This statue of William Lyon Mackenzie King was unveiled during the 150th anniversary celebrations at Kitchener-Waterloo Collegiate and Vocational School in 2005. King was a student here from 1887-1891 and went on to be the longest-serving Prime Minister in the Commonwealth as he led the Liberal party in power for 22 years. The school opened in 1855 and after a few moves opened at its current location in 1876.

We plan to stop blogging on An Insider’s Guide to Waterloo Region with this post. There are 492 photo posts of Waterloo Region which reflect its natural beauty and social diversity.

Gasoline prices are now 60% higher than when I started this blog and I no longer drive home from work taking detours to Cambridge, Waterloo or the townships. I plan to focus on more energy efficient endeavours including a new volunteering venture in downtown Kitchener. Perhaps I will write about that some day. Thanks to all who followed and commented on this blog. It will remain public for the time being.

McLennan Park, Kitchener

The newest sculptures in the City of Kitchener are far more interesting than the infamous “worm” in front of the courthouse on Frederick Street. The Pedestrian on the parking garage at Charles and Benton Streets is easily understood as is this new art in McLennan Park on Ottawa Street in Kitchener. The park officially opens tomorrow and the festivities and events are detailed here.

(McLennan Park , 901 Ottawa St. South, on Saturday, Aug. 13, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

Title: Moments
Year: 2011
Artist: Gerry Houghton
Medium: Aluminum
“Moments”, the new public art work at McLennan Park, is a 5-metre tall aluminum sculpture. Four figures are grouped together: cyclist, skateboarder, walker, and ice skater, to celebrate the spirit of recreation at McLennan Park.

St. Jacob's Farmers Market

Fresh local produce is abundant now at our local farmers markets in Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge. There are several farm stores in the region as well local farm products for sale at farm lanes. Foodlink Waterloo Region’s website provides up to date information on shopping from farmers in our area.

The Record featured an article a couple of weeks ago about a Kitchener teenager, Claire Matlock, who is following the 100 Mile Diet for 18 months. Her blog is inspiring as she writes about finding and preparing local foods. Do stop and check out Cooking with Claire and make an effort to buy some fresh local food this weekend.

A lone man practiced his bagpipes at dusk at Waterloo Park. Fortunately he was very good and we sat on a bench and listened to the tunes.