Torontoist Environment Editor Chris Tindal is currently engaged in a federal by-election campaign. This weekly column is an attempt to offer a "behind the scenes" glimpse into what it's like to be that mysterious Other: a politician. A strange thing is happening here in Toronto Centre: Barack Obama seems to have become a candidate. Not literally of course, and (as you'll see) it's not clear what party he's representing, but his presence is certainly being......

Barack Obama and Mike Huckabee win the Iowa Democratic and Republican caucuses. The caucuses, which are the first real test for any American presidential candidate, delivered powerful margins of victory for both candidates. However, Iowa alone does not guarantee you the nomination—just ask 1992 Iowa caucus winner Tom Harkin. Legendary Star sportswriter Milt Dunnell passes at 102. A great sports columnist, Dunnell will be missed. Troubled Britney Spears taken to hospital because oh I......

Gas prices are up three cents a litre as the price of oil crossed the psychological threshold of US$100 a barrel for the first time ever. Upon hearing the news, Stephen Harper flew to the Alberta oil sands and gave a stirring speech about how victory would soon be his, whereupon he was roundly cheered by all the hosts of Mordor. A low-level mobster claims that in 1974 he was tasked with assassinating Pierre......

The annual Polar Bear Dip is a success, raising $59,000 for World Vision Canada. This follows Toronto's proud tradition of really, really bloody stupid stunts for charity, like the Great Canadian Tack-Eating Contest of 1958 and the Who Needs A Parachute? First Canadian Place Jump-Off of 1971. Oscar Peterson memorial concert to be held next week. The concert will feature speeches by Bob Rae and Michaëlle Jean. Because when you think jazz, you think......

Craig Davidson came out swinging last year with the short story collection Rust and Bone, which featured tales of dog fighting, boxers, porn stars and magicians. Can-lit it was not. Now, just a year later, Davidson has returned with The Fighter, a bloody, darkly funny novel about two young men trying to find their place in the world. Davidson gained national attention for the launch party of his novel, when he stepped inside the ring......

Tall Poppy Interview: Chuck Klosterman ...