Submitted by Ken Hirter
As the Holidays and a new year are on the horizon, l would like to give thanks. Thanks to the shopkeepers and the community, from the groups, volunteers and those who make a difference in Hamilton and here in the North End. This holiday season support the small businesses in your neighborhood.
The Walkabout 2022 Calendar
JANUARY: THE BARD AND BEAR GAMES CAFE
237 James Street North, (905) 523-0739
Motto: “To Bring People Together At The Table” {Steven & Megan}
“Make it a game night or purchase a game for a great gift idea”
FEBRUARY: LOLA LATIN GROGERY
245 James Street North, (289) 246-9696
Motto: ” Mi Casa es tu Casa” translation: ” My house is your house” or “Make yourself at home” {Veronica & Jasmin}
Make a festive holiday meal for friends and family or visit their restaurant Mesa Authentic Mexican food at 255 James Street North.
MARCH: SARIKNOTSARI
228 James Street North, (289) 389-4353
“SARIKNOTSARI for ethical gifts, artisanal and sustainable fashion, vibrant colors and inclusive sizing” {Priya Mohan}
Give the gift of beautiful fashion & more.
APRIL: THE MARKET GENERAL STORE
(inside the Farmers’ Market at 35 York Blvd.) www.jamesnorthgs.com
MOTTO: “Local First” {Darren Kregar}
For food or for cool unique gift ideas. Also visit their home store, James North General Store (JNGS) 95 James Street North.
MAY: OUR CORNER BAR & GRILL
495 James Street North, (905) 535-0584
Motto: “Because they’re just like family and built on friendship” {Darlene Billingsley} Northender of the Year 2021. ” Make it an Our Corner Night”
JUNE: HAMILTON PUBLIC LIBRARY BOOKMOBILE “The Little Library on Wheels”
450 Hughson St North. (parking lot) Every Thursday between 4.30 to 5.30 pm.
“Cuddle up to a good book or movie to go.”
JULY: THE LIGHTHOUSE FISHMARKET
219 James Street North (905) 777-0774
The flavors of Italy & Portugal all under one roof.
The Christmas season brings back the traditional live eels and codfish.
SEPTEMBER and OCTOBER: THE WELCOME INN COMMUNITY CENTER FOODBANK
40 Wood Street (905) 525- 5824
Motto: “Wherever you are be all there”, “It takes a Village to build a Community” {Barb Brow} Foodbank Manager
“Working towards justice for all recognizing that access to nutritious food is a basic right and a great social connection.” {Welcome Inn Community Center)
“Diversity and Inclusiveness for All” “The best gift you can give is food, love and company.” {Krista Rowe, Foodbank & Program Co-ordinator}
Donations of food and/or cash are always welcome.
NOVEMBER: COMPASS COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER (SENIORS KITCHEN)
438 Hughson Street North (905) 523-6611 Ext: 3006 {Leah Janzen, Community Development and Food Security Specialist}
Quote: “Food is not just fuel. Food is about identity and nourish all things where we eat well.” {Michael Pollard}
Prepare a meal to take home for the Holidays. (Open to Seniors 55+)
Food and/or a grocery gift card for the Community Fridge is appreciated.
It is the people, places and things that really do make a difference.
” A big shout to those who made my Walkabout throughout the year an educational, memorable and a wonderful experience.”
Happy Christmas and Cheers as we say goodbye to 2022 and hello to 2023. Till next year take care.
