What’s so hard about following the rules? They’re not just there for fun.
You probably already know that my biggest pet peeve in Aurora is people not following the rules. There are signs for everything around here. The classic “No Dumping” sign with a pile of trash is everywhere. And I think the “No Idling Cars” sign is new because I saw a lady sitting in her car in front of the Aurora Public Library for over five minutes. Sometimes, I wonder if she knows she can listen to music in her car without wasting gas.
One time, Matthew and I caught a whiff of cigarette smoke in the same area. I still laugh at his innocent question, “Mom, who’s BBQing chicken?” or “Why are people smoking sticks?” It’s funny how little things like that stick with you, especially when they make you realize how much more people could be mindful of their surroundings.
When the Nokiidaa Trail Link boardwalk off St. John’s Sideroad was initially constructed, various activities were allowed, including feeding ducks and biking. However, over time, a sign prohibiting the feeding of ducks was added to the railing. Unfortunately, this sign quickly faded due to prolonged exposure to UV sunlight, making it harder for people to notice and follow the new rule.
Recently, swinging gates were installed along the boardwalk, clearly indicating to bicycle riders that they must dismount and walk their bikes. Despite the prominent signage, many individuals continue to ride their bicycles on the boardwalk. It’s perplexing how one can overlook a sign that is positioned directly in their line of sight.
However, a few weeks ago, there was a noticeable shift in behaviour. People were adhering to the rules, with each passerby respectfully walking their bicycle beside them. The sudden change in compliance was unexpected. Perhaps it was due to the absence of a gate on the north side of the boardwalk, or maybe it was a new awareness that made people more mindful of the space and the rules. Either way, it was a positive sign—literally and figuratively.
I was pleased to witness the successful implementation of rules and regulations, with people of all ages adhering to them. It was a refreshing sight, and I felt optimistic about the positive shift in behaviour. However, my optimism was shattered when an individual decided to ride a motorcycle on the boardwalk.
In Aurora, there are certain things that aren’t allowed, and recently, I noticed something that caught my attention. Someone had left a big pile of mulch or wood chips in the parking lot near Fleury Park. While I was watching my son, Matthew, have a blast at his play-ball class on a Saturday morning, I saw a little boy climbing on the pile of mulch.
Although it wasn’t the best idea to leave such a pile unattended in a public space, I was relieved to see that the boy’s parent was keeping a close eye on him.
COMMENTS
Max Coutinho said: August 8, 2012 at 14:02
“Hey Anna, Yes, people have always the need to transgress – look at the Bible (God commanded a lot of things and His people seemed to enjoy transgressing). Unfortunately, it is human nature. I agree with you that the motorised vehicle should not be allowed in the trail – and perhaps the sign doesn’t include motorised vehicles because its author never thought someone would be so reckless to the point of driving a MV up the trail. Your pictures are making a difference. How do you feel? Cheers”
Peter said: August 11, 2012 at 11:32
“Anna, you must have gone to the boardwalk on a good day. I find that at best 1 in 10 cyclists will dismount and walk across the boardwalk. Today, a group of eight read the sign (out loud) and only one of the group walked her bike. I saw two people get hit by bikes last summer and I’ve heard of one this summer and seen a handful of near misses. When I’ve pointed out to cyclists that they are supposed to walk, I usually get some kind of verbal abuse: “call a cop you $!@$#~@$”. Some have offered reasons for not obeying the sign: “It doesn’t apply to me.” “It’s not a bylaw.” “I’m going slowly.” For other pictures of people who won’t obey the sign or possibly can’t read: http://www.flickr.com/groups/2036699@N22/ Peter.”
Anna Lozyk Romeo said: August 11, 2012 at 20:03
“Peter, yes, it was a good day that day. Like you, I also have my fair share of bad days from previous experiences. I’m surprised by some of the responses you’re getting—immature, for sure. I really believe the town should be enforcing the rules more strictly, and that sign should have been there from the very beginning. Another thing people don’t realize is that motorized vehicles cause more damage to the boardwalk or, at the very least, accelerate its deterioration. Peter, your images are fantastic—thanks for sharing them. Hopefully, things will change for the better!”
Peter said: August 12, 2012 at 10:12
“Some Sunday morning excuses for not dismounting and walking bikes on the boardwalk: “I just had foot surgery.” – she dismounted after getting off the boardwalk and walked her bike up the hill. “I’m going to kill someone?” “I can’t walk in these shoes.”
Anna Lozyk Romeo said: August 14, 2012 at 13:01
“Peter, classic responses. I went on the boardwalk yesterday, and you are right that one day was my good day. I also noticed that there is a sign stating no motorized vehicles near the bridge (Newmarket/Aurora).”
