'Tis the season, once again, when the community of pot smokers, weed enthusiasts and marijuana lovers consider the most celebratory time of year. April 20, or 4/20 as it's more well known, will be on a Sunday this year. Easter Sunday, to be specific. It's about creating a larger schmoke cloud then last year, and giving into the inevitable munchies. I close this piece with a few suggestions to grab a nosh or two and a parody song about pot by Steve Berke. But first, down to the business of pot and politics.
I have compiled some links and related info about 4/20 Rally and Matt Mernagh. He's a pot activist looking to become Toronto's next Mayor AND will be very much part of this year's rally. He is known as the "person who "almost made marijuana legal"
Matt kicked off his Mayoral campaign at the The Flying Beaver Pubarrete. This link directs you to the Youtube video. I like how this quote addresses the issues of protest and parades. He is a strong ally and supporter of the Queer community.
"Some Toronto parades were originally more protest than parade – Labour Day, Pride and Global Marijuana March are a few that started out as protests, but have morphed more into parades and festivals. I say yes to this morphing, but an element of protest must remain. My administration will be all about parades.”
Matt is willing to answer tough questions. He did an exclusive interview with the True North Times. Here is the complete article. He goes into great detail about his policies and his platform. To put a "..freeze land transfer tax" and "reducing barriers faced for food trucks" are two of the issues Matt discusses.
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Matt also weighs in on his opinion on how the media gave Toronto an opportunity to be on a international stage. "I think it’s excellent our city was featured on the Daily Show and has achieved so much ink. Unfortunately, news media don’t cling to positive stories."
The 4/20 Rally in Toronto
4/20 Toronto 2014
Sunday April 20th 2014
Yonge & Dundas Square
Noon to 6:00pm
The 420 Rally website gives you a few more details and some videos from last year. The now very famous pot cloud that wafted down to Queen Street is captured on this Youtube clip.
There is a complete set list of performers and activists on the Facebook page. Looks like both local, and international groups will be represented in the line up. Erb4Herb national team will be represented at cities from coast to coast. Matt Mernagh will be speaking on their behalf in Toronto.
Local band, Must Stash Hat will be performing a live set. They are a "three piece Toronto based jam band," who have been playing together for nearly 10 years. They are known for their take on "funk, blues and country" with a "strong talent for improvisation."
Mike Rita comedian and fellow stoner will be bringing his hilarity to the stage. Last year, I couldn't help but laugh my ass off. I know it wasn't just the massive puffs of smoke going by. Here is his bio. He's a super nice guy who briefly chatted with me last year by the media tent. Luckily for me, I kept my inner fan grrl in check.
Here is the ALL the contact info you need to celebrate 4/20 in Toronto this year!
Facebook link for 420 Hash Mob
@420toronto #420to #HASHMOB
And finally FOOD!
There are so many options up and down Yonge Street that will hit the spot when those munchies kick in. My fave spot right now is Fickle on Yonge . It's north of College and Yonge at 507 Yonge.
How perfect is it that you can get Dragon and Phoenix Special Signature Dish and a Hot Pot with Brisket and Eggplant in the same restaurant. Asian food is always perfect for sharing. The have a Vegetarian Pu Pu Platter, as shown below.
There are sizzling and appetizers platters. Curry dishes and vegetarian delights are also available. I love my Pho. When I was there last, I ordered my usual, Chicken and Vegetable. As always, it was perfect. The restaurant is serene and very easy to sit and relax for awhile.
If that's not quite your style, remember that College Park at Yonge and College has a great food court on the main level. For those seeking a grease fix, you have KFC, Taco Bell plus a variety of take out restaurant choices. There are two grocery stores, and a Dollarama. Sometimes Cheeto's are a stoner's best friend.
If you feel like traveling a bit, cuz that's the way your high is taking you, don't be afraid to nosh out at Sneaky Dee's . The restaurant is at Bathurst and College. So it's the 506 Carlton car west. OMFG! There is nothing better than sharing a mountain of nacho's with your fellow stoners, friends and foodies. They have great specials on pitchers of beer as well.
I adore the massive selection at Sneaky's. A wide selection of Vegan and Vegetarian dishes that are deliciously prepared with fresh local ingredients. Meat-atarian dishes that will increase your cholesterol level, by just looking at them. Breakfast ALL damn day and open hours so late it won't matter when you finally sucummb to your cravings. Whether it be for melted cheese draped over a enchilada or Vegan Tofu Roll. Save room for desert as the vegan cupcakes are a perfect wrap up your meal -even if you are a meat-atarian.
Well peeps, that's the good word on 4/20 this year. If you find yourself in the middle of the crowd at Yonge and Dundas Square this year, be aware that you will be in a veritable hot box. Schmoke will be ALL around you. If you are a feather light weight like me, standing on the sides of the massive crowd might be better. Last year, over 10,000 people showed up with their bongs, pipes, blunts and good vibes.
HAPPY 4/20 EVERYONE!
Musically, I offer you "Pot Shop " a parody of "Thrift Shop" by Steve Berke to play you out into your own personal and political puff of smoke
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