A well-kept secret in Toronto is that our city actively promotes street art. There’s even hope that Toronto can become a go-to destination for followers and fans.
One interesting sideline is the beautification of our plain, military-grey hydro boxes. Hell, the city even pays artists to do this. Here are some neat examples spotted on my cycling forays. Click on each image to enlarge it.
Greetings Readers!
I’m back! June was crazy busy with numerous readings and writerly activities – and of course, the Ride to Conquer Cancer. My tenth Ride went very well despite the 30 degree temperature: full details in a future blog.
On July 1st, Canada turned 150 years old. I’m old enough to remember Expo 67 and the celebrations of Canada’s 100th birthday. (See my blog Expo 67 Then and Now.) But nothing is as charmingly and wholeheartedly Canadian as small town Ontario. In Goderich, where we have our cottage, the party began on June 30th with fireworks at the harbour beach. (Click on each image to enlarge it.)
On July 1st, everyone lines up for free hot dogs and soft drinks at The Square (actually an octagon). After downing your nitrate and sucrose-laden treats, you can escape the official speeches by grabbing an ice cream at Cravings or an Americano at Cait’s, the new hipster café. Then settle back in your lawn chair, digest and watch the parade!
It begins with the resounding sirens of Goderich’s fire engines, followed by one of many piper bands to celebrate the region’s Scottish ancestry.
Everyone takes part in the parade: hobbyists, local businesses, churches, charities, old, young, human and animal!
Some Canadian institutions:
Goderich has not escaped the decamping of industry to China. For nearly 100 years all the world’s road graders were manufactured in Goderich. Not any more.
Steadfast parade participants:
And my personal favorite: the Lions! Many years ago this venerable lion was self-propelled by a Volkswagen Beetle underneath. Alas, the vehicle is gone and our moth-eaten friend needs mobility assistance.
A breakthrough for Goderich: the first Pride floats in the parade ever! And rainbow flags decorated the lampstands around The Square!
Any vehicle can be in the parade!
Most enthusiastic Canadians ever!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ONE OF THE BEST COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD!
