Starbucks loses name from new logo

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The evolution of the Starbucks logo left to right, the original 1971, 1992 re-make and January 2011 withiout the name. The new, all-green logo lands as Starbucks plans to expand the number of branded products it sells outside its own cafes. “Even though we have been and always will be a coffee company and retailer, it’s possible we’ll have other products with our name on it and no coffee in it,” Chief Executive Howard Schultz said on a webcast. Does that make it for you? Some will call it being too smart by half.

Goodbye Cheaters, Hello Chablis

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Cheaters, the notorious hangout and strip joint is to be replaced by an LCBO outlet. Cheaters. at Yonge Street and Manor Road, was a source of grief for residents for decades. The place operated briefly under the name Mystique but finally closed in 2009. Since then it has sat vacant. But recently (right) a sign went up saying the liquor board will open there.

What the…? Wild garage door decals

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Imagine glancing at your neighbors garage door and seeing something like this. It’s the idea of a German firm to add a bit extra to the finish of your home. They are a form of decal showing near-life-size unbelievable things in your garage. Just to be clear, we do not recommend this. More pictures at Trish Stuebing’s blog

Colourful sign marks cash exchange

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The new money exchange, NIMA, at 1538 South Bayview has put up its sign. It’s a colourful canopy loaded with depictions of bank notes from around the world. Work appeared to be going ahead vigorously at the location Tuesday.

Images of our January snow

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Tuesday’s snow didn’t bother these fir shrubs (left) dressed for winter. Right, plants at Rahier.

1620 under renovation

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The building at 1620 Bayview, which was recently Grunt, Cluck and Low, is being renovated for a re-opening in February, according to signs on the door. Many will remember this location as Trastevere, the popular Italian food restaurant.

Wonderful curiosity at The Elegant Garage

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The Elegant Garage Sale has for sale a Dictaphone machine dating from perhaps the 1920s. It’s fun to look at even if you’re not in the market (which is likely)

Your Clothes Friend closed for renovation

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Your Clothes Friend, the women’s wear shop, is closed for renovation. The store is still busy with workmen however. No date has been posted as yet for the re-opening.

Sandwich shop and bistro “Ino” is now “Two Doors South”

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The shop which for decades was Whimsical House, and then became Ino for a few months, is now Two Doors South. The quick change came as the result of some “tweaking” of the concept, according to the management. The shop is owned by the Amaya Indian food interest, and is named as it is because it is two doors south of the Amaya takeout location.