanche, the organizers will remount the installations at the Forks in collaboration with the Winnipeg Design Festival. There will be QR codes available so folks scan their phones at each installation and donate directly to The Dream Factory.

The four installations debuted at ManyFest included a Lego adventure from a child who dreams of going to a Legoland theme park, and a popup where kids received princess makeovers.

For more information on the Dream Streets project and how you can get involved, visit www.dreamstreets.ca.

Get Ready for the 2018 Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries ManyFest!

Published on September 5, 2018 by downtownpeggyLeave a comment

The beginning of September is a busy one. With kids getting ready to go back to school and people trying to squeeze in the last little bit of summer vacation before heading back to their busy schedules, they are looking for that last little bit of excitement. I myself have had a very busy summer exploring all that Winnipeg has to offer, but I can’t wait for the weekend of September 7th, as the Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries ManyFest Downtown Street Festival 2018 will take over Memorial Park and Broadway for three days!

There is so much activity going on at the festival I don’t know how I am going to fit it all in, but darn it, I’m going to try. With admission to Manyfest being free, there is nothing that is stopping me from attending all three days.

Friday marks the beginning of live music and the Food Truck Wars, which lasts the entire weekend, so you better believe that I’m going to take that all in. Who can resist all that delicious food, while swaying along to amazing bands and Djs.

But Friday night I am going to make sure that I have the perfect outfit to take part in the Electric Donkey Run. What could be more fun than get dressed up in neon and decked out in some glow bracelets for a 5-k fun run throughout downtown Winnipeg with some awesome dance breaks throughout the course? Get ready Winnipeg as I bust out my sweet dance moves.

I’m sure once I’m done the run, I will need to stop by The Lakeside Lounge presented by Lake of the Woods Brewing for a craft beer from the award-winning Lake of the Woods Brewing Company. Their flagship Sultana Gold and Forgotten Lake beers sound amazing! Not a fan of beer like I am? The lounge also offers a selection of EJ Gallo wines, as well as El Jimador Margarita Coolers. It also offers a stage and will feature such acts as Discothèque Under the Stars and Beer & Botany with Freshcut. I’m sure I will be making more than one stop to the lounge throughout the weekend.

While I may be busy taking in the Electric Donkey Run on Friday night, I will for sure take in one of the Movie in the Park movies occurring Friday and Saturday, both in the early evening and later at night. I mean the chance to see E.T, Jurassic Park or Toy Story outside on the big screen, yes please! Bring your lawn chairs or bring your old batteries in to be recycled and receive a free outdoor blanket from Call2Recycle.

Starting Saturday that means shopping, as Third + Bird has taken over the market portion, which means a variety of items available for sale.

Saturday and Sunday also give the kids a chance to take in the festivities with Mini-Fest Kid Zone. A family fun zone full of crafts, face painting, interactive displays, indigenous storytelling, a performance stage, big games, Zumba and more. There will be no shortage of activities and fun to keep the little ones busy. Also, why not take in the Wonder Shows midway that is filled with fun carnival rides.

And what a way to finish the festival on Sunday morning than with a run as the Winnipeg 10 and 10, will hit the streets. I haven’t decided if I am going to take in the 30 kilometre, 10 mile, 10 kilometre or the five kilometre run. Maybe I’ll just watch the five kilometre family fun run instead.

Whatever activities I decide on doing that weekend, I know that I am going to have a blast at Manyfest!

The results are in: downtown’s best burger bets (but really, try them all)

Published on September 5, 2018September 7, 2018 by downtownpeggyLeave a comment

As everyone knows, the best way to enjoy Le Burger Week is to grab a partner or a pack of hungry friends, and take on a tour de force of the many satiating options, splitting beef patties, drinks and sides as you go.

With tons of my downtown favourites pounding the patties for another year, I’ve listed some of my top urban choices to help you plan your final Burger Week fiesta (wrapping up Friday). Someone’s gotta do the heavy lifting.

Three-way tie at The Forks (1 Forks Market Road)

What’s so great about dining at The Forks year-round is your indecisive or dietary-restricted friends will always be able to find something (and you can still eat whatever you want).

For Le Burger Week, it’s best to find someone with an open palate to share any of the contenders onsite.

Kyu Grill’s Lamburghini Mercy is a lamb and angus beef patty topped with beet cream cheese and other healthy accoutrements, masquerading under a delicious pretzel bun topped with a breaded jalapeno popper.

Nuburger’s Obi-Wan Perogi’s sautéed onions, crispy potato thins and candied bacon finished with a herb sour cream tastes so deliciously familiar, you’ll be compelled to call your Baba.

Passero + Corto breaks through the all-American genre by offering a sophisticated house Italian sausage burger smothered with fresh roasted tomato and parmesan sauce on a sourdough ciabatta bun.

The Boiler Maker (Rudy’s Eat & Drink, 375 Graham Avenue)

Never one to disappoint with its presentation, Rudy’s top-tier, house-ground wagyu beef patty smothered with whiskey bacon, fig jam, truffle dressing and beer mustard aioli is finished with a cheese frico (cheese chip) and Rudy’s flag.

Umami, (The Merchant Kitchen, 314 Donald Street)

Leave it to this unique Latin- and Asian- street food inspired kitchen to remind us about that fifth, filling flavour: umami. Let the Korean-fried beef burger with kimchi, pickled red onion and house Kewpie mayo remind you of that trip you never took to South Korea.

The Village Drunk, (Tipsy Cow, 285 Portage Avenue)

A reliable downtown burger spot on any given day, The Village Drunk takes things to another level at this tried-and-true. Dive into a hearty 6-oz. beef chuck patty topped with Torque IPA and chorizo chilli, bourbon apple sour cream, Bothwell gouda and some lettuce and tomato for good measure (remember vegetables?).

The Gretchen Wieners, (Carbone, 260 St. Mary Avenue)

Even though the Mean Girls character never quite made “fetch” happen (shout out to everyone who went to the Movies on Memorial showing!), this Gretchen Wieners is totally happening with its lean turkey patty, smashed avocado, charred pineapple, beet relish and sriracha aioli, garnished with an Italian wiener atop a buttery brioche bun.

Enjoy friends!

Excitement is still popping up for the rest of the summer!

Published on August 28, 2018September 5, 2018 by downtownpeggyLeave a comment

While the summer is winding down (eek!), as usual, I still have some tricks up my sleeve to milk the rest of these balmy days.

Not only are the pop-up parks at Kennedy and Graham and Hargrave and Portage amazing spaces to take your packed lunch, they come alive at the noon hour on a rotating basis just for the downtown business crowd.

Most weekdays for the rest of August, you can find a 30-minute bootcamp (hosted by the lovely Snap Fitness) or ambient music from local entertainers crooning you through your work break at either location.

Find Phil Natividad’s swoon-worthy tunes strummed on the ukulele Wednesday, August 29 at Hargrave and Portage, and multi-instrumentalist Jacob Brodovsky on Thursday, August 30 at Kennedy and Graham. And – hit the pavement to break a sweat with your colleagues on Tuesday, August 28 and Thursday, August 30 at Hargrave and Portage.

Mondays are for easing in to the week, so kick back with Andy Western’s music at the noon hour at the Kennedy and Graham pop-up August 27.

To cap off the week, join the very last Downtown Winnipeg Night market at Kennedy and Graham, and shop your heart out among the lineup of amazing vendors.

This whole summer, I’ve been capitalizing on the free workouts at Memorial, Upper Fort Garry and Millennium Parks (on until August’s end), and buying my fresh produce and preserves at the farmers’ markets every Thursday at Manitoba Hydro Place (on through to September’s end).

It seems like there’s a surprise at every turn as I make my way through the paved streets this summer – including the amazing lightshow and alley transformation behind Mountain Equipment Co-op (the first time I saw the colours change, I thought I was losing it!). This light installation has colourful beams that change colour depending on time of day – so you’ll want to see this once or twice for full effect!

Even better, all of these pop-ups were available to be booked for events and sometimes even qualified for the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ’s Host It Downtown funds, so I’ve managed to witness grad parties, a plant workshop and bowling matches occur at these awesome landmarks, to name a few.

Another handy happenstance has been the pop-up toilet initiative, trailblazed by the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ, BridgmanCollaborative Architecture and partner Siloam Mission.

When ya gotta go, ya gotta go, and I’ve been fortunate to stumble on this top-notch facility at an opportune moment! Find it at the southeast corner of Graham and Hargrave until September 17.

Who’s ready for Movies on Memorial?

Published on August 7, 2018 by downtownpeggyLeave a comment

Things are about to get mean and green over at Memorial Park this summer.

Kicking things off on Tuesday, August 7, you can catch everyone’s favourite green ogre, Shrek, on-screen, conveyed by none other than celebrated Canadian comedian Mike Myers.

The lasting cultural phenomenon, Mean Girls, written for the screen by SNL darling Tina Fey, will be shown on the big blow-up on August 14.

Movies start roughly at dusk (around 9 p.m.), projected on the big, inflatable screen along Broadway at Memorial.

As always, showing up early will be rewarded, as you’ll have your pick of blanketed perch for the main event.

It also means you get to interact with any kiosks set up for the show – expect something from presenting sponsor, Bridgeport Office Solutions, as well as popcorn, your favourite treat from a food truck, and lots of lovely people cozying up to catch the free outdoor entertainment.

As a seasoned Movies on Memorial-goer, I have a few pro tips to share to make the most of the screening:

Bring bug spray

Sometimes a sponsor will shell out for this (thanks for looking out!), but it’s best if you prepare so you can reapply on demand if the pesky pests don’t let up throughout the show.

Layer up

Even though Winnipeg summers are beautiful, our summer nights truly cool down, especially in August. Bring layers so you’re ready for the dip in temperature as dusk turns to night. You likely want to wear closed-toe shoes (resist the flip flops!) so your feet don’t lose heat.

Bring lots of blankets, pillows (go crazy!), or a low, attendee-friendly chair

You’ll likely want to mark your spot for the duration of the show with a nice beach blanket or throw. Then, don’t be afraid to cuddle up with a blanket overtop – you won’t regret mimicking your living room comfort out in this beautiful setting.

**Bring your friends and pets**

If you have a well-mannered dog who likes to cuddle at your side during movies, bring him or her out! The park is pet-friendly and as long as you don’t disturb other movie-goers, you may as well invite Sparky!

That’s it – you’re ready to enjoy Movies on Memorial!

The final screenings for this year’s 2000s theme are School of Rock (August 21), and Miss Congeniality (August 28). In case of rain, movies will be moved to the next calendar date. An announcement will be made by 5 p.m. on the day of the event if it needs to be rescheduled.

Maximizing Your Experience Downtown at the Downtown Winnipeg Night Market

Published on June 27, 2018September 5, 2018 by downtownpeggyLeave a comment

This Friday (and Friday, July 27 and Friday August 31), my pals behind the Downtown Winnipeg Farmers’ Market are hosting their first ever Downtown Winnipeg Night Market from 4pm-11pm at Manitoba Hydro Plaza and on Kennedy Street between Portage Avenue and Graham Avenue!

The Downtown Winnipeg Night Market is a great way to end off the month and kick off your weekend in the heart of downtown. Plus, you’ll get to see a lot of cool things, support a lot of great local businesses, experience the new Pop-Up Park on Kennedy and so much more!

Here’s how I’m planning to maximize my experience this Friday:

GETTING THERE

Did you know that the Winnipeg Bike Valet will be on site during the whole event offering their bicycle valet service (it’s like a coat check for bicycles!)? It’s a great way to easily travel downtown, to and from the other destinations you’re hitting on Friday, and I love the friendly folks behind the Bike Valet!

Find the Winnipeg Bike Valet on Edmonton Street at Graham Avenue on the South East corner, thanks to my friends at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.

Additionally, you can always walk, take Winnipeg Transit or drive. Street parking is free after 5:30pm and there will be lots of availability to park in downtown parking lots and parkades.

HAVING FUN

The Downtown Winnipeg Night Market is fun for the whole family and includes:

Farmers’ Market vendors on Manitoba Hydro Plaza 4pm-11pm
Enjoy two beer gardens: The patio at Rudy’s Eat & Drink and the Rudy’s pop-up beer garden on Kennedy Street 4pm-11pm
Instagram Alley on Kennedy Street featuring Creating A Scene, Studio 393 and Graffiti Gallery for you to capture your experience 4pm-11pm
Big Fun Games on Kennedy Street from 6:30pm-11pm
Balloon Artist and Facepainter on Graham Avenue from 6pm-9pm
Live painting of The Horn on Kennedy Street from 7pm-8pm
Experience the new Pop-Up Park on Kennedy Street 4pm-11pm
Buskers including Ila Barker, Lana Winterhalt and Phil Natividad providing music throughout, plus Kurrent Motion entertaining throughout the evening
Downtown Winnipeg businesses including Teeyah’s, Shoppers Drug Mart, Bison Books, Fluid Float, and Clay Oven are also all on site

MAKING A NIGHT OF IT

Make the Downtown Winnipeg Night Market just one of your many stops on Friday!

Did you know that Alleyways Market is taking place from 4pm-10pm in the Exchange District? Stopping by both of these markets is a great way to support local and find yourself the perfect produce and gifts for you and your loved ones!

Street patio! The weather looks great so I’m looking forward to hitting up the Rudy’s Pop-Up Patio on Kennedy, while I’m at the Market.

Goldeyes! Our baseball team takes on St. Paul Saints at 7pm at Shaw Park.

Patio hopping! It’s Friday night and I know I’m looking forward to the long weekend! You’ll find me at some of my favourite downtown patios and places for dinner, snacks and drinks!

Dancing! With a handful of venues downtown showcasing great music of all types, I’m going to be wearing my dancing shoes all night long!

Here’s a handy map with some of my recommendations – enjoy Friday!

For more information on the Downtown Winnipeg Night Market, visit downtownwinnipegbiz.com/night-market/.

Free Downtown Entertainment This Summer

Published on June 12, 2018June 12, 2018 by downtownpeggyLeave a comment

While the whiteout parties are behind us, there’s no shortage of excuses to head downtown in droves for free entertainment this summer.

Tune in

Throughout June and July, every Thursday comes alive with members of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra (WSO) serenading people in the streets through their lunch hours.

Edmonton Street (between Graham Avenue and Portage Avenue) will see duets or solo acts from the WSO perform each week. Concert pianists, violinists, horn players and vocalists will carry tunes throughout the noon hour.

On Tuesdays, Cityplace draws its own crowd for a lunchtime concert series out on its second-floor terrace off the food court. Catch live Manitoban acts throughout the summer months until August’s end.

Not to be outdone, Portage Place stages its own Indigenous Concert Series on the last Fridays of June, July and August.

Sweat it out

If it’s a workout you’d rather fit in, the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ’s Fitness in the Park is kicking off another summer jam-packed with opportunities to work up a sweat.

Every Monday to Friday, from now until August’s end, green spaces throughout the downtown will host free fitness classes suited to all types of participants.

Memorial Park, Millennium Library Park and Upper Fort Garry will see Pilates enthusiasts, Zumba lovers, boot camp devotees and yogis unite for a free sweat.

The rotating roster at each location helps you mix up your routine if you’d like to attend multiple classes – visit Millennium Library Park for yoga on Mondays and Fridays, Memorial Park for Zumba on Mondays and Fridays, Millennium Library Park for Zumba on Wednesdays and Pilates on Thursdays, and Upper Fort Garry for boot camp Tuesdays and Thursdays.

(Dates are weather permitting – be sure check the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ social media channels @downtownwpgbiz to be notified in case of any changes!)

Shop ‘til you drop

Finally, shopping for fresh produce during your workday is made easier through the popular Downtown Winnipeg BIZ’s Farmers’ Market, serving up fresh local fruits and veggies, baked goods, preserves, meats and cheese, crafts and many other handmade gems looking for a home.

Everything from locally made bitters and spirits, gluten-free perogies and fresh lemonade can be squeezed out of this hyperlocal festivity. Located behind Manitoba Hydro Place and along Edmonton Street, the market is always received with much fanfare (not unlike our beloved Jets making playoffs). Find the Market running 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Thursday from June through September.

Stay tuned for more on special Night Markets (new this year) to take place the last Friday of each month this summer from 4 to 11 p.m. outside Manitoba Hydro Place.

For more information on upcoming downtown summer events, visit downtownwinnipegbiz.com/events.

UnCommon Pours V02 | Presented by The Common at The Forks Market

Published on June 11, 2018 by downtownpeggy1 Comment

“Eat what you like and drink what you like and you will be happy.” – Veronique Rivest. These words rang especially true through the Commons yesterday. Everyone who came to enjoy the Common’s new summer wine list was especially impressed with the presentation and experience.

We were first served Vaporetto Prosecco from Italy which was a simple and pleasing wine, but it had more depth than the average, with hints of citrus, apple, and floral elements. This wine was served with delicious Provenzal Fries provided by Empanadas & Co. by Simon’s cuisine.

Next, we were served a Jamaican Beef Patty provided by Bindy’s Carribean Delight with False Bay Rose from South Africa. Veronique explained that this wine paired well with fried or saltier foods, which was definitely the case. The wine broke up the thickness of the Beef Patty, and was more refreshing than tangy.

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Just when I thought my taste buds could not get any happier, they brought out the Tomato Citrus Salad from corto. Fresh tomatoes served with cream cheese and lots of flavour tasted exquisite, especially when combined with the Yealands Sauvignon Blanc wine from New Zealand.

Lastly, we were able to try a lovely Cabernet Sauvignon originating from Chile. Paired with a Blueberry Yum Yum mini burger from Nuburger. The Cabernet Sauvignon gave off hints of black cherries along with earthiness going well with blueberry jam and thick cream cheese presented in the burger. A rich taste was definitely required!

Veronique’s approach was very kind and laid back, but the event at the Forks was lavish. Her taste towards wine was casual and delightful! Her choices in the win that we drank at The Common reflected that. I encourage you to join the next Uncommon Pours Tour!

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Three-way tie at The Forks (1 Forks Market Road)

The Boiler Maker (Rudy’s Eat & Drink, 375 Graham Avenue)

Umami, (The Merchant Kitchen, 314 Donald Street)

The Village Drunk, (Tipsy Cow, 285 Portage Avenue)

The Gretchen Wieners, (Carbone, 260 St. Mary Avenue)