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James Hinchcliffe - Canada's Best Driver

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James Hinchcliffe isn’t just the most prolific Canadian driver to hit the asphalt in recent history; he is a fan favourite on and off the track. At just 27 years old, Hinchcliffe has burst onto the Verizon IndyCar Series scene, leaving all other Canadian drivers in his dust.

Manning the #27 United Fiber & Data sponsored entry for Andretti Autosport, 2014 is looking promising for “Hinch”, marking his third straight season with the Indianapolis-based team. 

Hinchcliffe shot right out of the gates in 2011, winning Rookie of the Year in the IZOD IndyCar Series, finishing 12th overall.

In 2012, his popularity skyrocketed driving the popular Go Daddy car. Winning the “Fan Favorite Award”, the Canadian’s performances became increasingly stellar with five Top-10 finishes, placing eighth in the final standings. 

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Always elevating his game, Hinchcliffe solidified himself as the next big thing in 2013, capturing his first three IndyCar Series wins. In the opening race of the season in St. Petersburg, Florida, Hinch took home his first career victory with a stunning 1.09-second edge over veteran driver Helio Castroneves. In São Paulo, Brazil, he obtained his second win in four races by an even slimmer margin of 0.3463 seconds. In race 10, the Oakville, Ontario native closed out his third and final triumph of the season leading 226 of 250 laps en route to victory at the Iowa Speedway.

Off The Track

The Andretti Autosport driver displays determination and discipline not shown by all professional athletes; after suffering a concussion on May 10, 2014 (from flying debris off another car), Hinchcliffe went “overkill” on his recovery to ensure a return to the racetrack. Recuperating quickly, he would pass the IndyCar Series imPACT medical test.

With the injury behind him, the accomplished TV presenter, self-confessed frustrated guitarist and drummer hopes to continue his rise up the Verizon IndyCar Series, looking to become one of the most popular and successful Canadian racers of all time.

 

Out on the Town - July Events

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Happy Summer of 2014! July is a month to really kick up your heels, relax and soak up the sun. Cottage Country is open for business and the city is full of visitors from all around the world. If you don’t have a cottage and want an invite, be sure to be the guest that brings the best house gift. Never show up empty handed, that is just gross. Our friends at the LCBO are stocked with lots of options to bring big smiles to everyone’s faces. My July pick this month and new to the LCBO is a South African wine called Fleur Du Cap Chardonnay 2012 and it is only $12.80. Delicious, fun, and no oak! I never drink Chardonnay but this is a winner! I have never understood having a glass of wine! Bring bottles not a bottle! Let everyone enjoy this fresh patio drinking wine this summer and you will look like a wine hero! But yes do drink responsibly and remember drinking and driving is for losers!

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Debuting on Adelaide in the heart of Toronto’s entertainment district, Shibui Robata Bar (230 Adelaide St. West) brings a sophisticated twist to traditional Japanese cuisine by introducing the city’s first authentic hot charcoal robata experience. Acclaimed Chef Masaki is an authority on Japanese dining and delivers original flavours and methods that are brought to life through his masterful skills and desire to revolutionize the industry. Enjoy true robata with fresh seafood, savoury meats and seasonal vegetables grilled over an open hearth, enhancing the natural flavours of the ingredients, alongside expertly-crafted sushi, appetizers and entrées.

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Fringe Festival: July 2–13

The Toronto Fringe Festival is a blast! So many talented artists both emerging and established present their work to our city — from dramas and musicals to improv and dance shows — the city is taken over; local venues, playgrounds, parking lots and more. The Fringe Festival returns 100% of its profits to the artists themselves. Respect the talent that comes to our city and enjoy all the performers’ hard work and dedication. This festival will make you smile!

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Summerlicious: July 4–July 20

150 of Toronto’s top restaurants offer residents and tourists the opportunity to enjoy amazing food! Starting at $20 to $45 you can sample a wide variety of diverse and sexy creations through prix-fixe menus. Foodies can dine for a lot less on the specially created lunches and dinners from some of the city’s restaurants! Now be sure to still tip and take care of your server properly. 

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Shakespeare in High Park:
July 8 – End of Summer

High Park is stunning in the summer! Take advantage of these amazing productions! They run on alternating nights under the stars with As You Like It running on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday and Titus Andronicus running on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 8 p.m. through Aug. 31. Both performances run approximately 90 minutes with no intermission. Cushions will be provided, and I encourage you to pack a blanket and some delicious snacks for the full picnic experience!

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 Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival; Caribana

Caribana: July 8–Aug 3

The Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival hits the streets and stages of Toronto this summer for its 46th year. This has to be the most colourful event of the year! The costumes, the food and the energy of the city explodes! Events that celebrate the music, cuisine and arts of the Caribbean! I love the Caribbean! Who doesn’t? Over 1 million people turned up last year and like Pride it keeps on getting bigger and brighter! This Caribana Grand Parade is beautiful! The Annual Gala and the new tent villages are action packed! Visit www.caribanatoronto.com for more details and a full event schedule.

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Taste of Toronto (New to the city!):

july 24–27

Last year, I was able to attend Taste of London, England — it was my favourite food event of all time! I was so excited to hear “Taste” was coming to Toronto! There is no food event like it! Fort York will be transformed into a foodie extravaganza! Guests can enjoy summer eating, drinking and entertainment for four days. 14 of the city’s sexiest restaurants will be dazzling all foodies alike. Top that off with over 50 producers of the best food, beverages and premium brands providing a bountiful food market, and you have the best culinary festival of the year!

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Ultimate Patio Experience: 

July 5, 12, 26

Select Saturdays this July, Jack Astor’s is giving away the Ultimate Patio Experience on a Jack’s patio in the GTA! Guests just have to Tweet or Instagram a photo of themselves before 1:30 p.m. on a Jack Astor’s patio and mention @Jack_Astors, the location and #JacksPatio for a chance to win! Four lucky winners and their guests, selected at 1:30 p.m., will be whisked away in a limo to Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport. From there, a private pontoon plane will fly them to a lakeside patio in beautiful Muskoka, Ontario for the ultimate VIP summer patio experience including an afternoon full of drinks, food and entertainment. 

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You need to enjoy this city during the summer months and if you don’t have a cottage like me I love having staycations! There are so many beautiful hotels in this city with great facilities to pamper yourself! I love One King West! It is in the heart of the city and walking distance from the best restaurants in all directions. A staycation can really allow you to escape and appreciate what our city has to offer. Eat Toronto up! The food festivals, the art, the entertainment and the energy of Toronto is magical! Use onthego.to as your key to the city! Our experts take PRIDE in showing you a good time! 

— Mike Chalut 

#loveyourguts Summer of 2014! 

Follow me on twitter for a wiggle @mikechalut 

Host of The Mike Chalut Show 

www.proudfm.com • 416-870-1039

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Club & Country: A Father’s Day Golf Guide

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Father’s Day gifts can be difficult. Flowers, cards or a singing telegram may be a little over the top for old pop, but there’s one present that will combine the outdoors, quiet time, and sports all into one: golf. 

The Greater Toronto Area is home to a plethora of eye-pleasing courses, so many in fact that plenty fly under the radar. Finding the right course for your budget may be difficult however, but many clubs offer great rates around Father’s Day. 

Copper Creek is frequently ranked as one of the top public golf courses in Canada (#44 in 2013 by Canadian Golf Magazine). The course offers prices as low as $125 for a weekend afternoon, just 35 minutes outside of downtown Toronto in the picturesque town of Kleinburg, Ontario. The course also offers a “4½ Hour Guarantee” to
ensure a healthy pace of play.  www.coppercreek.ca

Royal Woodbine Golf Club is located in west Toronto and a stone’s throw away from Pearson International Airport and Woodbine Racetrack. With an early bird and twilight special of $65 (for a limited time), it is an offer that is hard to turn down given its proximity to Woodbine Entertainment Group. www.royalwoodbine.com

Just beyond Toronto lies Lionhead Golf & Country Club, on Mississauga Road in Brampton. While offering a “kinder and gentler” layout in their Masters Course, Lionhead also provides the Legends Course. Generally considered one of the toughest courses in North America, this is for dads with a serious golf tick. Costing $155 for weekdays, weekends or holidays, the price is still a bargain given the club’s prestige.  www.golflionhead.com

Whether a competitive rivalry between father and child, or a friendly outing followed by dinner and drinks, the options are open. Travel afar or keep it local on Father’s Day, because there are more than enough courses in the GTA to fit everyone’s needs.

Caledon Country Club 2121 Olde Basline Rd, Caledon • 905-838-0200 • golfcaledon.com

Caledon Country Club is a mature public golf club located just 45 minutes from downtown Toronto. The drive is an easy one as it is all highway driving. 18 scenic holes are located in the beautiful Caledon hills with the Credit River coursing through it. Caledon CC offers a variety of lesson programs and special event nights. Photos and details can be found at www.golfcaledon.com. Sign up for our e-newsletter to receive up to the minute specials and promotions. Tee times can be reserved online or by phone at
905-838-0200 ext 1. Come visit us today!

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Grand Highland Golf Club 376 Barondale Dr., Mississauga • 905-712-1183 • golfcaledon.com

Mississauga’s Premiere Executive Golf Club is the perfect place to learn to play, to practice your short game, or to enjoy the outdoors for 90 minutes. Conveniently located just north west of Kennedy and Eglinton in Mississauga. The course has pristine conditions with spectacular views of the Toronto skyline. Call ahead to reserve your spot: 905-838-0200. We look forward to welcoming you.

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Lionhead Golf & Country Club Legends Course 8525 Mississauga Rd, Brampton • 905-455-4900 • golflionhead.com

The first hole on Legends has a green complex shaped into a “Lion’s Paw”. This is just the start to the famous course that has a slope of 155, creating a golf experience that you will never forget. Small undulating putting surfaces, tight tree lined fairways, cavernous bunkers & the Credit river that flows through or beside 14 out of 18 holes will leave most golfers speechless at the end of the round. 

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Bowmanville Golf & Country Club 3845 Middle Road, Bowmanville • 905-623-2670 • bowmanvillegolf.ca

Bowmanville Golf & Country Club is an 18 hole championship course that challenges the lower handicapper yet entertains the recreational golfer. Book your tee time now. Bring this ad, and receive: 1 round for two people, with a power cart.*

Weekdays (Anytime): $72

Weekends (After 1pm): $72

Weekends (Before 1 pm): $89

* Cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion or coupon. Expires Sept. 30, 2014.

Spiro Mandylor - A staple of the Toronto fashion scene

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OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAby Jessica Panetta | With the wrap-up of World MasterCard Fashion Week, I thought it would be beneficial to talk to an individual who is immersed in the fashion world of our city and beyond. Spiro Mandylor, founder of the Toronto blog It’s All Style To Me, took time out of his busy schedule to sit down and talk fashion with me. His perspective on fashion is not what you would expect from someone who has been surrounded by it for most of his life (i.e., he believes the award for overrated style goes to Kim Kardashian, Kanye West, Pharrell and First Lady Michelle Obama).

When It’s All Style To Me was launched, it was not solely about meeting designers and celebrities; it was about developing his writing and engaging his audience with brief fashion and style reviews for the busy professional. Spiro takes aspects from diverse parts of his life and incorporates them into his blog. 

He is a photographer, an artist, a marketing maven, an IT expert and if I may say so, a stylish individual.

Regarding Toronto Fashion Week, Spiro believes that Toronto is light-years away from where it should be. “We need more government funding and support, and all the cities of Canada should come together to create a 

Canadian Fashion Week. Most importantly, the timing is off. We should have our fashion week the week before New York’s so that the buyers’ budgets are not already spent.” Further, he is proud of our Canadian designers and deems brands such as Mackage, as innovators. “Their approach to outerwear is incomparable. They have an approach that others can’t come close to.” He goes on to mention Line Knitwear and says, “they keep evolving, while staying true to their trademark look.” Spiro is excited 

about the upcoming trends and regards designers Joe Fresh, Pink Tartan, Mikael D and Michael Kale as ones to watch for 2014.

Spiro’s final thoughts: like it or not, we are all into fashion, even trends; since what is available in stores and online, on some level, dictates what we wear. Ladies, do not wear tights as pants because it is lazy and distasteful. Men, get rid of your square-pointed shoes; and everyone should dress age-appropriate.

For more information about Spiro Mandylor, please visit itsallstyletome.com or watch him
on E!’s Celebrity Style Story.

— Jessica Panetta
ConceptualEventSociety.com

World MasterCard Fashion Week and I

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World MasterCard Fashion Week had everything a girl could hope for: fashion, parties, beautiful and eccentric people, designers, makeup, music and free-swag.  

Fashion Week started off with a bright-bang from Line Knitwear.  I had the privilege of interviewing the duo behind the brand who said, “The color is incredible and it’s a nice surprise on the runway, which people loved.  We played with proportion and the contrasts between hard and soft and hard and pretty.  This is the spirit of the collection”.  John Muscat and Jennifer Wells were as colorful as their Fall/Winter 2014 collection.  When their clothes sashayed down the runway, it was like a breath of fresh air.  Bright color mixed with darks, texture and even models falling over their heels, could not distract the crowd from the strength of this collection that is fashionable and wearable, a Line Knitwear trademark.  Standout pieces included, crew-necked jumpers, pencil skirts, long sweater dresses and even a sleeveless leather moto vest.  Whether you like wearing color or neutrals for Fall/Winter, this collection has what you are looking for.

Middle of the week was the busiest, with an array of runway shows, including, Pink Tartan, Joe Fresh and Mackage.

 

Pink Tartan was focused on fluffy fur and plaid but also stayed true to what they do best: A-line skirts and bouncy party dresses.  Pink Tartan departed from their standard knee-length hemlines to felt short-shorts (you will have to be brave to rock these in cold temperatures).  However, there were also a lot of bold looks, including, an over-sized quilted jacket that resembled a blanket or a stylish-snuggie, which perked the crowd right up.

I had a pre-show interview with Mackage designers, Elisa Dahan and Eran Elfassy, who were very gracious when asked: When it comes to marrying style and warmth, why did you two get it right?  “We want to make coats that are sexy but have the technical fabrics that will keep you warm.  In the winter, your coat is actually your outfit because that’s the first thing people see and we want people to look and feel great in our coats.  As kids, we used to go out in our leather jackets because we didn’t want to look poufy and we want people to be proud of their jacket and not run to coat-check”.   

The Mackage runway show displayed the evolution of style from fall to winter, with the runway covered in fall leaves to then being swept away by winter’s presence.  The collection was immersed with quilted leather bombers, tweed-trench coats, magenta cocoon coats and parkas.  The looks were completed with crop tops, wool skirts and leather pants. 

What is next for Mackage? “Perfecting our craft is an ongoing goal and becoming a full lifestyle brand but before we expand, we’d like to master whatever category we decide to present next”.  From the look of their Fall/Winter 2014 collection, they are definitely heading there with promise.

My World MasterCard Fashion Week lessons to live by:  

  • If you trip over your heels, laugh it off and keep strutting.
  • No matter what the season, do not be afraid to wear color.
  • Love your coat because during winter, it is your outfit.
  • The stink-eye is a compliment.

Toronto Fashion Week will be back in October.  Tickets are available to the public and whether you are into fashion or not, this is a must-do in Toronto.  

Here are highlights and behind-the-scenes moments from World MasterCard Fashion Week.  Which look would you rock?

[/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][author image=”https://onthego.to/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/JessicaPanettaFull-e1395754677441.jpg” ]Jessica Panetta, fashion expert and Head Director of Conceptual Event Society, has over 10 years of experience in fashion, beauty and public relations. ConceptualEventSociety.com [/author] Photos By Michael J. Burton

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A sincere thank you to: Amy Janisse – Celebrity Makeup Artist, Joe Commisso – a Hairstylist that can do no wrong, M. Clara’s Alterations – where fit is everything, Michael J. Burton Photography – a genius with a lens, Kate and Emma of Pink Tartan in Yorkville – knowledgeable and stylish and of course, On the Go Magazine – the number one commuter magazine.   [/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

A Conversation with Marilyn Denis

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Marilyn Denis is one of the most fun-loving — and quite honestly, one of the nicest people in broadcasting — as host of her own and Canada’s #1 daytime lifestyle series, THE MARILYN DENIS SHOW. The veteran broadcaster also co-hosts Roger, Darren & Marilyn weekday mornings on Toronto’s #1-ranked radio station 104.5 CHUM FM. A dominating presence in Toronto radio and Canadian television, Marilyn’s quick wit, connection with the audience and charm have made her a much-beloved figure in CHUM FM’s 27 year history and a favourite among viewers nationwide. We were lucky enough that she took some time out of her incredibly busy schedule to answer some questions for On the Go. 

1. You are the ultimate Lady On The Go … What’s it like having both a radio show and TV show each day? 

It’s a lot of fun! Let’s start with the radio first: it should be completely illegal to have so much fun and laugh so hard at 5:30 in the morning — I recognize that and cherish it. It’s such a pleasure to work with Roger Ashby and Darren B. Lamb on the CHUM FM morning show (they get my sense of humour) and there is a whole team that supports us. On the television side of things, again it is about team work! And of course it’s about the camera — it shows every flaw and picks up everything you want or even don’t want to see — all on live TV! I love the in-studio audience who have travelled (in many cases from very long distances) to be a part of the live broadcast; they are the ones who make the show. Plus, with the great lifestyle experts that we have on both the radio and TV show, I learn something new every day and that is ultimately the most important thing to me: and that in return the viewers at home also learn something new and are thoroughly entertained.

 2. What are three things people may not know about you?

1) That radio is my first love. From the early days of listening to my tiny transistor radio in my bedroom in Pittsburgh, I have always had a strong connection to the music, personalities and information emanating from those invisible airwaves.

2) I’m a big football fan. My team, of course, is the Pittsburgh Steelers (although I am Canadian-born, my parents were transferred to Pittsburgh when I was young and thus my love for football began). Like all fans, my heart rises and sinks with the team on any given Sunday. But I am also a CFL fan. Back in 1986, I tried out for the Calgary Stampeders cheerleading squad and unfortunately for them I made it! I never had to pay for a ticket and there I was right on the field. To be truthful, I never paid much attention to the cheers we were performing, but I sure was excited to be part of the game! 

3) I consider my circle of girlfriends to be my biggest support group. Although I love my time alone to just relax and decompress, those lunches, dinners and get-togethers with my various BFFs have been an important part of my life.

3. How have you been able to be on top for so long?

I haven’t always had the success that I am experiencing right now. There have been days that have been very slow and inactive, which makes me really relish the days that I have now … which is absolutely loving each day spent on the CHUM FM morning show and having a ball on CTV doing THE MARILYN DENIS SHOW. I think it has a lot to do with loving what you do. I’ve been very lucky to have two great jobs that are both enjoyable and incredibly surprising every single day. And once again, working with a great team of creative and professional people makes it very rewarding and interesting.

4. What is the most embarrassing and/or funny thing that has happened to you while live on the air? 

When you’re live every day, it’s hard to recall any one specific moment, as there is always a surprise waiting around the corner. The key to trying to get out of a mistake or mishap is to live in the moment and just roll with it. The funniest moments are really with the audience — from in-studio audience members to the listeners on the radio who call in. The things that people come up with are real, authentic and unbelievably entertaining on their own and sometimes their reaction and timing is bang on! If you don’t have audience interaction or participation then there would be no show and I take that seriously.

THE MARILYN DENIS SHOW airs live Weekdays at 10 a.m. ET on CTV and the CTV GO app and 11 a.m. ET on CTV Two and the CTV GO app. The show is also available on demand following the broadcast at Marilyn.ca and CTV GO (check local listings). 

More information about THE MARILYN DENIS SHOW, including ticket information, can be found at Marilyn.ca. Follow Marilyn Denis on Twitter:
@MarilynDenisCTV.

 

 

March Break 2014

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by Andrew Chapados | It’s been a long, white winter and Friday, March 7 marks the welcomed beginning of March break for most school boards in Ontario. Indoors or out, fun family-friendly activities can be found all across the province.

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For animal lovers, there is no better trip than a visit to Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. With galleries such as Canadian Waters (featuring giant octopi) and the Dangerous Lagoon (includes tiger sharks, sea turtles and stingrays) Ripley’s combines the majesty of the water world with the informative presentation of a world-class museum.

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More friendly creatures await at the Toronto Zoo. The zoo is currently featuring a special March break exhibit, which includes a brand new polar bear cub, as well as the dynamic-panda duo of Er Shun and Da Mao. The zoo also has an activity centre where guests can find information, games, and memorabilia.

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Fresh off the Winter Olympics, Canadians are more excited about skiing and snowboarding than ever. Winter getaways are available at wondrous resorts such as Blue Mountain (Collingwood), Sandy Lane Resort (Algonquin Highlands), and Horseshoe Resort (Barrie). Many resorts offer March break special offers to go along with the amazing scenery, hot tubs and ski hills that will have the family embracing wintery conditions.

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If romance is on the forefront, resorts catering to adults also offer discount prices for the season. The Couples Resort (Algonquin) and The Briars Resort & Spa (Jacksons Point) offer lodgings at under $150 per person, with the opportunities to spa, dine, and ski while there.

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March break is not only for the travelling family but for the city-goers as well. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) hosts March Break Camp for children ages 5-15 with hands-on activities in the galleries, studio and labs. The Ontario Science Centre provides it’s own March break activities including the Medieval Science Quest, where kids get a chance to make stained glass, build a drawbridge, and participate in the knights’ tournament.

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Lastly, after watching Team Canada at the Winter Olympics, you’ll want to try your hand at goaltending, shooting and play-by-play at the Hockey Hall of Fame on Yonge Street.

Inside or outside, there is so much to do in Ontario during March break 2014 that the family will already be planning next year’s trip before the break is over.