Procession Trail Open and Kaul Clay Riot Memorial Dedication

Join us on June 6, 2025 as we dedicate an informative marker to the memory of Andy Lastivka, the sole fatality of a battle for the rights of union workers at the local Kaul clay-pipe factory. We will also be opening a new trail built on the remnants of the former access road used by locals to carry their loved ones to their final resting places at the Toronto Union Cemetery. The event will begin at 3PM, with shuttle service available from downtown beginning at 2 PM. The festivities will be held at the trail head located just below the city water department and reservoir. Following the event, there will be a meet-and-greet at The Last Resort, a marina located on the Ohio River at the city’s north end.

 

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Itinerary

2:00 – 3:00 PM
Guest Arrival & Shuttle Transport

  • Shuttles will run continuously from the designated parking area to the event site.
  • Welcome volunteers will assist with directions and accessibility needs.
  • Light refreshments available at the arrival area.

3:00 PM
Opening Remarks & Dedication Ceremony Begins

  • Emcee Welcome & Acknowledgement of Guests

3:10 PM
Historical Context

  • Remarks by Bob Petras, Local Historian
    • Overview of the trail’s original use as a funeral route
    • The story of Andy Lastivka and the 1935 Kaul Clay Strike

3:25 PM
Memorial Reflection

  • Dedication by Beth Fulton, Reverend, Healer, and Nature Advocate
    • Honoring the memory of Andy Lastivka and the workers’ movement

3:35 PM
Organizational Remarks

  • Speech by J. David Core, President of Hike Toronto
    • The vision behind preserving and marking this historic trail

3:45 PM
Community Acknowledgments

  • Remarks by John Parker, Mayor of Toronto
  • Recognition of the Lastivka family and invited guests

4:00 PM
Memorial Sign Unveiling & Ribbon Cutting

  • Unveiling of the Andy Lastivka memorial sign
  • Ribbon cutting to formally dedicate the Procession Trail

4:15 – 5:00 PM
Trail Walk & Gravesite Visit (Optional)

  • Guests are invited to:
    • Walk the newly dedicated trail at their leisure
    • Visit Andy Lastivka’s gravesite with guided or self-directed access
  • Shuttles will begin return service to the parking area on a rolling basis

5:30 – 7:00 PM

Post-Event Meet & Greet
Location: The Last Resort, Marina/Restaurant

  • Hosted gathering with light refreshments, the restaurant can accommodate with dinner for those so inclined.
  • Opportunity to meet speakers, historian, and the Lastivka family
  • Casual reflection and fellowship after the ceremony

Additional Notes

  • Accessible seating and mobility support are not available on-site. Lawn chairs are encouraged.
  • There are no restrooms on site, but are available afterward at the marina.
  • Please dress appropriately for trail walking and weather conditions.
  • Guests should park in the city lot at the corner of Daniels and Findley St. Shuttle Service will pick you up and return you to this location.