This week, Canadian literature and the first ever I Read Canadian Day, a look at ballroom dancing and getting outside your comfort zone and more cool events to keep you warm.
In this weeks newsletter I let you know about five things that interested me and I thought may be of interest to you too.
- I read Canadian literature. On February 19, 2020, the new initiative, the first-ever I Read Canadian Day will take place. It is a day that brings awareness and empowerment to young readers and celebrates the richness, diversity and breadth of who we are as a country, within the pages of our books. During my early morning 10k step walk, I noticed the Little Free Library (pictured above), a new initiative for my neighbourhood. So great!
- A Million Dreams! A fabulous ballroom experience inspired by the hit movie, “The Greatest Showman” that is how I spent my Sunday evening. I think everyone should take up ballroom dancing. Thank you to Adrianna, my daughter, for encouraging me to witness this event. The show had everything, a three course meal, a dance party, professional ballroom dancers and fantastic musicians. My favourite moment of the evening came at the very end, the “Thank You” to the guests, sponsors and performers by the featured artist and co-hostess, Patricia Vdovine. Patricia spoke of celebrating our differences, believing in yourself, chasing your dreams and above all — never giving up.
Boris and Patricia Vdovine Ballroom Dancing - This free event, Toronto Light Festival, my featured photo (courtesy of the festival) running from January 18th to March 3rd, taking place at the Distillery District and features 20 installations from local and international artists. The price is right, Free and it looks like a fun family event. If Toronto is out of range for you perhaps a Festival in New York? The New York Winter Jazz Festival with over 100 artists and happening this week, from the 9th to the 18th of January.
- I have been listening to a young Spanish vocalist who also plays trumpet and alto saxophone, her name, Andrea Motis. A super talented musician, catch her in this 2019 appearance https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YfnSGiKLG7s.
- I spent some time in Brazil in 2013 and travelled by plane and car through different cities and provinces. Our travels brought us into contact with some great people and we made friends in Brazil who we remain close with to this day. One person who acted as our guide, translator and friend was the artist Marquinhos de Olinda. I found out this week that he passed away. Rest In Peace my dear friend, thank you for the gift of your friendship and for your excellent art.
Wood carvings by Marquinhos de Olinda Thanks for reading. If you like what you’ve read forward this to someone you think will enjoy it. Remember to check out my book, Samba on a Snowy Day available at your favourite book store. A fun children’s book for children to read to adults or the other way around. Check out my blog, follow the link, sign in. Get the weekly newsletter in your inbox, no spam I promise. Copyright © 2020 Paul Yanuziello, All rights reserved.
