Sunday, March 10, 2024

All Blog Posts - Living in Aurora, Ontario

The Importance of Balance Between Growth and Preservation of the Natural Environment

“I’m not against development but …” is a phrase often echoed by residents who turn up at Town Hall with a long list of...

Anna Lozyk Romeo for Mayor of Aurora, Municipal Elections 2022

To my Living in Aurora blog readers: I am running for Mayor of Aurora.  It is a great opportunity now to step up and serve...

From Shining to Shameful – The Continued Loss of the Oak Ridges Moraine

A picture-perfect vista of soft, rolling hills where wild turkey, deer and coyote once roamed has been reduced to a lifeless, razed and barren...

Canada Day Parade 2022 – Photo Gallery

Canada Day Parade Photo Gallery 2022 - Yonge Street, Aurora, Ontario. Also, check this out: Canada Day Parade 2022 – Vintage Cars. Anna Lozyk RomeoAurora, Ontario

Canada Day Parade 2022 – Vintage Cars

A collection of vintage cars during the Canada Day 2022 parade, travelling north on Yonge Street. And look at this mini Tesla electric car, the...

York Pride 2022 in Photos

York Pride 2022 in Photos (38)! Thousands of people joined the region's largest 2SLGBTQ+ celebration on Main Street in Newmarket. Anna Lozyk RomeoAurora, Ontario

North East Quadrant of Wellington St & John West Way Development Appealed

At the February 22nd, 2022 Council meeting, Aurora Council UNANIMOUSLY (7-0) voted to refuse a 6-storey, 150 unit residential apartment building application on the...

Aurora Chamber Street Festival 2022 in Photos

Aurora Chamber Street Festival in photos (21). York Region's largest fun event - the Aurora Chamber Street Festival on Yonge Street. Anna Lozyk RomeoAurora, Ontario

Multi-Million Dollar Artificial Turf Partnership

If someone were to ask me to choose between an artificial and a natural turf field, I would definitely choose the natural turf field....

Who is Going to Pay for Another Partnership?

Someone once raised an interesting question on my Facebook Group. They asked me if I did anything else besides “questioning the current administration.” The...

Short Boardwalk (Kwik Kopy Trail), Long Story

I should have known that when I was writing a Letter to the Editor of The Auroran that I was actually writing to the...

The Knowles Butcher Shop on Fire, June 25th 2021 – Photo Gallery

The so known Knowles Butcher Shop on 9 Wellington Street East is a long-standing building in Aurora, c. 1885. On June 25th, 2021 the...

Church Street School, Construction Site (Photo Gallery)

Photos of Church Street School during the Library Square construction. Photos dated May 22, 2021. Anna Lozyk RomeoAurora, Ontario

Cineplex Odeon – What Year Was This Photo Taken?

Photo of the Cineplex Odeon in Aurora. What year do you think this photo was taken? Your clues are the following movies: Gangster Squad,...

2021-May-25 Aurora Council Meeting – Town Wide Free Wi-Fi Access (Smart City)

Aurora Council Meeting May 25th, 2021 - Motion Town Wide Free Wi-Fi Access Discussion Transcription Motion 9.4 Mayor Mrakas; Re: Town Wide Wi-Fi Access read as...

Great Blue Heron in Flight, McKenzie Marsh Boardwalk

It seemed like the Great Blue Heron at the McKenzie Marsh was not having a good time finding a fishing spot. Upon a short...

“In 1832 On This Spot Nothing Happened”

A small plaque mounted on one of the wooden bridges over the creek that runs through the St. Andrew's Valley Golf course says, "In...

2021-Jan-26 Aurora Council Meeting, Yonge Street Sinkhole Mitigation Project, Update

Recent update on York Region's Sinkhole Mitigation Project (20-102) – currently happening on Yonge Street south of Henderson Drive, in the Town of Aurora....

Wild Turkeys Sighting on St. John’s Sideroad

St. John's Sideroad west of Yonge Street, near the entrance to future St. Anne's School for Girls. More Wild Turkey Photos Year End Wild Turkey Chase...

2021-Jan-12 Aurora General Committee Meeting, Community Energy Plan

The following are video highlights from January 12, 2021 Town of Aurora General Committee meeting discussions held via Zoom. Refer to all necessary Town...

Snowflake Path Downtown Aurora, Photo Gallery

Finally, just in time for Christmas snowflake decorations are all working downtown Aurora. ... and this is what we used to have, wreaths. We also...

Changes Along Wellington Street, 3-Years Ago & Today

Few changes along Wellington Street. While looking back at some of my old blog posts I came across one from 2017 - "Changing Aurora Behind...

Starlings and More Starlings, Wellington St and Bayview Ave

Something has been attracting a flock of European Starlings to the Wellington and Bayview intersection area I heard. Well coincidentally, we encountered them last...

2020-Oct-06 Aurora Closed Session Meeting & Special Meeting of Council Summary

Summary of the video conference meeting of Aurora Council reporting out the October 6, 2020 Closed Session and summary of the video conference of...

Aurora Community Arboretum, Fall Accents

Aurora Community Arboretum, fall accents. To learn more about the Arboretum - history, maps, events - visit http://www.auroraarboretum.ca.

End of Summer View of the Adena Springs North, Photo

I guess the theme of my latest photo blog posts is about horse farms. While driving south on Bayview the other evening I captured...

Dick Day Horse Stable, Another View and a Bit of History – Jim Day

I found this photo of the Dick Day Horse Stable taken about three years ago (May 26th, 2017), a view from Yonge Street; and...

The Auroran Letters to the Editor: Aurora Ward System – As Decided by Council

My Letter to the Editor submission - THE AURORAN, Thursday, September 17, 2020, page 4 and 24, a shorter version of my previous detailed...

Boardwalk Views – McKenzie Marsh, St. John’s Sideroad

Boardwalk along St. John's Sideroad. Anna Lozyk RomeoAurora, Ontario

Library Square, Concerned Community Members – In Photos

Despite the economic uncertainty stemming from COVID-19, on August 25th, 2020 Aurora Council, with a split vote of 4-3, awarded a construction tender for...

Aurora Ward System – As Decided by Council

Aurora ward system implementation for the 2022 Municipal Elections is now completed following the passing of the by-law on ward boundaries on July 14,...

Aurora’s Sheppard’s Bush Full of Treasures – In Photos

Sheppard's Bush Conservation Area - beautiful during all seasons.

2020-Jun-23 Council – Phase 2 Shining Hill Development APPROVED

APPROVED: The application for Official Plan Amendment, Zoning By-law Amendment, and Draft Plan of Subdivision Shining Hill Estate Collections

2020-Jun-16 General Committee – Phase 2 Shining Hill Development

The Aurora Council decided to move Shining Hill Estate Collections, Inc.'s application forward to the General Committee (GC) meeting at the June 26, 2019...

Black Lives Matter Protest in Aurora, In Photos

Black Lives Matter (BLM) protesters walking South on Yonge Street, Aurora ON on June 7th, 2020. "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere, Martin...

Town of Aurora Downtown, COVID-19

Drive by downtown Aurora on a sunny Sunday afternoon. Stay well everyone.

Will Aurora Council Increase Water Rates during COVID-19 State of Emergency?

Prompted by the current COVID-19 pandemic and the declared State of Emergency, this week the Town of Aurora will be conducting its first ever...

The Armoury is Now Open for Town Events, Aurora Family Day

The Armoury is now open to the public. It has been open for lunches and brunches in the last few months, but it's my...

Emerald Ash Borer – LSRCA’s Ash Trees Treatment

Rarely in the past would I have stopped and read a notice board on trails. Circumstances have changed slightly - I like to be...

Sheppard Family Heritage Home, Sheppard’s Bush Winter Walk

Walking Sheppard's Bush Conservation Area in Aurora can be very educational. Our every visit is unique. There is always something new to observe and...

Church Street School, Evening Photos

Church Street School, April 12, 2017, Town of Aurora, Ontario. Year built: 1885-86, Architect: Thomas Kennedy, Architectural style: Victorian. Currently - Aurora Cultural Centre.

Moon Garden, Aurora Memories from the Past

Memory by John McIntyre. As a boy growing up in Aurora in the 1950s and early '60s, I remember Moon Garden as Ray's Cafe, run...

Aurora ON Year 2019 in Photos, Visual Changes

Today I am going to share with you some of the changes that took place in the Town of Aurora ON in year 2019...

Town of Aurora 2019 Year in Review, My Perspective

Let me reflect on the Town of Aurora 2019 year in review from my perspective. I've decided to share below some of the highlights...

CYFS Motor Vehicle Collision Cost-Recovery Program Roll-Out

Starting January 2020 the Central York Fire Services (CYFS) will be rolling out a 2-year Motor Vehicle Collision (MVC) cost-recovery pilot program that will...

Pope John Paul II Flew Over Aurora in Five-Helicopter Convoy

Yes, Pope John Paul II flew over Aurora. It happened a long time ago. When Pope John Paul II arrived in Canada for World...

Church Street Shadows, Aurora Cultural Centre Photo

Photo of the Day: Aurora Cultural Centre, 22 Church Street. Note tree shadows on the buildings (morning sun).

Canopy of Lights – Approved Yes, Feasible Maybe

It has been about two or three years since the Christmas tree on St. John’s Sideroad, just West of Yonge Street, was last illuminated....

Intriguing Building, 15297 Yonge Street

Very little can be found about this intriguing building located at 15297 Yonge Street, little North of Centre Street. This is the only excerpt I...

St. John’s Sideroad, The East View

Changes on the horizon; however, more to come. This is a view from the highest point on St. John's sideroad just East of Bathurst...

Piece by Piece Demolition on St. John’s Sideroad Property, Phase 2 Shining Hill Development

This is just the beginning for the development of the environmentally sensitive lands on St. John's Sideroad, east of Yonge Street. A photoshoot with a friend of mine, Peter Cameron.

Aurora’s Canada Day Parade 2019, Colourful Moments

The Canada Day in Aurora in 2019 as always was enjoyable. The East side of the Yonge Street again was where everyone was hiding...

2019-Jun-26 Public Planning – Phase 2 Shining Hill Development

Planning Application: PDS19-060 – Application for Official Plan Amendment, Zoning By-law Amendment and Draft Plan of Subdivision Shining Hill Estate Collections Inc., 306, 370,...

Town Park and Beyond, March Break Family Walk

Town Park, this is where we started to walk and then disappeared into the small streets near by and eventually all the way to...

Aurora Recreational Cannabis Economy Will Be Booming

Perhaps it is the science part of the political science field that fascinates me the most. When I graduated from engineering over 20 years...

Aurora Council, Term 2018-2022, Installed and Working

It is hard to believe that I actually survived four years sitting at the Aurora Council meetings, at the Council Chambers and watched religiously...

A Christmas Poem 2018 by Elizabeth Hearn Milner

A Christmas Poem 2018 Christmas is coming and my thoughts to Scrooge stray.He's a much maligned fellow whom we should praise to-day.I see that you...

2018-Dec-11 Aurora Closed Session Meeting, Aurora Public Library Appointments

Aurora Closed Session meetings are closed to the public. The Council members reconvene in open session where the Mayor reports any outcomes of the...

2018-12-04 Inaugural Council Meeting, 2018-2022 Term of Council

This is a summary of the ceremonial Aurora Inaugural Council meeting (2018-2022 Term of Council) which took place on December 4th, 2018 at Council...

Term 2014-2018 Town Council’s LAST Meeting, Farewells

Aurora Town Council's last 2014-2018 Term meeting was held on November 27th, 2018. In my opinion, probably one of the least interesting Council meetings...

2018-Nov-27 Aurora Council Meeting, Last Meeting for 2014-2018 Term

The summary of the November 27, 2018 Aurora Council meeting highlights the majority of comments made on video. This was the last meeting of...

George Street Public School – The Final Chapter

About three years ago on May 23rd 2015 as an observer I visited George Street Public School 'a walk down memory lane' community event,...

Aurora Candlelight Vigil to Honour the 100th Anniversary Armistice

Aurora Candlelight Vigil tonight to Honour the 100th Anniversary Armistice. Armistice was declared ending World War One. We must never forget sacrifice and dedication of...

Aurora’s Haunted Forest – Fortnite Included

"I know they're not real," then she said, "you can't scare me," while walking through the candy shop. Kudos to this little brave person....

Fleetwood Nicks and Practically Petty Concerts in the Park Throwback

Today, the feeling of hot summer days can only be duplicated by wearing a winter jacket and boots. But last summer, I recall the...

Aurora Votes – Unofficial Results Municipal Elections 2018

Aurora Votes! First, find the location of the above 'target painted on the wall' somewhere in Aurora. Almost 5,000 voters from Aurora voted online. Note...

Sport Aurora All Candidates Meeting, Last Coverage Before Election

This coverage of the Sport Aurora All Candidates meeting on October 11th, 2018 held at the Aurora Legion on Industrial Parkway was the third...

Aurora Chamber Mayoral Debate, Municipal Elections 2018

On October 3rd, 2018 Aurora Chambers of Commerce hosted an event for residents Mayoral debate to learn more about Mayoral, Council and Trustee candidates....

Aurora Chamber Mayoral Debate, Rapid Fire Questions, Municipal Elections 2018

Event for residents to learn more about Mayoral, Council and Trustee candidates by Aurora Chamber of Commerce was held on October 3rd, 2018. This...

APL Aurora Mayoral Question & Answer Session, Municipal Elections 2018

On September 30th, 2018 at Aurora Town Hall, Aurora Public Library APL hosted a Municipal Elections 2018 All Candidates Meeting. The following is the...

APL All Candidates Meeting, Trustee Candidates, Municipal Elections 2018

On September 30th, 2018 at Aurora Town Hall, Aurora Public Library hosted a Municipal Elections 2018 All Candidates Meeting. The following are presentations by...

APL All Candidates Meeting, Council Candidates, Municipal Elections 2018

APL All Candidates Meeting, Council Candidates, Municipal Elections 2018: Today on September 30th, 2018 at Aurora Town Hall, Aurora Public Library hosted a Municipal...

APL All Candidates Meeting, Mayoral Candidates, Municipal Elections 2018

Today on September 30th, 2018 at Aurora Town Hall, Aurora Public Library hosted a Municipal Elections 2018 All Candidates Meeting. The following are presentations...

Aurora’s Concerts in the Park – Jared Lutes

Jared Lutes, an award winning Canadian songwriter from Atlantic Canada, performed last Wednesday at Aurora's Concerts in the Park. His performance was a nice...

Concerts in the Park – Marshall Dane Country Live Show

Town of Aurora noted on their website, Marshall Dane is a "must see" and most importantly, "must hear." Marshall Dane truly is an incredible...

This is How Aurora’s Concerts in the Park Look Like in Motion

Yes, this is pretty much how Aurora's Concerts in the Park look like in motion every Wednesday night all summer. Performance clips by DESIRE The International...

Concerts in the Park – DESIRE The International U2 Tribute Act

It has been a while since I heard 80s music. Last night at the Aurora's Concerts in the Park it was a must see...

Canada Day Parade 2018 to Remember by the Scorching Heat Wave

The Canada Day parade in 2018 will be one to remember by the scorching heat wave. We have attended to watch like every other...

This Photo Moment, Canada Day Parade 2018 in Aurora

Our favourite photo moment of the day during the annual Canada Day parade in 2018 in Aurora on Yonge Street.

Merlin’s Hollow, My Favourites in Full Bloom, Irises and Peonies

Visiting Merlin's Hollow English flower garden never fails me. No matter how many times I visit the Tomlinson's garden, I always stumble upon something new....

McKenzie Marsh Changing Landscape

The McKenzie Marsh property on St. John's Sideroad in Aurora has been sold and landscaping behind the pond began sometime in May. Changes can...

Shopping Plazas Need To Be More Pedestrian Friendly

Shopping plazas do need to be more pedestrian friendly. If given the opportunity, people will walk with kids to the nearest play places, go...

2018-May-22 The Armoury Post Secondary Economic Impact Analysis, Motion DEFEATED

Cllr Abel MOTION, May 22nd, 2018 Council Meeting: Re: Post Secondary Economic Impact Analysis (The Armoury) after Council deliberation was defeated. You can watch Council...

Birding at the Aurora Boardwalk, St. John’s Sideroad, Wildlife Sprung Back

Today birding at the Aurora boardwalk on St. John's sideroad. Birds are in a full swing, hovering over our gardens, trails and perhaps every...

Merlin’s Hollow, English Flower Garden Awaken

Merlin's Hollow, the English flower garden - is my annual local destination where I bring almost all of my photographic equipment to photograph nature's...

Graffiti Around the Town, Best One Yet and Largest

A perfect pit stop for graffiti artists, an abandoned industrial building near the rail tracks. Not sure if the industrial building that is seen...

Winter Ice Storm 2013 Versus Spring Ice Storm 2018

It happened just before Christmas in 2013 - an unexpected winter ice storm. It rained, then it snowed, then it rained again. Eventually drizzling...

Aurora United Church, Saving the Church 4 Years Ago

On this day, four years ago on April 11th, 2014 firefighters battled a devastating fire of the Aurora United Church that was located at...

St. John’s Sideroad Today, West of Leslie Street Aurora ON

This is the upgraded St. John's sideroad in Aurora ON looking West. We went for a drive today in the morning to check out...

Petch Log House, Equestrian Vintage Wallpaper Uncovered

Although not the most appealing image of a room in an abandoned log house, it is quite common for many deteriorated abandoned houses. What...

Hidden Red Barn Near Sheppard’s Bush Conservation Area

It was an accidental find. The red barn's roof with an emblem of a horse on the front face of the barn showed up...

High Winds All Day, Hydro Pole Tipping on Bayview Avenue

Last time I checked, the hydro pole on Bayview Avenue just North of St. John's sideroad in Newmarket was still tipping and the road...

Trees in the Aurora Heritage Conservation District

Trees in the Aurora Heritage Conservation District. Few years ago when I made stopover at near St. John's Sideroad and Leslie Street area I...

Thompson’s Furniture Store, Now Aw, Shucks Seafood Bar & Bistro

Thompson's Fine Furniture store used to be located on the West side of Yonge Street, downtown Aurora, just South of Wellington Street. The store...

Aurora Armoury, The Inside Job

A big change for the Aurora Armoury at the Town Park is happening now. The Aurora Armoury built in 1874 is one of the...

Fleury, then Bacon Basketware Limited, An Industrial Look

An industrial building once a foundry where plows were made is now a warehouse for basketware and accessories. Bacon Basketware Limited, a basketware warehouse...

Mayor, CEO, Town Clerk in Aurora Council Chambers, Term 2010-2014

A snapshot of the Council meeting at the Town of Aurora ON Town Hall on April 9th, 2013. Shown in the middle is Mayor...

Aurora Ontario Municipal Elections 2018 – Election Sign Bylaw

Aurora Ontario Municipal Elections 2018 - Election Sign Bylaw in effect. Election sign 'clutter' is undeniably an opportunity for election sign vandalism. I recall...

Aurora Train Station on the Great Canadian Achievements Mural

The Great Canadian Achievements mural, an informational piece of public art work, on the side of Larter building, seen from Yonge Street and Wellington...

Aurora Cultural Centre on Church Street, Architectural Accents

We finally got to see the "The Plow in the Crest: How Joseph Fleury and his Sons shaped Industry, Politics and Community in Aurora"...

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Aurora ON, the Best Kept Secret

Perhaps after his intriguingly colourful international trip to India, Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau needed a safe place to hide; a place where he...

Aurora Waking Up To Singing Birds, Memoir

Seven years ago I knew more about birds than about the community I was living in, and that many years ago I set out...

Moon Over Aurora ON, Though Not a Full Moon

Moon over Aurora though not a full moon tonight. The Moon, a natural Earth satellite, that shines over us at night and during the...

I Know Nothing About Dick Day Horse Stable, Demolished

Another horse farm gone. Vacant for some time, everything is now gone on the former Dick Day Horse Stable property. This property is now...

No Offence, but No Fence Where it Does Not Make Sense

Fences make good neighbours. Seriously? It doesn't seem like that in Aurora. In reality, I think most of us know why fence make good...

Sunny Days Downtown Aurora, Driving on Yonge Street, Sunset Light

Yonge Street downtown Aurora feels different when the sun shines from one side at the sunset, and from other at the sunrise. Yet, one...

Aurora Sports Hall of Fame, Aurora SPORT Exhibit at the SARC

The Aurora Sports Hall of Fame (ASHOF) ongoing exhibit at the Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex (SARC) is definitely a collaboration by many. One would...

Yonge Street Front Views, Note the Icicles or Wooden Plaque

When driving further South on Yonge Street, Aurora, Ontario; away from the Wellington Street intersection, the street views change. In the view there are mostly...

Tobogganing at Copland Park, Don’t Ignore the Warnings

Tobogganing at Copland Park, don't ignore the warnings. The weekend is already here. Are you ready for some skating or tobogganing? A friendly note...

Gas Prices in Aurora Higher than Surrounding Communities

Before raising my concerns about the gas prices in Aurora, let me share this first. One of the smaller elements on our stove top...

Aurora Cemetery, Winter Accents

Photos from our last trip driving through the Aurora Cemetery on a frigid winter day. Perhaps for a little entertainment, have fun looking up...

Saved a Bird Again, European Starling

Warning, some readers may find the following a little disturbing. While we were finishing up eating our late breakfast at a local restaurant, a...

Need for Temporary Fix for Excessive Application of Road Salt in Aurora

It is an observation, but I think that Town of Aurora is applying road salt a little excessively. Salt, in general is a good...

The Sharp Shinned Hawk & The Story Behind A Local Photographer

By Andrew Zuliani, Aurora ON. My name is Andrew and I am photographer based in Aurora, Ontario. A few days ago, I was frustrated, I...

John W. Bowser, More About an Auroran Linked to the Empire State Building

John W. Bowser, more about an Auroran linked to the Empire State Building. I thought perhaps it was time to return to some of...

You Are No Longer Donating Textile Waste, But Dumping Instead

Disturbingly, this is not the first time I observed a donation site turning into a community dumping site. It is not the first time...

Heavy Snow Storm Embraced Aurora, Photo Gallery

Last week we experienced a spring like winter that ended with a major snow storm right across York Region. On Friday (January 12th), I...

Aurora Old Library Demolition – Well this stinks!

We were at the demolition site of the Aurora Old Library at 56 Victoria Street almost every day during the holiday week after Christmas....

Town of Aurora Ontario in Pictures Almost Six Years Ago, 2012

Perhaps the inspiration to blog more again is emerging from having enough memories to share about the changes I have witnessed in Aurora from...

Aurora Public Library, Community’s Social & Cultural Hub

Books, books everywhere. That's what I see first for every visit to our local Aurora Public Library; however, not always will I leave our...

Changing Aurora Behind the December 2017 Snow Filter

We took our last drive of 2017 a few days before New Year's day through some streets of Aurora. Surprisingly, we found ourselves driving...

Family First Night in Aurora Ended with Canada 150 Fireworks

Family First Night was just a buzz word until we as a family took part in this December 31st annual Town event for the...

Enos Lundy Brick House to Shine Again in the Aurora Community

Who knew that the abandoned and overgrown red brick farmhouse residing once in the middle of the large field at the North East end...

A Christmas Poem 2017 by Elizabeth Hearn Milner

Christmas Eve Past by Elizabeth Hearn Milner I remember Christmas eve with snow and the glow of my parent’s house.I remember skiing the golf...

Second Aurora’s Multicultural Festival 2017, Successful

It turned out to be a beautiful day for the 2nd annual Aurora's Multicultural Festival on September 9th, 2017. This year held at the...

Green, Very Green in the Aurora Community Arboretum

Green, very green in the Aurora Community Arboretum. My work was somehow rudely interrupted by a mouse. That not so tiny grey furry creature zoomed...

The Fields of Gold, Renewed Signs of Strength and Hope

It is hard to believe that the Aurora Community Arboretum is about two decades old; a beautiful parkland stretch located in the East end of...

Meeting Batman at the Aurora Farmers Market Today! Living in Aurora!

Meeting Batman at the Aurora Farmers Market today! He expresses how he feels. "Matthew are you okay? What are you doing?" I asked."Mom it's very annoying...

Flooding at the Aurora Community Arboretum – The Wet Look

We are currently experiencing heavy May (2017) showers, that according to the weatherman will continue until Sunday. Potential spring flooding. So far, not too...

Hydro Transformer Boxes – Warning! Do Not Open or Climb

When you see children climbing or sitting on top of hydro transformer boxes shown here, let them know that it is actually dangerous to...

Internet-Voting Only, Aurora Council Opposed the Idea

During the April 18, 2017 General Committee meeting, Aurora Town staff presented recommendations to our Town Council to consider moving forward with internet-voting only...

Beautiful Spring Snow Fall, Town of Aurora Ontario

Last spring snow fall in our Town today? Who knows? Oak Trees at the Aurora Community Arboretum near Leash Free Dog Park Sheppard's Bush Conservation Area...

Aurora Arctic Adventure 2017 – Warm for a Change

It was a beautiful day! The Aurora Arctic Adventure 2017 Family Day event at the historic Town Park on February 20th endured record high...

Town Crier John Webster – a Portrait of Perfect Stillness

Town Crier John Webster - a portrait of perfect stillness. The only 'great' portrait (from a portrait) I ever painted was of Copernicus. I...

Wild Turkeys Can Fly, St. John’s Sideroad & Leslie Street

Apparently wild turkeys can fly. I saw it finally for the first time and this is my photographic proof and sequel on the sighting of...

Fog Day on St. John’s Sideroad in Aurora

We had a major fog day in Aurora that also went reported everywhere in York Region and GTA. It was more evident on the country side...

Year End Wild Turkey Chase – Former Lundy Farm

My memories of the St. John's sideroad open farmed fields are slowly fading away (Lundy Farm). Less and less I hear from some of...

Merry Christmas Aurora! Community Arboretum Accents

Let the spirit of Christmaswarm your homewith love, joy and peace.Have a Merry Christmas ! Living in Aurora Aurora Community Arboretum Accents 2016 The beautiful winter season in...

A Christmas Poem 2016 by Elizabeth Hearn Milner

Christmas is coming and what can I write? I'm upset by the news both in daytime and night.Each Christmas I write down a poem with...

Santa Under the Stars Parade Tonight! Treat to Watch

Aurora Santa Parade on Yonge Street. Bringing few memories back from the 2014 Santa Under the Stars Parade in the Town of Aurora. Publishing...

Super moon Over Town of Aurora Super Bright

Super moon, tonight is the record braking full moon, in fact the biggest in 68 years. Enjoy! If you out there in Aurora Ontario...

Remembrance Royal Canadian Legion Parade – 2016 In Photos

Royal Canadian Legion annual Remembrance Parade, Aurora Cenotaph November 06, 2016. "In Flanders Fields the poppies blowBetween the crosses, row on row,That mark our place;...

Mallard Duck Show at the Atkinson Wetland Boardwalk

Mallard duck the most familiar bird in the Town of Aurora beside the Canada Goose. Mallards at play at the Atkinson Wetland boardwalk on...

Aurora Haunted Forest 2016 & The Tall of the Tallest

There he was a tall man, and telling ya, not a Slender Man. The tall of the tallest Jason walked dark trails during the...

Good Morning Aurora! Majestic Morning That Was, Majestic Oak Trees

Beautiful views of the Oak trees in the morning fog, both located at the Aurora Community Arboretum. Look out from parking lot of the...

Aurora’s Haunted Forest, Did You Notice This Fella Reading

Aurora’s Haunted Forest is our Town's annual entertaining event at the Sheppard's Bush Conservation Area. It is open to all ages. Consists of two...

Multicultural Festival in Aurora, Better Than Expected

It was a short to the point positive review. “It was better than I expected,” my eight-year old said while strapping himself into a...

What Colour Is Your Belt? Ontario Greenbelt

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON.  For reasons that eludes me, we are fond of describing tracts of land as “belts.” There’s America’s rust belt...

Thanksgiving, Eh? Canadian Thanksgiving

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON. Fall is upon us and it is Thanksgiving yet again. I think Thanksgiving could quite possibly be the most wonderful...

Thoughts on Multiculturalism, and Cake

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON. Thoughts on multiculturalism, and cake. Have you ever gotten to the party, after the cake was served? You knew they...

Peppers and Melons and Squash, Oh my!

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON. Peppers and melons and squash, oh my! I planted a garden this year. A wee little patch, five foot...

Soaring Red-Tailed Hawk Over St. Andrew’s Valley

Soaring Red-Tailed Hawk over St. Andrew's Valley Golf Club. Enjoy the snow because it is not going to last. Spring in Aurora is in...

The Winter is Back Aurora! Hamilton Park

Winter is back in Aurora (Hamilton Park) for the second time this year. We only had two full snowfalls in Town as of today February 18,...

Aurora Arctic Adventure 2016 at Aurora’s Historic Town Park

Visiting Town Park for the Aurora Arctic Adventure Family day is now an official tradition. The only booking we have on the Family Day...

Detour on Old Yonge Street, Atkinson Park

Visiting Atkinson Park. What's better, blue skies and cold weather or warmer weather and overcast skies? I take the blue skies and cold over...

Trees First, Glenway Development Underway

Golf courses, like Glenway development, in our neighbourhood may be a 'thing of the past'. The next generation definitely has different interests and golf may...

Keeping Aurora Green? Aurora Tree By-Law

By Paul McIntosh, Aurora ON. It doesn’t take long here in Aurora as you drive around in and just outside of town before you...

Living in Aurora 2015 Year in Review, It’s 2016 Aurora

Living in Aurora community FOCUS 2015, a year in review.For more Living in Aurora video visit our Video Library on YouTube.

A Christmas Poem 2015 by Elizabeth Hearn Milner

It would shortly be Christmas and all through the dayI was thinking and wondering what I should say.The world was so different; it was...

Aurora not Right Place for Clear Bags, My Opinion

Response to: Letter to the Editor, Take another look at clear bags, says clear bag proponent, November 25, 2015. As the time passes, the...

Beautiful! Albert Arcand, Veteran, War Memorial Peace Park

Photo: Veteran Albert Arcand at the Aurora War Memorial Peace Park during Remembrance Day, November 08, 2015, Sunday. Video: Veteran Mr. Arcand at the Aurora...

Remembering at Aurora War Memorial Peace Park, 2015

Moments captured during Remembrance Day Ceremony at the Aurora War Memorial Peace Park on Sunday November 8th, 2015. Unless November 11th falls on a...

Tree Removal Policy for Aurora Ontario, How Effective?

Tree removal policy for Aurora, exactly how effective? I always thought that the shiny metal tag with an engraved number and attached to the tree...

Winter Maintenance Efficiency Opportunity, More Road Salt

A great efficiency opportunity for the Town of Aurora. Eventually more salt on the secondary roads. Less spring cleaning, less sand dust. Less work for public service...

Procurement Policy Notice of Motion, Council Meeting

The Aurora Council Meeting Agenda for this Tuesday October 27, 2015 will cover many items but there are a couple of items of interest...

Aurora: Not for the Faint of Heart, Haunted Forest

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON.  There are few constants in this life, but here are a few. The sun will rise, the leaves will...

Aurora’s Haunted Forest, Are You Scared Yet?

Here we are back again for the annual Aurora's Haunted Forest at Sheppard's Bush Conservation Area. Fun for children and fun for us. Every...

Enjoy While It Lasts, Sheppard’s Bush in Fall Colours

Enjoy While It Lasts, Sheppard's Bush in Fall Colours. Here I am again. I submerged myself tirelessly in federal politics for 78 long days...

Fall is in the Air, so Chill Out and Slow Down

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON.  Fall is in the air, so chill out and slow down. Ah, here we are. Though our days still...

Aurora’s Emerald Ash Borer Treatment Mismanaged

I am concerned with Aurora's Emerald Ash Borer Management. I did a lot of reading in the past few days and it bothers me...

Plain Simple Duck Talk – Do Not Litter

What happened to the Canada Geese? I have noticed that around the McKenzie Wetland, the Atkinson Wetland and the Nokiidaa Trail Link boardwalk on...

Emerald Ash Borer, Eliminate the Food Source I Say

The Emerald Ash Borer is an invasive insect that attacks Ash trees and it is a big concern. "Ash wood is used to make various tools, handles, baseball and...

The Great Outdoors – “Hey, Wanna Go Camping?”, Part II

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON.  Ontario is blessed with many beautiful campsites, we are a province of sprawling forests and glassy lakes. It is,...

The Great Outdoors – “Hey, Wanna Go Camping?”, Part I

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON.  "Hey, Wanna Go Camping?" I rediscovered something about myself this past weekend; something I’d completely forgotten. It was similar...

Hey Frank What’s the Story About the Tree? Why Fenced?

Broken and protected. Why is that so? I am referring to a fallen tree still partially alive on the Magna property on Wellington Street, just West...

Doors Open Aurora, St. Andrew’s College (SAC)

I had been eyeing to visit St. Andrew's College (SAC) (Town of Aurora, Ontario, Canada) for a long time now. I was just curious to...

Doors Open Aurora 2015, a Visit to Aurora Readiness Centre

This is our first year attending Doors Open Aurora with our seven year old and first time visiting Aurora Readiness Centre. Perhaps that has something to...

At McKenzie Wetland, Best-est Time We Had Together Walking

McKenzie Wetland - how about writing a bit about this nature place and Aurora's gem? Overload encountered. Often I get a sudden surge of...

Steel Lunch Pail – 52 Pick Me Up Card of the Week

The moms of the late 1800s originated the idea of the school lunch packed in a metal box, sending their children off each morning...

The Writ Has Dropped…. Anyone Going to Pick It Up?

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON.  Ah the heady, golden days of August. The garden has peaked; there’s enough summer behind us to have long...

Wells Street Public School, Remembering Change

Today my thoughts about Wells Street Public School. My thought. It is a simple fact, everything eventually deteriorates. Everything has a life span; and...

Aurora’s Concerts in the Park, A Tribute to the Tragically Hip

Last Wednesday on July 29 The Wheat Kings took over the band-shell to pay a tribute to "The Tragically Hip" band. Great performance! There...

Voice of Aurora Radio, If They Build It Will You Listen?

Yes, people of Aurora, if they build the Voice of Aurora Radio Station (FM), will you listen? Well, this dream somehow worked in the...

Striving for Simplicity in a Brand Name Town

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON.  Striving for simplicity in a brand name town? What is that? I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how...

Janice Jones – 52 Pick Me Up Card of the Week

52 Pick Me Up is a community-based sports heritage project celebrating the year of Sport in Aurora and this week's pick is Janice Jones. Through...

Hillary House, Who Scribbled on the Wall?

At the Hillary House National Historic Site, I call them scribbles on the wall; dated signatures, messages or notes left behind. I like scribbles...

Christmas in July? Bah Humbug, I Say

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON.  Aha, Christmas in July. There was an extra $840 in my bank account this morning. It’s hard not to...

Tennis at Hillary House with Gabriela Dabrowski & Robert Bedard

Last Saturday I arrived at Hillary House (July 18th, 2015) to watch Gabriela Dabrowski & Robert Bedard play tennis. At the entrance gate, I...

Tree Removal Dilemma 48 Trees Gone UNLESS

A proposal to remove 48 trees coming. A few weeks passed since the June 23rd, 2015 Aurora Town Council meeting. I am bothered. I...

Aurora It Was Hot Hot Day Today – Cool Places to Visit

It was definitely hot day today, and not mentioning it was also a humid today (Saturday July 18, 2015). The heat warning for Southern...

Ben Steenhorst – 52 Pick Me Up Card of the Week

Longtime Aurora resident Ben Steenhorst was instrumental in the development of the Highland Park Soccer Facility. Through his efforts with the Aurora Soccer Club and Aurora...

Lost Boyz Riding Club Once Again Back in Aurora to Support Autism

Perhaps sometimes I like to look at things from a different perspective. Last weekend, it was a great day at the Aurora Farmers' Market &...

Spending my Days with Dinosaurs and my Evenings at the Royal Court

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON.  Spending my days with dinosaurs and my evenings at the Royal Court. We’re only starting out, but already I’ve...

Dave McKigney – 52 Pick Me Up Card of the Week

Dave McKigney is on this week's featured card. 52 Pick Me Up is a community-based sports heritage project celebrating the year of Sport in...

Canada Day Parade 2015 in Aurora – Memorable Moments

Another great Canada Day Parade in the Town of Aurora, Ontario. It is always a wishful thinking that after that last parade float there...

It’s Summer! Now Here’s a To-Do List Worthy of the Season

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON.  Summer officially started with a bang last night. I mean hundreds of gorgeous, brilliant heart stopping bangs. Cascades of...

Lester B. Pearson – 52 Pick Me Up Card of the Week

Lester B. Pearson was a student at the Historic Church Street School. 52 Pick Me Up is a community-based sports heritage project celebrating the...

Carolin Bouchard – 52 Pick Me Up Card of the Week

Carolin Bouchard attended Aurora High School from 1991-1996 where she developed a passion for the sport of basketball captaining the Golden Eagles Basketball team. From...

Aurora Community Moment With Adelyn Carol Stephens

The proposed Heritage Conservation District (HCD) is old news today. On Wednesday April 23, 2014 about 200 people gathered at the Town of Aurora Town...

Bruce Stafford – 52 Pick Me Up Card of the Week

Card of the week features Bruce Stafford. 52 Pick Me Up is a community-based sports heritage project celebrating the year of Sport in Aurora....

Aurora Joint Operations Centre PM Contract Extended

A few weeks ago in a matter of a few hours a white crane standing at the Joint Operations Centre was gone. It was quite...

Aurora Ontario Has No Swimming Pool Water Discharge By-Law

I accidentally killed a fish. It was a goldfish, and it was a long time ago. My sister gave me one of her's to...

Merlin’s Hollow, An English Garden in Aurora After the Rain

Another great photo journey on June 13, 2015 through the Merlin's Hollow, an English garden in Aurora, a collection of about 2000 flowering species,...

Where Have All the Flags Gone?

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON. Where Have All the Flags Gone? Right now; as I type these very words, Canada is hosting what could...

Aurora Chamber Street Festival in Many Pictures 2015

Someone recognized me among all these thousands of people walking up and down Yonge Street during the annual Aurora Chamber Street Festival last weekend....

Aurora Chamber Street Festival 2015, Thousands of People

Thousands of people, millions of footsteps ... Aurora Chamber Street Festival 2015, Yonge Street, June 7th, 2015.

Aurora Farmers’ Market & Artisan Fair, A Family Tradition

The Aurora Farmers' Market & Artisan Fair at the Town Park has become a family tradition for us, and perhaps not just for us....

Green Therapy Walk Through Sheppard’s Bush

Today, a beautiful morning walk through Sheppard's Bush Conservation Area in Aurora ... therapeutic. Sheppard's Bush photo gallery. "Look deep into nature, and then you...

Demolishing Historic Lundy Home in Aurora, Ontario – Heather Kirk

By Heather Kirk, Ontario. I was saddened by the recent article in community FOCUS Living in Aurora about the tearing down of the historic Lundy home....

A Replay of Tennis Beginnings at Hillary House in Aurora

By Erika Mazanik, Aurora Historical Society (AHS). Hillary House National Historic Site is back open to the public for the summer and it is...

Who Really Killed a Black Bear in Newmarket?

A black bear was killed by York Regional Police in Newmarket, Ontario; breaking news on June 1st, 2015. The black bear death news made...

Lundy Brick House, Next Stage to a Lingering Death

I came at sunrise and then I came back at sunset to see the 'demolition' in progress of the Lundy brick house (currently located off St....

Town of Aurora CAO Leaving A Huge Void? Time for Change Perhaps

Over the course of the past few months it has not been an exciting time for the Town of Aurora. Definitely, business retention has been an issue. A...

Littering in the Town of Aurora by Contractors is a Concern

Some bad littering here. I don’t get it. I really don’t. A few months ago the Town of Aurora was determined to implement a clear...

Cenotaph in the Town of Aurora During Victoria Day

Town of Aurora Cenotaph during Victoria Day, May 18, 2015. Town of Aurora Cenotaph, a memorial tower built in 1925, to recognize those who fought...

Canadian Tire is Coming to Bayview, Dig Out That “Money”

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON. It’s nice to hear good news about Canadian Tire. Good news on a Friday night with a glass of...

Aurora Victoria Day Fireworks, Where?

Where in the Town of Aurora can you watch Victoria Day Fireworks? What's happening in the Town of Aurora during the Victoria Day long...

Canada Post & Meaningless Communication Chaos with Regards to Community Mailboxes

Canada Post, a crown corporation, first announced phase-out of door-to-door mail delivery, then recorded profits in the following year (Canada Post flips to $194M profit in...

The Stuff That Ate Aurora – or At Least my Little Corner of It

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON. I’ve been on a major de-cluttering spree the past week or so. Inspired by a good friend, I got...

Merlin’s Hollow English Garden Just in Time for Mother’s Day

Mother's Day visit reminiscing. Merlin's Hollow English garden, what can I say, it's a garden full of hidden flowering treasures, crawling and flying creatures,...

What’s Up Aurora? Aurora Youth Skateboard Park at the AFLC

New - Aurora Youth Skateboard Park. Aurora Youth Centre is now officially open to Aurora youth at the Aurora Family Leisure Complex as of...

Aurora Family Leisure Complex Youth Centre Grand Opening

The Aurora Family Leisure Complex Youth Centre grand opening is happening this weekend (May 2nd, 2015). The Youth Centre Grand Opening a ribbon cutting...

Zoning for Medical Marihuana Production Facility in Aurora

Is it marihuana or marijuana? While Health Canada is having difficulties deciding on the spelling for the plant also known as Cannabis, here in the Town of...

Highland Gate Used-To-Be Golf Club, Walk About

The Highland Gate Golf Club in Aurora Ontario on a beautiful Saturday morning April 25, 2015. A walk about photo gallery of the west...

Town of Aurora Pictures from the Past, Addison-Hall Horse Farm

Perhaps this was a last farming activity done on the Addison-Hall Horse Farm located at 15775 Leslie Street, Town of Aurora, Ontario (on the east side...

At AFLC Meeting He Shouted at the Mayor, You Work For Me

On April 14, 2015 during the Special Council Meeting for the Aurora Family Leisure Complex (AFLC) renovation issues, an angry AFLC member shouted at the Town...

Town of Aurora, Where Is the 4th Construction Crane?

Look out for the construction crane in your area. Currently we have four construction cranes in the Town of Aurora. All of them will be...

Youth Centre at Aurora Family Leisure Complex, Importance & Urgency

The Youth Centre project that involved renovating Aurora Family Leisure Complex on Industrial Parkway was clearly an important decision at the same time it became an urgent...

Aurora Family Leisure Complex Renovations, Public Input

The Aurora Family Leisure Complex (AFLC) renovation has become a topic of concern for many Aurora residents.  The AFLC was closed for renovations for more than a year...

Birding in the Town of Aurora, Get Ready

Birding in the Town of Aurora is fun, especially in the spring. Yes, spring is finally here. Birds are here. Tiny flowers starting to...

Aurora Community Arboretum, The Creators We Don’t See

The Aurora Community Arboretum has a full task force behind it - a task force of experienced and hard working volunteers that many of us...

McDonald’s Food and Driving Thru Is a Matter of Choice

I confess I eat out at McDonald’s. I like McDonald's food. We as a family eat out at McDonald’s. The most visited by us is...

Nimbyism … Do You Want McDonald’s Fries With That?

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON. Nimbyism? My husband still secretly pines for an oak tree. A big, beautiful, majestic oak tree. He’s leaning...

The Lundys and the Petches Same Farming Community

The Lundys and the Petches were in the same farming community. What is happening with the Petch Log House? Nobody knows. However, I am sure...

The Crocuses are Coming! The Crocuses are Coming!

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON. I peeked outside today; nudged my head out the door; sniffed at the air like a groundhog with the...

Kids Talk: All The Things I Can Win

Kids talk always puts smile on my face. All the things I can win, sounds like a line from Dr. Suess books. Living in today's...

Public Voted Ward System Nay & Less Councillors Yea

I always thought that my parents had better service from the politicians in their community. My parents rarely follow local politics, but it seems like local...

Old School Summer, Anyone?

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON. Old school summer, anyone? Anyone? I woke up this morning to snow, and yet as the sun (who by...

Kids Talk: My Government Then My Taxes

Our son (soon to be seven years old) now knows that the price tag on toys and taxes. Thus he knows that price tag...

Why Aurora is Better Than Florida, Even in March

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON. Why Aurora is better than Florida? Have the streets seemed a little emptier to you lately? Have you noticed...

Black Garbage Bags? Clear Bags? How About Plaid …

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON. There has been a lot of conversation lately about the colour of our garbage bags (black garbage bags, clear...

Academic Education, Did You Know About Grass Clippings?

After months of deliberation finally the controversial clear garbage bag program has come to an end. On March 10th, 2015 Aurora Town Council voted...

More Story on Lundy Log House & Extended Lundy Family Photo

By John McIntyre, Aurora ON. Great story about the Lundy log house! I first heard of this house about three years ago when Joe Lundy, who...

What is Waste Diversion Rate? Explained for Clear Garbage Bags

A diversion term is a simply an activity where something is redirected from its main course. A waste diversion rate is a percentage of...

Clear Garbage Bag Program is Based on Assumptions

No doubt that the majority of  the Town of Aurora residents are resisting the clear garbage bag program scheduled for implementation this summer. Despite...

Lundy Log House, The Last Log House in Town of Aurora Ontario?

Lundy Log house soon will be gone. I like log houses. I like brick houses too but I still like log houses more. I...

Aurora Winter Maintenance Service Levels Reduced – The Impact of Growth

The impact of growth is starting to surface not just with increased traffic in the Town of Aurora but now with decreased levels of...

Throwback Thursday: Snowball Fights Were Allowed Back Then

We anxiously waited for the bell to ring. Anxious for the greatest snowball fight. It wasn't a modern ring either. It sounded like a...

How To Survive Winter in the Town of Aurora with Children? Easy

Asking how to survive winter in the Town of Aurora with children is a bit of extreme. Perhaps I should ask this, what to...

Hydro One – Enough is Enough Petition, Eliminate Unfair Fees

A petition I definitely participated in, “Hydro One: Eliminate Unfair Fees and the HST From our Bills, and Remove Inaccurate 'Smart Meters' from the...

Aurora Farmers Market & Artisan Fair, Winter Get Away

Right after our breakfast almost every Saturday we are out of the house. Today we visited the indoor Aurora Farmers' Market & Artisan Fair at...

Counting My Blessings, One Cabbage Leaf at a Time

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON.  I made an impulse purchase the other day. A cabbage. A gorgeous, enormous green cabbage. Who impulse buys a...

We Will Not Solve Population Growth by Simply Sending People to Mars

I am concerned, especially about population growth. The latest news with regards to the one-way trip to Mars in 2024 caught my attention, ”Mars...

Aurora Family Day at the Town Park, Arctic Adventure 2015

Arctic Adventure is the Aurora Family Day event celebrated at the Town Park each year. All the fun winter activities are geared mainly towards children. Lots...

Pining For a Feathered Friend or Two

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON.  I’m starting to suspect that I may be the subject of a well planned, wide scale snubbing campaign. It...

Society of York Region Artists 2015 Exhibit & Fusion of Thoughts

We had some fun at the Society of York Region Artists 2015 Exhibit at Aurora Cultural Centre. Perhaps I underestimated him that day. “Why...

What’s up Aurora? Aurora Winter Blues Festival 2015

The Aurora Winter Blues Festival 2015: http://www.aurorawinterbluesfestival.ca. What’s Up Aurora is a short video clip showcasing Town of Aurora, Ontario a community event or a...

Community Arboretum, Time To Turn Around

The Community Arboretum is definitely covered under a much thicker blanket of snow now. During the summer a few walkers and bikers would shout a...

Aurora Skylight Gallery, Reconnecting with Nancy Newman & Linda Welch

I told her 'how much I missed photographing people'. The last few months all I have been mainly doing is photographing buildings going down...

Father Joe Gorman A Fist-to-Fist Punch Blessing, My Story

It was a long time ago. With awe I listened to Father Joe Gorman’s story while attending mass at Our Lady of Grace church. This was...

Hamilton Park After the Winter Storm, Rolling Hills

In the morning I looked out the window. I thought of our local Hamilton Park, as we don't have there. Our sidewalk was covered...

Clear Garbage Bags Program – The Financial Side

Let’s talk about the financial implications of the $45,000 clear garbage bags program on the Town of Aurora taxpayers’ money. According to the Town...

Target Stores Closing Then What’s Next for Town of Aurora Community?

I am convinced that what happened to Target Stores in Canada since opening in 2013 is going to be a new trend in the...

The Goal of Resilience is to Thrive

"Resilience is all about being able to overcome the unexpected. Sustainability is about survival. The goal of resilience is to thrive."~ Jamais Cascio

A Bit of Reebok Left in Town

Almost every day I drive by the building and just hit me that this is all what is left of Reebok in Town (2015)....

Town of Aurora Pictures from the Past, Clue – Hardware Store

Aurora Downtown Hardware (formerly Aurora True Value Hardware) owned by Mike and Lorraine Evans. The Hardware's store owner Mike and Lorraine Evans retired in...

What Is the Clear Garbage Bag – Comment, January 20, 2015

Michael Suddard commented on our post 'What is the Clear Garbage Bag Program – My Understanding'.  With his permission his comment from last week...

Dreaming of an Aurora Summer on a Frigid Winter’s Afternoon

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON. Winter has come to Aurora community and I am dreaming of an Aurora summers. The weather outside is not...

Town of Aurora Do We Know What Happens to Our Garbage?

By Domenic Romeo, Aurora ON. What happens to our garbage? The other day I was at a local coffee shop with my wife and...

Impromptu Magic on a Patch of Snowy Ice

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON. Impromptu magic on a patch of snowy ice. For most of the past week there was a hockey net...

What is the Clear Garbage Bag Program – My Understanding

According to the Town of Aurora the clear garbage bag program is a household waste diversion program. It will require Aurora residents to switch from...

Clear Garbage Bag Program Not Necessary, Consider Education

I have done so much thinking, reading, researching and contemplating about Aurora's soon to be implemented clear garbage bag program, that I came to...

Mailing Trash to GFL, Not a Wise Decision when Considering Public Health & Safety

Actions speak volumes but some actions may send the wrong message. Last week I read an interesting development in the local news about an...

A Christmas Poem 2014 by Elizabeth Hearn Milner

Christmas comes and then it’s gone,We light some candles sing some songs.And add our hopes for peace on earth -For food for all and...

Inaugural Meeting of Aurora Town Council, 2014-2018 Municipal Term

We have a newly elected Aurora Town Council for the 2014-2018 Municipal Term. A month passed since the Town of Aurora Municipal elections took...

Diversity: The Art of Thinking Independently Together

"Diversity: the art of thinking independently together." ~ Malcolm Forbes

True Community at Work Here in Aurora, We Just Have to Embrace it a Little

By K. Taylor, Aurora ON. I have a confession. I've lived in Aurora (on and off) for decades. I've lived in the south back when...

Santa Under the Stars Parade 2014, Aurora’s Memorable Moments

Santa Under the Stars Parade 2014 took place on November 22nd, 2014. When there is a bad weather all week long then the chances...

Educated Communities Are Sustainable & Healthy

Lets talk again about clear bags. Lack of knowledge can definitely lead to lack of engagement within our community. How many times in the...

Highland Gate Golf Course Closed by Club Link, Community Concerns

For the third time this year, the Town of Aurora Town Hall council chamber was completely filled with members of our community. Perhaps this...

Remembrance Ceremony 2014, Altar of Sacrifice, Aurora Cenotaph

Altar of Sacrifice, Remembrance Sunday On a cold November Sunday morn, an old man sits a whileLooking though old photographs, he can’t help but smileThey’re...

Case Wood Lot & Living In Aurora Community Thoughts

Case Wood Lot thoughts of mine. Sometimes when driving to school every morning my six year old would be looking out the window and...

Developments on St. John’s sideroad, An Update

Here are few images of the not developed and currently being developed St. John's sideroad. If you look deeper into the picture that is...

Platinum Blonde at Aurora’s Ribfest Summer 2014

Platinum Blonde performance on September 6th during Aurora's 2014 Ribfest.  Glass Tiger concert the night before was cancelled due to thunderstorm that rocked Aurora instead.

Merlin’s Hollow English Garden, Every Visit Different Flowers

It was a hot humid overcast day at Merlin's Hollow English Garden last Sunday. During my visit on that day when I passed by...

Town of Aurora July 1st Canada Day Parade 2014, Yonge Street

Few images capturing our vibrant Town of Aurora community during the July 1st, 2014 Canada Day parade along Yonge Steet South (photo gallery). Enjoy! July...

Home Is Where the Community Is

By Analena Rebelo, Aurora ON. When you hear the word “community”, like me, you probably think of a group of people living in a...

The Most Powerful Thing We Own Is Our Vote

"The most powerful thing we own is our vote." ~ Bev Perdue This is powerful. “All voting is a sort of gaming, like checkers or...

Beautiful Sunsets Over The Town of Aurora Do Exist

Beautiful sunsets over the Town of Aurora do exist. In the middle of the field on the hill surrounded by critters in the grass and...

Leadership is Not About the Next Election

"Leadership is not about the next election, it's about the next generation." ~ Simon Sinek Living in Aurora BLOG

Dandelions – Wishing Flowers In The Child’s Eyes

This story about dandelions is one to remember. Yesterday I was driving behind a car and I noticed that the person driving the car...

Aurora Street Festival 2014 Community Moments In Colour

There are a few interesting facts about the Aurora Street Festival. First, you are free to walk in the middle of Yonge Street for about six...

Dandelion Fields & Everything Else Healthy As Ever

Dandelion, aha. One morning I was driving on McMaster Avenue (Town of Aurora) near the hydro lines and I noticed a beautiful and healthy...

Who Let the Dogs Out at the Aurora Farmers Market

I had a good chuckle last Saturday at the Aurora Farmers Market & Artisan Fair again. Yes again, because I wrote about the dogs in...

Backyard Victoria Day Fireworks In Aurora Got Better

Aurora celebrates Victoria Day weekend with backyard fireworks around the town. On Sunday night if you didn't see fireworks from your backyard I am...

Victoria Day Fireworks In Aurora? Not Happening

Victoria Day fireworks in Aurora are not happening. Internet traffic spikes every year on the Victoria Day weekend as Aurora residents are searching for events...

Is Ward System Ideal for Town of Aurora? I Am Still Thinking

Yes, Town of Aurora residents will be voting at the polls if they are in favour of a ward system. Sometimes I ask myself why...

Merlin’s Hollow The English Garden & The Loudest Toad

Our Town of Aurora community is definitely growing and I am for sure experiencing our town's growth on Saturdays. There is so much to...

Aurora Farmers Market Is On & Never The Same

The Aurora Farmers Market & Artisan Fair opened last weekend for the season. Besides having fun browsing around and meeting people I must say...

Aurora Community Arboretum, Beaver in Town?

It is a matter of time and the Aurora Community Arboretum will be green again. However, having said that we must first wait for...

Leadership Has a Harder Job to Do Than Just Choose Sides

"Leadership has a harder job to do than just choose sides. It must bring sides together." ~ Jesse Jackson

Town of Aurora Council Meeting – The Only Show I Watch

Town of Aurora Council Meeting at the Town Hall is the only show I watch so far. Not to mention that I do watch...

The Art of Communication is the Language of Leadership

“The art of communication is the language of leadership.” ~ James Humes

Aurora Town Park Memories – Today Children Will Remember Differently

In her book Aurora Memories and More, Elizabeth Milner wrote about Aurora Town Park: "When I was growing up in Aurora and I said...

Town of Aurora Youth Committee Proposed by Young Aurora Adults

Interesting, the Town of Aurora Youth Committee proposed by Aurora young adults. During the last Town of Aurora Council Meeting on March 18, 2014...

Leslie Street Sign – Reindeer Now at 1964 Vandorf SDRD Aurora – Why?

Today I drove by the construction sites on Leslie Street and St. John's Sideroad (Aurora) to see progress of the changing landscapes. Everything is...

What’s up Aurora? Winter Blues or Politics?

Filmed at the Town Hall, Aurora, Ontario. This was a promotional appearance inside the Aurora Council chambers during the February 25th, 2014. It looked...

Where is the Forest? I Can’t See the Forest, Why?

Last week on the way home from Arctic Adventure at the Town Park we drove by the construction site near our home on St....

Sheppard’s Bush Winter Art, A Beautiful Day & Graffiti Discovered

Sheppard's Bush and good weather definitely go hand in hand. Today's winter weather was beautiful and appreciated by many. We all know how volatile...

Building Relationships with the Public

"Local governments must value and continuously invest in building relationships and true partnerships with the public." ~ Living In Aurora community FOCUS

Arctic Adventure 2014 Family Day at the Town Park in Aurora

This was another fun and sunny annual Arctic Adventure Family Day at the Town Park, February 17, 2014. Yes sunny! This was our third...

Town of Aurora Changing Landscapes – Experience Nature Or Who Hauled Nature Away?

Town of Aurora is inviting you to experience nature - or not? Definitely Aurora changing and is going through a major urban sprawl and...

Clear Bag Initiative Program, Some Aurora Residents Resist – Why?

The more I think about clear bags the clearer the picture I have about the clear bag green initiative program. Ideally this initiative makes...

What Wiarton Willie, Canada’s Leading Prognosticator, Slept Through This Winter?

Wiarton Willie, who is he anyway? What - a prognosticator groundhog, future weather-teller? I have not really paid attention to Wiarton Willie since I arrived...

Town of Aurora Municipal Elections 2014 – 9 Months To Do Your Due Diligence

The Town of Aurora Municipal Elections 2014 campaign is now in effect. Last week on January 21st, 2014 I attended the Town of Aurora...

Change Brings Opportunity

“Change brings opportunity.” ~ Nido Qubein

Residents Question Accessible Playground at Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Park

I was very surprised by some of the comments made by some of the residents at the Wednesday January 15th, 2014 public meeting for...

Perhaps Local Politics & History Part of the School Curriculum

Yep, local politics and history! I have an idea let’s try tipping a pyramid like object. Try it if you want to engage in...

Christmas Wish Poem 2013 by Elizabeth Hearn Milner

Dear Santa, my Christmas Wish: I know you’re very busy and you have a lot to do, but I havesome special Christmas wishes and I...

Woodland Pet Cemetery, Step Daughter of Victor Blochin Writes

By Rue Ford Strock. I am the step daughter of Major Victor Blochin. My mother Elizabeth Ann Blochin, Victor's second wife of many years....

The Joys of Thanksgiving

By Jenn Kelner, Aurora ON. What do you think of when you think of Thanksgiving? For children, it might be the thought of yummy...

Accessible Playground in Civic Park and Comments at the Council Chamber

By Tyler Barker, Aurora ON. Disclaimer - My name is Tyler Barker. I am a member of the Aurora accessibility advisory committee but my...

Town of Aurora Council Meeting, Look Around, Same People?

On April 9th, 2013 I attended the Town of Aurora council meeting for the first time. Prior to attending the meeting in person I...

Town of Aurora Council Meeting February 12, 2013 – Reporting From Town Hill

For those that regularly follow the Town of Aurora Council meetings the February 12th, 2013 meeting was anticipated to be an interesting one. Just...

Aurora, What You Hear Is True, Downtown Core Revitalization

The Town of Aurora has identified within the Yonge Wellington Downtown Core (YWDC) the old Library and Fire Hall properties on Victoria Street as...

Model of Inclusivity, Farley Flex Speaks on Community Engagement

The Aurora music and arts festival proposal was presented at the Town of Aurora Council meeting on January 22nd, 2013 by Farley Flex. If...

St. John’s Sideroad Road Widening and Reconstruction, 2004

Peter Cameron's pictures from 2004 of the St. Johns Sideroad reconstruction project certainly bring back memories. What was once a two lane, non illuminated,...

Aurora Cultural Services Agreement Approved, Cllr Abel

By Cllr John Abel, Aurora ON. On January 22, 2013 during the Town of Aurora Council meeting Council unanimously voted to support the Final...

Town of Aurora Council Meeting January 22, 2013 – Reporting From Town Hill

Welcome to our report from Town Hill for the Town of Aurora Council meeting held on January 22, 2013. This was the first council...

Postcards of Olde Aurora, Story How It All Came About

By Bob McRoberts, Author of Postcards of Olde Aurora, Aurora ON. My earliest memory of collecting cards is from grade 3. On my way home...

Canada Day 2002, George Browning House Still Standing

The Town of Aurora Canada Day Parade on July 2002 where the Browning house is still standing, photography provided by Peter Cameron. One hundred years...

Flu Season Worse Than Ever

It is official, the flu season is in effect and as my recovery from a sinus infection tipped over last night I am again...

documenting Aurora, A Sesquicentennial Legacy Project

‘documenting Aurora’ is a legacy project created with the purpose of capturing digital information about the ever changing Town of Aurora, Ontario beginning in...

Postcards of Olde Aurora, A Sesquicentennial Project

Sesquicentennial project for Aurora - a new book entitled Postcards of Olde Aurora has recently been published. The book contains over 100 images of the...

Aurora Downtown Revitalization, How to Attract People to the Downtown Core?

As tracts of land that are available to be built into new subdivisions shrink, many in the Town of Aurora wonder what is going...

Town of Aurora Council Items – Aurora Cultural Centre

The public has to be confident that the way Town Hall does business as a routine is serving them well, and that the public...

Town of Aurora Council Items – Aurora Downtown Revitalization

It has become apparent the downtown core of Aurora, specifically the Yonge Wellington Corridor has for years suffered neglect, decline and abandonment and needs...

Town of Aurora Council Items – Aurora Youth Centre

How much does the Aurora Youth Centre cost, is there funding, and what is the impact on residents tax rate? What is the Aurora Youth Centre,...

Elizabeth Milner’s Christmas 2012 Poem

Christmas Down the sweeping stretch of time it comesthrough eons of water, ice and fire.Scraped earth is sifted, covered with rubble and swamp,then prairie grasses,...

The SLAPP – We Will Not Be Silenced, Matt Maddocks

In light of Councillor Michael Thompson’s upcoming motion, I’d like to take this opportunity to offer my opinion on aspects of the SLAPP (Strategic...

Fleury Park Proposal – Bad Location for the Play House

On November 27th, 2012, Aurora Community Tennis Club (ACTC) along with selected residents asked for Council’s support of a Fleury Park Proposal that would see...

Aurora Council Meeting November 27, 2012 – Reporting From Town Hill

Welcome to our report from Town Hill for the Aurora Council meeting held on November 27, 2012. Although not full coverage, this is our...

Inclusivity is What Builds a Community, David Heard

David Heard was one of the speakers that participated in open forum during the October 23rd, 2012 Council Meeting. We thought it was worth noting his...

Cllr Evelyn Buck Dissaproves Draft New Agreement for ACC

On October 23, 2012 during council meeting at the Town Hall, the ACC draft new agreement for the provision of cultural services at the...

Town of Aurora Council Meetings October 23, 2012 – Reporting From Town Hill

Welcome to our first report from Town Hill for the Town of Aurora Council Meetings held on October 23, 2012. Although not full coverage, this...

Aurora Artifacts – 150 Years of Hidden Heritage

By Matt Maddocks. As we are about to head into a year-long celebration of Aurora’s 150th anniversary, recognition of our town's rich history has...

Living in Aurora, Great Town with Great Community Feel

By Andrew Fogliato, Aurora ON. Thinking of moving to and living in Aurora, Ontario but not sure what it’s like? Located a short drive...

Reporting from Town Hill, Introduction to Town Hall Aurora Council Meetings Highlight

We would like to introduce a new post series on our Town Politics focus page - highlights from Aurora Council Meetings 'Reporting From Town...

Hillary House Ball – Preserving Our Heritage

By Matt Maddocks. On Friday October 19th, 2012, a Hillary House Ball fundraiser is taking place at The Mansion in Aurora. This event is...

Music Scene in Aurora – Local Aurora Talent Showcase

By John Abel. Let me write about local Aurora talent today. Each community has it’s own unique identity. Subtle, between neighboring communities, but as...

Responsibility Versus Rhetoric – Your Aurora Town Council

By Matt Maddocks. After the municipal election in 2010, do you ever check in on your elected representatives to see if they are living...

Living in Aurora – Trick or Treat? Yes, We Moved Here on Halloween Night

It was Halloween night nineteen ninety seven when we moved to Aurora, Ontario and we have been living in Aurora ever since – same...

Aurora Jazz+ Festival 2012, The Politics, Part 2

By John Abel, Aurora ON. On Saturday (Aug 4, 2012) the busiest day of the festival, the organizers of the Aurora Jazz+ Festival 2012...

The Politics of Culture, Two Weeks on Two Wheels

By Matt Maddocks. I’m heading out for a much anticipated 2 week solo motorcycle excursion to the east coast, two weeks on two wheels....

Aurora Jazz+ Festival 2012, The Event Observations, Part 1

By John Abel, Aurora ON. Aurora’s Historic Town Park was the venue for the Aurora Jazz+ Festival 2012 for the 4th straight year. For...

Doors Open Aurora – Swans and Freedom Fighters

By Matt Maddocks. Recently I attended two of the many Doors Open Aurora events. I went to visit Harry Lumsden's home/trumpeter swan sanctuary/Eden in Aurora....

Aurora Stories of Yesterday, History of Aurora and Its Ordinary People

The Town of Aurora is a very interesting community. Very rich in culture, history and surrounded by beautiful nature. However Aurora is ever changing...

The Ice Man – 1947, Poem by Elizabeth Hearn Milner

The Ice Man Soft air, wine sweet with heady, floral scent,slippery seeds of watermelon season,sidewalks fry-an-egg sizzling hot,and then came the ice wagon. Mr. Case, on...

Aurora Cultural Centre, the Tail That Wags the Dog?

By Matt Maddocks. The last council meeting before “summer break” was interesting, to say the least. Is it just me, or does anyone else...

Cllr Evelyn Buck Remembers Canada Day Celebrations

During the Aurora Council Meeting on June 12, 2012, options were being discussed for organizing and budgeting next year's 2013 Canada Day celebrations as...

Town of Aurora Municipal Government 2010-2014, How Much Do You Know

Town of Aurora municipal government introduction. It's often hard to tell how much the average person follows government politics at least the municipal government....

Who Was Mrs. Capstick, Pet Cemetery, Part V

I know that I have not written much about Victor Blochin since his wife Anne Elizabeth Blochin, maiden name Wilson, was always on the...

People Behind The Pet Cemetery, Mrs. Anne Elizabeth Blochin, Part IV

Some sources are telling me that there is a possibility that the overgrown pet cemetery was owned by Kennel Inn in Aurora, and now...

About Canada’s Only Pet Cemetery In Aurora, Finally, Part III

Happy Woodlawn (Woodland) was the Canada's first and only pet cemetery situated here Aurora, Ontario. It was privately own by Mr. and Mrs. Victor...

Happy Woodlawn Pet Cemetery, Dog Ghost Stories, Part II

It was the Forgotten Mysteries 1947 book by R. Dewitt Miller that I stumbled upon and the local article to connect the two to find out...

Pet Cemetery, Not Just Aurora’s But Canada’s First, Part I

Happy Woodlawn is the name of the Canada's first pet cemetery located here in Town of Aurora, Ontario. Where exactly? Some of us do...