Living in Aurora, Town of Aurora, Ontario » Entertainment

Music in the Town Park Aurora, Aurora 150th Birthday Celebrations

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Thu, 04 Jul 2013 17:19:55 +0000

I must confess again this is my first ‘appearance’ at the Town Park for the Music in the Park, June 30, 2013. There is always time for the first, and that was my first. There is nothing better than celebrating Aurora’s 150th birthday or other special occasions with a music.

For myself fun listening and fun photographing, and yes writing afterwards.

Aurora 150 Organizing Committee, Cllr Michael Thompson, Music In The Park

The Aurora 150 committee looked great in their blue shirts and did great job organizing and taking care of this event. When we, that is my husband and Matthew, arrived at the site, if I am not mistaken we were greeted by almost everyone at the gate.

Matthew sometimes wonders how come everyone knows him. When he will be older and starts reading my blog and the Facebook wall he will definitely find out why.

People In The Park, Music In The Park

Youth, Music In The Park, Town Park, Town of Aurora

Unfortunately we arrived a bit late for the 150 guitars playing performance. But I didn’t miss the following. I ended up photographing most of the bands that day. Primarily the ones organized by Pat Mete from MusicLynk York Region – The Bloody Five, littleSUNDAY and Blackdog Ballroom.

I couldn’t miss that opportunity as the light was perfect for the photo shoot. I was in the practice mode as well as I only did very little photographing of that kind. Light is always a challenge, but I found another one – photographing drummers.

Pat Mete, MusicLynk York Region, Music In The Park, Town Park, Aurora

Finally I also got to meet Pat Mete from MusicLynx York Region on that day, in person this time. We connected via social media first and I did photograph him by accident at one of the Town of Aurora Council meetings.

The Bloody Five, Music In The Park, Town Park, Town of Aurora

littleSunday, Music In The Park, Town Park, Town of Aurora

Blackdog Ballroom, Music In The Park, Town Park, Town of Aurora

Let’s talk about bands that played that day – The Bloody Five (perhaps five means something else and not number of band members), littleSUNDAY and Blackdog Ballroom. Spectacular performances. I am not fixated on the one particular music kind thus I really enjoyed their performances. Photo shooting to the music is always more fun.

If you click on the names you can view my galleries on my Facebook. Please connect if you want to see more.

Music In The Park, Town Park, Town of Aurora

I found also amazing how animated these guys are. Thus another small challenge capturing each band in action. Intriguing, but true, fashion was another element I loved capturing. The verdict, I just might introduce musicians to my portfolio.

Music In The Park, Town Park, Town of Aurora

The weather cooperated. It was hot on the sun, but breezy in the shade. Good crowd for the afternoon show, but I couldn’t believe how the park was filled for the evening shows. I noticed that bands also got lot of support from their family and friends, one way to attract people from out of town.

Music In The Park, Town Park, Town of Aurora

And here Lighthouse band was getting ready for the nine o’clock show. Click here for more photos on Facebook – People in the Park; Music in the Park

Lighthouse Band, Music In The Park, Town Park, Town of Aurora

Aurora Street Festival, All The People I Don’t Know & Know

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 05:02:02 +0000

I bet I captured almost all the people at the Aurora Chamber Street Festival walking along the Yonge Street last Sunday June 2nd, 2013. If you would like to find yourself on my photos then you can check out my Facebook album ‘Aurora Chamber Street Festival, June 2, 2013‘ – oh and good luck.

For the small town, town like Aurora, we really do have a great community here. I would never thought that I will be able to walk the longest, busy street festival and met so many people I know, and I like it because I have then more stories to tell.

Unfortunately, some people still think that I am from SNAP. What do you think? Perhaps it is time to get my own tag saying – NOT MEDIA or JUST A BLOGGER.

Michelle, Autism Support Services

When I arrived I thought no problem I only need few pictures and I will be out at no time. How wrong was I? Believe or not, three hours later I was finally back at my car.

The first person I spotted was Michelle who is offering Autism Support Services at her booth. I met Michelle last summer during play days at Chris Watt’s house, and if I recall I did meet her once at the Aurora Public Library. Small world, or just small Aurora.

Watson’s Family Karate, Mike and Joan Watson, Aurora Chamber Street Festival

I arrived a bit earlier for Arron Morris’, The Manatee Band performance. So I stopped by Watson’s Family Karate booth to photograph interesting karate demonstrations. I used to do kickboxing at Watson’s when I was much younger, but I slowed down now and Tai Chi is just all I need. I didn’t get a chance to say hello since I had to run back to the Newmarket Jazz+ Festival booth.

Charlotte Watts, Aurora Chamber Street Festival

As I was walking back I spotted Chris Watts with his two girls. It was fun chatting with Chris once again while Charlotte was enjoying her ice-cream.

Johnmark, Cracklin’ Kettle Corn, Aurora Chambers Street Festival

Eventually I got to the end of the street festival that physically ended at the Wellington Street. And who do I see there in the corner? The Cracklin’ Kettle Corn booth. These guys sell the best cracklin’ popcorn at the Aurora Farmers Market every Saturday. Here meet Johnmark if you haven’t yet.

Batman, Aurora Chamber Street Festival

Never know may be that was the real Batman. At least he looked like he was. Since I stopped twice by the Batman’s booth (can’t remember who he was representing) I can assume that I know him. He kept posing and I kept taking pictures, probably thought I was from SNAP.

Alexandra Riccio, AHS Community Development Assistant & Matthew

It is always good to see Alex from the Aurora Historical Society. She is my source to all the good happenings at the Hillary House. Also I got to meet her brother Matthew. Not to mention I run into Catherine Richards and Suzanne Reiner in the busy festival crowds.

A Couple, Aurora Chamber Street Festival.

I don’t know who these two are on this picture (above), but I liked the outcome.

Matt Maddocks, Aurora Chamber Street Festival

Once I made a turn at the Wellington Street I was more or less heading home. On the way back I met my good friend Matt Maddocks. We chatted for a bit and decided to finish up our conversation some other time.

David Heard, Aurora Chamber Street Festival

I didn’t even get chance to stop by David Heard’s booth, but he always seems to spot my camera’s and wave at them, or me.

Frank Klees, Aurora Chamber Street Festival

Couldn’t miss this. I have decided to snap few pictures of Frank Klees as I was passing by, MPP for the riding of Newmarket—Aurora. Next thing I am being directed by one of the guys from Frank’s booth what pictures to take. Again, I was mistaken to be from media, but he didn’t really care when I told him I fly solo. I also got picture with Frank Klees (the longest photo taking ever). Got to know him finally. We talked about me and then I really headed home.

This is not all the people I have met on that day. There were many more. Most of you are reading this blog so you know who you are.

When I finally arrived at my car I got a surprise email from Gina, Tristan’s mom. Tristan and my son Matthew are both in the same school and same class (JK). We sometimes see each other at the school in the morning dropping off our children or picking them up.

She wrote me: ‘It’s so funny, I have been reading your blog since I moved to Aurora (a year and a half ago). I found it when I was first trying to learn what the town had to offer. Your site is fantastic by the way. What’s funny, is I only just realized that its you that writes the blog. I didn’t make the connection before for some reason, but I just recently recognized you from the photo on the blog.‘

… and that email made my day!

Living In Aurora Blog Live Again, Aurora Senior Centre

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 02:25:41 +0000

On November 13th, 2012 I went live once again, that is my Living In Aurora blog. This time I presented at the Aurora Senior Centre located near the Town Hall in Aurora.

Aurora Senior Centre, Town of Aurora, Ontario

First time I did for Hollandview Retirement Community. My presentation for the computer club at the Aurora Senior Centre was called the ‘Good Neighbour’ as well and it featured photography and my commentary on the changing Aurora, wonders of the Nokiidaa Trail Link boardwalk, the McKenzie boardwalk, the Community Arboretum, Merlin’s Hollow and Sheppard’s Bush. I also talked about some of the events in Aurora such as Canada Day Parade on July 1st, 2012.

Well, I am not exactly sure what is happening – interesting blogging phenomena. Usually one goes from audience to blog. In my case I am going from blog to audience, something I didn’t anticipated at first. I tell you one thing, one cannot hide in Aurora, one way or the other way you will be discovered.

Perhaps few words about my audience and my organizing crew Tom Yates, Jeff Walker and Bob Hedenberg. Their help in promoting, organizing and helping with the set up is greatly appreciated. Not to forget the gentleman behind the scenes who brought the speakers and microphone and probably other things. I must sound like celebrity now, but I did feel like one. Everyone was so nice, appreciative and provided such a nice relaxing environment for me to present.

I am sure no body noticed but my heart rate was up few beats. It usually happens when I have to speak in public (and I don’t do it very often), therefore, I have to thank Tom for a very kind introduction prior my presentation.

And now my audience …

It was nice to meet Tom Yates’ wife June. This is my first time meeting a woman photographer. The gentleman who reminded me about one of the photos of the light bulb I took at the Masonic Lodge. It helped to have family in the audience – Teresa Foti.

Aurora Masonic Hall, The Rising Sun Lodge No. 129

It was so nice for so many people to come up and introduce themselves or chat. Let see if I can summarize it. I hope I got everyone mentioned.

I finally met Christine Valentini, a name that is not hard to forget. We corresponded few times about the George Browning house which I had it in my presentation as well.

Then I got an invitation to photograph over 30 year old cactus living in Aurora – and I will.

A lady who commented on one of my flower photos, female and male combination of the jack plant and for love of me I cannot remember the rest of the name.

Merlin’s Hollow, July 10th, 2011

Then I got to speak to Gordon Barnes who was sitting in the first row, and commented on my good eye. If I knew he was going to come I would bring up some photos of him I have on my blog. I always see him at the Aurora Farmer’s Market.

Then this nice lady asked me about slight accent I have – its a combination of Ukrainian, Polish and English.

Then I think it was Stephen that offered to pay for the photos I brought to give out because he took to many. No worries about that, and I hope he will figure out how to make dandelion wine one day.

Did anyone ever find out about the lady bug? Yes, there are male ladybugs.

I had very good time. Thank you all.

Entertainer In The Park, What Makes Children Smile, The Magic Show

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Tue, 18 Sep 2012 15:40:36 +0000

It was our plan to visit Aurora Public Library after playing at the Town Park playground. We forgot – no library on Monday mornings. Aurora Public Library opens later in the day on Mondays.

Town Park playground is always fun for Matthew. The summer days are much cooler now so playing in the splash pad at the park was not definitely our cup of juice but seeing magic show was something we didn’t expect.

We had to think about the plan B. Living in Aurora and coming up with plan B is a very easy task – another park or playground, or hiking, or shopping. No we didn’t go hiking, or shopping, but we did drive along Kennedy Road and found another playground we never visited before – William Kennedy Park. Matthew had a blast running, climbing, jumping, having snacks and playing with other children.

Matthew Watching Magic Show at the Hamilton Park, Aurora

So we thought the playground time was over as we started to drive home, but as I said sometimes unexpected things come along. Matthew insisted to park near the Hamilton Park and to see coach Steve.

And who is coach Steve. Well to start he is our neighbour. He entertains and interacts with all the kids in our neighbourhood and they all love him. He never fails to make bubbles or blow balloons around the kids.

Matthew Doing Magic

He was also Matthew’s playball coach. A sport summer program coordinated by the town of Aurora, which Matthew attended this summer.

This summer was the first time we put Matthew into group sport activity, and having Steve as a coach made a big difference and unforgettable fun time for Matthew and for us to watch him having fun while learning in the group environment.

Coach Steve, Magic Show in the Hamilton Park

Steve’s coaching style or entertaining methods are fun and more so educational helping kids to have fun and learn at the same time.

Coach Steve with Surprised Children, Magic Show at the Hamilton Park

Now that you know Steve coach, what happened next. Well it was the magic show at the park – the unexpected event I told you about before. Steve is a entertainer for the children’s birthday parties, and last week Steve did a magic show for children in the Hamilton park.

It was definitely nice conclusion to our trip around Aurora that day. Three playgrounds, and surprise at the last one.

Magic Coloring Book, Magic Show at the Hamilton Park

On the side note, a week passed and I still haven’t figure out how the magic coloring book works.

July 1st Canada Day Celebration In Aurora, Faces That Shaped This Year’s Parade

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 03:41:33 +0000

I think every face shaped Aurora’s Canada Day celebrations on July 1st, 2012, those in the parade and those in the audiance. If I could capture every face and every expression and the feeling of each person, I would – ‘the spirit, the patriotism and the smiles‘.

Town of Aurora Canada Day Parade

The clear blue sky, perfect light and the beautiful downtown facade were only few elements letting me capture the moment. I think on that day I have captured the spirit of all proud Aurorans, and most of all proud Canadians.

Unfortunately this will be the last post of 2012 parade because I could go on and on. However I am looking forward for next year’s celebrations which will be even more special.

Town of Aurora Canada Day Parade

Mayor Geoffrey Dawe, Town of Aurora Canada Day Parade

Perhaps one more thing. On June 12, 2012 during the council meeting Councillor Evelyn Buck gave intriguing speech reflecting on the success of the historical Canada Day Celebrations of 1963 (Aurora’s 100 year anniversary) and 1967 (Canada’s 100 year anniversary).

This speech was to encourage public participation, or more so people of Aurora to participate and to organize the next year’s (2013) party for 150 years of Aurora. We compiled Councillor Buck’s speech into a post which you can read on our community FOCUS site – Councillor Evelyn Buck Remembers Canada Day Celebrations in Aurora.

That and many other things gave me an idea to start people’s history page on the community FOCUS site. I think it will be nice to have something that is written by people of Aurora or former Auroran’s remembering our town.

Historian will give you facts and people will give you their experiences. These experiences will be gone if not recorded. I encourage you to participate and share your stories. A story is not a story if not shared and I bet many of us have them.

Evelyn Buck with her daughter Teresa, Town of Aurora Canada Day Parade

Councillor Paul Pirri, Town of Aurora Canada Day Parade

2012 Aurora Citizen of the Year Brian North, Town of Aurora Canada Day Parade

Town of Aurora Canada Day Parade

Jan Freedman Aurora Farmer’s Market, Town of Aurora Canada Day Parade

Mountie, Town of Aurora Canada Day Parade

Theater, Town of Aurora Canada Day Parade

Shriner’s Float, Town of Aurora Canada Day Parade

Aurora Celebrates Canada Day, Yonge Street Parade Snapshots, Part II

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 00:37:36 +0000

This is another set of photos from the Canada Day parade on July 1st, 2012. I was sitting right at the intersection of Yonge Street and Church Street, near Aurora Public Library. The view was spectacular especially having downtown Aurora as a background.

July 1st, 2012 Canada Parade, Town of Aurora

I don’t know what we will do for the next years parade, especially because it will be 150 years of our town. Look at the decor and spirit it is already to the maximum. Our town always strive to be the best and I am sure we will do the same next year as well.

For those who do not follow the history here is small trivia question for you – next year it will be 150 years of Aurora but only 146 years of Canada. How is that possible?

July 1st, 2012 Canada Parade, Town of Aurora

“Whether we live together in confidence and cohesion; with more faith and pride in ourselves and less self-doubt and hesitation; strong in the conviction that the destiny of Canada is to unite, not divide; sharing in cooperation, not in separation or in conflict; respecting our past and welcoming our future.” ~ Lester B. Pearson

Let say I am not done yet. I have captured some nice parade moments and I will be sharing more in the next post. Happy Canada Day!

Aurora Celebrates Canada Day, Yonge Street Parade Snapshots, Part I

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Mon, 02 Jul 2012 04:35:40 +0000

For the parade we settled in front of the Aurora Public Library. We arrived after eleven o’clock just in time for the parade arrival at that point. It was our first time so we did not know what to expect. The parade exceeded our expectations and we will be definitely back next year.

July 1sth, 2012 Canada Day Parade, Yonge Street, Town of Aurora

‘Our participation in Celebrate Canada activities brings us together, strengthens our communities, and helps us understand the significance of the citizenship we all share.‘
Source: Canadian Heritage

‘This year marks the start of the five-year countdown to Canada’s 150th birthday in 2017. As we move toward this important milestone, I invite all Canadians to make the most of this day by celebrating our identity, our values, and our history among family and friends. Let us be proud of all our achievements, which attest to our country’s glorious past and hold the promise of a bright future.‘
Source: Statement by the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, on the Occasion of Canada Day

I heard train all day on July 1st and little did I know. As part of a weekend service pilot, GO Transit will be running six southbound trains to Union Station and six northbound trains each Saturday and Sunday (plus holidays) from June 23 to September 3 on its Barrie line.

Aha, that explains train whistle in the morning, train whistle in the afternoon and train whistle at night.

Town of Aurora Celebrates, Canada Day Parade July 1st, 2012

Happy Canada Day!

Canada Day July 1st, 2012 Town of Aurora Celebration, Aurora’s Young Canadians

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Sun, 01 Jul 2012 04:00:03 +0000

There is first time for everything and this year was our first attending the July 1st Canada Day parade in Aurora. Everything worked out great – the parking, the spot, and getting there on time to see the beginning of the red-white, truly Canadian decorated parade.

Beautifully decorated moving displays. Happy Canada shouts and waves to the crowd. But that was not it, it was the spirit of the people celebrating the Canada Day in Aurora.

Town of Aurora Celebrates, Happy Canada Day 2012

I took zillion of pictures. It will be impossible for me to include them in one post here, therefore this week I will have the Canada Day special – series of various topic posts and of course celebration images to share.

Note, if you see a photo of someone you know or of yourself, by all means you can have 4×6/5×7 digital copy for personal use and if used on other website name credit is appreciated. Just drop me a comment or see contact page for my email address.

Town of Aurora Celebrates, Happy Canada Day 2012

It was amazing to see children and youth be involved in the parade. It was amazing to see lot of families with children attending and celebrating. Therefore, this post is dedicated to the Aurora’s young Canadians.

Look at those picture. Not hard to notice how greatly young Auroran’s engaged in this year’s celebration. The faces on the photos show it all – smiles, discipline, motivation, dedication, respect.

Town of Aurora Celebrates, Happy Canada Day 2012

Well this give me an opportunity to talk about youth’s engagement in Canadian history, politics and environment. I came across few articles and websites on the internet worth reviewing. I wasn’t even aware of so many things that are available for young Canadians.

Let start with Forum for young Canadians: ‘Forum for Young Canadians, now in its 37th year, is an annual series of one-week sessions held in the fall and spring. Each year, a total of 315 young Canadians aged 15 to 19 come to Parliament Hill to experience first-hand how the Government of Canada works. Canadian Heritage is investing more than $80 million each year in youth programming to allow more than 100,000 youth across Canada to learn about their country.‘
Source: Harper Government Invests in Canada’s Youth: Forum for Young Canadians.

Then there is the initiative connecting Young Canadians to nature and history. Nature Canada and the Historica-Dominion Institute, Parks Canada initiative of the My Parks Pass which grants Grade 8 / Secondary 2 Canadian students free access for one full year to any of Parks Canada’s national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas.

“The My Parks Pass program has reached over 400,000 young Canadians each year and I have had the chance to personally see the sparkle in their eyes as they get, in many cases, a first glimpse of Canada’s most treasured natural and historic places,” said the Honourable Peter Kent, Canada’s Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada. “Canada’s future lies in the hands of its young people, and I’m proud to be giving them an opportunity to experience and develop a meaningful connection to the very essence of Canada.“
Source: Government of Canada Connecting Young Canadians to Nature and History.

Government Canada also has a very resourceful site for Youth Canada – jobs, careers, education, money, health and more. And of course there is a blog and Derek is the author.

Great opportunities for young Canadians everywhere and I would like to introduce one more initiative I am starting, Aurora-Youth-Writes. The community FOCUS (livinginaurora.COM) platform is for everyone; however, we would like to invite the Aurora youth to participate as well.

Topics are endless – politics, history, art, music, sports or environment. You can write opinions or views, stories, or publish poems, and may be initiate discussions. Excellent opportunity to create live writing portfolio. Excellent opportunity for us adults to hear young Auroran’s voice.

Summer vacations are now in effect but I will be approaching schools and organizations to promote Aurora youth to write. Should you have any questions or concerns pertaining this initiative please write me. Note that all the posts and comments on the community FOCUS site are moderated

Happy Canada Day!

Town of Aurora Celebrates, Happy Canada Day 2012

Arctic Adventure 2012 At The Town Park Better Photographed Than Said

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 01:01:11 +0000

What a beautiful day it was for the Family Day at the Arctic Adventures event at the Town Park. We arrived close to lunch as I thought that parking will be available – never know some always leave for lunch.

To my surprise all streets on all four sides of the park were filled with cars and yet people like us kept coming in and coming in.

ARCTIC ADVENTURE 2012 PHOTO GALLERY
[watch slide show or click on the dial to advance faster)

The weather was just right. Lots of snow on the ground, sunny and warm enough for some not to wear jackets.

Thumbs up for all the activities. Short line ups, long line ups and lots of patience for everything – eating, jumping, sliding and more. Is someone was going to photograph this family event from the top view they would see these black lines on the white snow, just like trails.

Children Playing

Theme for children – Toy Story, Cars 2 and Smurfs. Yes one of the ice carvings was the Smurf.

Beautiful singing, gathering around fire and more as you will see on the photographs. Another successful Arctic Adventure.