To give the mayor his due: during Monday’s debate on the prospect of building a casino in Toronto, he executed what would not be considered a typical Ford manoeuvre. Instead of just blustering through, acting impulsively on gut instinct or what he believes some mythical taxpayer wants, Ford introduced a motion calling for further study [...]

After a long day of hearing from various interested parties, ranging from recovering gambling addicts to executives hoping to build an “integrated resort entertainment complex” on the waterfront, council’s Executive Committee has voted to defer further debate on a casino in Toronto until they can learn more about the implications of such a project. Mayor [...]

According to Woodbine racetrack operator Woodbine Entertainment Group, what better place to stick a Toronto casino and entertainment complex than…(wait for it)…Woodbine! And, according to two recent opinion polls—one commissioned by the good people at Woodbine themselves—Etobicoke is one of the top preferred sites to put the thing (y’know, the casino…thing). Should they push forward [...]

Every Saturday at noon, Historicist looks back at the events, places, and characters—good and bad—that have shaped Toronto into the city we know today. Unidentified Ontario Jockey Club horserace, before 1980. City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 1057, Item 896. In its early years, the Queen’s Plate was a rather raucous and unpredictable annual event. Because [...]

Photo by Andrew Z. There are few emotional highs like watching your horse galloping down the homestretch to win by a nose in a blur of colour and kicked-up dirt. Even losing money when your wing-and-a-prayer long shot leads the race only to falter badly in the final turn isn’t so disappointing when you consider [...]