#FOOD: TORONTO HOLIDAY DINING ROUNDUP -MINAMI, TORA, LUCIE, FICOA, LITTLE SISTER, STEFANO’S DINER, THE CARBON BAR

Some ideas for Holiday Dining as we enter the greatest season of the year! Here are some suggestions for your gatherings over the next few weeks and their holiday menu offerings if you’re in and around the GTA!

Minami is thrilled to announce their 2024 holiday 3-course tasting menu for $110 – featuring their Salmon Crudo with house-made yukke sauce, signature Aburi Oshi Sushi along with other sushi favourites, and your choice of Saikyo Miso Baked Sablefish or 3oz US Wagyu. For just $35, surprise your tastebuds with wine pairings that promise a holiday dinner to remember. 

Minami Holiday Kaiseki – $110 

Beverage pairings – $35

Amuse-Bouche 

Edamame, corn, dumpling skin, brown butter, Hokkaido uni, pickled ginger, soy glaze 

Bread & Butter Prosecco 

Salmon Crudo 

House-made yukke sauce, goma-ae sauce, shiso leaf, binchotan oil, sweet lemon 

Sushi 

7 pieces of chef-selected Aburi Oshi Sushi, Aburi nigiri, and the signature Minami Roll 

Tenuta Orestiadi Catarratto

Entreé

The choice of

Saikyo Miso Baked Sablefish 

Mushroom rice, salted green cabbage, black garlic jus, kizami wasabi, patty pan squash, yuzu miso reduction 

19 Crimes Martha’s Chardonnay 

– or –

3oz US Wagyu 

Peppercorn jus, roasted maitake, gremolata, crispy Jerusalem artichoke, confit eggplant 

Joel Gott 815 Cabernet Sauvignon

Dessert 

The choice of ice cream flavour 

Black Sesame – or – Taro Root 

Spiced pear compote, cinnamon meringue, pomegranate, mochi balls, kuromitsu

Reservations for Minami can be made HERE.  

Ficoa

IG: @ficoa.to

(pictured: Ficoa’s Classic Mole)

Looking for a happy hour with a jolly twist? Visit Ficoa’s ‘Jolly Time’ in December from 6-8pm with Christmas-inspired cocktails like ‘Christmas Token’, a gin cocktail with foam placed on top, shaped like Santa’s hat. With each drink order, guests enjoy a curated selection of snacks that vary based on their beverage choice. Enjoy snacks like ‘Duck Farce Pintxo’ with flavours of a holiday roast and ‘Ginger Bread Man’ with foie and jelly, and more.

Jolly Time 6-8PM – $18

Cocktails 

Caffizzito 

Naughty List Martini 

Christmas Token 

Gin cocktail with foam shaped like Santa’s hat 

Holidays fashioned 

Duck roast fat-washed rum, cinnamon, and green cherry

Snacks

Duck Farce Pintxos 

Flavours of a holiday roast on toasted

Chorizo in Blanket 

Tallow pastry with chorizo filling 

Brie and Fig Crackers 

Star-shaped crackers with brie and fig

Gingerbread Man 

Foie and jelly 

Ficoa’s warm, hearty Mexican service: ‘Let Us Cook For You’ is transformed with holiday spirit from December 11th-14th. Ficoa will be launching their ‘Taste of Christmas’ menu, a 6-course prix-fixe dinner featuring their signature welcome drink, ‘Ponche’ crafted in the style of executive chef Gerry Quintero’s memory of large Mochaocan family gathering, with classic Mexican fruit punch. 

Indulge in their snacks like Pozole – a classic Mexican soup for the holidays, and their fun twist on chips and dip but elevated with caviar. For hearty options, Pierna Roast and Ensala are a must, so be sure to set aside some space for their delicious desserts. See below for the entire menu. 

Taste of Christmas – $100

Welcome Drink – Ponche

Classic Mexican fruit punch 

Mini Tamal 

Small tamal filled with barbacoa or lentils and cheese 

Pozole 

Bone-broth, hominy, and pozole fixins 

Molote de Picadillo

Sweet and sour Mexican filling with beef, fried fruit, and warm spices

Squash Tamal 

Koginut stew stuffed in a mixed squash corn dough basted with cinnamon and star anise forward tomato salsa

Entreé

Pierna Roast

Slow-roasted and sliced Linton Pasture’s pork leg, marinated in orange and warm spices

Ficoa’s Classic Mole

Served on the best part of a tamal, full husk contact ‘tortilla’ with crispy chicharron and toasted rice

Ensalada Rusa

 Beet, potato fruit salad with mayonnaise style dressing with refried lentils and salsa

Dessert 

Squash en Tacha

Squash cooked in cinnamon and syrup

Tres Leches

Chocolate De Olla-steeped sponge cake with chocolate and decaffeinated coffee 

Reservations for Ficoa can be made HERE.  

Little Sister 

IG: @littlesisterto

(pictured left to right: Hot Girl Winter, Noggi and Nice)

It’s time to get festive, Toronto. The ultimate holiday pop-up bar, Java Jingle at Little Sister, is back for a fourth year – and it’s bigger than ever. 

Little Sister’s little elves are all abuzz with excitement to reveal the return of Toronto’s cult favourite, over-the-top, holiday-themed pop-up bar, Java Jingle. Starting November 15, both Toronto locations at 102 Portland St. and 2031 Yonge St. will transform into winter wonderlands, bursting with festive joy. 

Jingle your night away with playful, cheerfully named cocktails like the tequila-infused Feliz Navi-Zaddy, the warming Hot Girl Winter with gin, brandy, and red wine, and the floral gin and St-Germain creation, Sleigh, Queen, Sleigh. 

Reservations for Java Jingle are highly recommended. 

Guests can reserve time slots HERE for Portland St. and HERE for Yonge St.     

TORA 

IG: @aburitoratoronto

(pictured: TORA Holiday Platter)

For family and friends who spend the holidays in the comfort of their own homes, TORA is thrilled to launch their holiday sushi platter featuring their OG signature flame-seared Aburi Oshi Sushi with a Roll, Hosomaki, and Inari pockets for $72, serving 4 people. 

TORA Holiday Platter – $72

OSHI

Aburi salmon oshi 4pc

Aburi ebi oshi 4pc

Aburi tuna oshi 4pc

Aburi atlantic salmon oshi 4pc

ROLL

Aburi california roll 8pc

MAKI

Salmon maki 6pc

Red tuna maki 6pc

Cucumber maki 6pc

Avocado maki 6pc

INARI

Shrimp inari pocket 4pc

Available for direct Take-out, or order online through Ritual or UberEats. 

 Shop the Carbon Bar 

IG: @thecarbonbar

(pictured: Holiday Dinner Bundle)

Not sure what kind of potluck you should bring? Shop the Carbon Bar has frozen offerings covered for you – introducing the Holiday Dinner bundle for $150, complete with all sides. Receive a $25 The Carbon Bar Restaurant Gift Card with purchase. Simply heat, serve, and savour—this is the ultimate BBQ value for the holiday season.

Holiday Dinner Bundle – $150

St. Louis Style Ribs 

Full Rack

Mac & Cheese 

1300g

Beef Brisket Empanadas 

4 pack

Vegan Empanadas 

4 pack

Sliced Turkey 

454g

Cheddar Jalapeno Sausages 

4 pack

Espresso BBQ Sauce 

350ml glass bottle

Purchase Shop the Carbon Bar’s Holiday Dinner Bundle HERE.

Stefano’s Diner

IG: @stefanosdiner

Sister and brother restaurants MICHELIN-recommended GIA and Stefano’s Diner are thrilled to offer Holiday catering starting today, November 16th to December 24th. Enjoy Italian plant-based dishes like pasta from GIA and Dan Levy’s favourite sandwiches from Stefano’s Diner. 

Holiday Catering Menu Highlights

Gnocchi Gorgonzola – $80 for 4 (Vegetarian)

Ricotta gnocchi with gorgonzola cream, fried walnuts, Parmesan (contains nuts)

Gnocchi Pomodoro – $80 for 4 (Vegetarian)

Ricotta gnocchi with pomodoro, stracciatella, basil

Stefano’s Italian Sub – $16 for 1 (Vegan)

Mortadella, ham, pastrami, provolone, arugula, mustard mayo, Italian dressing 

Stefano’s Smash Burger – $16 for 1 (Vegan) 

Plant-based meat and farro patty, cheddar cheese, shredded lettuce, caramelized onions, pickles, Russian dressing, sesame bun

Lemon Cake – $40 for 4 (Vegan) 

Layered lemon cake

View the full menu and order Holiday Catering HERE.

Lucie 

IG: @restaurantlucie

Sneak-peek of New Year’s celebrations: ring in the New Year with French style, at MICHELIN-recommended gem, Lucie Restaurant. Throughout the evening, absorb yourself in “La Nouvelle Anneé” authentic French fashion with a five-course tasting menu with wine or non-alcoholic pairings. 

Award-winning chef Arnaud Bloquel and his talented brigade promise guests an unforgettable New Year’s evening with resident sommelier Thomas Santerre’s leaving tastebuds dancing all evening.

Tickets can be purchased HERE. for $540 including the five-course tasting menu, wine pairings, tax and gratuity (champagne and other beverages are not offered in wine pairing). 

#FIRSTLOOK: MRBEAST’S “BEAST GAMES” NEW TEASER

Hot off Prime Video’s announcement MRBEAST’S BEAST GAMES is set to debut weekly on Thursday, December 19, 2024 on Prime Video, we get a new Teaser!

Today, Prime Video released a first-look teaser to the record-breaking competition series, Beast Games. Fans can expect to see their favorite type of ‘MrBeast-style’ challenges fueled by time-sensitive emotional decisions, pyrotechnics, and of course, big-rewards. The series is set to debut weekly on Thursday, December 19th on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide. 

From the groundbreaking mind of MrBeast comes a new, record-breaking competition series. A staggering 1,000 players compete in nail-biting, physical, mental, and social challenges, for a chance to win a whopping $5 million dollar cash prize. Week by week, players will use their strength and wit to stay in the game, with the hope of being the multi-million-dollar winner.

Beast Games is hosted by co-creator and executive producer, Jimmy Donaldson (aka MrBeast), alongside co-creators and executive producers Tyler Conklin, Sean Klitzner, and Mack Hopkins, in addition to executive producers Michael Cruz, Matt Apps, Charles Wachter, Keith Geller, Joe Coleman, Rachel Skidmore, Chris Keiper, and Joshua Kulic.

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW TRAILER FOR “SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3” AND OPENING DAY FAN EVENT

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 IS IN THEATRES DECEMBER 20, 2024! It has just been announced that there will be a special opening day fan event! Today we also get a brand new Trailer from Paramount Pictures Canada.

To celebrate the cinematic experience, Paramount Pictures will give fans the opportunity to see SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 in theatres at an opening day movie event on Thursday, December 19th.  Fans will see it first at 3pm local time presented exclusively in premium, formats at participating locations including DBOX, SCREENX and other premium format theatres across the country. 

Tickets for Opening Day Fan Event, and general SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 tickets are on sale today.

To purchase tickets for the SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 Opening Day Fan Event Screening, and to find participating theatre listings in your area, go to www.sonicthehedgehogmovie.com/seeitfirst. General tickets are also on sale at www.sonicthehedgehogmovie.com. Tickets for all shows also on sale at exhibitors’ websites & mobile apps, 3rd party ticketing platforms and at participating theatre box offices nationwide.

Ticketholders seeing SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 at the Fan Event screening will also see additional behind the scenes content prior to the feature for this special show and will also receive limited-edition gifts including one of four different limited edition character keychains plus an exclusive 12”x18” collector’s art print created for fans attending this one-night event – while supplies last.

Said Paramount Pictures’ President of Domestic Distribution Chris Aronson, “There is tremendous excitement from fans for the upcoming release of Sonic the Hedgehog 3. The series keeps growing from film to film, and this will be the biggest installment yet.  We’re thrilled to reward loyal fans nationwide with the chance to see Sonic first in the most immersive way on the big screen.” 

Sonic the Hedgehog returns to the big screen this holiday season in his most thrilling adventure yet. Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails reunite against a powerful new adversary, Shadow, a mysterious villain with powers unlike anything they have faced before. With their abilities outmatched in every way, Team Sonic must seek out an unlikely alliance in hopes of stopping Shadow and protecting the planet.

Director Jeff Fowler returns along with our all-star cast including Jim Carrey, Ben Schwartz, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Idris Elba, Colleen O’Shaughnessey, Natasha Rothwell, Shemar Moore, Adam Pally, Lee Majdoub, newcomers Alyla Browne and Krysten Ritter, with Keanu Reeves joining the franchise as Shadow the Hedgehog.

SYNOPSIS:

Sonic the Hedgehog returns to the big screen this holiday season in his most thrilling adventure yet. Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails reunite against a powerful new adversary, Shadow, a mysterious villain with powers unlike anything they have faced before. With their abilities outmatched in every way, Team Sonic must seek out an unlikely alliance in hopes of stopping Shadow and protecting the planet.

Director Jeff Fowler returns along with our all-star cast including Jim Carrey, Ben Schwartz, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Idris Elba, Colleen O’Shaughnessey, Natasha Rothwell, Shemar Moore, Adam Pally, Lee Majdoub, newcomers Alyla Browne and Krysten Ritter, with Keanu Reeves joining the franchise as Shadow the Hedgehog.

Paramount Pictures Presents

In Association with Sega Sammy Group

An Original Film / Marza Animation Planet / Blur Studio Production

“SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3”

Produced by

Neal H. Moritz, p.g.a., Toby Ascher, p.g.a.,Toru Nakahara, Hitoshi Okuno

Executive Producers

Haruki Satomi, Shuji Utsumi, Yukio Sugino,

Jeff Fowler, Tommy Gormley, Tim Miller

Based on the SEGA Video Game

Story by

Pat Casey & Josh Miller

Screenplay by

Pat Casey & Josh Miller and John Whittington

Directed

by Jeff Fowler

Cast:

Jim Carrey, Ben Schwartz, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Idris Elba, Keanu Reeves, Krysten Ritter, Lee Majdoub, Natasha Rothwell, Adam Pally, Shemar Moore, Colleen O’Shaughnessey, Alyla Browne, James Wolk

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW CBC COMEDY SERIES “NORTH OF NORTH” ARRIVES JANUARY 7, 2025

CBC and APTN today announced that the highly anticipated new comedy series NORTH OF NORTH (8×30) will premiere in Canada on CBC Gem, CBC TV and APTN on Tuesday, January 7 with the first two episodes back-to-back, followed by weekly episodes. New episodes will be available to stream in Canada weekly on Tuesdays on CBC Gem starting at 9 a.m. ET, followed by broadcast on CBC TV at 9 p.m. (9:30 NT) local time and 9 p.m. ET on APTN. After its world premiere in Canada, NORTH OF NORTH will then launch globally on Netflix in the Spring of 2025.

Filmed in Iqaluit, Nunavut, NORTH OF NORTH is created, executive produced and written by Inuk writer and producer Stacey Aglok MacDonald (Qanurli, The Grizzlies) and Inuk filmmaker Alethea Arnaquq-Baril (Angry Inuk, The Grizzlies). The series stars Inuk actor Anna Lambe (True Detective, Trickster, The Grizzlies) as lead character Siaja, a young Inuk woman who dreams of reinventing herself in her tiny Arctic community of Ice Cove, a town where everybody knows your business. After a spontaneous — and extremely public — exit from her marriage, Siaja finds herself navigating the unpredictable, and often hilarious, highs and lows that come with relationships, motherhood, a new job, and finding your way.

NORTH OF NORTH also stars Maika Harper, Keira Belle Cooper, Kelly William, Braeden Clarke, Mary Lynn Rajskub, Jay Ryan, Zorga Qaunaq, Bailey Poching and Nutaaq Doreen Simmonds.

An APTN, CBC and Netflix original series, NORTH OF NORTH is produced by Red Marrow Media and Northwood Entertainment. The series is created by Stacey Aglok MacDonald (Qanurli, The Grizzlies) and Alethea Arnaquq-Baril (Angry Inuk, The Grizzlies) of Red Marrow Media and produced alongside executive producer Miranda de Pencier (Anne with an E, Beginners, The Grizzlies) of Northwood Entertainment. Anya Adams (Yellowjackets, Ginny & Georgia), Susan Coyne (Mozart in the Jungle, Daisy Jones & The Six) and Garry Campbell (The Kids in the Hall, Less Than Kind) also executive produced. For APTN, Adam Garnet Jones is Director of TV Content and Special Events, and Danelle Granger is Executive in charge of Development and Scripted Production. For CBC, Sally Catto is General Manager, Entertainment, Factual & Sports; Trish Williams is Executive Director, Scripted Content; Sandra Picheca is Director of Current Production, Comedy; and Mélanie Lê Phan is Executive in Charge of Production. For Netflix, Danielle Woodrow, Director, Content – Canada and Tara Woodbury, Director, Content – Canada.

#FIRSTLOOK: THE SIX TRIPLE EIGHT STARRING KERRY WASHINGTON – NEW TRAILER

Kerry Washington stars in Tyler Perry‘s THE SIX TRIPLE EIGHT, arriving December in select theatres and on Netflix. Today we get a new Trailer!

Netflix Release Date: December 20

In Select Theaters: December 6

DIRECTOR: Tyler Perry
SCREENPLAY BY: Tyler Perry, based on the article “Fighting A Two-Front War” by Kevin M. Hymel published in WWII History Magazine by Sovereign Media
PRODUCED BY: Tyler Perry, Nicole Avant, Angi Bones, Tony L. Strickland, Keri Selig, Carlota Espinosa
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Peter Guber, Kerry Washington
CAST: Kerry Washington, Ebony Obsidian, Milauna Jackson, Kylie Jefferson, Shanice Shantay, Sarah Jeffery, Pepi Sonuga, Moriah Brown, Jeanté Godlock, Jay Reeves, Jeffery Johnson, Baadja-Lyne Odums, Donna Biscoe, Gregg Sulkin, Scott Daniel Johnson, Susan Sarandon, with Dean Norris, and Sam Waterston, and Oprah Winfrey

Logline:
The Six Triple Eight is inspired by the first and only Women’s Army Corps unit of color to serve overseas in WWII. Given an extraordinary mission and united in their determination, these unsung heroes delivered hope and shattered barriers.

Synopsis:
The Six Triple Eight is inspired by the first and only Women’s Army Corps unit of color to serve overseas in WWII. Despite facing racism and sexism – and grueling working conditions – they were committed to serving their country with honor and distinction. Given an extraordinary mission and united in their determination, these unsung heroes delivered hope and shattered barriers. Written and directed by Tyler Perry, the film stars Kerry Washington as Major Charity Adams, the commanding officer of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. Produced by Tyler Perry, Nicole Avant, Angi Bones, Tony L. Strickland, Keri Selig and Carlota Espinosa, the film features an ensemble cast including Ebony Obsidian, Milauna Jackson, Kylie Jefferson, Shanice Shantay, Sarah Jeffery, Pepi Sonuga, Moriah Brown, Jeanté Godlock, Susan Sarandon, with Dean Norris, and Sam Waterston, and Oprah Winfrey. Based on the article by Kevin M. Hymel, the film features an original song “The Journey” written by Diane Warren and performed by H.E.R., with choreography by Debbie Allen.

Forex Trading Brokers: Things to Pay Attention Before Starting Cooperation 

Looking for Forex Broker Companies: Characteristics That Matter

Identifying the important conditions to choose a broker company for a Forex Trader. What broker’s characteristics are the most essential for successful trades?

Starting on the path of advancement in the promising world of Forex Trading, it is important to find a partner broker company, which coincides in its visions and terms to the full with the future trader. The specifics of currency trading exchanges are that traders can only transact with the mediation of licensed brokers. On the example of xChief Broker Company’s research, it is possible to observe how exactly the right and reasonable choice of forex intermediary becomes a reliable foundation for a successful career in the profitable fintech Forex Market industry.

Broker Company’s Reliability: Licenses, Regulation, Reputation

The legality of a broker’s activity is extremely important when it comes to testing training trades and transactions on a real currency exchange. The first thing any trader should check when being introduced to a new company is the documents of licensing and regulation of the broker’s activity. 

For example, xChief Ltd has a prestigious license from Mwali International Services Authority, which confirms the company’s activity as an international broker and clearing house, which follows high work standards and passes regular mandatory financial audits. Legal procedures must be strictly complied with. It is this pedantic attitude that provides the brokerage company with a high reputation among important market players and traders.

Trading Terms and Conditions: Advantages of Profitable Cooperation

The next step before you start working with a broker is an in-depth review of the conditions of intermediation. These companies profit by setting their commission level on traders’ transactions and determining different levels of spreads. Trading costs directly affect the result and benefit of the traders’ activity. Entry barriers to the exchanges and the leverage that is provided to clients can also vary from one brokerage company to another. It is recommended to analyze several competing organizations to identify average indicators and be able to choose the most favorable conditions. 

Bonus Programs and Exclusive Offers for Traders

Big companies like xChief, with a long experience and a wide client list, have benefits that are available exclusively for cooperating traders with high profits. The range of promotional offers such as bonus no deposit, turnover rewards, and welcome bonuses will not be decisive when selecting a broker, but can still play a role. Loyalty programs and favorable terms of deposit insurance are a big plus for many traders who want to have extra opportunities to minimize risks and increase profits on Forex trades.

Innovative Solutions and Technologies: Key to High Earnings

An attitude about digital evolution is very important to choose a really advanced broker that keeps up with innovations and stimulates traders to take full benefit of them. Accounts should be available for the most popular automated trading systems, such as MetaTrader 4 and 5 versions, as well as connect to mobile apps for 24/7 access. Experienced broker clients know what privileges the latest automated algo-trading options can bring, while newcomers only have to explore and learn the details of setting up these systems. It is the brokers’ keeping up with the latest trends that will show their prospects for growth with their clients.

Security and Full Customer Support for Protected Transactions 

For unlimited and successful activity, traders need to have full confidence in the brokerage company and not doubt that deals and transactions are transparent and completely legal. This is partially ensured by state regulators, but still, the full responsibility for the processes falls on the brokers’ hands. The хChief system not only protects clients’ accounts and transactions but also helps them to control and minimize trading losses on time. 

Availability and efficiency of client support can be identified by the presence of such key indicators:

• 24/7 access through various communication channels
• communication in more than 20 languages 
• the openness of free tutorial resources
• expert market reviews and up-to-date analytics.

Conclusions

Forex Exchanges is a system of trading in world currencies and other assets, which has a long history and a stable profit level for traders. However, the use of these privileges is impossible without cooperation with a reliable broker, which carries out its activities according to high international standards and provides the best conditions for clients. Before you start working with any company make sure of the key points of security, the commission rate, technical assistance and available customer support to be sure that transactions with the chosen broker will be as profitable and transparent as possible.

#NEWMUSIC: MARIAH CAREY – “MERRY CHRISTMAS” MOFI 30TH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED EDITION VINYL & CDS

By Mr. Will Wong

This literally brought me so much joy! Just as Mariah Carey‘s perennial classic MERRY CHRISTMAS celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab (MoFi) issue a rerelease right in time for your Holiday listening needs.

This reissue, sourced right from Mariah‘s original masters, aims to preserve the Queen herself’s original intended quality. This Album will be available in three formats, but in limited quanities: Hybrid SACD (order HERE); a numbered-edition 180g 45RPM 2LP (limited to 4,000 copies, order HERE); and a numbered-edition UltraDisc One-Step 180g 33RPM LP (limited to 3,000 copies, order HERE).

Worried whether or not an SACD CD will play in your traditional CD player? Though a standard CD player won’t be able to access the SACD layer of the disc, it still will play. Can you ever hear a difference!?! I’ve listened to this Album several times since it was released decades ago, and for the first time I hear a certain warmth in Mariah‘s tenor that I haven’t experienced in prior listens. This goes not only for Mariah‘s legendary vocals, but also the backing vocalists. You hear a ring in their voices that makes the listen extra festive, allowing you to access a new level of emotion in these songs.

This is a definite must-have if you’re a Mariah Carey enthusiast like me, and is now a treasured piece of my collection. Product ships December 13, 2024.

Track listing:

“Silent Night”
“All I Want for Christmas Is You”
“O Holy Night”
“Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)”
“Miss You Most (At Christmas Time)”
“Joy to the World”
“Jesus Born on This Day”
“Santa Claus Is Coming to Town”
“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing/Gloria (In Excelsis Deo)”
“Jesus Oh What a Wonderful Child”
“God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” (BONUS TRACK)

#BOXOFFICE: “WICKED” DEFIES GRAVITY AT TOP SPOT

A huge weekend at the Box Office as we head into U.S. Thanksgiving later this week! WICKED defies gravity at #1 with a stellar $117 million debut from 3,888 theatres for Universal Pictures. Not only this, this musical adaption gets a superb 90% on the Tomatometer. The Film was made for $145 million and is well on its way to recouping that quick.

GLADIATOR II also has a fantastic opening with $60 million from 3,573 theatres for Paramount Pictures. It gets a 71% on the Tomatometer. Its 2000 predecessory opened strong also with $34.8 million. This “GLICKED” one-two finish very much echoes last Summer’s BARBENHEIMER (Barbie and Oppenheimer) phenomenon, where a female-centric and a male-centric film went head to head in release, and filmgoers rooted for both as a duo/double feature.

Third goes to RED ONE with $13 million from 4,032 theatres for Amazon/MGM/Warner Bros. Over two weekends it has grossed $52.6 million domestically.

In fourth is historical drama BONHOEFFER: PASTOR. SPY. ASSASSIN. with $4.6 million from 1,900 theatres for Angel Studios. It gets a 51% on the Tomatometer.

Rounding-out the Top Five is VENOM: THE LAST DANCE with $4 million, a total five week run of $133.8 million for Sony Pictures.

#PRODUCTWATCH: NIKON CANADA HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS 2024

‘Tis the season and Nikon Canada present some great gift ideas for a loved one who loves to photograph and make content! Though manufacturer prices are listed, holiday pricing already is available on Nikon Canada‘s website here.

Nikon Z6III: A 24.5MP full-frame mirrorless camera that stands in a class of its own

Searching for the ultimate gift to place under the tree for the photographer or filmmaker in your life? Those looking for an unmatched suite of powerful features and exceptional performance will appreciate the newest camera from Nikon. With the world’s first partially-stacked CMOS sensor, an incredible autofocus, blistering speed, 6K/60p internal RAW +240p HD video, and Nikon’s brightest, most detailed electronic viewfinder, the Nikon Z6III is a mirrorless camera in a class of its own. From wildlife to weddings, or birding to documentary filming, the Z6III offers speed, performance and accuracy no matter what or who you are capturing.

Highlights of the Nikon Z6III include:

• World’s first partially-stacked CMOS sensor: The Z6III’s new sensor architecture features multiple high-speed processing circuits stacked in layers above and below the imaging area of the sensor. The high-speed readout made possible by this new sensor, combined with the EXPEED 7 processing engine, enables a range of powerful features
• Capture shots quickly: This powerful feature allows photographers to capture shots that might have otherwise been missed — such as a bird taking flight, a lightning strike, or a wink from Santa. With the pre-release capture (up to 120 fps), a half-press of the shutter-release button starts buffering images, and when the shutter is pressed all the way, the Z6III saves images taken up to one second prior
• Advanced subject detection: Automatically detect nine different subject types, including people, animals and various vehicles, with advanced auto focus (AF) modes including 3D-tracking, Auto-area AF, Wide-area AF and Dynamic-area AF
• Low-light capabilities: The Z6III’s wide native ISO range is from 100-64,000 (51,200 in video) and is expandable to 204,800 for ultra-low-light shooting. The Z6III’s EXPEED 7 image processing engine enables tailored noise reduction, effectively minimizing grainy noise in flat areas of the image while preserving fine details in subjects such as buildings. This results in sharper, clearer images in low-light environments, such as capturing the kids by the light of your Christmas tree or menorah
• Vibration Reduction (VR): Built-in 5-axis image stabilization delivers up to 8.0 stops of Vibration Reduction, empowering photographers and filmmakers to shoot handheld with confidence. Users will enjoy the creative freedom of slower shutter speeds, while keeping subjects sharp and using lower ISOs. Additionally, the Z6III features Focus Point VR, which prioritizes stabilization on the active focus point

The Nikon Z6III is available for a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $3,399 for the body-only configuration, or with the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 lens kit for an MSRP of $4,199.

Nikon Z 30: A user-friendly mirrorless camera made for creators

Designed with video content creators, vloggers and streamers in mind, the Nikon Z 30 is the company’s smallest, lightest Z series mirrorless camera. With 20 Creative Picture Control presets, intelligent auto-focus for people and pets, and incredible image and video quality, this is the camera that will allow any creators (or those aspiring to be) on your list to quickly and easily capture all the action. The front-facing Vari-Angle touchscreen-LCD lets users see themselves in the scene they’re capturing as they compose shots, confirm the frame, adjust focus and make sure they’re camera-ready. The bright 3.0 inch high-res screen will feel familiar with the ability to swipe, pinch and zoom through playback and menus. Capture holiday content in incredible detail and lifelike colours, along with authentic, beautifully-blurred backgrounds. Creators can easily transfer pictures and short video clips to a compatible phone or tablet wirelessly with the free Nikon SnapBridge app so they can quickly share them on social media…or with family and friends.

Highlights of the Nikon Z 30 include:

• Portable and Travel-Friendly: Nikon’s smallest, lightest mirrorless Z series camera, weighing just 12.4 oz/350 g (with battery and memory card), is balanced and comfortable to hold for long periods of time, and small enough to pack
• Superb Image Quality: 20.9MP DX (APS-C) format sensor, several times larger than a smartphone
• Effortless Autofocus for People and Pets: Whether you’re capturing photos or video, the Z 30 can automatically detect and focus on human and animal faces and eyes, keeping subjects in focus precisely following as they move around the scene, with the added benefit of Eye Detection AF
• Ultra-Versatile Touch Screen: The fully articulating screen makes framing easy for photos, video and vlogging. Simply touch the screen to position focus and adjust brightness, set the self-timer and more
• Breathtaking Video: Stunningly detailed 4K/30p, with Full HD up to 120p and support for external microphones. Record 4K video for up to 125 minutes, plus 5X Full HD slow motion footage
• Inspiring Looks, In-Camera: Choose from 20 inspiring Creative Picture Control presets, designed to give your photos and videos a distinctive look, directly in-camera. Options include Pink, Pop, Melancholic, Sunday and more.

Pricing for the Nikon Z 30 starts at an MSRP of $879 (body only) or $1,049 for the camera body with a NIKKOR Z 16-50mm lens kit. If you have a vlogger or budding creator on your list, the Z 30 Creators Kit will ensure they have all they need to make amazing content. Tailor-made for shooting video, it includes the Z 30, a Nikkor Z 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR lens, plus essential accessories including an external microphone and fully-featured Bluetooth remote control, for an MSRP of $1,198. The Z 30 Creator’s Accessory Kit is available for an MSRP of $149.

Nikon Z fc: Mirrorless technology meets iconic style

For the creators and photographers in your life that love a retro aesthetic, the Nikon Z fc offers a classic look, featuring an exterior heritage design inspired by the iconic Nikon FM2 SLR film camera released in 1982. A DX-format camera that combines technology with classic design and functionality, it includes analogue controls for shutter speed, ISO and exposure compensation, and comes in a variety of colours. Beyond its stylish look, the Z fc is packed with cutting-edge Z technology, featuring a 20.9MP DX CMOS sensor paired with the Expeed 6 engine and the light-gathering advantages of a wider Z mount. Together, these enable clean, professional looking videos and stills — even in low-light situations. Content creators will love the advanced video features and streaming capabilities. From the family gathered around the holiday table, to the smiles on Christmas morning, the Z fc will capture memories beautifully.

Highlights of the Nikon Z fc include:

• Meticulously crafted: The exterior of the Nikon Z fc is wrapped in a vintage leather-tone material that offers an impeccably premium feel with a thoughtful blend of black and satin silver elements. It’s a familiar design that focuses on the harmony of style and functionality, with intricate details like carved aluminum dials, engraved lettering and a circular eyepiece surrounding the bright electronic viewfinder
• Versatile angles: Explore your creativity with the Vari-Angle touchscreen LCD, which flips out to face the user and automatically adjusts for self-portraits, working on a tripod or holding at waist level for creative angles
• Advanced video features: The Z fc has video features that creators want and need, such as 4K UHD video and a variety of frame rates. Focus is rapid yet smooth, with full-time AF that locks onto eyes and faces in the frame. Slow motion can easily be created with the 1080p/120p setting or the 4x/5x in-camera slow motion modes, and a built-in interval timer enables the convenient creation of 4K timelapse movies
• Fast automatic focus: The 209-point hybrid AF system recognizes approximately 87 per cent of the frame horizontally and 85 per cent vertically for precise focusing and tracking throughout more of the frame. Rapid Eye-Detection AF for people and animals enables users to sharply capture the eyes of people and pets. Eye Detection AF is also available in the wide-area AF (L) mode, making it easy to select the area to prioritize focus
• Streaming and web conference capabilities: When connected via USB-C, the Nikon fc receives power, giving the ability to operate the camera continuously, which is beneficial for streaming, video production, timelapse creation and more. Get sharpness, clarity and flattering depth of field unlike a typical webcam — and look your absolute best with the Z fc and a Nikkor Z lens. Connect the camera to your computer with a USB Type-C cable (sold separately)—it provides power too—and compatible software like the free Nikon Webcam Utility

Pricing for the Nikon Z fc (Black) begins at an MSRP of $1,299 (body only); an MSRP of $1,499 with a 16-50mm lens kit; or $1,599 for a 28mm lens kit. The Z fc in Black/Black with 16-50mm lens kit is available at an MSRP of $1,599.

The Z 30 Creator’s Accessory Kit, which is compatible with the Nikon Z fc, is available for an MSRP of $149.

Nikon STABILIZED 10×25 S and STABILIZED 12×25 S Binoculars: Compact with a clear and stable image

The birders and sports fans on your holiday list will appreciate Nikon’s recently launched binocular series, which includes two new models that feature an original STABILIZED function to provide a clear and stable image. This original system in the new Nikon STABILIZED 10×25 S and Nikon STABILIZED 12×25 S models reduces vibrations caused by hand movement by approximately 80 per cent, allowing users to clearly and comfortably view distant objects such as birds and other wildlife, sporting events, concerts, and landmarks. Less image shake translates into less eye fatigue, so more time can be spent enjoying the beautiful view. The binoculars’ increased magnification offer a great balance of field-of-view and close-up power, while multilayer lens coatings cut through glare and reflections—all in a compact, dual-hinged design that fits in your pocket. From winter walks in the forest to catching the game or a holiday concert, these lightweight binoculars will offer a clear, detailed view.

Highlights of the STABILIZED 10×25 S and STABILIZED 12×25 S include:

• Original STABILIZED function: Nikon’s original stabilization system counteracts motion before it ever reaches users’ eyes, for a clear, smooth view.
• Conveniently powered: Both models use two readily available AA-size batteries, for approximately 12 hours of battery life
• Bright and clear field of view: A Multilayer Coating is applied to all lenses and prisms while a high-reflectivity silver-alloy mirror coating is applied on the reflective surface of the auxiliary prism for maximum brightness
• Auto-power shut-off function: This function is engaged after approximately 60 minutes, letting the user focus on the view, while minimizing the need to press a button repeatedly to activate the stabilization and preventing unnecessary battery consumption
• Ergonomic design: The STABILIZED 10×25 S and STABILIZED 12×25 S fit comfortably in the hand, with a large focusing ring that enables quick focusing
• Turn-and-slide rubber eyecups with multi-click: These facilitate easy positioning of the eyes at the correct eyepoint

The new Nikon STABILIZED 10×25 S and STABILIZED 12×25 S models will be available in early November at an MSRP of $849.95 and $859.95 respectively. They are currently available for pre-order on Nikon.ca.

#SPOTTED: TAYLOR SWIFT IN TORONTO FOR THE ERAS TOUR

Me and Karma vibe like that! I had been trying to land a single ticket to any of Taylor Swift‘s The Eras Tour shows in Toronto. Having been to most of her prior tours, I’d never have expected to have faced the roadblocks and limitations I did this time around. Let’s not even mention reseller prices! With a verification system that guarded those without a code from getting access to tickets, things seemed hopeless. I wasn’t one of the lucky ones last year when tickets first were released, to gain “verified” access, so you can understand my frustration seeing resellers snatch-up tickets in abundance. You’d think an easy way to verify a legitimate fan is to look at streaming data or merchandise purchases right? How about using that as a data point to determine who gets “protected” ticket access?

It was heartbreaking in the least to hear about last minute ticket drops that were happening, only to be greeted with a message on my Ticketmaster account that I did not have the necessary verification to purchase a ticket. ONE SINGLE TICKET.

I’ve always been of the belief that you get back what you give and when you do good for others, they will do that to you. One “Tayngel” who saw my struggles on Social Media getting tickets, randomly messaged me the other day early in the morning asking if was still manifesting tickets. You better bet!

Fast-forward one day later in which I found it incredibly tough to focus on anything as I was beaming with joy and excitement at the thought of finally getting to attend the Tour. I found myself in complete disbelief that I was actually there at Rogers Centre, with a great seat nonetheless.

I’ve never seen merchandise queues like the ones I’ve seen for this Tour. People queued up the stairs and lines coiled around multiple times just for a chance to buy a tour t-shirt, hoodie, sweatshirt or totes. Many of which already are sold out. Unless you want a size 4XL hoodie because by showtime that’s all that was left in some instances. This is the power of Taylor!

Having seen the concert film and already having a ball at that, I knew what to expect with this live show. Nonetheless, I was thrilled to see the just-added The Tortured Poets Department era added to the setlist, plus surprise songs are always cool to see unveiled! I do not know how Taylor does it. Three-and-a-half hours straight with no breaks and she still sounds great and looks like she’s got plenty left in the tank at the end of it all. We look more winded in the audience on our feet than she does, and she’s doing all the work!

THE ERAS TOUR is a cultural moment. To have the privilege of witnessing it in person is a flex the lucky ones who attended, will hold in their backpocket for a lifetime of stories. The communal experience of sharing mutual love and respect for one Artist, all with a very supportive and inclusive energy among the fans, is truly a remarkable accomplishment.

I fear Taylor really is closing a chapter with this Tour as she continues on her artistic journey. I can only hope we can witness the magic of these songs again in future tours again one day!

Some highlights from the dazzling spectacle that is THE ERAS TOUR:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by William Wong (@mrwillwong)

Some other related moments to my journey to the Tour:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by William Wong (@mrwillwong)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by William Wong (@mrwillwong)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by William Wong (@mrwillwong)

(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)