A day of solo sightseeing in Wrocław revealed everything from Poland’s new household survival guide to UNESCO-listed Centennial Hall, colourful housing, extensive cycling infrastructure, and riverfront scenery. Highlights included a university cable car, historic architecture, neon art, and complete streets before a final dinner with Alina ahead of Berlin.
Author Archives: lisastokes66
I am Cautiously Optimistic– Delegation to Brampton Council Against Another Bike Lane Removal
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I AM LIVID – Delegation to Brampton Council Against Another Bike Lane Removal
Brampton Council has voted to remove bike infrastructure again — part of a growing pattern. The removals are accelerating, alongside a broader political environment increasingly hostile to active transportation.
In January, Council voted against staff recommendations and removed one of only three protected cycling corridors in Brampton: Howden Boulevard. Despite months of staff work, public consultation, surveys, and multiple compromise options, councillors rejected every alternative and restored the road to four traffic lanes — even though staff warned it would worsen safety and encourage speeding.
Yesterday, my message to Council was simple: I am livid. Livid that Brampton continues to prioritize free car storage and traffic capacity over safe transportation choices. Livid that decisions are being driven by hyperbole and motornormativity instead of evidence and endorsed plans. And livid that a 15-year-old cyclist understands the value of protected bike lanes better than many elected officials.
If residents who support cycling infrastructure stay silent, these removals will continue. Council repeatedly claims they only hear from angry drivers and “the same handful of cyclists.” That needs to change. The future of cycling in Brampton depends on people speaking up now.
Lily Cheng Community Ride – 2026
More than 120 cyclists and three dogs joined Toronto Councillor Lily Cheng’s third community ride from Willowdale to the Port Lands. The 25 km route highlighted Toronto’s trails, cycling infrastructure, and gaps in safe connections, while bringing together riders of all ages for a welcoming day of advocacy, community, and unexpected weather.
Europe 2026 – Day 17 – Wroclaw
Wrocław’s layers of history unfolded throughout the day — from communist-era protest dwarves and martial law symbolism to restored churches, fortifications, and riverside promenades. Along the way, we enjoyed Michelin-reviewed breakfast, renowned ice cream, panoramic tower views, and stories from Alina’s childhood and longtime friend, Krystyna.
Europe 2026 – Day 16 – Wroclaw
A relaxed morning led to groceries and errands at a Carrefour-anchored mall. After eSIM delays, we rode a short local route past Park Mamuta and a striking Polish Soldiers’ Cemetery. As evening hunger set in, we opted for pierogies, feeling rested and ready for tomorrow’s Michelin-listed breakfast outing.
Europe 2026 – Day 15 – Wroclaw
After a late start, Alina and I cycled to an ethnographic exhibit of decorated eggs and palms, then met her friends. I explored Rynek, admired historic architecture and sculptures, and noted the city’s strong cycling and transit networks there
Europe 2026 – Day 14 – Amsterdam to Wroclaw
We packed up, said goodbye to friends, and took a canal tour highlighting Amsterdam’s iconic sites, including the Dancing Houses and Magere Brug. After coffee at a historic pub, we stored luggage, visited the Holocaust memorial, and caught a packed train to Schiphol before an uneventful flight to Wroclaw, arriving late.
Europe 2026 – Day 13 – Haarlem – Amsterdam
The group set off together toward Haarlem, following a custom route to avoid a longer ride. After briefly losing two riders, we reunited near a wartime memorial. The day included windmills, and a visit to Haarlem’s historic centre, before returning to Amsterdam for an evening walking tour.
Europe 2026 – Day 12 – Keukenhof
We had a relaxed morning before traveling from Amsterdam to Keukenhof, where vast, colourful gardens drew heavy crowds. Despite limited time, we explored extensively, admired stunning displays, and appreciated the park’s organization before returning, with a brief preview of Haarlem.