Milton Villager Magazine Volume 1, Issue 9 - June 2013 www.MiltonVillager.com Additional bonus content and photos available online
If you would like to advertise in Milton Villager email rick@dilorenzo.com Publisher - Rick Di Lorenzo, rick@dilorenzo.com Photographers - Ann Kornuta, Denise Cooperwhite Reporters - Stuart Service, Laura Steiner, Anshul Sharma and Elizabeth Kogan Cover Photo: Salvatore Lizzi and Joseph Commisso Printed in Canada. All rights reserved. Opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily that of the publisher and no liability is assumed for omissions or errors Follow us on Facebook at http://facebook.com/MiltonVillager A community oriented magazine showcasing local news and events, the Milton Villager Magazine is available at these fine local businesses Grocery stores: Metro, Food Port, Real Canadian Super Store, Kabul Fine Foods, La Rose Bakery Food: Hero Burger, Pizza Nova, Troys Diner, Coffee Culture, Heritage Fish and Chips, Symposium, Shoeless Joe’s, Portabello’s, Bombay Grill, Mama Mila’s Cafe, Quiznos, Cafe Zauq Recreation: Milton Sports Centre, Leisure Centre, Milton Centre for the Arts, Making Waves Swim School Shopping: Milton Mall, Home Hardware, Staples
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HAMBURGER HELPERS Photos by Stuart Service and Ann Kornuta
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olunteers and staff at Milton’s two Milton M&M Meat Shops locations at 420 Main St E and 81 James Snow Pkwy were participants among the Canadian company’s 25th-annual nationwide Charity Barbecue Day on May 11.
For a minimum $3 donation to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of Canada (CCFC), customers received a hamburger, peach drink and a bag of chips. The company has raised $24.3 million for the CCFC over the past 25 years.
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ouncillor Cindy Lunau invited the Milton Villager to attend the Milton Youth Advisory Committee Youth Friendly Recognition Breakfast on May 11. The recognition breakfast was an opportunity for the town to thank the wonderful youth of Milton for their involvement within the community. The third-annual event featured Mayor Krantz and Councillors Zeeshan Hamid, Colin Best and Cindy Lunau, the latter of whom is the councillor appointee for MYAC. “You just don’t think about yesterday; it’s gone. You don’t think about now, because it’s right here. You think about tomorrow, it’s for our future.” –Mayor Krantz The ceremony kicked off with two special guest speakers. The first was Dasha Metropolitansky, who addressed the crowd with an outstanding speech on a topic very relevant to the moment: giving speeches. She discussed the anxiety that comes with public speaking, relating that giving speeches had been one of her biggest fears. She conquered it by taking the bull by the horns and making herself feel comfortable in uncomfortable situations. The second special guest, a gentleman by the name of Sean Mauricette, aka “Subliminal,” is an extremely talented beat boxer, hip hop emcee, poet and actor, among other vocations. He inspired all of us to pursue our dreams and to really dedicate our time to doing what we love. His path exemplifies why we should focus not on pursuing money but on pursuing our interests; a source of income will come if we follow our dreams.
Morsette has performed with Mos Def, has been featured on CBC radio and has even designed a one-of-a-kind support center for young fathers. Mauricette feels a never-dying passion and uses it to help the community and other individuals, giving back to his origins. “If there is something you like to do, be proud of it; you never know where it might take you. If you do something you like to do every day of your life, you will never work a day in your life. It just doesn’t feel like work.” –Sean Mauricette, aka “Subliminal”. Both speakers delivered moving words at the conference. They motivated me to get up off the sofa and be productive––to conquer my fears and strive to achieve my dreams. By Anshul Sharma
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Recognition Breakfast
Milton Villager
Milton Youth Advisory Committee
Milton Firefighters
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Milton Lends a Helping Hand:
21ST ANNUAL GOOD NEIGHBOURS COMMUNITY DAY By Elizabeth Kogan | Photos by Len Lee
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he cool, crisp morning air soon turned warm and inviting––a perfect symbol honouring the Milton Good Neighbours Community Day on May 4, 2013. A twenty-one-year-old tradition, Good Neighbours Community Day has a simple yet extremely powerful objective: to lend a helping hand. Held on the first Saturday of each May, volunteers gather together to help those within our community who are unable to perform tasks such as washing windows, digging gardens and planting flowers. In addition, volunteers help clean up riverbeds, roadsides, parkland and Milton town sites. The RCMP also provides assistance with the distribution of fruit and refreshments. Lee, one of the community day founders, spoke with the Milton Villager the morning of the event, noting that a record number of volunteers––500, up from 450 volunteers in 2012––were expected to come out and show their pride and support for the community. Volunteers are recruited from the town of Milton, local secondary schools and youth organizations including Girl Guides, Brownies, Scouts, Air Cadets and many more. “Fifty-seven cleanup sites,” Lee explained, “have been chosen throughout Milton. The town of Milton will later collect the waste bags from the sites.”
Permeating the air was the tempting waft of the delicious Rotary Club BBQ breakfast and Tim Hortons’ hot coffee and hot chocolate. The event kickoff was truly a feast for the sensations. Upbeat music boomed as people milled about smiling and laughing, sneaking in nibbles of their barbecue bacon buns. “It’s a wonderful show!” Lynne Handy, a volunteer, exclaimed as she came over to congratulate Lee on the event. First-time volunteers, seven year-old Meghan, a Brownie, and her mother Karen were also extremely thrilled to be a part of the action. Meghan burst out with an enthusiastic, “I’m so excited!” The Milton Villager also had a moment to talk with Mayor Gordon Krantz about the event, “It’s about a community connecting and coming together for a great and worthwhile cause. Spring tends to bring out goodness, and this May morning is perfect. In the twenty-one years since this event began, I haven’t missed it once.” A few minutes later, the riveted crowd listened as Mayor Krantz took the microphone and introduced Len Lee, who expressed his gratitude for the many organizations, such as the Rotary Club and Tim Hortons, for their stalwart support. As Lee handed the microphone back to Mayor Krantz, the mayor announced that it was Lee’s birthday and led the crowd in a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday,” presenting Lee with a
candlelit Timbit. “Not bad, gang,” the mayor told the crowd after the singing ended. The mayor also remarked on Lee’s steadfast dedication to the event, joking that despite it being his birthday, he was in attendance. As the crowd made their way to begin work at their sites, the energy was undeniable and the message clear: Milton Good Neighbours Community Day brings out the very best in our town.
Corinne Amyotte, Derek Rendell, Marc and Kate Handy
Milton Rotary members Tina Mbinda and Rick Saxby
Karen Viloria-Miguel with Meghan
Town of Milton 2014 Budget Survey Now Open Members of the Milton community are invited to provide input into the programs, service levels and priorities for the 2014 Operating & Capital budgets, through an online survey. The results of the survey will provide information to Town of Milton staff for consideration in preparing the 2014 budgets, including satisfaction with levels of service, recommendations for new services or elimination of existing services, and level of support for property tax increases. The survey will be available from May 28 to June 28, 2013 on http://www.milton.ca (look for 2014 Budget Survey) or go to http://bit.ly/16n4g2w (case sensitive) to be redirected directly to the budget survey page
Bishop Reding Players Deliver a Platinum Performance of
Legally Blonde: The Musical Council 8 | Milton Villager
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n May 3 at the Milton Centre for the Arts, the Bishop Reding Players introduced Legally Blonde: The Musical to a packed Mattamy Theatre.
The musical, adapted from the motion picture and novel released in 2001, follows the coming-of-age story of Elle Woods, played by Bishop Reding Secondary School student, Alysia Gouveia. Ms. Woods’ relationship drama plays out in a musical number entitled “Serious,” in which Elle is dumped by her well-dressed, preppy boyfriend. Warner Hunington III, played by BR student Tyler Boulanger, abruptly severs his relationship with Elle soon after he finds out he has been accepted into Harvard Law School.
While Elle works through her subsequent emotional distress, her friends convene on stage to talk trash about Warner. Before her friends can console and reassure Elle that plenty of fish are in the sea, Elle decides she wants to keep tabs on Warner’s post-college lifestyle by attending Harvard Law School as well. BR’s Legally Blonde was an impressive showcase for the Mattamy Theatre’s audio equipment. Each member of the thirty-student cast wore a headset microphone while dancing and belting out vocals in ensembles and solos. Gouveia codirected the musical with fellow drama student, Tumelo Drametu, who plays Elle’s encouraging college pal, Emmett Forrest. Emmett teaches Elle some badly needed selfawareness as well as how to thrive as an Ivy League student. Tremendous amounts of work, combined with an enthusiastic cast of performers, made Legally Blonde: The Musical a fun, flamboyant and satisfying way to spend a Friday night. By Stuart Service | Photos by Ann Kornuta
During the song “Serious,” Elle Woods, performed by Bishop Redding student Alysia Gouveia, who directed the BR Players’ Legally Blonde: The Musical, is enjoying a nice dinner with her boyfriend Warner Hunington III, played by Tyler Boulanger. The dinner starts with the good news: Warner tells Elle he just got accepted into the Harvard law program. The bad news is that their evening ended with Warner dumping Elle.
Elle’s girlfriends catch wind of the break up and, while convening to talk trash about Warner, find a candy bar wrapper allegedly purchased and inhaled by their now scornful friend
Elle’s girlfriends are super excited for their friend and her date tonight with Warner Hunington III, expressed during Legally Blonde: The Musical’s opening song: “Omigod you guys.” Elle meets Paulette Buonofonte, the lively hairstylist played by BR student Trystin Young, and then complains about her ex boyfriend seeing another girl.
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Against all odds, Elle is admitted into Harvard law. A celebration ensues before Elle will attend the same law school as Warner, and be able to keep accurate notes on what her ex is up to.
Happy McHappy Day Story and Photos by Stuart Service
The Milton District Hospital Foundation and the Hamilton Ronald McDonald House’s fundraising efforts were boosted during McDonalds’ nationwide “McHappy Day” on May 8. “One dollar from the purchase of a Big Mac, Happy Meal or McCafe hot beverage is going directly towards one of the two charities today from our location,” said Milton McDonalds franchisee Jennifer Antolin, adding that the company raised $8 million last year—$8,100 of which was raised by Milton’s two restaurants. “The goal today is, obviously, to do better than that,” Antolin said. “It’s a fun day.” Grateful for McDonalds’ support is Brian Penman, chair of the Milton District Hospital Foundation Board of Directors, who highlighted the foundation’s responsibility to raise the funds that purchase the hospital’s healthcare equipment. “Every time we hire a new physician, or a surgeon, or a doctor, there is specialized equipment they require to be successful,” Penman said. “So, days like today, and the tremendous history McDonalds has had in the realm of charity and giving, are so critical.” Penman then turned to Antolin, saying, “And we appreciate it more than you’ll ever know.”
Milton District Hospital Foundation Chair Brian Penman and Jennifer Antolin, owner of the Milton McDonalds at Hwy. 25 and Market Dr.
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Milton Spring
By Anshul Sharma
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Photos by Denise Cooperwhite
FASHION SHOW O
n Friday, April 26, I once again found myself at the foot of the escarpment with my jaw (wide) open, admiring the beauty of rural Milton. On Tremaine Road just north of Steeles lies the prestigious Italian Canadian Club of Milton, a very close-knit club that hosts numerous events. I am no stranger to the club and was among great company in celebrating the start of spring with the first-ever Milton Spring Fashion Show. The Milton Spring Fashion Show showcased the latest fashion trends from wonderful boutiques located in Milton. Boutiques involved in the fashion show included As We Grow, Peggy’s of Milton, Ditto’s Boutique, Allegra Organic Spa & Boutique and Tim Hortons, the latter of which created a somewhat surprising fashion line featuring unique coffee-inspired fashion creations. SG Hair Design and Ooh La La Boutique did the runway models’ hair and makeup. Mike from As You Like It DJ was on the turntables, doing an amazing job of spinning the records that made us dance. Energy was high throughout the night as beautiful models showcased breathtaking pieces down the runway. The crowd’s reception of the event was ecstatic right until the night’s end, with their applause echoing through the escarpment. The credit for the event’s huge success goes to the wonderful organizers,
volunteers and vendors who put in numerous hours to make everything perfect.
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“What a fantastic event, where fashion, fun and fantastic food was shared by all of our guests. We are delighted to have hosted the first-ever fashion show at the Italian Canadian Club of Milton. Our team members worked hard at showcasing fashion, hair, makeup and accessories from business owners located in the downtown core, with the exception of our hair designer and your local Tim Hortons, both of which are located at Derry and Ontario St. The fashion show was such a huge success that we intend to continue hosting every year.” -Rosanna Conteduca, owner of Allegra Organic Spa & Boutique.
Jennifer Reynolds, Kathy & Jim Harding, Roberta Sager, Cindy Lunau, Mayor Gordon Krantz
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By Anshul Sharma | Photos by Bob Macdonald
A TIME CAPSULE TO CELEBRATE MILTON’S HISTORIC PAST
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Following the theme of capturing history for the future, the event featured a guest appearance by Jim Watson, who talked about the former township of Nassagaweya and his fond memories of the years he had been in office.
The exhibition featured photo albums courtesy of the Milton Fire Department, Nassagaweya Tennis Club; pictures of old heritage buildings located in Milton; and maps of the former township of Nassagaweya. All the exhibits on display were later placed in a time capsule along with business cards of the people in attendance. Fortunately, I was able to include my own signed business card in the mix!
Audrey Allison, Joy Simpson Nasagiweya Historical Society
n Saturday, May 4, 2013, the sun was out and shining over the Nassagaweya Tennis Centre & Community Hall. As the tennis players battled through fatigue and sweat to compete in a local organized tournament, an exhibition of historical artifacts and pictures was in full display, being admired by local residents.
The festivities got underway with brief speeches from Councillor Cindy Lunau, Community Services Director Jennifer Reynolds and Mayor Krantz. “Occasions such as this remind us that you will not know where you have been if you are not careful to preserve the past. Sharing the past guarantees us of our future” –Mayor Krantz Treasuring the past and its memories is really a token of the town’s growth over the past 156 years and the promise of future growth.The sky is the limit, but even with modern advancements, we should not forget our small-town heritage roots.
The ceremony concluded with the burial of the time capsule, which will be reopened decades from now in a world far different from our own.
Peter Grimwood, Colton Palmer, Jim Harding and Isabella Cowan Parkhill
Mompreneur Showcase turns 4 years old By Laura Steiner | Photos by Ann Kornuta
she described. The clothing line is made from organic materials (bamboo and cotton) farmed within North America and created by designers either in Vancouver or Maine. McConaghie believes her clothing to be comfortable enough to wear to yoga, yet stylish enough you’ll want to wear it afterwards. This was McConaghie’s first time at the Milton Mompreneur showcase, and she made it a family affair bringing her husband and two kids along.
The first Mompreneurs showcase was a few businesswomen in a room at the Milton Sports Centre. The fourth annual Mompreneur showcase took place on May 4, 2013 at the Milton Memorial Arena at ice level. “It’s exciting; a lot of people around, a lot of things to see,” said Mary-Ann Selwa owner of My Smart Hands. She teaches sign language to young children as a way of communicating with their parents .Selwa has been a part of showcase for three years; “My favourite part is seeing all the vendors, and what’s being offered out there.” This year’s showcase featured everything from a naturopath, to bakeries, spas and clothes from Milton, and the surrounding area.
Pretty in Pink is an organic spa specializing in birthday parties for young girls with a social side to it. “We try and encourage self esteem in young girls and teach them about going organic,” owner Sonia Imerti explained. Their display at this featured manicures given by staff members. Imerti credits Maria Locker as a huge part of her support system. She attended the Mompreneur conference organized by Locker; “She’s a wonderful woman. The show she put on (the conference) left me speechless. I knew that this would be good. And it’s been a fantastic day.”
The toughest part of being a Mompreneur is balancing business with family. McConaghie chooses to make it a family effort. Eve’s Leaves is owned by Karyn McConaghie from Halton Hills. “This is a family venture, and nobody’s excluded. When we do “It’s an eco-conscious line of clothing for the earth friendly woman,” festivals like this we come together as a family; whether the kids are off at the bouncy castles they’re a part of it, and that’s how we maintain that balance,” she explained. Selwa admitted balancing Kate Williamson & Mike Cluett at United Way Milton business with being a mom isn’t easy. Her daily routine revolves around her kids. “I teach in the morning while the children are at school, and do my paperwork. When they come home from school I spend my time with them, and on weekends.” Imerti balances by asking for advice,she often contacts Mompreneur Founder Maria Locker. “She’s running a big business, and started a franchise. She’s someone I look up to quite a lot.” Mompreneurs has franchises operating throughout the country. Jay Paulson eating a cupcake
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ompreneur is defined as a “multi-tasking woman who can balance the stresses of running a business and the time-consuming duties of motherhood at the same time.” Local businesswoman Maria Locker founded the networking group, dedicated helping mompreneurs network with other Mompreneurs, and promote their business throughout their communities.
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Elizabeth and Katrina Pasternak
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Milton District Hospital Gala:
AN ELEGANT ODYSSEY W
ith the rays of the warm spring sun emanating from the sky above, the Milton Villager drove down the winding path towards the Rattle Snake Point Golf Club. It was the evening of April 27, 2013, and an intangible yet powerful sense of excitement permeated the air––it was the spirit of community gathering together for an important cause: the Milton District Hospital Foundation (MDHF) Gift of Health Gala. Andrea Cayer, Communications and Events Administrator for MDHF, explained to the Milton Villager that the MDHF Gift of Health Gala has raised over $400,000 for MDH since its inception. Over the past five years, this signature fundraising event has made it possible for the hospital to purchase three electrocardiogram machines and an operating room sterilizer––tools necessary to maintain patient safety standards and ensure quick turnaround times during surgical procedures. The goal for this year’s event was to fund a portable X-Ray machine. As we entered the venue, we were entranced by the powerful magnetism of a mythical and enchanting place. We were instantly transported from a golf club to “Under the Sultan’s Tent,” the gala’s theme. This Moroccan-inspired odyssey was the creative brainchild of the MDHF committee members, who under the guidance of gala chair Judi George, laboured tirelessly to make the 2013 MDHF Gift of Health Gala an exceptional experience. Michael Beaver, a longtime member of the MDHF Board, summed up this sense of
appreciation with his words to the volunteers at the start of the evening, “We couldn’t have done this without you.” As the guests walked in, adorned in fine fashions, they took in the deeply rich burgundy, rust and gold colours of the sultan’s tent fabrics. Blissfully lost in the path of the creatively imagined Morocco Bazaar, they smiled appreciatively at the delicate teacups positioned perfectly, which looked as though they were waiting to be daintily sipped.
Lisa Martinez, Hyder Hassan and Vesna Lango
As we moved into the dining area, we beheld a sight of true elegance. Over a jet black tablecloth was an exquisite gold overlay strewn with rose petals, adding a whimsical appeal. Candles with green, red and gold holders provided a warm and soothing light. Once again, Moroccan-inspired adventures were brilliantly brought to life. Anne Zujko, Development Manager at MDHF, introduced the Milton Villager to Brian Penman, Chair of the MDHF Board.
(including roundtrip airfare to an American city), a $25,000 Super Cars Canada Membership and more! When the Milton Villager asked Mayor Gordon Krantz what the event represented to him, he replied candidly: “It’s really about people helping people. And health care, well that’s the bottom line.” Bonded in the generosity of spirit, the gala was a testament to the greatness that can be achieved when the community collaborates together.
By Elizabeth Kogan | Photos by Denise Cooperwhite
Penman told a poignant story about the special significance the evening holds for him. He recounted how the Moroccan theme brings back fond memories of his honeymoon to Morocco forty-two years ago. “The evening,” he told the Milton Villager, “is about gifting and recognition. The hospital is to triple in size, and to make that happen, a lot of money will be needed.” The guests’ enthusiasm could be heard as they merrily clinked glasses and cheerfully exclaimed, “Thank you for supporting us!” in reference to the hospital’s gala. Robert and Carol Duvall expressed their commitment to supporting MDH “as much as possible.” The cocktail hour was coming to a close, and guests made their way into the dining room as belly dancers performed. The gala was truly a parade of exciting events! Radio Z103.5’s Scott Fox was the emcee for the evening. Fox, having also emceed the gala the previous two years, has been a stellar force in keeping the guests entertained and did not disappoint on the evening of this year’s gala. The Princess Madonna Band provided sensational music for dancing. The prizes for the live action were nothing short of spectacular, with items such as a box at the Air Canada Centre for the Rolling Stones concert, a Girlfriend’s Shopping Getaway
Robert & Carol Duvall
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An impressive ice sculpture adorned the chic cocktail area, which showcased the exotic “Sultan Shaker” drink. Attentive waitstaff milled about, offering delightful amuse-bouches to whet the guests’ appetites. Electrifying energy filled the air as guests played the Moroccan treasures fundraising game and eagerly posted bids for the silent auction.
Brian Penman sharing a photo of Milton’s very own astronaut Chris Hadfield
Milton Villager
Keith Hesse and Carlanna Sdao
BBQ donated to Knox Presbyterian Church by Scott Prior, Craig and Mary Bishop, presented to Pastor Howard Sullivan (left to right in photo)
KNOX PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Restoration Fund Raising
Fund raising efforts continue with “Dining out in Milton” coupon books, in partnership with North Halton Community Living, available from June onwards. Contact the chuch office at 905-878-6066 for purchases and other fund raising events throughout the year.