Living in Aurora, Town of Aurora, Ontario » Parks

Playground At The Copland Park, Age Has No Limits

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Sat, 10 Aug 2013 03:38:03 +0000

Playground at the Copland Park probably has the highest slide, double turn, in the whole Aurora; unless someone will tell me there are others. Today we arrived just before noon. As we were coming down the hill towards the playground I noticed an older man sitting on the end of the slide. He just appeared.

Playground at the Copland Park

I turned to my husband and said, “I think this guy just went down the slide“. Before he could answer me one of his granddaughters asked the man probably in his late sixties the same thing “did you just went down the slide?“. We didn’t hear the answer but his second granddaughter asked “did you hurt your bum?“. Looks like he did go down the slide then.

Perhaps he was tempted to try this dare-devil slide and he didn’t hold back. When I was growing up these slides didn’t exist, just the straight down metal ones. May be when this man was growing up there were none.

Playground at the Copland Park

Most of our visits to the Copland Park are interesting one and this one was too. Matthew made friends with a little boy. They played very well together and when we asked Matthew that it was time to go home, the tree year old Mason said “you mom and you dad go home, Matthew will be playing with me“. But that didn’t sit well with Matthew. We allowed them to play for another 10 minutes. The two boys had a blast.

This is another super hero story. It is amazing how children engage to play so fast when they have somethings in common. Matthew brought his Man of Steel figurine and little Mason had Superman shirt on. Both of them played so well from the moment Matthew said to him “I love your Superman shirt“. They may not see each other again but they hugged like best friends.

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

Sheppard’s Bush After Last Night Windy Snow Storm, Looked Good

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 03:07:41 +0000

It is amazing how volatile our weather is. Last night we thought our roof will be blown away and next morning it was very quiet. Started to warm up as well. Snow melting away and it almost rained. And guess what – spring tomorrow.

Today I ventured out with Peter Cameron on photo walk around the Shappard’s Bush Conservation Area. It is interesting how little I always explored, always the same path or trail. This time I got 360 view of the Windfall Ecology Centre (former Sheppard’s House) and few other paths I never attempted to explore. All thanks to Peter.

When we arrived the wood was burning again near the Windfall Ecology Centre and when there is no wind – these fumes are much stronger. They do bother me, but then anything related to smoke bothers me. However, the fumes are not that bad as I initially thought. So behind the shed Peter showed me the gasification boiler. I am not going to explain in my words, just copy what was written on the plaque. That way the message will not be lost in translation.

Wood Gasification Boiler

“The Sheppard House is heated by a wood gasification boiler. The waste wood burned in the gasification boiler heats water in underground insulated tubes that run inside the house to a heat exchanger that connects to hydronic radiator system. The heating method is carbon neutral because the carbon that is emitted is equivalent to that which the waste trees sequester and would emit through decomposition. This wood gasification boiler has an average efficiency of 85.74%.“

Sounds great, but here is something to think about – this process is accelerated process, therefore, generates more fumes in the shorter period of time, and burns more trees in the shorter period of time.

Wood Gasification Boiler, Windfall Ecology Centre

You can view other photos of the regular stuff that can be found at the Sheppard’s Bush, whatever mother nature provided that day for photo shoot and the sheds all around.

Cartridge Recycling, Sheppard’s Bush, Town of Aurora

I saw blue recycling bin, but never ever I have seen the yellow bin. We discovered that it was for recycling ink cartridges. Well, I never anticipated to find that in the Sheppard’s Bush as well.

Today was also grand opening of the Target store in Aurora. I wasn’t going to miss it and miss the photo opportunity, however, only outside, and not inside the store.

Sunday February 3rd, 2013 Aurora Turned 150 Years Old, Mayor’s Levee

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 06:15:22 +0000

On Sunday the February 3rd, 2013 Town of Aurora officially turned 150 years old. Official celebrations started at two o’clock in the afternoon at the Town Park where Aurora families were invited to the Mayor’s Sesquicentennial Levee.

Bandshall, Town Park, Town of Aurora, Ontario

I was there from the beginning. Initially I wasn’t going to stay to the end mainly because it was cold, but I did, all the way to the closing ceremony. More people arrived as well and trust me by the time you will see my last set of published photos in the future posts, you will see how cold everyone was.

Well the 150 year birthdays do not come around very often so I don’t regret staying to the end.

Wagon Rides, Town Park, Town of Aurora, Ontario

Wagon Rides (Chris is that you?), Town Park, Town of Aurora, Ontario

It was cold, but it was warm by the bonfire. Some chose to warm up in other ways – skating, tug-of-war and if the kids allowed you the broomball game was another option. Hot chocolate and cup cakes were served. Did not try the wagon ride but it looked like a warm idea too.

And if you were part of the organizing Sesquicentennial blue hats committee you be warm too – the running they had to do to keep all in order.

Warming up by Bonfire, Town Park, Town of Aurora, Ontario

We can probably blame the cold weather and the Superbowl for the low turnout. However, despite the low turnout families came with children to celebrate and they did have fun. I was pleased with lot of Aurora 150 flag entries.

Children imagination and creativity always puts smile on my face.

Tim Jones, Past Mayor of Aurora, MC for Mayor’s Levee, Town Park

On the side note, about the flag raising. I think deep down we were glad that there was no wind that day, and it never came when the flag was raised. However, the wind came eventually to show off the colorful flag by Victoria – I wonder if anyone noticed.

Local dignitaries, faith groups, some current Aurora Members of Council came, and few past members of council attended as well.

Cllr John Abel (left), Town Park, Town of Aurora, Ontario

Tim Jones, Past Mayor of Aurora, Town Park, Town of Aurora

As always I took lot of pictures. I just don’t like missing an opportunity that only comes every 150 years. […] with a sudden few encouragements from the blue hats members I decided to stick around and continue with the photo shoot.

I am telling you I got lot of pictures and I have decided to publish many just not in one post. I will ‘theme‘ them up and hopefully more people will be aware of the next celebration in May. Unfortunately, I will not be there.

Happy Mayor Dawe with Cllr Paul Pirri (left) and Cllr Michael Thompson (right)

So what happened on Sunday. I arrived around two o’clock. Got my camera out, got recognized by Cllr Abel, and was introduced to Terry Sherin, President Aurora Optimist Club. Many years ago, Terry Sherin used to send us his real state newsletters. We even met in person and talked on the phone, but he will not remember that.

Today was also the day I finally met Cllr Michael Thompson and Mayor Dawe. Met up with Matt and Deb, Chris and Kelley and their little girls. I must say that this celebration definitely had a small community feeling.

Too bad that the rest of the Aurora Members of Council didn’t make it. I missed Cllr Buck, hope she is doing fine. This years flu season wasn’t pleasant to many of us.

Michael Thompson (left), Matt Maddocks, and a Friend on the right.

And here is Bob McRoberts. If you didn’t hear yet, McRoberts recently published a book – Postcards of Olde Aurora. As the title states, a collection of old Aurora postcards.

Bob McRoberts, Town Park, Town of Aurora, Ontario

Thanks to Ron, I have wonderful collection of Aurora books.

Ron Wallace, Past Councillor and Founder of The Auroran, Town of Aurora Local Newspaper

David Heard knows what to do when I take a photo him. We all must accept changes at some point and I am actually slowly accepting that knowing more people there will be more posed photos, unless I really hide.

David Heard, A Step In Time – Historical Walking Tours of Aurora

We all know who David Falconer is – but he is always taking pictures so it is hard to get him posing.

David Falconer, The Auroran Photographer

There was a lot of hard working volunteers on site, but I was glad to see that they as well enjoyed themselves.

Volunteer, Town Park, Town of Aurora

Oh and here is Cllr Paul Pirri with Cllr John Abel.

Brr, it was cold. Town Park, Town of Aurora

The former Wells Street Public School was open for viewing and looks like Mayor Dawe, Cllr Abel and Cllr Pirri got the opportunity to sneak in.

Former Wells Street Public School, Wells Street Schoolhouse Lofts Inc, Town of Aurora

And lastly Happy 150th Birthday Town of Aurora!

The Birthday Cake, Mayor’s Levee, Town Park, Town of Aurora

This is my first introductory post to the a very beginning of my four hour journey on February the 3rd, 2013. If you didn’t get on my photo in here, chances are you made on my later photos. More coming soon.

Winter Wonderland At The Aurora Community Arboretum, A Guest Photo

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Mon, 31 Dec 2012 22:12:19 +0000

What a wonderful opportunity to conclude the 2012 year with a guest photo – a beautiful landscape of the Aurora Community Arboretum. A photo taken by Tom Yates. I don’t think I ever posted guest photo on this blog but sometimes I have to break the rules and may be stop being little ‘selfish‘.

Aurora Community Arboretum, Winter Photo 2012, Photography by Tom Yates, Portcullis

Few days ago (December 27th, 2012) I was cleaning Matthew’s bedroom and as always was thinking about something. Suddenly a thought came (Matthew would say an idea flew into my head). I left everything undone and sat in front of my computer at the office – just like that. The thought was to go and check out Evelyn Buck’s blog.

So I did and while I am reading her latest post that day titled The Good The Bad and The Ugly I came across section that read ‘Anna, if you are reading this post, maybe you could make contact with June and ask if you can share this and other beautiful photographs regularly presented in the Arboretum News.‘

After getting nice jolt of goose bumps on back of my spine I wrote Evelyn and Tom.

To make this long story short, Cllr Evelyn Buck tried to share beautiful greeting card she received from the Aurora Arboretum on her blog and wasn’t able to do so. So she called for help – ‘I have tried and tried to reproduce a Christmas Greeting received from Aurora Arboretum. The photo is spectacularly beautiful.‘

And she is right the photo is spectacularly beautiful and I am honoured to be able to showcase it on my blog. I never been to the Arboretum in the winter time and now I got an itch. I often forget how open fields and trails in the winter away from the major roads can still be covered with a prefect snow blanket creating winter wonderland scenes.

This time this scene was photographed by Tom Yates a member of the Aurora Community Arboretum. I also encourage you to visit Arboretum web site for more photographs (2012) of this scenic place. And while you are there, don’t leave. I was very intrigue by the information on that site – especially all the gardening and tree planting activities. I always wondered where all the trees came from whenever I took a long break from visiting; and I am not talking a small trees either.

Happy New Year 2013 Again!

Garden Marker Ideas For Next Year, Another Project from Windfall Ecology Centre

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 18:53:30 +0000

I almost forgot to share just another meaningful project by the Windfall Ecology Centre. Last month on October 1st we ventured out to the Sheppard’s Bush Conservation Area. While hovering around the Windfall Ecology Centre, former historic Sheppard’s House, and the picnic area we found few garden patches.

Windfall Ecology Centre, Sheppard’s Bush Conservation Area

I didn’t know at that time, but this is another project by the Windfall Ecology Centre – the community garden. The emphasis is on ‘it doesn’t take a lot to grow fruits and vegetables in your own garden‘. A project that encourages gardening at home, may be in the pots or at the community gardens that are starting to be popular around Aurora.

It also remind me how few years ago I used to grow plum tomatoes in my front yard instead of flowers.

Radish Stone Marker, Another Project by Windfall Ecology Centre

Carrot Stone Marker, Another Project by Windfall Ecology Centre

It is interesting to me that something that used to be a way of life is now encouraged because it rarely exists. Garden was always part of my life and it is kind of sad that all this land around here in Aurora will be eventually developed. Seeing a farm in Aurora – it will be a thing of the past. But I am stretching here, we are talking garden only.

Well, on the happy note, we found something interesting. I had Matthew with me and we had fun reading all the stone markers for the vegetables and fruits. What a good idea for marking your plants in the garden, and reusable one too. On the another note, I didn’t know that cantaloupes were grown here in Ontario. For some reason I always thought that cantaloupe was a tropical fruit.

So I did some research …

The cantaloupe is a fruit and is related to watermelon, honeydew, cucumbers, pumpkins, and squash. Some write that cantaloupe is a gourd. When choosing right cantaloupe at the supermarket I was using the same method as for watermelon – knock knock and listened for the hollow sound.

Apparently, when choosing a cantaloupe you must use your nose and not your knuckles. Smell for sweet smell, but I an not sure if I am in favor of that method, especially during flu/cold season.

Cantaloupe Stone Marker, Another Project by Windfall Ecology Centre

We also found a bear in the garden. Not real one, but there was a marker for him just in case.

Bear Stone Marker, Another Project by Windfall Ecology Centre

It was first of October and some plants were still blooming on that day. We spotted blooming peas flower and sunflowers.

It is November now and Sheppard’s Bush now looks nothing like before. Our last visit was at night – the Hunted Forest event. Even at night one could see leaves on the ground and some still hanging and beaming bright yellows.

Time really moves forward. We have had few changes in town – the Petch Log house is being reconstructed and the condominium in front of Hollandview Retirement Community on the John West Way is really moving along, but more about that in the posts to come.

Peas, Another Project by Windfall Ecology Centre

Haunted Forest & The Amazing Performances

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 01:30:18 +0000

The haunted forest at the Sheppard’s Bush Conservation Area turned out to be successful. It was raining all day and just around the five o’clock it stopped. Just in time for the scary night in Aurora or Fright Night 2012.

15 Pumpkins, Fright Night 2012, Sheppard’s Bush Conservation Area

Some artistic displays of pumpkins all around – the above is my favorite one.

Haunted Forest, Sheppard’s Bush Conservation Area

This was our first time to attend the event and first time at the Sheppard’s Bush at night as well. We only did the little goblin trail. The trail was wet from all the rain but manageable. Not bad at all after all this rain.

Haunted Forest, Sheppard’s Bush Conservation Area

I was amazed by the some of the performances. My favorite one was the lady wizard in the booth. You could almost miss her because booth wasn’t lit up, just a bit inside. She sounded scary and mystical and amazing at the same time – so real like in the movie.

Other kids did as well great job acting and creating not so scary environment for smaller children or let say goblins.

Haunted Forest Performers, Sheppard’s Bush Conservation Area

So Matthew was the Iron Man. I am surprised that there weren’t that many superheros around, but everyone knew the Iron Man.

At one point little Charlie from the movie ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory‘ called out to Matthew – ‘I heard that Iron Man likes chocolate‘. Matthew replied with the deep voice ‘yes‘ – and of course walked away trying to stay cool.

Iron Man in the Haunted Forest, Sheppard’s Bush Conservation Area

Well not just the rain stopped but the sky partially cleared out to show the moon. It would have been nice night and moon showcase during the haunted forest if it was a clear night, but even that I think it was a cool and spooky shot at the same time.

Moon Above Haunted Forest, Sheppard’s Bush Conservation Area

The bonfire was fun to stand beside especially when it was a bit chilly especially because it was wet and wet and wet. A man came in stood in front of the fire a bit, then turn around and stood for a bit again. I think he was drying his bottoms. Next time I try that too.

So I took few photos of the fire. I think it formed a ghost in my picture. Can you see one? Look carefully, look for the eyes.

Bonfire at the Haunted Forest, Sheppard’s Bush Conservation Area

We almost cancelled our trip to the haunted forest because of the weather. But then why not it is only mud, and cannot be any worst than Matthew’s trip to the farm on the rainy day last Tuesday. Children had mud party. It is amazing to see that you show them a goat or a chicken to observe, no they will choose to jump in the mud.

Good Bye Haunted Forest, Sheppard’s Bush Conservation Area

Well done. Our trip lasted only forty minutes and enough to get cold and head out home. On the side note, it was scary night at the Sheppard’s Bush not just for little goblins but I am sure for all the wildlife as well.

Haunted Forest, Sheppard’s Bush Conservation Area

Case Woodlot Trail of Hearts, Painted Hearts, Engraved Hearts

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:21:37 +0000

Case Woodlot Trail is definitely a trail of hearts or a trail of love as someone recently painted few red white hearts on the tree trunks and tree stumps. I found three and photographed three.

Painted Heart, Case Woodlot Trail, Aurora

There are actually four or maybe more. I found forth one last weekend when we finally decided to hire a photographer (A Pic or Two Photography) and have our family pictures done at the Case Woodlot Trail.

It was hard because I didn’t have my camera with me. Well it had to be done since Matthew has been asking why is he missing from our wedding picture.

Painted Heart, Case Woodlot Trail, Aurora

I think that was a creative idea to paint these hearts – dress up the trail as those trail markers we constantly follow becoming a little boring. It was also nice that they are all similar style. I wonder what spark the artist to do such thing – very intriguing.

Painted Heart, Case Woodlot Trail, Aurora

Beside all the painted hearts there are many engraved hearts on the trees. They are not new and have been growing with the tree. There is always someone who loves someone. Sometimes I wonder if any of these couples ever came back to those places. I wonder if those love birds are now married. I tell you there is so much to wonder and ponder when walking the Case Woodlot Trail.

Engraved Heart, Case Woodlot Trail, Aurora

Somethings will not last forever. We noticed big orange R on one of the trees. Probably marked for removal. The tree itself was full of love markings, hearts and initials all over. The tree may be cut down in the near future and hopefully will be left there. If not then all those markings are history, but hey some will survive and are here preserved in photographs.

Engraved Heart, Case Woodlot Trail, Aurora

It is interesting to note how different Case Woodlot Trail is from Sheppard’s Bush Trail. Tall trees, rolling hills, lots of dead trees and in the fall you are definitely going to find lot of different species of mushrooms. Hardly ever I hear birds. Squirrell there and there.

So far we only explored partial trails in the Case Woodlot, only the one that goes along the Handerson Drive. I believe there is a path that exits at the Norm Weller Park.

There are few sitting benches along the way.

Perhaps something still missing. Definitely more signs to let the dog owners know to keep dogs on the leash. When we walked the trail couple of weeks ago a dog charged full force in our direction and barked at us. If it wasn’t for my husband scaring him away he probably would jump at me and Matthew.

Unfortunately, they can smell my fear and the best thing the dog owner could do for those who carry a fear on their back to keep dogs on the leash.

Engraved Love, Case Woodlot Trail, Aurora

First Day Of Fall At Nokiidaa Trail Link Boardwalk, Geometric Views

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Wed, 10 Oct 2012 19:33:47 +0000

I tell you there is a lot of geometry at the Nokiidaa Trail link boardwalk. Yes the official name is the Nokiidaa Trail boardwalk and not McKenzie Marsh. McKenzie Marsh is the pond on the other boardwalk along the St. John’s sideroad, North side. On the South side you will find Atkinson Park Wetland.

It was first day of fall and I went out around 5 pm to take some evening shots. To my surprise I wasn’t the only one. There were few other photographers along with people going for a walk or a bike ride. Speaking of bikes people continue to ignore the sign telling them to dismount the bike.

For today just enjoy the ride. It is really getting cold and it wasn’t warm either on the first day of fall.

Nokiidaa Trail Link Boardwalk, Looking East

Nokiidaa Trail Link Boardwalk, Looking West

Nokiidaa Trail Link Boardwalk, Looking South

Nokiidaa Trail Link Boardwalk, Approaching Biker

Nokiidaa Trail Link Boardwalk, Almost Looking North

Nokiidaa Trail Link Boardwalk, A Runner

Nokiidaa Trail Link Boardwalk, A Dead Tree

Gold-y Fish Activity At The Cop-Land Park

Anna Lozyk Romeo — Thu, 20 Sep 2012 00:57:30 +0000

One questionable activity at the Copland Park wasn’t enough to write about, but two – I definitely have to mention it. We have been regularly visiting this playground at the Copland Park because of the Wonderland-like slide – the double turn slide. Not to mention the trail between Aurora Heights Drive and Orchard Heights.

Let me go back to the Victoria Day weekend. We came to the park day after the Victoria Day. It was striking to see how bad the park looked with all the accumulated fireworks garbage. Town of Aurora parks and recreation worker was on the site cleaning up. As always we had fun despite the mess.

As we were leaving, strangely enough a man in a van pulled over and came to the park. He was looking for something around the garbage area. Nothing was found. The man left empty handed.

Copland Park, Aurora

Last weekend we or rather our Matthew decided on the Copland Park again. He just loves the double turn slide. When we arrived, already playing on the playground was a father and grandfather with a little boy and a girl. I mentioned to my husband, I guess on the playgrounds in general, weekends are father days and weekdays are mother days.

However, when we arrived there was someone else – a man walking around with the metal detector. He was looking for something – not hard to guess that he was looking for metal based products. He too left empty handed unless he found something before our arrival.

Copland Park, Aurora

So how wacky is that? Someone please tell me that we have a gold mine at the Copland Park in Aurora.

And now if you want to see something funny, here is priceless photo taken by Peter from Aurora – yes for real, the squirrel is really eating a cheese sandwich.