Canadian astronaut Roberta Bondar is one of the latest Canadians who will join Canada’s Walk of Fame.
The Walk of Fame is, literally, a set of sidewalk tiles with the names of famous Canadians set into them. It’s along King Street and Simcoe Street in downtown Toronto.
But much more importantly, the Walk of Fame is a symbol for excellence. Each sidewalk tile represents someone Canadians value highly for their artistry, intelligence, innovation or service to our country.
They are people who have somehow influenced Canada in the areas of: music, film, television, sports, science, innovation, literature, theatre or the visual arts.
This year, the people who will be included in the Walk of Fame are:
* Roberta Bondar, a famous Canadian astronaut;
* Burton Cummings, a musician;
* Stand-up comedian Russell Peters;
* Tennis star Daniel Nestor;
* Actor Ryan Reynolds;
* Actress Sandra Oh; and
* Author Mordecai Richler
All Canadians can submit names to be nominated for the Walk of Fame. Those names are then whittled down to a number of finalists, and the winners are chosen by a selection committee.
Each winner will have his or her name, and a “star,” embedded in a sidewalk tile. They will also be honoured at a celebration gala on Oct. 1.
Related Link
This media release from Canada’s Walk of Fame gives a terrific synopsis of the career highlights of each of this year’s inductees.
Writing/Discussion Prompt
Think of a Canadian who you think deserves a star on the Walk of Fame. Draw a picture of the star and include two reasons why you think they think they should get a star.
“They are people who have somehow influenced Canada in the areas of: music, film, television, sports, science, innovation, literature, theatre or the visual arts.”
