It’s Giller time
All the book peeps turn in their corduroy jackets for tuxes (nothing like perpetuating a stereotype) for the Giller Prize ceremony, one of the country’s biggest literary nights. The Atlantic Book Awards Society wants you to be part of the festivities: they’re throwing a party down at the Writers’ Fed (1113 Marginal), tonight, from 8-11pm,…
Crystal Castles are coming
Busy music news week here in Olde Hallyfucks! The latest announcement comes to me via Facebook, where 122+ hip kids have already clicked “Attending” to the Crystal Castles April 1, 2011 show at the Halifax Forum. Ah, “Air War” – I remember the first time we met. You sounded like a bunch of broken computer…
Dear BlueSweets
I’m tired of telling you in so many ways that I’m not interested in you. I even went as far as blocking you on that popular free dating site that everyone is on. I’m sorry there is no chemistry and I do not find you attractive at all. I even went as far as giving…
To my friends
To all my old friends and new ones I made this year—thank you!!! Thanks you for making this one of the best years of my life whether it was our endless weekend parties, downtown dancing, summer cabin trip or our movies dates I could not have asked for a more amazing time. After leaving a…
Peggy’s Cove
Look, I understand that another loss of life is nothing short of a tragedy, but lets be real about this. If you CHOOSE to go close to the edge of those rocks when it is stormy, rainy, hell even on nice days, then you CHOOSE to accept the risk of what may happen when you…
Well said Charlie…
Can’t a man have a meltdown without everybody going insane? If you have expensive taste you have to be willing to accept expensive loss. We all get a l’il emotional baby! —Your Buddy
Rainy Sunday commute
Thank you to my fellow mystery NSCADian who offered me a ride to school this past rainy Sunday. I was walking down the side street off of Quinpool next to Canadian Tire when you made your friend pull over to let you get out and offer me a ride to school. I was so dumbfounded…
Why the nightly sky spotlights?
I notice on most nights spotlights are aimed up in the Halifax sky for all to see (cloudy or clear) – will someone explain what the actual purpose of this is for? —Haligonian
Rock Garden Closes
After 5 years of business, the Rock Garden jam space is now permanently closed. We wish owner/operator Rob MacArthur the best of luck with his endeavors and echo many in the Halifax music scene in wishing him wholehearted thanks for his work, time and invaluable contributions to the space over the past few years. We…
Gunfire at the Pubs
What a cowardly bunch of cocksuckers firing off their metal penises in total disregard for the public. Someone is going to get killed at this rate and the fat, stupid cops of this city will be dipping their timbits into their double-doubles while it happens. —Don’t Feel Safe ANYWHERE in HRM
We Need It TOO!
I’ll cut to the chase — I am a fat girl. I am. But I have a pretty face, I am clean, and I take care of myself. I’m actually in good shape for my size and I take time to look good. I’m tired of being a tag-along, tired of being the just-friend, tired…
Dear Rainy Day Drivers,
Call me crazy, but despite the weather I still thoroughly enjoy my fifteen minute walk to class. While I don’t mind a drop or two, I certainly do not appreciate the head-to-toe shower from commuters not paying attention to potholes.. and I refuse to be “that kid” walking around the Killam in splash pants. Mind…
PIG NO MORE
“what’s kept you together all these years?” “stonehenge” For the past three years, PIG has been a lynchpin in Truro’s burgeoning music scene. The band, who sort of defy description—-Weird Canada calls them “adjective-punk,” which works for me—-experiment with drone and noise in a purely uncalculated and intuitive way. This becomes twice as scary when…
Halifax council debates convention centre
Halifax council is having an all-day meeting about all things convention centre. I’m live-blogging it via Twitter, at @twitcoast. Later today, I’ll have a blog post recapping the day. Related Stories
Utility moves
Well, it all worked out. Shoptalk reported that the Blowers Street building was sold out from underneath Pro Skateboards and Utility Gallery, forcing both businesses to relocate. Pro Skates collected all it’s stuff and took its three stores to a shiny new location down Quinpool Road. One of its previous locations, 6070 Quinpool Road, a…
Michelle St-Onge sale
Local designer Michelle St-Onge is offering her distinctive artwork, jewellery and handbags through her Facebook account (though no Facebook account is necessary to check it out) from today, November 9, right through November 20. Click here for more deets.
Cabbie Angel
I had been having a rotten day. I got stuck in the elevator at work for 15 minutes. I sat down on the floor and it was lurching very subtly up and down. The morning sickness I’ve been experiencing was made worse by this. Finally the doors opened and I resumed my day, feeling shaky…
Mis-Management
You are by-far the most unprofessional manager I have ever had. You purposely start fights with employees and customers to ‘let off some steam’, gossip about your staff and brag every chance about how good YOUR job is. Here’s the thing: My job is my job. I have friends and a REAL LIFE outside this…
Some day i’ll be a better friend to you
I know that we could have been together happily for longer than we were. I have never stopped loving the person that you were and are, and the things you hold dear and aspire to. You have a lot to give and a lot more to see and share with the people you know now…
Nova Scotia Music Week Award Winners
beagle pleased with hims medals! Awards presented at the Gala Awards Show: Bell Aliant Entertainer of the Year: The TrewsAlbum of the Year: Amelia Curran — Hunter, HunterFemale Artist Recording of the Year: Amelia Curran — Hunter, HunterGroup Recording of the Year: Wintersleep — New InheritorsMale Artist of the Year: David Myles — Turn Time…
Make it dirty
I’m a little late in sending this but: A few months ago I visited a certain coffee shop on Spring Garden and ordered a chai latte, which is a favorite of mine anyway. The barista was super friendly, as we were chatting she asked if I’ve ever had a dirty chai latte. I had never…
Pervert at large
This is our fucking police department: http://www.thecoast.ca/halifax/dead-wrong-halifaxs-unsolved-murders/Content?oid=1403387 Apathy and idiocy must be rampant in departments other than murder investigation if they haven’t caught the sleep watcher yet. It’s been two years. Police budgets INCREASE every year. What have they done? They’ve released four sketches of dude’s face, one of which is here (http://www.cbc.ca/canada/nova-scotia/story/2010/10/13/ns-sleep-watcher-sketch.html), and they’ve…
Who’s sorry now?!
I’m guessing you’re done with your stupid comments. From the second you heard we had applied for the same job you were so shocked because according to you, we’re nothing alike and this job was MEANT for you. Then to say that they only hire really pretty girls and you couldn’t believe that I even…
Dear Wrist,
Look, I’m sorry I’m a clutz, and the tumble I took over the summer caused you to break, but can’t we just let things go? You’ve been better for two months now, but you still won’t move or bend like you use to, and you still hurt me sometimes. I could deal with the spiteful…
Anti-war
Protesters – war cannot be the answer, but dismantling our armed forces won’t prevent war, it’ll cause war. Maybe not here (until somone decides to take our water), but somewhere. If we wont stand up for the weak who will? Good thing you were not in charge when Hitler invaded Europe. Who would have stopped…
Cycling safety law amendments
An article in today’s paper http://thechronicleherald.ca/Opinion/1210738.html reports proposed amendments to increase cycling safety, but no mention of any consultation with known organized cycling groups. The NS govt website news release http://www.gov.ns.ca/news/details.asp?id=20101104013 says they consulted members of the cycling community. Who? Sounds good, but let’s have some details: what is the wording of the amendments? Which…
Rain
Although you soaked me from my wool socks to my hooded head today and made my hair both poof and wilt in unusual places, I am really thankful for the soothing pitter-patter of rain drops on my window pane tonight. —Cozy and warm
The 14 bus driver
Thank you so much to the driver of the 14 this week who somehow out of all the people who get on your buses on all your different routes, remembered where I lived, and took the time to go and wake me up from the back of the bus so I didn’t miss my stop.…
Karma doesn’t exist
I am very nice, generous, and more selfless then most people I know yet the world keeps shitting on me. I’ve had a migraine for a week, been sick twice since school started, had 3 sprains, lost my job, am failing a class for the first time in my life, my friends hate me causing…
The Former Trio
We’ve been great friends for a while but now that you two have realized you clash, I’m stuck in the middle of it. I don’t want to take sides or agree with either of you because this shit could have been avoided if you had just talked it out months ago. Now I’m stuck listening…
Get Me Away from the Damn Students
Where the heck can an over 45 gal go in this city to have intelligent conversation and a cocktail without having to put up with getting hit on by students – kids!!—Over 45 but NOT a Cougar
Blah…
Don’t you just really hate those lazy rainy weekends where there’s absolutely nothing to do? I hate laying around the house watching movies, eating and feeling fat and sleepy all day. Blech. —*Yawn*
Voices Remembered
Solemn, dignified and moving are all good adjectives to describe the Voices Remembered concert performed by Xara and Halifax Camerata at Saint Patrick’s Church. Divine, soul-stirring and heart-touching are even better ones. Since 2004, Camerata has presented an annual concert to honour both those who lost their lives in war and also to memorialize loved…
Morris East update
Sometimes it’s hard to keep up with all the cool stuff going on down at gourmet pizza joint Morris East (5212 Morris Street, 444-7663). Where to start? How about catering and office parties? Yes, they do that and are booking now for the holidays. How about the continually changing items on the menu, such as…
Tammachat’s holiday show
Check out Tammachat (tammachat.com) at the Council of Women House (989 Young Avenue) for a two-day show, happening Saturday and Sunday, Nov 13 and 14, 10am-4pm. The eco-friendly South Shore textile people will bring in plenty of their wares and provide gift ideas for you and your home—silk and cotton scarves, bags, jackets, accent cushions,…
Bitch about a bitch
This is to everyone who commented on a “shut up in the library” bitch that has ever said something along the lines of “WHY DONT U GROW SOME BALLS AND TELL THEM TO SHUT UP” Fuck you guys!!! Do you honestly think us students just sit around and accept people talking in the quiet rooms…
Winners
Wouldn’t it be nice if you announced the names of the winners from your latest travel contest. That way at least we’ll know there are some.—B.L.
We are People, too!
I went to a certain Halifax optician to see about getting glasses there, as I’d heard so many things about them. I have a debilitating physical illness, and right now, am not working. As soon as I told the guy I could receive partial financial help through assistance, his eyes practically froze over me. He…
Dear Batman
You have been there for me through everything. Every morning I think about how much you have made my life great, random and fun!! Although your eating habits make me nauseous I wouldn’t trade it in for the world. Thanks for being the best friend I have ever had!! —”That’s my spot”
HRP Love
For the two HRP officers that gave me a lift from the south end to the north end when my girl had just been in a accident, you guys fuckin’ rock. Respect. —Dudeinarush!
Coal Wynd Gallery opens
As Shoptalk reported, One Stop Wood Shop, the business offering wood furniture and wood sculptural pieces, can now be found on Bishop’s Landing (1477 Lower Water Street, 490-2675). Within its space is the Coal Wynd Gallery, which is opening its first art show Friday, November 12. It’s called A Retrospective of the Isles of Youth…
Foreign Affair coat deal
From now until Sunday, November 14, if you bring in a previously-loved coat into Foreign Affair (1705 Barrington Street, 429-1407 and 5639 Spring Garden Road, 423-6676) you can purchase a new fall or winter coat at 25 percent off, with donations to be made to Bryony House shelter. Consider these labels available: Mackage, Parajumpers, Moncler,…
To all the hot men
I just wanted to say hello to the handful of super cute guys at my gym in Dartmouth. You make average weeknights at the gym a little more fun. Even though I’m too terribly shy to say anything, I’m definitely checking some of you out. We see each other all the time – say hi!…
Doom, doom, doom
Anyone else feel like they’re treading water in the harbour? We lose the Utek bowl, our biggest concert promotor goes broke, moncton gets a cfl game, the mooseheads blow, it’s a constant struggle for bike lanes, we’re in a pissing contest over a new convention center while our downtown quietly wheezes. And while our stadiums…
I’VE GOT SOMETHING IMPORTANT TO SAY!
Listen up, all you stuck up FAKES born with SILVER SPOONS in your MOUTHS! You think you can look down your NOSES at me, just because I have to WORK for a living. So maybe I’m not an ART expert! Maybe I don’t UNDERSTAND your FASHION and your HOLIER THAN THOU attitudes. Sorry, but I…
Honestly its a great life we live
Me’s just so happy being me. Being in halifax. Being with kind people and riding my superb bicycle 🙂 —Grinning from ear to ear
Your dog shits small cities, clean it up!
Dear girl with the massive dog living below me: I’m sick of stepping in the gigantic shits that your beastly hound leaves around our apartment building. That fiber-eating-pony of a canine takes steaming dumps the size of Mount Vesuvius and you just walk away from the carnage with a yawn. Grab a bucket, a shovel…
Why do all good things come to a end?
Missed everything daydreamin’. —K
Summer Love
You made my heart soar this summer!!! I hope some day you will realize how much you truly mean to me. —GG
For LTWWB Readers, et al
We can all be assholes. Sometimes all it takes is someone being nice to you after you’ve been a jerk-off to help snap you out of it. Instead of reacting in defense to all these pricks, let’s try to be the nice guys. React to snide comments with a smile. Don’t let ’em bring you…
A dying breed
More of a lament than a true bitch: I don’t like buying/downloading music online. I miss the days of great record stores with huge selections, wicked music playing overhead, and aloof clerks who KNEW something about music. These days, record stores suck and the only way to get new and great music is by stealing…
Dear Jerk
My ribs are sore as hell. —half rack
Welcome to the Maritimes
I’m tired of hearing you all complain about how much Belmont’s cost, yes they are 13$+ a pack, not 8 like in Toronto, things cost a bit more here, get the fuck over it. I’m tired of hearing how “backwards” and “uncultured” people from the east coast are, were not all a bunch of “close…
Way to long
I really hate how much I still care for you, I don’t even want to anymore, really. Even though I hardly see you at all anymore, you’re the one person that can always squash any ego I have, make me quiet in a group I’m having a good time in, and pretty much see right…
Repeat
I have learned that part of being a woman is to repeat your thoughts. It takes some people many times of being told until they get it. Is this why we have good memories or is it that our thoughts just get embedded from repeat performances? Listen up people, or are you just plain stupid?—Chelly
The Evil Smell of… Work!
Frig, if you’re going to use the contents of one marker to obliterate the names of the previous recipients of that “Inter office envelope” could you at least use a marker that smells nicer? Or whose fumes are ‘more fun’ to inhale, if you get my drift? 😉 The stink is all over the contents…
To the neighbourhood slasher
It was my downstairs neighbour who called the police on you guys, not me. She’s an older lady and got tired of all the noise, fireworks, fighting that happens almost every night. So why are MY tires slashed this morning? I was supposed to have a job today in Bridgewater and had to call and…
To Whoever Left Their H&M Shopping Bag on The #1 Bus
Just to let you know, I found your H&M shopping bag on the #1 bus last week, and I gave it to the bus driver (check Metro Transit lost and found). This message is actually a big THANK YOU to all the good honest people in Halifax, who inspire others (including myself) to do the…
So sick and tired
Oh my I so wish you could hear yourself when you trash what is supposed to be your good friend. All of the things you accuse her of, are your own issues! And yes, you are the biggest whiner I have ever met in my life!!! She can’t even hold a candle to you in…
Fed up with my own stupidity!
Well this is a first for me, in the past I’ve bitched about others, but this time I’m super mad at myself, so mad I’m having trouble starting this bitch and putting it into words, not sure exactly what I want to say so here goes.. The worst part is I can’t even really complain…
Considerate dude on Spring Garden Rd
I was walking on Spring Garden road at around 5 in a hurry to get to the bank and I didn’t notice $60 fall out of my pocket. This guy yelled to me, not once, but twice, and told me my money fell on the ground. THANK YOU! This means a lot because I’m from…
Yes baby
I want to be your girl.—Happy Feet
Only In Halifax
would there be a column for people to complain passive aggressively. The worst part is people write so specifically-it’s obviously them. If you’re going to complain, do something about it. —Halifamousbarf
Access Hell
I hate Access Nova Scotia with all my life. I got revoked for one year for driving while suspended, I didn’t even know I was suspended and now I have to wait till fucking April. I hate that place with all my life, I’m sick and tired of bad things happening to me, and honestly…
Can Halifax be Canada’s “Solar city”?
[image-1] Halifax can become “Canada’s solar city,” says Richard MacLellan, the city’s manager of sustainability. MacLellan has brought forward a bold plan: the city will not only pay all the upfront costs for homeowners to install solar water systems, but will also figure out all the bureaucratic hassles, arrange government rebates and negotiate with the…
Definitely getting Coffee here on Tuesdays!
I LOVE when I get suprised with something extra awesome when I am already getting something awesome to begin with – for FREE! At a coffee shop on Spring Garden, that I don’t usually go to but happened to on Tuesday morning, I got a ticket for a free download on iTunes. I know, it’s…
XO
Just wanted to say thank you for all the forbidden Hugs and Kisses. I needed them and ILU! —kitty
Another Band Bites the Dust
Today the Dal Gazette reported that the much-loved guitar-and-drums duo The Superfantastics have broken up. The story, which you can read here, reports that singer/guitarist Matt MacDonald and singer/drummer Stephanie Clattenburg just weren’t feeling it anymore. “We’re still friends,” says Clattenburg. The duo’s final show is Saturday November 6th at the Seahorse with the Meligrove…
Slob
To the slob in the red vehicle driving down Lady Hammond Rd on Thursday, Nov. 4 around 4:15 pm – you were clearly more interested in jamming that sandwich into your face than you were in disposing of your trash properly. I can’t believe that people still have the nerve to pull this shit. Right…
Fakebook junkies
Get a life you sad jerks. —NFFM
SHUT UP
To the annoying girl in the Killam quiet room first floor D70 with pink bangs: SHUT THE HELL UP WHY ARE U IN THE LIBRARY!!!!!!!! Most annoying voice ever + not even on a computer WHY r u in the lab? Go home and tell stories to people who care!—Can’t stand annoying idiots
Dear Bike Vandalizer
To whoever popped my bicycle tire last weekend in front of the Dalhousie Mona Campbell building on Coburg, YOU ARE AN ASSHOLE!!!! I just bought this bike and spent all my money on the purchase. I now can’t afford a new tube and no longer have a ride-able bike. You were probably just being a…
Power love, power glove
You are the best part of an already-awesome year, in fact my best ever. I can’t tell you how much you mean to me. You & I may not be forever, who knows… but you were the best unexpected surprise that fate could have sent me. Love you, beautiful man. —CC Binks
King’s Theatrical Society tackles Sartre’s No Exit
To expand on Jean-Paul Sartre, hell is listening to other people chewing mixed nuts while sitting in the sweltering hot Pit during an overlong production of No Exit. To be fair, rude theatre-goers cannot be blamed on the production, nor can the temperature of the venue. But taking a play that would seem long at…
Seaport hours and days increase
As Shoptalk reported last week, a new International Market is starting up Fridays at the Halifax Seaport (Pier 22, 1209 Marginal Road, 429-6256), but that’s only a part of the story. You’ll find that the Friday market also includes a number of vendors from Saturday’s traditional market that will also be down there on Sundays…
David Sedaris coming to a mall near you
Family sighs…so much Sedaris love One of my two favourite Sedaris siblings is coming to town—David will be here November 24, 7pm, Chapters Indigo at Mic Mac Mall, which probably means an H&M stop and a night of awesomeness with one of the hands-down funniest essayists out there, and his new book, Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk.…
Bednarski’s The Strangest Dream wins Gemini
Everyone’s favourite Canadian awards, the Geminis (in case you wondered) were presented yesterday, including Halifax filmmaker Eric Bednarski’s The Strangest Dream, which won in the category of “Best Writing in a Documentary Program or Series.” The film recounts the story of “Joseph Rotblat, the history of nuclear weapons, and the efforts of the Pugwash Conferences…
We miss Ray Fenwick
Ray Fenwick may have moved from Halifax but his humour and typefaces still curlicue around our hearts. Here’s the new trailer for his book, Mascots, coming out on Fantagraphics in December.
Best Comics Store
This year Strange Adventures reached across the harbour to start up a store in Dartmouth, at 101 Portland Street. It carries much of the new stuff and toys that you’ll find at the comic emporium’s Sackville Street location, with an added emphasis on classic and back-issue comics. A new location is a good thing, as…
Best Tattoo / Piercing Joint
Utility recently moved out of the downtown core on Blowers to their new location, the former Quinpool shop of Pro Skates. By all accounts, they’re as busy as ever, offering piercing and custom tattoo work, headed by multiple Best of Halifax-winner Andy Ferrier. And watch for special events: for Sailor Jerry’s birthday they offered walk-ins…
Best Hair Salon
Thumpers keeps taking the prize as best hair salon, and if you walk in there, you’ll understand why. All they do is hair. It’s not a spa or a retail operation—though they do carry a few quality products from brands such as Bumble & Bumble—they’re a salon, and hair is their business. And if you’ll…
Best Pet Supply Store
Pet pampering and accessorizing is the name of the game at Bark & Fitz, the local franchise of a national brand. They provide grooming services, food and all manner of cute and functional dog and cat stuff for any Fifi, Shadow, Rex or Snoopy. And there can be no doubting the interest of the staff…
Best Halifax Slang
We’ll say this much for the record: Even though the expression “Halifamous” has been carried away by the culture, appearing on other websites and even in The Globe and Mail, it originated in the pages of The Coast. So fly, sweet Halifax slang. Fly onward, out of the mouths of babes, let it be known…
Best Female Theatre Actor
Appreciation of McCormack’s craft has grown through years of treading Halifax boards, sprung from Dalhousie’s Acting Program and including her work in Zuppa Theatre’s Poor Boy, Blackbird for Angel & Heroes Theatre Company and Shakespeare by the Sea, amongst other shows. She’s also been showing up on screen, with a recent role in the New…
Meligrove Band
The Toronto band releases the hounds, returning after a four-year recorded absence (since 2006’s Planets Conspire). It’s as though pent-up energy finally gets its release. Darcy Rego (drums) and Michael Small (bass) play with abandon, with Jason Nunes (keys/guitar) riding the wave. So, you get less melodic focus and more forceful, rhythmic playing. Now-departed member…
Celebrating Turbine
Lisa Drader-Murphy is no stranger to celebrity—the talented designer is a local one herself. But that doesn’t mean she can’t be star-struck. At the Toronto International Film Festival gifting suite, she met Michael Sucsy, director of HBO’s Grey Gardens remake. “I was such a fan of that movie that I had designed a dress called…
Best Festival
Last summer was the Jazz Fest’s last stand at the corner of Queen and Spring Garden, the tent and music the best use for a parking lot ever. The list of bands attending got more diverse, with more musicians whose music could be described as “world,” as well as a a dose of hip hop,…
Best Travel Agency
For the third year running, Maritime Travel takes the award for Best Travel Agency. Many people consider contacting them leading up to week-in-the-Caribbean getaways in the winter months, but if the Maritime summers get any wetter, now might not be a bad time to head for southern destinations. (We know someone who went to Cuba…
Best Hair Stylist
A reader likes David’s skill. “David has been in this business for a lifetime. If you want a cutter with style, combined with technical adeptness, then David will give you the best head in town.” First Runner-up: Teresa Fisher, Thumpers Second Runner-up Evyeneia Manalakos, Foxy Moon Hair Gallery
Best Student Hang
Much beloved by Dalhousie engineering students, the T-Room’s rep has spread beyond the student body—entrance is not restricted to Dalhousie students—for its wild trivia nights, taking place on Fridays around 9:30pm. The trivia comes in themes; bring the smartest version of yourself to the evening. The bar also host semi-regular live shows, watch The Coast…
Best Member Of The Provincial Legislature
Preyra gets the love this year, taking the crown from Darrell Dexter (2009) and Maureen MacDonald (2008). Interesting that the premier couldn’t hold onto Coast readers’ affections, though maybe being in charge isn’t when a politico as at his or her most beloved. But as part of the cabinet, Preyra continues to fight the good…
Best Visual Artist
If Jim White has a signature in his multifaceted design work, its in the use of black and a rainbow of colour. The corporate world employs him for his brilliance but his art blog (blog.signalnoise.com) is where you can see where his passion for all kinds of art and design lies. And his work has…
Tricky
It’s been 15 years since Maxinquaye shook up the world and made “Bristol scene” and “trip-hop” oft-repeated phrases. Every few years Adrian Thawes, better known as Tricky, re-emerges in the hope of having the same impact. All swirly menace and admonition, “Ghetto Stars” echoes his peak period. Like everything on Mixed Race, it could be…
Best Computer Store
The tech supplier with the odd name, Greenlyph continues to impress customers with its savvy and down-to-earth service. Greenlyph can set you up with new digital frontiers, but for those who are trying to squeeze a bit more life out of older computers, Greenlyph is well-known for being able to make that old PC run…
Best Yoga Studio
Moksha had a big year. Last summer the kind, flexible people who run the place expanded upstairs, obviously allowing for more space, but also a greater variety of classes. They always have a bunch of events and special deals available to get you in and perspiring and breathing (check here: mokshayogahalifax.com) Oh, and they have…
Best Hotel
One of the coolest moments in the past year at the Lord Nelson was when the hotel was taken over by Tusken Raiders. Well, maybe not the whole hotel, but a series of the conference rooms at least. For those who aren’t Star Wars nerds, Tusken Raiders are also known as Sand People. And for…
Best Men’s Clothing Store
Go to D2/Duggers, according to this reader: “when you need to look fly.” First Runner-up: Biscuit General Store Second Runner-up: Moores (Bayers Lake)
Best Place For A First Date
We miss the atrium in the back. We have to say it. We know it was a money-loser due to the cost to heat it, but wouldn’t it be fun to have that place open again in the summer? Anyway, it’s still a great bar and restaurant, full of cozy corners to help generate the…
Best Furniture Store
It’s no secret that the fortunes of Barrington Street fluctuate, but whatever seems to happen with the other businesses, Attica maintains a steadfast hold on the imaginations and enthusiasm of its clientele, offering high-end, quality furniture and home accessories, spread over four floors in its lovely downtown building. In fact, its regular victory in the…
Sawing your face off—in 3D
By this point, it’s hard to be too outraged by the Saw franchise. The fans have been whittled down to the absolutely devout, who face an uphill battle trying to defend this stuff. Saw 3D (part seven=three + the fourth letter in the alphabet) opens with a pre-title scene of a man cauterizing his freshly…
Best Film
When Hobo With A Shotgun won in this category back in November, the movie wasn’t even out. No one had seen it. But the expectations were clearly high, and when Jason Eisener’s picture hit cinemas in May, Hobo delivered guts, gore, violence, armoured villains, octopus tentacles and more than a few laughs, all against a…
Best Public Space
Maybe because it’s got “public” right there in the title, the Victorian garden at the corner of South Park and Spring Garden has this category sewn up, and has for years. Of course, it could be that the space remains, as it has for generations, a pristine escape in the heart of the city, a…
Best Manicure / Pedicure
First Runner-up: Spirit Urban Day Spa Second Runner-up Summit Day Spa and Wellness Clinic
Best Trivia Night
Much beloved by Dalhousie engineering students, the T-Room’s rep has spread beyond the student body—entrance is not restricted to Dalhousie students—for its wild trivia nights, taking place on Fridays around 9:30pm. The trivia comes in themes; bring the smartest version of yourself to the evening. The bar also host semi-regular live shows, watch The Coast…
Best Place To Go Running
The well-tended paths, the grand, Hurricane Juan-assisted views—70 percent of the trees in the park were pulled down in the 2003 storm—and the sound of the breeze through the leaves all make Point Pleasant the destination for runners, walkers, strollers and dog-walkers. It’s a social event for most, since it’s hard to head down there…
Best Twitterer
This is Twitcoast We at The Coast are naturally chuffed to be recognized in three separate categories, but we’ll say for the record we don’t host these readers’ polls to self-congratulate. In fact, news editor Tim Bousquet isn’t keen on the special attention. So, many thanks for the love, but maybe next year could you…
Black Country Communion
Black Country Communion may not be a well known “super-group”, but the moment you see the line-up it becomes apparent. Glenn Hughes (formerly of Black Sabbath), Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater), Jason Bonham (son of John Bonham) and Joe Bonamassa make up the band. BCC’s eponymously titled debut album is not typical commercial fare, challenging listeners…
Best Female Film / TV Actor
Halifax’s own Ellen Page continues to impress with her savvy career choices. Last year’s Inception was the biggest and smartest blockbuster action movie of the year, and she was a big part of it. This year she was in a comedy called Super with her Juno co-star Rainn Wilson, which disappointingly we never got to…
Best New Theatre
“When something is the only something then it’s like you’re my best mom,” notes filmmaker and theatre owner Thom Fitzgerald on our choice to anoint Plutonium Playhouse with this recognition, Best New Theatre. “Faint praise is how it could be taken in context.” Well, that’s fair. There have not been many other theatre spaces that…
Best Massage Therapist
For those who don’t know, Jamie Lynn Chediac is a three-time winner in the Best of Halifax, a registered massage therapist, and Sore Spots is her establishment. She offers massage therapy as injury rehabilitation as well as for pure relaxation/stress relief, and her therapists can come to you, if your office is in need of…
Best Women’s Clothing Store
Johanna Galipeau was 19 when she opened Sweet Pea on Queen Street in May 2007. Now, four years later, following that success with a new store, Twisted Muse, she’s the queen of Halifax retail, earning kudos in three key Best of Halifax categories. “I just always really wanted affordable clothes but offered in a high…
Best Place To Go Swimming
Though the sane wait until July, some ice-water-in-their-veins types will venture into Long Lake on the first sunny day in spring. Long Lake is a wonderful place for a swim, we can all agree, due to the kilometres of shoreline, hidden inlets and flat rocks that make themselves known depending on the whether the water…
Best Home Accessories Store
Editor’s note: With its latest Best Home Accessories Store win in 2010, Attica Furnishings was elevated to the Best of Halifax Hall of Fame. It’s no secret that the fortunes of Barrington Street fluctuate, but whatever seems to happen with the other businesses, Attica maintains a steadfast hold on the imaginations and enthusiasm of its…
Sex workers trapped
Steven Laffin, a 39-year-old Dartmouth man, appeared in court last week on charges of murdering sex worker Nadine Taylor. If Laffin, who was also charged with assaulting a different sex worker in the past, is found guilty, one more violent criminal could be off the streets. Still, those working in the street-based sex trade will…
Taylor Swift
For all the brouhaha about the subjects of Taylor Swift’s new album—John Mayer! Joe Jonas (still)! Kanye West!—not enough has been made of what a spectacular package of pop hooks Speak Now is. The first single, “Mine,” is a classic Swift love story, so catchy you may miss the deftness of a line like “You…
Best Male Film / TV Actor
With the wealth of experience as an actor/director/casting agent/anti-VLT campaigner/political candidate behind him, this year the man best known as Trailer Park Boys’ Mr Lahey became an author, publishing The Dictshitnary as a book and audiobook, a collection of true-life tales. Anyone who’s had a chance to chat with Dunsworth, whether he’s in character or…
Best Wifi Spot
Interesting spot, The Wired Monk, now winner for two consecutive years of Best WiFi Spot. It’s success in this category has a lot to do with the quality of the atmosphere, quiet and nonintrusive, the quality of the baked goods, fresh, and the quality of the coffee, flavourful. Not to mention location, the student-friendly south…
Best Mechanic Shop
Todd’s rep precedes it, like the shine off a chrome bumper. The times we’ve been in there, they’re always busy—a good sign at an auto shop—but still friendly and eager to answer questions, with a multi-mechanic operation up on new tech and automotive advances. And they’ll always call the owner to report on the work…
Best Record Store
For more than 25 years Taz has been a staple of the Halifax music retail scene and has navigated through the rough waters of the changing economy and rise of the internet, which has decimated other outlets. But with vinyl’s resurgence, Taz remains busy to collectors and new music lovers who maybe weren’t around for…
Best Professor
It’s a hat-trick for Barker, winning the Best Prof three years running. She certainly comes with an impressive resume, including author—a book entitled Early Modern Tragedy, Gender and Performance, 1884-2000—and associate professor and chair in the Dalhousie Theatre Department, teaching in the Early Modern Studies Programme at King’s as well as in the Dalhousie Theatre…
Best Website
We at The Coast are naturally chuffed to be recognized in three separate categories, but we’ll say for the record we don’t host these readers’ polls to self-congratulate. In fact, news editor Tim Bousquet isn’t keen on the special attention. So, many thanks for the love, but maybe next year could you vote for other…
Antichrist
By now, it’s highly likely that you’ve had at least one aspect of Lars Von Trier’s twisted parable Antichrist spoiled for you. And it’s true: the film’s moments of explicit sex, violence and absurdity (my favourite is the rotting, talking fox) could take up hours of discussion on their own. Still, a year after I…
Best Filmmaker
First Runner-up: Thom Fitzgerald Second Runner-up Andrea Dorfman
Best Thing To Happen In Halifax In The Past Year
Ah, yes. Harbour Solutions was fixed and this was a very good thing, especially given the efforts and expense to make it happen. But we also had to go through the 2009 malfunction that set the project back a year and more than $10 million. And the fact that the treatment plants were built to…
Best Real Estate Agent
Rosemary Porter has been doing what she does for awhile, long enough to know that the bulk of her business comes from referrals. “It’s important to do a good job and follow up, because that’s where your next job is coming from,” she says. It’s a philosophy that’s kept her busy and employed and at…
Best Retail Sign
There’s a voice inside some of us that screams “I want CANDY!” on a regular basis. For those who can’t ignore that voice, Freak Lunchbox is here for you. And the design of the place, by art school-grad and co-owner Jeremy Smith, helps keep it in the mind of those who hear that voice, everything…
Best Gallery
The AGNS keeps earning the love of Coast readers with thoughtful and provocative exhibitions, such as the current collection of work by Montreal-born, Nova Scotia-based abstract painter, Jacques Hurtubise, or the thematic media in the show Framed, which is a collection of never-before exhibited pieces from the gallery’s contemporary storehouse going back to 1972, all…
Best Independent Bookseller
In an era of Kindles, iPads and other e-readers, purchasing old-fashioned paper and cloth books from your local bookstore becomes more than a pastime, it’s a political statement supporting a way of life. And as convenient as we’re sure those e-readers can be, there’s nothing like having a book in your hand for ease of…
Tangles: A story about Alzheimer’s, My Mother, and Me
Using spare black and white drawings and uncomplicated, insightful prose Leavitt tells the story of Alzheimer’s—from the early signs of the disease through her mother’s diagnosis, decline and eventual death. Laughter and love intertwine throughout with the horrors of losing a loved one to memories that are no longer theirs to keep when all those…
Best Hair on a Local Personality
We don’t want anyone to think our readers are ironically dissing Bruce or his ‘do, given his win in this inaugural category. There’s just something cool about the swoop, the altitude and the attitude of Mr Frisko’s hair. We all know it. We hope he does, too. Bruce Frisko is also an A+ TV anchor…
Worst Thing To Happen In Halifax In The Past Year
Wow, amazing that the Black Eyed Peas makes it onto the list for the best and worst things to happen to Halifax this year. Way to polarize the readership, pop stars. But certainly, we can all agree that the swarmings of 2010 were all bad. And we’re sad to note that a frontrunner for 2011‘s…
Best Salesperson
Johanna Galipeau was 19 when she opened Sweet Pea on Queen Street in May 2007. Now, four years later, following that success with a new store, Twisted Muse, she’s the queen of Halifax retail, earning kudos in three key Best of Halifax categories. “I just always really wanted affordable clothes but offered in a high…
Best Second-hand Bookstore
There is a story, probably apocryphal, of a man who went looking for an obscure historical text deep in the stacks at JW Doull, the legendary downtown used bookstore, and he was never heard from again. Maybe he was simply swallowed up by the books, like a character in a Neil Gaiman or Clive Barker…
Best Corner Store
A first-time winner in this category, we wondered what put former runner-up Jubilee Junction over the top? We suspect its their legendary homemade ice-cream sandwiches, big and creamy and sweet, a great summer treat. Actually, a great anytime treat. A reader thinks Jubilee Junction is in a class of its own: “Ice-cream sandwiches and Beer…
Best Comedy Night
Picnicface are on the verge of their breakout season, with a TV show on the Comedy Network, their first feature film, Roller Town, and a book of their collected wisdom, all arriving soon. It’s especially sad then that Joker’s, the comedy club that has hosted their Sunday night stand has closed. As much as we…
Hop on board
The best new local food trend is wet hopped beer, and Halifax breweries are hopping on board. Craig Pinhey pours a cold one. A veritable wave of beers hopped with fresh flowers from Atlantic farms hit Halifax this fall, as the local food trend swept through the brewing business. But now we have to wait…
Peepo Choo, Volume One
Felipe Smith managed to do what many manga fans only dream about: he not only went to live in Tokyo but also managed to get his comic, Peepo Choo, published in the pages of a Japanese comics anthology, no small feat considering the insular nature of Japan’s comic industry. It’s an even bigger accomplishment considering…
Best Antiques Store
The popular antiques destination at the corner of Granville and Duke once again takes the prize, offering a broad range of items, from furniture to fixtures to hidden treasures. But if you haven’t been there, don’t imagine it as some kind of dark cave. This is a large store with high ceilings, plenty of light…
Best Halifamous Person
Halifax’s own Ellen Page continues to impress with her savvy career choices. Last year’s *Inception* was the biggest and smartest blockbuster action movie of the year, and she was a big part of it. This year she was in a comedy called *Super* with her *Juno* co-star Rainn Wilson, which disappointingly we never got to…
Best Decade of Dance
Running any arts organization is a difficult and sometimes perilous mission, so making one work successfully over 10 years is an achievement worth celebrating. This is exactly what Mocean Dance plans to do with Decennium, a performance piece revisiting works by the founding members of the Halifax dance troupe, taking place at Alderney Landing, November…
Best Spa
Spirit, nestled into the back of the Marriot at the corner of Salter and Hollis, is a place to rejuvenate your soul. A full service spa, offering everything from a hair salon to aesthetic work to massage to body scrubs to manis and pedis, with special services for men, it’s hard to imagine someone who…
Best Second-hand Clothing Store
For years Maureen Elsie Court’s Queen Street boutique has reigned over this category, which is indicative of the ongoing quality of her product, the vintage wear, the consignment, and the constant change-over of the same, offering her loyal customers plenty of regular selection in jewellery, accessories and both women and men’s clothing. Maureen at Elsie’s…
Best DVD Rental Store
Those poor runners-up. Blockbuster, feeling the pinch of changing tech and maybe their more limited business model—that is, cookie-cutter franchises offering only the most mainstream entertainment, and good luck findingThe Last Temptation of Christ, or anything potentially controversial—have closed their peninsula stores. That makes Video Difference even more of a wonder, a three-storey 24-hour-a-day DVD…
Best Jewellery Store
Fireworks is another Barrington Street stalwart, offering gold, silver and diamonds to its loyal customers since 1977. Whether working to create a classic look, ornate or simple and straighforward, or offering a more modern, 21st Century style, Fireworks stresses the uniqueness of its rings, brooches and jewellery, mostly designed in-house. This reader will cherish Fireworks…
Swimming Under the Sea
Just as BBC’s stellar Planet Earth DVD box set is the only reason to ditch your old clunker of a TV for a flat-screen, IMAX’s Under the Sea beats the fins off any other 3D offering out there (looking at you, Saw). Like a technicolour acid trip (this would be a decent watch stoned, not…
Making the Best of Halifax scene
Winners of this year’s Best of Halifax and Best of Music gathered at the AGNS on Thursday November 4th to celebrate their title with readers, staff and Halifamous.
Best Audio Store
For 18 years, Peak Audio has been the destination for the Halifax audiophile, offering high-end products at competitive prices, and installing them for you. Of late they’ve also been getting into the home automation market. Want all your tech hidden? They can do that. Want to be able to control all your home’s functions from…
Darrell’s New Burger
Darrell’s Restaurant (5576 Fenwick Street, 492-2344) owner Dan Joseph knows about burgers. His Peanut Butter Burger has been at the tops of the The Coast’s Best of Food poll for ages, but he says if any burger can compete with the that one, it’s his new one—called the Hen Den Burger—inspired by a hot new…
Most Important Local Issue
First Runner-up: Public transit and bike lanes Second Runner-up Downtown development and revitalization
Confused Conviction
Hillary Swank is the perfect star to play underdog crusaders of justice. Her blend of country-bred virtue and cutting intelligence is recognized by Conviction, but the movie is too constrained to give into needed dramatic payoffs. Recounting the true story of Betty Anne Waters—a Massachusetts mother who goes through law school in hope of exonerating…
Best Second-hand Furniture Store
The popular antiques destination at the corner of Granville and Duke once again takes the prize, offering a broad range of items, from furniture to fixtures to hidden treasures. But if you haven’t been there, don’t imagine it as some kind of dark cave. This is a large store with high ceilings, plenty of light…
Best Movie Theatre
Seventy-four years old and still the favourite cinema in town, so kudos to Empire Theatres for giving the place a facelift this summer, with fresh paint perking up the facade. Known primarily as an art house, it’s the perfect room to watch a new Woody Allen picture (Midnight in Paris did gangbusters there this summer)…
Best Gay Bar
Reflections continues to dominate multiple categories, offering a special oasis in Halifax’s club zone, a place where whatever your special freak might be, so long as you remain tolerant of others’, you can wave your flag high. With regular DJ nights, live music on Mondays ($Rockin 4 Dollar$) and frequent theme music nights (heavy metal…
Waiting for ‘nog
Halloween costumes are stuffed in the closet, Christmas decorations are on display at every possible store—all signs point to that in-between-seasons time where no one’s really sure what to do. The answer: warm yourself with specialty coffees in anticipation of things to come. Head to these bars for delicious drinks before the ‘nog gets here.…
Making the Best of Halifax scene
Winners of this year’s Best of Halifax and Best of Music gathered at the AGNS on Thursday November 4th to celebrate their title with readers, staff and Halifamous.
Best Shoe Store
Betsy Johnson. Campers. Steve Madden. Toms. Coach. Miss Sixty. Nine West. Marc Jacobs. Suart Weitzman. Rosegold. If these names inspire covetous visions of the chicest shoes, handbags and clutches, KAS is the store for you, owning the Best of Halifax Best Shoe Store for years and for a reason. A reader catches a deal at…
Best Pressed
“There was a potential threat of NSCAD surrendering our type library and our equipment to another institution,” explains graphic designer, NSCAD grad and Letterpress Gang member Katie Tower. “It was getting used but there wasn’t really enough classes to make it useable by a lot of people.” The Letterpress Gang first met in the fall…
Best Party Venue
First Runner-up: Taboo Nightclub Second Runner-up Pacifico
Best Second-hand Record Store
For more than 25 years Taz has been a staple of the Halifax music retail scene and has navigated through the rough waters of the changing economy and rise of the internet, which has decimated other outlets. But with vinyl’s resurgence, Taz remains busy to collectors and new music lovers who maybe weren’t around for…
Best Newspaper Writer
We at The Coast are naturally chuffed to be recognized in three separate categories, but we’ll say for the record we don’t host these readers’ polls to self-congratulate. In fact, news editor Tim Bousquet isn’t keen on the special attention. So, many thanks for the love, but maybe next year could you vote for other…
Best Musical Instrument Store
Long & McQuade, the largest music equipment supplier in Canada, which purchased the former locally owned Music Stop, now takes the crown for their broad and deep inventory of great instruments, as well as for the reasonable rates at their rental store. A reader tells of a great time at Long & McQuade. “I was…
Gooning home
Halifax has a dramatic range that far exceeds its size. While our city and its surrounding area might be best known for playing the role of New England in movies such as The Shipping News and Dolores Claiborne, it’s also stood in for locations as diverse as New York, Amsterdam and even Utah. It stands…
Wedding gowns
LEFT:A touch of European elegance from Barcelona fashion house Pronovias. The form-fitting organza Galante wedding dress curves beautifully with asymmetrical ruching on the bodice, flowing into layers of ruffles. From Winchester’s Bridal and Formal Gowns. RIGHT: Relive a classic fairytale romance with this princess-style gown from Casablancas Bridal. The organza overlay is light and pretty,…
Best Bike Store
Dethroning perennial Best Bike Store winner Idealbikes took some doing. We suspect the victory was at least partly due to Cyclesmith’s sterling service, as well as the fact that the store expanded into the adjacent space in the past year, allowing much more room for cycling accessories, clothing, gear and , of course, bicycles. Readers…
Best Esthetician
Another win for Angela Bishop as Best aesthetician, representing Remedy with her skills now for a decade—she started as an employee and now is the owner of the place—and continuing to earn the loyalty of her clients. And keep in mind if you’ve never visited Remedy, they carry quality skincare products including Dermalogica, caters to…
Best Pick-up Bar
The Dome takes back an award from Reflections, which took this one in the last Best of Halifax. Apparently Haligonians in the know now prefer to go to the labyrinthine caverns of The Dome to get lucky. Is it the ambiance of the Sky Bar, the bar shot specials, the close quarters, the stellar light…
Best Sex-toy Shop
It’s not every store you can go to and ask to see a line of dildos with no fear of embarrassment. In fact, the staff can offer insight in the dildos, depending on your needs. Butt plugs? They have those too, and are absurdly well-informed on their particulars. Venus Envy is also a bookstore, if…
Best Eco-conscious Store
Did you know that P’lovers’ name is inspired both by the Piping Plover and as a contraction of “Planet Lover?” The store has served as an example to many, being socially and environmentally conscious before it was cool and trendy. Put simply, as they do on their website, “By modifying our lifestyles, using our purchasing…
Best Karaoke Night
It’s hard to imagine a time when karaoke wasn’t a big part of bar culture, reflected in the continuing success of the American and Canadian Idol shows. Here in Halifax, the name Mimi Andriopoulos is synonymous with karaoke, our own Ryan Seacrest and Ben Mulroney, as he has been the ringmaster at Bearly’s Wednesday night…
A noted destination
It’s the image of the deluded dreamer: Halifax’s place on the musical map, a destination for big concerts. But the the city has been there, at a smaller scale, all along. “We’re the end of the road here,” says Heather Gibson, who this week is bringing Ani DiFranco to Halifax for two nights at the…
By the books
For those of us who still love the crackling sound of a book spine, there wasn’t any bigger local news in 2010 than the announcement of the new downtown Halifax Central Library. For the past year library staff and the co-architectural teams, Fowler Bauld & Mitchell and schmidt hammer lassen, have listened to Haligonians’ dreams…
Best Camera Store
Despite having closed up their Barrington Street headquarters, Coast readers haven’t forgotten the long-running camera store, still offering a passel of cutting-edge image-capture tech for the professional or amateur photographer. Consider the new Canon Rebel T3i, 18 megapixels, going for $893.99. A reader’s comment on the homegrown camera store: “Too bad they moved out of…
Best Barber
It was the best of times and the worst of times for Phat Luong, who always jokes he offers “The Best Lousy Haircut in Halifax.” He was voted Best Barber in town in 2010, but he’s also had his front window smashed in a random act of vandalism, twice in the past 12 months. That…
Best Place To Dance
First Runner-up: Pacifico Second Runner-up The Dome
Best Activist
Congratulations to Megan Leslie for getting reelected and returning to Ottawa as the NDP representative, as well as becoming the official environment critic. In June she helped resurrect the climate change bill—defeated by the senate last fall—that would set long-term green gas reduction targets, despite every chance that the Conservative majority government is liable to…
Best Radio Show
Two guys named BJ work at this station? (BJ Burke and BJ Wilson) What’s the chance of that? One thing’s for sure, the entendres, single and double, are guaranteed. The model of raucous radio, the Q104 Morning Crew is the kind of place where people want to know if you prefer Diamond Dave over Sammy.…
Best Open Mic Night
Established in the minds of Coast readers as a stellar student hang-out, it’s also now known as the place where you can bring your guitar, your keys, your talent, your ambition to be a stah, whatever and maybe win some cash. It starts at 9pm, but it’s a good idea to get in early as…
DiFranco’s disillusionment
“Hello, is this Robyn? This is Ani.” Ani DiFranco’s familiar voice crackles on the line from her home, and studio, in New Orleans, where she is putting the finishing touches on a new album before trekking north to grace the stage at the Rebecca Cohn. Technically she’s a little late getting here. DiFranco was scheduled…
5 Easy Steps (to the end of the world)
There’s so much great theatre happening in Halifax right now that you’d be hard pressed to see it all. But if you only see one play this year, make it Zuppa Theatre’s 5 Easy Steps (to the end of the world). It’s an original, haunting piece that will stick with you long after you’ve left…
Best Sporting Goods Store
National co-op MEC continues to earn the love with their large, eco-friendly stores, knowledgeable staff and reasonably priced selection of outdoor goods. Did you know they’ve been in operation since 1971, making the store 40 years old this year? Congratulations to MEC. You may want to congratulate them yourself by dropping by to pick up…
Best Fighter of the Good Fight
Born and raised in Springhill, Rene Ross is an activist, former UN employee and an Acadia political science grad. Interning for the UN in Geneva, her focus was on women in conflict, including research on rape as a weapon of war, which was followed by work on landmine awareness with Oxfam in Bosnia, Serbia and…
Best Place To Drink Alone
It’s not a big place, so even if you’re drinking alone, there’s often other folks around, hanging around with friends or also drinking on their own at the bar. For those who don’t know (and you should, no doubt), Tom’s is full of comfy chairs, a great selection of scotch, a dynamite menu (drinking alone…
Best Activist Organization
The EAC continues to be at the vanguard of the environmental movement in Nova Scotia. With its eye on everything from urban gardening to salmon aquaculture, biomass to public transit in rural areas, the organization does its best to save the planet from Nova Scotia. And in September the EAC will participate in the Feed-In…
Best Flower Shop
Being a frequent winner in Best of Halifax, his business’s great service and quality floral products, as well as his natural effervescence, all has made My Mothers Bloomer’s owner Neville something of a local celebrity. Did you know he has his own YouTube Channel? Dial up LevelNeville on YouTube and you can tag along with…
Wintersleep wakes
It’s all about Canada this time for Wintersleep. The local-but-living-in-Montreal band was here just last May for a double set and returns Thursday as part of its cross-Canada tour—one that drummer Loel Campbell says has been a few years coming. “It’s cool to get to go back—we’re doing our best to honour requests and such,…
Going industrial
Artist Colin Lyons has brought parts of Lachine Canal to Gallery Page and Strange. The Montreal buildings—Shewing Cork Works Ltd., Ogilvie Flour Mills Co. Ltd., Dow Brewery and Canada Maltage among them—stare back at you from their miniature sculpture windows. The show is a study in industrial obsolescence—what happens to things once they become obsolete.…
Best Car Dealership
Hillcrest offers fine German automobiles, that is for sure. But we also like that Hillcrest endeavours to run a more environmentally friendly business, spearheaded by general manager Mike Velemirovich. This includes a biodiesel program, teaming with the Ecology Action Centre to promote Steerclean—helping get older, higher-emission cars off the road—and adopting an “Idle-Free” initiative within…
Best Tailor
A winner in this category for years, Daniels is a family business offering the best quality in tailoring for business and casual. Not everyone who has to wear a suit and tie considers getting one fitted to exactly his or her measurements, but imagine the figure you will cut. Coast readers are telling you, this…
Best Fitness Instructor
Devin Sherrington of 360 Fitness follows up his 2009 win with another notch in his workout belt, and he’s won in the past, too. He stays in the hearts and minds of Coast readers by making those hearts stronger and minds sharper. He and his fitness operations offer personal training, group and corporate training, fitness…
Best New Store
Johanna Galipeau was 19 when she opened Sweet Pea on Queen Street in May 2007. Now, four years later, following that success with a new store, Twisted Muse, she’s the queen of Halifax retail, earning kudos in three key Best of Halifax categories. “I just always really wanted affordable clothes but offered in a high…
Best Councillor
Dawn Sloane has a quality essential to a good politician: She’s an extrovert. She’s good at getting out there, talking to people and expressing the interests of her constituents in council. She can take some credit for getting the winter parking ban adjusted for the season ahead, a change that has people cheering. Folks were…
Best Short Film
“If you are, at first, lonely, be patient. If you’ve not been alone much or when you were you weren’t OK with it, just wait.” This is how the poem Tanya Davis wrote about surviving loneliness begins, the poem that is also a film. The title came from her friend, collaborator and director, Andrea Dorfman.…
Playing in the Meligrove
It feels like The Meligrove Band is from Halifax. The indie gents have often been stylistically compared to this city’s music scene, while newest band member Brian O’Reilly is actually from here—and a former member of Their Majesties and Brent Randall & his Pinecones. Drummer Darcy Rego even sports a Thrush Hermit tee in the…
In-laws don’t need to know
Q I have a bit of a situation. I’m a 23-year-old married heterosexual male. My wife and I happen to have a girlfriend now, making our arrangement a polyamorous triad. We all love each other very much, and we are getting to the point that we are thinking about how we are going to tell…
Best Tech Store
A reader likes the Greenlyph service. “I always get amazing service here—no matter how busy the shop gets (and it can get really fackin’ busy) the staff are always patient with my lack of computer knowledge and are just nice in general! Yay!” First Runner-up: Halifax Mac Store Second Runner-up DigitalCare Computers
Best Tattoo Artist
Once again in 2011, Amber Thorpe helped bring us the Maritime Tattoo Festival, the fifth annual, as a matter of fact. As if she wasn’t busy enough, her store—Adept Tattoos on Quinpool Road—is a place with a constant buzz from the sound of needles burrowing into flesh. Thorpe has a whack of experience under her…
Best Man on the Inside
The 35-year-old Jamie MacLellan is Halifax’s first Public Art Facilitator, a position that was created for him. A King’s grad in Contemporary Studies, he went out west to continue his fine arts education, but wound up back here sitting on the Khyber’s board in 2007 as the art centre’s liaison with the city government. “That’s…
Best Optical Store
If you are someone who likes things uniform, homogenous and always the same, stay away from Gaudet. If new things frighten you, or unique styles and trends flabbergast you and make you upset, if the very staid and normal and conventional are the things that make you happy, for god’s sake, steer clear of Gaudet.…
Best Member Of Parliament
Congratulations to Megan Leslie for getting reelected and returning to Ottawa as the NDP representative, as well as becoming the official environment critic. In June she helped resurrect the climate change bill—defeated by the senate last fall—that would set long-term green gas reduction targets, despite every chance that the Conservative majority government is liable to…
Best Male Theatre Actor
Coast readers continue to hold the Merritt Award-winning, British-born actor and director in high esteem, and well they should. A regular on stages at Shakespeare By The Sea, Neptune and at Festival Antigonish, he is a multiple-threat creator, having recently directed the short film Wake, now on the festival circuit. And don’t be surprised if…
Free Will Astrology
SCORPIO (October 23-November 21) Technorati, a search engine for blogs, says there are well over 100 million blogs on the internet, and that figure doesn’t include millions of Chinese language blogs. So self-expression is thriving on a global scale, right? Not exactly. Most blogs —the estimate is 94 percent —have not been updated for at…
Trust betrayed
“Businesses aren’t going to locate downtown until their employees can afford to live on the peninsula,” Ross Cantwell tells me. Cantwell is a real estate consultant who works for some of the biggest property owners in Halifax, and specializes in the economics of development. He knows the local market as well as anyone, and matches…
Power Trippin’ Baldy Fellah
I’m surprised your friends even want to be seen with you, since you’re so stupid, ugly, and tasteless. And your girl friend, who may or not be girlfriend, and I guess this applies in general to all your friends: Have you heard of the waitress test? “The way your date treats a waitress is the…
Do they hate me ?
A simple bitch: I hate it how ppl I know hate watching me and my hubby in love and happy, how the try to ruin things between us . I always seek to make everyone happy , why when it comes to me I’m envied like it’s too much for me to be happy .…
Kangaroo done hung the juror with the innocent
Pot and police. The amount of discretion and power that cops have on this issue has been bubbling in frustration under my skin for a while and is now physically revolting to me. Fact #1: A police officer can pull you over and search your vehicle if he has a ‘reasonable suspicion’ that you have…
Insult to injury
Several people seem to love posting comments to bitches that make angry people even angrier. I realize that this is the nature of the beast with online forums, but come on…do you really have to exacerbate every fucking bitch that gets posted? Some of these comments are obviously just a means of stroking online egos.…
I missed my electroshock today and I feel fine . . .
I know what they told us. The power got knocked out by a truck or something down on Pleasant Street today. Go figure. So the Doc says “We’re gonna postpone your electroshock therapy until tomorrow”. I’m thinking that’s fuckin’ great. Suits me just fine, Doc. I think I’ve had enough to last me through to…
Fucking Bagel Makers
I just bought some of your bagels yesterday, took them home for a bagel session, opened the package, split the first bagel and lost it. The top half was wafer thin, leaving the bottom so thick that I couldn’t fit it in the damn toaster. Is this your idea of a joke? Not funny. Ruined…
Best Book
A biography of Eddie Carvery, the last resident of Africville, the peninsular village bulldozed in the late ‘60s to make room for the McKay Bridge onramp, its residents uprooted and moved elsewhere. Tatrie, a novelist and freelance journalist, tells the story of Carvery’s life as an activist and community organizer, the man who refuses to…
Best Comedian
Pretty good year for Mark Little and his Picnicface chums. They got their disco movie made, Roller Town, powered by hopes, dreams, laughs and a shoestring budget. Then they managed to get a TV show up and running. The Picnicface 30-minute sketch comedy show is shooting now, 13 episodes, to appear later on The Comedy…
Best Drag Performer
Arguably Cape Breton’s most glamorous export, Rouge Fatale has made a name for herself in the big city of Halifax with her slam-bang drag shows, often at Menz Bar on Gottingen. Comedy, musical numbers and the self-described “old-fashioned drag thing” are her specialties, and look out for her cover of “My Vagina is Eight Miles…
Trade Centre Limited losses skyrocket by half a million dollars, partly due to failed Halifax Common concerts
Trade Centre Limited, the provincial crown corporation that runs the convention centre, had an operating loss of $622,558 lat year, almost three times its budgeted loss and nearly six times the previous year’s loss of $109,969. Once depreciation is factored in, last year’s operating loss was $2.1 million, compared to a budgeted loss of $1.9…
Towing company thieves
God help you if you get your car impounded by this Halifax towing company. They hold your car hostage for outrageous sums. Thieves and crooks, plain and simple! —Mr Mac
You saved my Halloween!!
I parked down by the waterfront on Saturday night. Didn’t pay enough for parking. Came back to my car later that night, to find that someone had stuck their parking payment stub, good until 8am, on my windshield! Thanks! Saved me from getting a ticket! PS, I paid it forward. Stuck it on someone else’s…
It’s Friggin Cold in Here!
I know you’re overweight and menopausal, but I’m neither. Why does it have to be 69 degrees in our office?? It’s almost winter and you have the a/c on while I’m wearing 3 layers and using a blanket. I’m trying really hard to accommodate you by wearing the warmest clothes possible, but this is getting…
Fuck You Dump Truck Drivers!
You lazy bastards! Start securing the loads in the back of your trucks! 3 times in the last 4 weeks my windshield has fallen victim to your laziness! 1st time, cost me $160 to get fixed. 2nd time, small chips, ignored it. 3rd time, this morning, fucking DESTROYED my windshield!! This isn’t following behind trucks,…
Sirens in Songs
There is little more about the radio that I hate more than songs with sirens in the background, making me double-take my mirrors to check for emergency response vehicles and police, and having to shut off the radio to check if it was a real siren. Radio edits should not be allowed to have sirens…
Shut up in the Quiet Study Section plz
I study in the quiet study section of the Killam because I am trying to escape people like you and your insignificant topics of conversation. You are not allowed to have any conversations of any sort in that room. If you want to talk then go elsewhere. So please, if you feel the sudden urge…
EHS Bus VS. Bike
To the EHS bus that cut me off on Bell road, November 3rd at approx. 0855, I forgive you (you were right by the hospital, and I probably did more damage to you). Just try to pay attention to cyclists, especially when you’re just trying to cut around traffic in non emergency situations.—All I want…
Little Penis Syndrome
Hey Little Shit in the white Hyundai Santa Fe who cut me off on Bedford highway this morning, you are a real A$$!!! Do you ever think what it says about you to have to hurry and be one car ahead? It says you have Little Penis Syndrome, that’s what! —Hoping you grow up in…
SIDUFHfbd
FuCKING asshOLE BITCH WEBSITE!!!! I JUST Spent all morning writing a fucking bitch because i”M angry and venting oonn this stupid site makes me FEEL BETTER only to almost finish my bitch when the fucking asshole webite DiCJHEAD desides to reload the fucking page or some magic technical shit and all of my witty gklorious…
Now what?
I suck Fuck graphic design. —empty
Dear, Sweet Haligonian Drivers
I EXIST!!! —pleasedontkillme
newspaper man
You’re supposed to be passing out the paper at the terminal not lurking behind us listening to our conversation, butting in, being a pest.
Suburban Starbucks RedHeadded Goddess
You are sweet, gorgeous and you intrigue the hell out of me. I think you’re incredibly hot. Keep smiling and I’ll do the same and maybe you’ll notice me. —Green Eyed Guy
White Poppy Assholes
Ok Fuck. I know you’ve grown up with a fucking silver spoon crammed up your collective asses, but here’s something that all you idiots who are trying to hijack both the spirit and the meaning of November 11 AND the inherent significance of the RED poppy seem to be missing. Ready for it? OK, here…
Ghost Hunters
That door moving a few centimeters really freaked me out too. I mean, I’ve never seen a door move by itself. What could possibly cause a door to move by itself besides a ghost anyway? It’s just not natural. And the spike on the EMF meter, that was some freaky shit. It’s not like there’s…
A personal invitation
I would like to take this opportunity, as a member of the executive of the Halifax Homeowners Association to invite you to attend: A free public presentation with renowned convention centre expert Dr. Heywood Sanders Full information at http://halifaxgazette.blogspot.com/2010/11/heywwod-saunders-speaks-on-convention.html —Bruce DeVenne
Attn Waiters/Waitresses: It’s called a TIP for a REASON
In response to “I don’t want to pay to serve you” ‘s post on Nov 1: Customers are not obligated to tip you upon visiting a restaurant. You are still being paid a base wage, and tips are just that – TIPS that we, the customer, are not OBLIGATED TO PAY. People should tip when…
Fired firefighter Blair Cromwell responds to libel suit
[image-1]Former Halifax firefighter Blair Cromwell, who was fired from the job after he made comments about fire department management on The Coast website, was subsequently sued for libel by fire chief Bill Mosher and deputy chief Steve Thurber. Today, Cromwell filed a defence to those charges, which basically argues that all of the postings on…
Blow me down
Today, I was informed by a federal government department, one with which I interviewed for a position, that I did not obtain the pass mark for the following essential merit criterion, as assessed at the interview: Ability to communicate effectively orally [in English]. As a result, the department “cannot give further consideration” to my application.…
Nice people do still exist!!!!
To the nice lady to got out of her car in the piss pour rain to knock on my door to tell me that I left my headlights on! I super appreciate it as the next morning would have sucked royally!! —One very thankful (absentminded) citizen
Liquid Gold opens
For many gourmands and chefs, this is what they’ve been waiting for: Liquid Gold (5525 Young Street, 406-8809) is a store specializing in olive oil, sourced in the southern hemisphere and the Mediterranean. You bottle it right in the store for absolute freshness. Also available is Italian balsamic vinegar, in a variety of types.
Facebook Bitches
Seriously if one of you Facebook “Friends” is pissing you off so much, why don’t you just delete them? If you’re bitching and moaning about them, chances are you’re not that close and they probably won’t care. Stop filling the bitch page with your snot nosed complaints. Nobody Cares! —Just not that in to you
This ones for me
Dear vagina, When I take a pee in a public washroom and squat over the seat so I don’t have to touch it and possibly get a disease, it would be WONDERFUL if you would stop directing all my piss onto my leg thus not getting it in the toilet and all over my leg/the…
Karma will not do fuck all for you
Alright bitchers, stop hoping karma will do you favours because we all know she is busy as fuck since about August. Please stop devoting all your faith into karma. FFS! —Karma is out of office
Pelvic balls of light
Hey Prarie Girl: thanks for the laughs, the bluegrass, and your friendship. Hali will miss you when you go. Will always remember the fountain, the walks on Quinpool Road, sleeping vegetables, brunch!, Jian Ghomeshi, and the pelvic balls of light. You’ve always got my couch to surf. Keep shining!—A
Not my problem!
You drag me into this mess, now you expect me to just step up and drag you out again!? I think not! You got yourself into this. deal with it and don’t take me down with you. PLUS you expect me to continue to drag you out again and again. Well guess what sweet heart?…
Seaport Fridays
On Friday November 5, a new International Friday Market will open at the Seaport Market (1209 Marginal Road, 429-6256), and will continue henceforth every Friday from 10am to 7pm, with the official opening November 19. The international market will feature vendors from nations as varied Turkey, Peru, India, Lebanon, China, Iran and Greece, more than…
Attn students: Learn how to tip or go to McDonalds
This time of year, every server dreads the return of the students to the city. Look, I understand that you are living on a budget, I’m a student too. However, that doesn’t mean that tipping etiquette doesn’t apply to you. Consider the tip as part of the cost of the meal; if you can’t afford…
Have some class
There are a lot of stupid people out there… I can’t stand it when people use someone’s death to get attention on none other than FACEBOOK. Yes you knew this person and it’s friggin’ shitty they died but do we really need an hourly play by play of how ‘depressed’ you are? You barely even…
Pick Up Your Poo
The only thing worse then stepping in dog poo is having your sweet little toddler step in someone’s else’s dog poo, then unknowingly roll your difficult to clean stroller through said dog poo and discovering this well after you pulled your stroller into your once clean (and dog poo free) home. An hour of cleaning…
To a face I adore. and a spirit I will cherish forever.
Your spirit is inspirational, and so is your heart. I can’t thank you more for your honesty, and human moments you give me. For helping me realize again, that I know who I am. I’m glad the universe sent you here. even if only for a short while. I think you just get it. what…
Dear Co-Worker:
Don’t get pissy at me because you have to do your job. —9-5er
Gunshot on Halloween
To to morons (whoever you are) that decided to shoot off a round at 3pm on Sunday in Westphal – thanks for ruining Halloween for all the children. Parents were terrified to let their children out to go trick or treating. I hope you shoot yourself in the eye one of these days.—TricksNotFunny
Facebook: The Movie
Who wants to watch a movie about a bunch of Harvard brats who want even more money than their rich parents have already shelled out for them? I was originally put off by the idea but decided I’d go since everyone has been raving about it, but when I went I couldn’t even make it…
Thanks for stabbing me in the back
To my so called “FACEBOOK” friend who used me to get information to another online friend: you so mean hearted bitch. I could never trust you again. You have the biggest mouth ever all you do all day is play Farmville, and post comments to conversations that aren’t even about you, WTF!?! You can’t go…
‘Stache Boy
The weekend was great. Sorry you were not feeling well. Sorry my puppy pooped in your basement. There was not a lot of talking because we had sent so many emails back and forth. It was amazingly comfortable being with you. It was great meeting your best friend and his GF too. Quote of the…
It’s supposed to be dark!
A question for the parents/guardians of children who start trick or treating at 4:30 in the afternoon: WHY? Do you not remember trick or treating as a child? It’s supposed to be dark, and part of the experience is getting to see all the other ghosts and goblins – God I feel bad for your…
THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR CANDY!!!
Thank you so much the the wonderful guy that stopped at my house on Hallowe’en to offer me a peanut-butter cup!! I had put a sign on the window saying “Sorry, no candy guys – Have fun tonight!” and he felt sorry that I had no candy! So kind! Friend, I’m sorry I did not…
You’re welcome, asshole
This is for you, the king of Fuck and Chuck. Yeah, sure, take the rest of the condoms. I definitely bought them for you to use with other girls. Fuck you. I can show you how it feels to be used– I’ll be over to fuck your roommate in 30, punk. —Yo sex was whack…
Girl in Blackface and Short Shorts at the Khyber
Seriously? What was your costume, a “Ho”? —Hates Everything Today
You gon’ beat it up? Or beat me up?
This is goin’ out to you– the piece of shit hot and cold fucker who can’t make up his mind and is probably schizophrenic. Please go see a doctor and take some fuckin’ pills or whatever the hell it is schizophrenic patients use. There is something terribly wrong with you. —Looks won’t you that far,…
Done with buddy-buddy
This goes out to a good friend. Well, a lil’ more than that now. You make me smile, and that’s hard to say about regular folk on a regular basis. I’ve had such a depression problem for the last year and you’ve helped me so much through it just by being the man you are.…
Breaking news: demoted police officer in hearing before the Police Complaints Commissioner
Halifax Police staff sergeant Mark Hartlen is appearing before the Police Complaints Commissioner this week, with an a five-day hearing scheduled. This morning, commissioner Nadine Cooper Mont would not allow reporters to enter the hearing room. Hartlen was demoted from investigator to staff sergeant some time after a firm owned by Hartlen and fellow officer…
Beale’s Sale
It’s November, but we at Shoptalk believe that there’s no reason in the world to begin discussing the “C” word. You know, the event that happens for many folks at the end of December, quaintly euphemized in our politically correct times as The Holidays. Our policy is to ignore such things until at least a…
Perks on the waterfront closes
Shoptalk has learned that Perks (1781 Lower Water Street) closed its doors at the end of October following an ongoing dispute with its landlord. According to a note posted on the business door, the intention is to reopen the business in Historic Properties in the near future.
Learn to fucking yield, asshole.
To the idiot turning onto Bell from Robie St on Saturday night who HIT ME, cutting it close to running me over… LEARN TO FUCKING YIELD! When your turn-left arrow stops flashing and disappears, you have to yield to both incoming traffic on Robie and the pedestrians crossing Bell at the intersection (as there is…
Zuckerberg, you are so dumb. really dumb. fo real.
So I logged in today, as per usual, and as I am browsing through mindlessly, I notice something different. Instead of seeing the usual “See Wall to Wall” I see they’ve replaced it with “See Friendship”. Apparently it takes you to a whole other fucking page basically dissecting every iota of similarities between two users.…
Silly servant for 30 years
I have been a provincial silly servant for 30 years. I have seen governments come and go and many costly re-organizations that would magically make our debt go away. I have seen wage roll-backs, hiring freezes and wholesale slashing of jobs. We get told from time to time that the cupboard is bare and that…
Baby…
I miss you soooo much! XO—your kitty
Ms. Gluten-free Veg with no cheese
Oh gods, you sound like you’re all kinds of hot. Taking your order always makes my night. Thanks for relieving some of the monotony of my night and having such wonderful personality. I wish more customers were like you! —I makes the good pizzas 😀
Sticky Situation
Is it really so complicated to wrap your gum in a wrapper after you’re done with it? I suppose it’s just to much effort to get up and throw it in the garbage? So now here I sit after a so-so movie with fucking gum on my pants because some numb-nuts thought the underside of…
Learn the fucking Rules of the Road…PLEASE!
DON’T fucking stop in merge lane, assholes. Bring your car up to highway speed and MERGE – see how that works? DON’T change lanes in the middle of the fucking intersection. This is specifically directed to all you idiots who take the outside lane from Horseshoe Lake Drive to Chain Lake Drive (Cops apparently don’t…
Watering Hole
To the establishment downtown that plays host to many amazing bands. FIX THE LEAK. You know the one – from the ceiling directly over the middle of the dance floor. Whatever it is that is leaking got on my clothes and they are now ruined. I already paid cover, I don’t want to have to…
Cabjacker
So I’m standing outside the grocery store on Joe Howe last night, waiting for a cab. I wasn’t surprised that I had to wait over 30 minutes. But I WAS surprised when the long awaited cab pulled up to the curb, and some bitch RAN past me and yanked open the car door. I saw…
For my Muffin
I never thought this could happen. Thank you for being my favorite nerd. Thank you for playing video games with me until four in the morning. Thank you for buying me comic books. And thank you for making me tea before work. Thanks for washing my glasses when their dirty. Thank you for making me…
Vacant thoughts
To the individual who wrote “don’t be pushed out” on the promotional sign for an affordable housing project on Gottingen: I assume you think you’re valiantly standing up against the evil forces of gentrification, working for the “little people” of the north end. That lot has been an empty (‘cept for the billboards) blight on…
You’re white and that’s okay
Get it through your head: you’re not Hispanic! Just because your step dad’s from South America doesn’t give you the right to start calling yourself Latina, and to say it to someone who actually is, is just not right! Why are you going out of your way to seem “exotic”? It’s insulting to my culture…
Drunk students
Sorry students, sick and tired of you screaming the F word at the top of your lungs, pouring beer on my front lawn and generally being obnoxious – grow up, it’s almost November! —tired neighbour who has to work and wants to sleep
Stupid activity
For the 2 bitches that told me to shut up during Paranormal Activity 2 on Friday. Learn the difference between a horror film and a comedy. K, thanks.—MovieCritic
To the Guys in the Black Truck
To the guy in the black truck who hit our golden retriever on Almon Street, October 29, 2010: Accidents happen. He ran out of the house, we couldn’t grab him and he ran in front of your truck. This could have happened to anyone. We get that and we understand. I tried to give him…
Director of Films
I read your article, though I don’t read many – just the bitch section, savage love and the comics. Then I met you and we had a pretty legit convo. I am a writer/director also and heavily involved in theatre/film and I would LOVE to have you on my project this January, or even just…
So you’re really going to see him again!?!
To the two idiots chatting it up in the Killam 5th floor QUIET section: SHUT THE HELL UP! No one cares about how your date went last night– not even the friend you’re talking to. I have a midterm in T-108 minutes and all I can concentrate on is the visualization I have of the…
Randy who?
You need refugee status like a fat kid needs a cubic meter of cheesecake. There’s currently about 59,000 people in the queue for refugee status in Canada. It’s a long, slow process for those waiting. A good chunk of this group could tell horrifying stories of war, torture, ethnic cleansing, being detained in awful conditions…
Halifax
I love this city; I love its sights, smells, people. I love the culture. I love how backwards it seems at times. I love the eccentricity. I love, love, love this city. —Thank you, everyone for helping to keep this city beautiful
Halloween’d
FFS. Halloween is on a Sunday again. Now those little bastards will be ringing my doorbell the night before I am heading back into the office. Where can I buy an ACME doorstep launcher? —Santa
Grocery Parking
WTF….the building is under construction. Part of the parking lot is blocked off. There’s never a parking spot, and when you see someone getting in their car to leave, they just sit there in a zombie state. How are people supposed to shop at your grocery store if they can’t even park? —Windsore
MacKay Bridge construction
What are you bridge people doing? You’ve got the concrete dividers between lanes on the 111 all tore up, pylons running up the highway, making lanes narrower, and also have several lanes at the toll booths shut down. Are you trying to justify the proposed toll hike? Or is this a make-work project? Either way,…
Emergency! Oh, no wait, SIKE!
Dearest Halifax Regional Police: Why, oh why, do you deem it appropriate to flash your red and blues just so you can get through a red light faster or so you can make that illegal left turn? You snap those lights on, people scatter to get out of your way, you fly through the intersection…
Cycle Douch @ the Corner of Sackville and Queen St.
Here’s a big FUCK YOU to the cyclist who Friday around 7:30AM, almost ran into a car at the corner of Sackville and Queen St. That white (or silver?) Impala was already in the intersection with their turn signal on and you tried to go around them (on the right). YOU almost hit THEM and…
Going hunting on Friday
Not a bitch really, just letting the gang here know that I will be going deer hunting Friday, and will not be around to bug the shit out of everyone for a couple days. But look the fuck out Sunday, i’ll be back in all my infamous glory as my vile spewing self. Have a…
I won’t let you go
I never give up on you, please don’t give up on me. Bad always comes with good, it’s the balance that makes the world work, it reminds us just how great our love really is. —Bubbi#2
Thanks for nothing
As a person bursting at the seems with LOVE and emanating with a positive attitude it is my regret to inform everyone that I will actually be posting a Bitch – and if this bitch ever makes it out into the world, well then what d’ya know, because websites who run on personal opinions never…
North End Library Lovin’
I never knew how good I had it at the North End Public Library until the day I strayed. But now I love you more than ever! I love your super-friendly staff who let kids participate in everything & who print out complete lists of what I’ve checked out. I love all the different kinds…
My Rose
Even though we may of put each other through a lot of stress at times the love is there. Love just like a rose has it’s thorns sometimes you get pricked. I love you more than these words I type can explain and as long as we have each other I know this love we…
I know how you are
I know you think I’m a moron, I also know you don’t respect me. For this whole relationship all you’ve done is underestimate me and act selfish. Oh I know all you’ve done is cheat on me and use me for money and no I don’t let on but you know karma is a bitch…
“I.O.U one galaxy”
To the very cute guy in the striped hoodie at the Ataris show at the paragon, thank you for saving the night. Not only did you keep me and my (7 months pregnant) sister from being crushed by the moshing, you made it so we could stick close to the stage and see the band…
Can’t sleep, stupid sheep
My planets aren’t aligned so I’m having trouble sleeping. I refuse to resort to anything but natural strategies so why is it when I try counting sheep, the only mammals that flutter across my eyelids are the ones in the Serta Mattress commercials? Staring at me with a certain arrogance, bleating expletives. Why can’t I…
I don’t want your man!!
OK, THREE different women this week alone have accused me of wanting their man… I don’t and I’m not really sure why you would assume I do. Talking to someone does not mean you want to have sex with that person. Also, to that last crazy bitch who harassed me… YOU GUYS ARE BROKEN UP!!!!!!!…
Relax bitch!!
Pay attention for fuck sake!! I was stopped that far back because there was an big ass oil truck making a wide right turn (like they have to!) and then a tour bus making a left. It’s an awkward intersection anyway. So yes, I stopped far back in my lane to let them get through…
Metro Transit
On the 81 Wednesday morning, the bus stops on Robie St (near young & Robie intersection) the drive turns off the bus & says he has to get one for the cause (a coffee from tim’s) and leaves the door open. I call transit to report it I was told he is entitled to a…
CarShareHFX offers sweet deal for students
CarShareHFX (2459 Agricola Street, 406-7439), the local car sharing service, has a whole new membership option to save you money if you’re s student, faculty or staff at any of the Halifax post-secondary schools. If you’re over the age of 21 and in the academic community (or are part of their family), you can get…
Converted rail to trail
This is for the jerks driving cars and trucks on this trail between Bayers Lake and Lakeside. I’m waiting with my camera and cellphone. Only a matter of time. —S.J
Stinky guy on bus
Buddy. To the guy on the bus leaving from bridge terminal at 7am Thursday. You are the fat man in the rear of the bus wearing a black hoodie. For the love of fuck have a shower in the morning or wash your clothes. YOU STINK. —S.J.
WTF is wrong with this city?
My partner and I moved back here from TO 6 months ago. My partner’s mother is very ill and we wanted to be close to her. I am making the same amount and my spouse is making close to the same amount as in Ontario. We both have good jobs. However, our rent in Clayton…
Roommates = Family
To my two amazing, wonderful, slightly crazy roommates, thank you! I don’t know where I’d be without you pretty ladies. I thought I had received some of the worst news in my life and you girls stuck by me, offering up support, love and hot chocolate. I love you two so much. Thank you thank…
Regret
I regret telling you I didn’t want anything serious right off the bat. A couple months go by and you grew on me. I’m a hard ass and push people away, and now you are gone 🙁 It may not have worked out since we were living in the same building but I shouldn’t have…
Thanks for the Kick in the Arse!
Just getting this off my chest: What the hell did I ever do to you? I work my ass off for you… I build up your business and go above and beyond the call of duty. You wanna stay at your cottage an extra day and get drunk? Sure, I’ll drive in an hour early…
My body sucks
Just wanted to give a big shout out to my body for deciding to waste myself with an all-in-one period, yeast infection, and hemorrhoid attack two days before Halloween and four days before my paper is due. PS: the acne explosion on my forehead is also great. —Perks of being a woman
Punk with imaginary shot gun
I stopped to let you walk in front of my car the other night as I exited the beer store and for my trouble you pulled a pretend shotgun and aimed at me through the windshield. As you slunk by I rolled down my window and said in a loud voice: “Right back at ya”,…
Mouse
My life today is so full of excitement and love I surprise myself with how happy I have become. I owe you everything and you are my everything. You mean the world to me. I never thought it would happen. I never thought I would be so lucky. I never felt so loved. —Your South…
Punk Police Officer
As much as I appreciate your need to reaffirm your manhood by acting like a thug and pushing people around I just want you to know that my camera was not turned off when you screamed I “better not” record you. It was in a public place on a public street and fyi I have…
Opening day at the Nova Scotia legislature
Out of curiosity, this afternoon I stopped by Province House for the opening day of the fall session of the legislature. I have no plan to cover legislative debates like I cover city council—it’s not really my beat, and it wouldn’t work in any event. But, as with the convention centre, sometimes issues overlap between…
TAO: The Adventure Outfitters in sign dispute
It was a big boost to the downtown retail scene when TAO The Adventure Outfitters moved from Bayers Lake to old Freemasons building on the corner of Salter and Granville Street. But when the new owners put up seven cloth signs announcing their presence, they were hit with a bylaw infraction notice for violating the…
Pogue Fado anonymously accused of homophobia
A night at the Pogue Fado ended in a heavy “he said, she said” confrontation involving the bar itself and members of the Halifax gay community. Two men, who remain unnamed, were allegedly told to “leave or stop acting like a couple,” by bar staff who claim to have seen the couple “displaying acts of…
Who’s who on our Halloween cover? contest
The cover of our Halloween issue, by local artist Geordan Moore, is sure to thrill all you nerds pop culture fanatics. Inspired by this weekend’s inaugural Hal-Con, ummm, convention, Geordan created an assembly of costumed characters where the Halifamous mingle with superstars like Darth Vader and that guy from the YouTubes. But more than an…
It Was Supposed to be Good!!
Why is the new Halifax market so fucking stupid? Everyone was excited, it was supposed to be great, and then, we go, and it’s awful! You have to park, your car half an hour away, and there are cranky crossing guards all over the place. There is nothing fun, nor relaxing about shopping for veggies…
Little Squishy Guy Up Top
I really appreciate the lovely way in which you take care of all the little busy work within my body. I love the way you allow me to experience pleasure and remember good times, but I’ve had just about enough of you arguing with yourself and bringing me into it. There’s no need to violently…
HRM Waste Mismanagement
Why do we have to put paperboard in the compost? It’s perfectly recyclable yet the garbage guys won’t pick it up in a blue bag. How is it that corrugated cardboard and newspapers/magazines are recyclable but not paperboard like cereal boxes? That is actually most of the stuff I throw away. What a pathetic excuse…
Happy Birthday, Tuna
Here’s to the first of a million!—Tunacat
Fuck You
Hey leggingspy, I can’t wait to see your face in the paper you fucking pervert. Stalking women and filming them is just sad and pathetic. Here’s my theory about perverts like you: either you have a dick the size of a peanut, you can’t get it up/satisfy a women or your mother is a whore…
Georgey Boy
Baby I can’t wait to spend 2 nights with you next week in Halifax!! The long distance thing is so very sucky, but soon enough we’ll be together. I heart you, it came so quickly and is so real and is forever. xx —Your Woman
Awww
You are so cute! Thanks for the hug. ♥ —Warm and fuzzy inside
Would you like a ride into town?
To the guy in the beige truck who offered me a ride into town Monday around 4:15PM in Bayers Lake: I was the brunette in a red jacket and had been waiting for the bus in for about 20 minutes and was obviously cold. Although I declined your offer (I don’t usually accept rides from…
Wildflower Sale
Whoa! Tomorrow (Friday, October 29) and the next day (Saturday, October 30) you’ll find everything at Wildflower Clothing (5553 Clyde Street, 420-0364) is 30 percent off. The store, opposite the Cylde Street liquor store, is open 10am-7pm Friday and 10am-6pm Saturday.
