Authorization to Release Section 37 Funds to Heritage Toronto for Production and Installation of a Heritage Plaque Recognizing the Village Corner Music Venue - by Councillor Dianne Saxe, seconded by Councillor Lily Cheng

It started as a small, L-shaped room crowded with instruments, stools, and a piano, which could squeeze in 60 people. In 1962 it took over the barbershop next store, increasing its capacity to 100. The Village Corner was central to the early rise of Canadian folk music. While other local coffeehouses featured international folk artists, the Village Corner focussed on Canadian folk musicians, both amateur and professional. Many folk musicians played here, as well as some prominent blues musicians such as Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhie. The club opened in 1960 and ran for 7 years, operated by John Morley and Roy Davies. It charged 50-cent memberships and 1-dollar admissions. Morley said he loved owning a place where people from all walks of life could relax. This motion is to complete the funding for a heritage plaque at 174 Avenue Road. Part of the cost has been crowdfunded.