Beads are the new plastic tubing

Does anyone remember the episode of WKRP where Johnny's daughter has that douche bag boyfriend? I can't really remember the quote (or find it on the web), but his career choice was "Plastic tubing" or some such thing, cuz everyone was getting into it. Great episode.

I couldn't sleep tonight so I went on a short walk. I am still down on Toronto so I am a) trying to do more "Toronto things", b) trying to make sure that I look around while I am out and about and c) moving into a place that I can nest for a bit (while reclaiming the best bed in the world - sorry Alison). Mixed results thus far.

Question:

How is it that "Beads" can occupy so much prime real estate on Queen west? Did I miss the gold rush somewhere along the way? Yes, this is was the "fashion" district... but... wow.