Gord Edgar Downie Pier officially opens

The Gord Edgar Downie Pier was officially opened at a dedication ceremony last Thursday, following a $6.6 million revitalization.

In front of a large crowd, Tragically Hip frontman Gord Downie’s brother, Patrick Downie, gave an emotional speech dedicating the project to his late brother and father.

“This waterfront was our front yard. It was our playground and our sanctuary,” Downie said.

Mayor Brian Paterson, Kingston & the Islands MP Mark Gerretsen, members of the Tragically Hip and the Downie family also attended the dedication.

 “The vision behind this project, from the beginning, was to take what was always a wonderful waterfront park and transform it into something spectacular, to transform it into a space that sets the standard for what a 21st Century urban waterfront park could be,” Paterson said, addressing the crowd.

The Gord Edgar Downie Pier is now equipped with a sand beach, a bridge connecting the mainland to the pier, pebble wading beach and shoreline.

The opening of the pier marks the completion of the past year’s Breakwater Park revitalization project.

Innovation & Wellness Centre to be named Mitchell Hall

After a donation from a Queen’s engineering alum, the University has announced the new name of the Innovation and Wellness Centre (IWC).

The IWC, set to open in September, will officially be called Mitchell Hall. According to the University, “Mitchell Hall signs will soon be visible around the building’s exterior.”

The project, a joint effort between Queen’s and the provincial and federal governments, is located on the corner of Union Street and Division Street, at the site of the former Physical Education Centre.

In early 2019, the University will open two more phases of the building, the Côté Sharp Student Wellness Centre and the Beaty Water Research Centre, in addition to the building’s upper floors.

The building is set to feature athletics resources, and “innovation hub” and engineering research labs and classrooms.

AMS Human Resources Director resigns

In an email statement last Monday, AMS President Miguel Martinez announced the society’s Human Resources Director, Carla Namkung, has resigned effective immediately.

“I want to thank Carla for all of the tremendous work she has done for us since beginning her employment at the AMS,” Martinez wrote.

Applications for a new director closed on July 29.

Police confirm sexual assault investigation in University District

Kingston Police have confirmed an investigation into a sexual assault reported in the University District around 5 p.m. on July 4.

The alleged incident took place at the intersection of Alfred Street and Earl Street. Kingston Police say the investigation is still active and that detectives are working the case.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, Barb Lotan, the Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Coordinator, offers non-emergency support by helping you understand your options, assessing possible next steps and connecting you to services you wish to access. Phone: 613-533-6330. Email: Bjl7@queensu.ca
Location: B502 Mackintosh-Corry Hall, Human Rights Hallway