Milton Villager Magazine Volume 2, Issue 6 - May 2015 www.MiltonVillager.com
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, Grant Rushton, Trevor Black Reporters - Stuart Service, Laura Steiner, Elizabeth Kogan, Genevieve Rushton-Givens, Julian Rushton-Givens, Salman Avi, Ann Kornuta Graphic Designer - Tudor Maier Cover Photo - Marg Saliba, Donna Coulter, Rita Albin Curtis, Laurie Goodman 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 Milton Villager Magazine is available at these fine local businesses: Grocery stores: Metro, Food Port, Real Canadian Super Store, La Rose Bakery, Little Kabul Fine Food, Food Basics, Sobeys Food: Hero Burger, Pizza Nova, Troys Diner, Coffee Culture, Heritage Fish and Chips, Symposium, Shoeless Joe’s, Luigi’s Lasagna & Pizzeria, Mama Mila’s Cafe, Quiznos, Empire Wok, Mr. Sub, Tim Hortons, The Hen and the Roost Recreation: Milton Sports Centre, Leisure Centre, Milton Centre for the Arts, Making Waves Swim School Shopping: Milton Mall, Home Hardware, Canadian Tire, Taylor Nursery
*Please contact the publisher to have a magazine rack installed at your local business Past issues available from archives by request
Printed at:
2 | Milton Villager | May 2015
ZOO}-ZOO}
3-YEAR
3-YEAR
5-YEAR
7-YEAR
NEW VEHICLE
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
POWERTRAIN
ANTI-PERFORATION
UNLIMITED MILEAGE WARRANTY
UNLIMITED MILEAGE
UNLIMITED MILEAGE WARRANTY
UNLIMITED MILEAGE WARRANTY
Now, there’s no limit to how far you can go. Only a car company committed to an unrivalled driving experience could introduce a warranty like this on all 2015 and later models. A first-of-its-kind unlimited mileage warranty* that lets you drive as much as you want, as far as you want.
0 PURCHASE FINANCING ON ALL 2014 AND 2015 MODELS %
†
Experience Revolutionary SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY for Yourself.
Gourmet Soup, Handmade Pottery and Helping the Homeless
By Genny Rushton-Givens | Photos by Grant Rushton
I
n terms of important issues, homelessness is Canada’s elephant in the room. Every year 200,000 Canadians experience homelessness, according to a Homeless Hub report. In our community, it has been estimated that 300 people experience a housing crisis annually. To help with this, there is an emergency family shelter and food bank at the Salvation Army as well as a weekly food bank at the Milton Bible church. There are also shelters for domestic abuse, the disabled and seniors, but there is very little for the average person. Addressing this problem is Milton Transitional Housing (MTH), a registered charity that provides participants with transitional housing, a bridge between temporary shelters and long-term affordable housing (which can have wait lists of 2-5 years). Participants in the program stay in partially subsidized units for 4 months to 2 years, working with a case worker to resolve the issues that caused the housing crisis. Case workers help participants with budgeting, nutrition, employment, education and avoiding substance abuse. Also the participants must create and implement short term and long term goals until they eventually achieve housing independence. Milton Transitional Housing holds three main fundraisers annually, each focusing on a different aspect of poverty: Milton Fashionista Flip (for clothing), Coldest Night of the Year (for people living on the streets) and Empty Bowls (for lack of food).
4 | Milton Villager | May 2015
On April 19, MTH held their fifth annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser in the MinMaxx Hall at the Milton Centre for the Arts. Following a soup kitchen theme, there were long tables with yellow tablecloths lined up along the hall. Gourmet soup was ladled out; Hearty African, Potato Leek, Borscht, Creole Chicken Gumbo, Minestrone, Chicken Noodle and Roasted Red Pepper which were provided by local restaurants like Allison’s Catering, Swiss Chalet, Bistro On Main, Boston Pizza, Mohawk Chophouse, Scooter’s Catering, Shoeless Joe’s, The Hawthorne Cafe and South 202. Diners chose from the colourful display of decorated ceramic bowls outside the hall (handmade pottery donated by Simply Creative and painted by volunteers), selected and enjoyed a soup, had a volunteer wash the bowl at one of the dishwashing stations and then refilled the bowl with another type of soup. Tickets to this event were $50 each with a $25 charitable tax receipt, and the event raised approximately $7,000. MTH believes in the philosophy “Housing First” as they believe that people can achieve their goals more quickly when there is stable housing. So far MTH has helped three participants to successfully achieve housing independence and they are currently working with three more people.
The organization has made a small impact on Milton’s homelessness but with a $218,000 trillium grant received in April, Milton Transitional Housing can now expand their program to 5 units in 2015 and to 10 units in 2018. However, this means that they have more costs each year as they build more units, and despite the generous sponsorship they still need donations to cover the cost of $14,000 a year per unit along with overhead costs. The need for these shelters is great: “My phone rings off the hook with people calling from shelters or living on the streets that need help and it’s not there for them,” said MTH Executive Director Donna Danielli. Much like any other disastrous situation like a car accident, no one thinks they will be homeless until they are. A layoff, a deterioration in health, a break up, or any number of factors can cause a housing crisis. “They look around and they see that (Milton is) quite an affluent community and unless you really look you don’t see the people who are in housing need,” said Wendy Schau, a member of MTH’s Board of Directors. “Often they’re living with friends or family or they’re just on the edge of being able to pay their rent. Or there are people who actually do live rough in the woods... or in their cars.” To find out more, donate or get involved visit: www.MiltonTransitionalHousing.ca or their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ MiltonTransitionalHousing
Mortgages & Refinancing Muhammad Adnan Your Local Mortgage Agent Fast Approvals @ 416.670.5102 For Specials and Details visit: www.chooseadnan.com AZ Mortgage Solutions Inc. Lic 12145 218 - 330 Bronte Street S, Milton, ON L9T 7X1 Each Mortgage Centre office is Independently Owned & Operated
May 2015 | Milton Villager | 5
enhance_hawthornehalfMAY:Layout 1 4/22/15 4:42 PM Page 1
mother’s day & 1 year anniversary specials thank you milton for an amazing year! New Client Special - 50% off!
Haven’t visited Enhance yet? Get 50% off your first regular priced service*
Laser Hair Removal
Upper Lip $49 (Save $11, one session per client)
IPL Photofacials
3 Facial IPL Treatments $499 (Save $98, 3 treatments must be prepaid)
$199 for Manicure, Pedicure, Eminence Organic Facial & 1 Hour RMT Massage ($85 RMT receipt provided) Services may be split up into multiple visits. Can be purchased in May and used at a later date. +$15 to upgrade to Shellac (per area).
open house: saturday may 30th
Gift cards available in any denomination - a great gift for Mother’s Day
FREE Shellac Applications I Service Demos Hourly Prize Draws I Free Samples I Exclusive Discounts More info and rsVp at www.enhance.ca
*50% off any one regular priced service for new clients only. Valid Monday - Friday only. Not valid towards RMT Massage, Reflexology/Reiki/Stop Smoking, Electrolysis, Thermage, Doctors Services or Products. Must mention this ad when booking to ensure service is valid for 50% off. One service 50% off per customer. No cash value. Not valid with any other offer. All offers expire May 31 2015.
enhance
2 3 8 M A I N S T R E E T E A S T, M I LT O N
Call/Text 905.864.0000 I www.enhance.ca I www.facebook.com/enhancemilton
Kids’ Club
Dental Clinic 905-864-4040
Preventative & Cosmetic Family Dentistry
SATURDAY, MAY 9th, 10:00 am - 12:00 noon Kids’ Club friends are invited to come and mix a scent to match mom’s style. The creativity continues with gift cards and bags to complete the perfect present for Mom.*
After Hours Emergency Appointments Available
HWY 401
Steeles Ave.
Martin St.
Bronte St.
HOURS
Main St.
H
James Snow Parkway
No pre-registration is required. Parents must stay with their children. The Kids’ Club is free and open to children ages 4 to 12. *While supplies last, not exactly as shown.
Laurier Ave.
Ontario St. S.
Alliance Dental Clinic 470 Bronte St.
Derry Rd. W
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
9 am - 7 pm 9 am - 7 pm 9 am - 7 pm 9 am - 7 pm 9 am - 7 pm 9 am - 2 pm
Dr. Kulvinder Singh Hans • Dr. Disha Kaur Hans Tel: (905) 864-4040
Corner of Ontario and Main miltonmall.com
6 | Milton Villager | May 2015
Email: alliancedentalclinic@gmail.com Web: www.alliancedentalclinic.com
Milton Professional Building 470 Bronte St. S, Suite 109 Milton ON, L9T 2J4
Volunteering as a Lifestyle
for Marg Saliba W hen you first meet Marg Saliba two things stand out about her. The first is her warmth; everyone gets a smile, and a hug as greeting. The second is her humility; she insists on sharing the credit for her success with everyone who had anything to do with it. The humility was on display as she received the Joyce Hagevik award from the Milton Chamber of Commerce as Volunteer of the Year for 2014. Saliba volunteers with Italian Canadian Club of Milton (ICCM), the Milton District Hospital Foundation (MDHF), and many other fundraisers. “As the Canadian Blood Services says, ‘it’s in you to give’,” she said in an interview. She was inspired by her parents who helped in the community despite facing challenges of their own. “My father never, ever hesitated. If he knew someone needed something, he would
By Laura Steiner | Photos by Grant Rushton
give it to them,” she explained. His generosity extended to helping neighbours harvest their crops after the husband was diagnosed with health issues. It was something the family remembered when they came to her dad’s 90th birthday party. “The wife came up to me as she was leaving, and she said to me, “You’ll never know what your parents did for us. They kept us alive; they kept us going,” Saliba recalled.
She credits Sandy Hatzis and Milton Area Female Entrepreneurs (MAFE) for helping her build relationships. In her thank you speech at the gala she asked MAFE members to stand up to be recognized. Members were collectively instrumental in helping to raise over $500,000 for various charities in Milton throughout 2014.
Marg is probably best known for organizing pyjama parties. She has done eight for various charities including Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation (Breast Cancer), and the MS Society (Red & White Pyjama Party). The last three have been for MDHF, and for the last two years she had an organizing committee, which is something new for her. “This is something I don’t even have to worry about anymore,” she said. The Black & White Pyjama Parties have raised nearly $37,000 in the last three years.
Saliba believes you get back what you put into something. “For me, I get more back emotionally, psychologically from giving, than what I put in.”It’s helped her build relationships. “I’ve met so many people through this process of giving that have helped me to get where I am,” she said. She encourages people to have an open mind towards volunteering. “If you go into it and think what you’re going to have is a lot of fun, then it is a lot of fun,” Saliba said.
May 2015 | Milton Villager | 7
Halton Students
Show off Technical Skills
S
kills education is growing in Halton thanks to the Pathways Program. For the last 26 years they’ve held the annual Halton Skills Competition. This year’s was held April 9, at Craig Kielburger Secondary School (CKSS). Pathways is a cooperative effort by the Halton District School Board (HDSB) and the Halton District Catholic School Board (HDCSB). It allows kids to explore technical education through highschool courses, and apprenticeships. PThe competition is a day-long event in which students from grades 4-12 compete in events from Video Production to building robots with Lego. The top three finishers in every category were recognized in an hourlong ceremony at the end of the day in a gym full of cheering students emceed by David Lewis, and Ron Ballentine. Among the winners were a group of Grade 8 students from Irma Coulson who took Gold in the Elementary Distance Challenge. Oliver Ah-kion, Aidan Hwang, and Maaz Kashif had to build a Go-Kart, and race it as far as they could. It wasn’t the racing part that appealed to the trio. “The racing was pretty fun, but the building was fun,”Ah-Kion said. They built the Go-Kart in 2013, but added more details to it for the competition. “This year we tuned it up more, and spray-painted it,” Kashif added. They are moving onto ninth grade, but still want to compete as high school students. Ballentine retires at the end of the year. He works as the Coordinator of Science, Technology, and Environmental Education. His favourite part of the day was the students cooperating. “Seeing the teams working together, problem solving, and helping each other.” He believes building team work was one of the most important parts of the day. Ballentine has taught since 1983, and has worked at his current post for the last 15 years. He has loved working with kids. “My favourite part has been working with kids on designing and building,” he said.
By Laura Steiner | Photos by Antonia Giroux & Trevor Black
8 | Milton Villager | May 2015
Other Milton-area winners included students from Chris Hadfield Public School, Sam Sherratt, Bishop Reding, and of course CKSS. For more information on Pathways visit www.haltonpathways.ca. Or for more information on Halton Skills including a full list of winners visit: www.haltonskills.com
FIRST TIME EVER MONTHLY
FLEA MARKET IS COMING TO THE TOWN OF MILTON
A great opportunity to shop at bargain price in the Monthly Flea Market which will be held every month in Milton. Vendors specializing in different products like Electronics, Clothing, Jewelry, Toys and food will be there to serve you.
wn on me to to 5:00 PM o c ll i w to ket The mar from 11:00 AM t Room) s e t q g da Ban ue followin Sports Centre ( n at Milto r 11 Ap
2015
5 y 201 23 Ma 2015
n 06 Ju l 2015 04 Ju 5 g 201 08 Au 5 p 201 12 Se 5 t 201 17 Oc
It was a full house for the Halton Skills Competition, hosted by Craig Kielburger Secondary School this year.
Project by Event Ontario, for details contact: (647) 290-0267 | (647) 261-3462 | (647) 855-8050
May 2015 | Milton Villager | 9
Councillors Host
By Laura Steiner | Photos by Trevor Black and Denise Cooperwhite
CN Information Session
I
nformation was the name of the game at the Milton Lion’s Hall on March 24, 2015. Several Milton Councillors held an information session regarding Canadian National (CN’s) plans to build an Intermodal facility in the Town Of Milton. CN announced plans for a 400-acre intermodal facility at a Chamber of Commerce Breakfast days before the session. The company has chosen not to go through the usual planning channels because of its status as a federally regulated industry. It has submitted a project description to the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (CEAA). This is a second attempt at a facility; CN walked away from its previous attempt in 2008 saying it would focus on a rail-only option for the area. Following a brief presentation Councillors answered questions, and concerns from the crowd. Councillors are worried about the proposed location. “I’m not against CN, I’m not against intermodal. My concern is the location,” Ward 1 Councillor Robert Duvall told residents. Regional & Local Councillor Colin Best added: “The Region and the Town are united on this.” Their collective position is that any development must go through the
10 | Milton Villager | May 2015
proper planning procedures with the Town, and Region as described under the Planning Act. The location includes an entrance off Britannia road opposite the Boyne survey. CN looked at a series of sites between Burlington, and Toronto including Clarington, Aurora, and Halton Hills before it settled on Milton because it matched its requirements. “A minimum of 400 acres of flat, greenfield land along CN’s main line near existing highways were essential requirements.” CN Spokesman Mark Hallman explained in an email. When in use, the facility could process up to 1500 trucks a day breaking down to 1 truck per minute. Councillors would like to see a site north of the 401 near other heavy industry. Residents are concerned over the lack of response from Halton MP, and Transport Minister Lisa Raitt. Raitt has declined to publicly comment on the issue yet. “I’d like to suggest to some of the citizens’ groups that are getting some petitions together perhaps a very specific petition for Lisa Raitt to hold a Town Hall in Milton where 100% of her voters reside,” James Lee told the crowd. Federal legislation governing railroads is the Canadian Railway Act of 1887.
Milton Says No is one of the citizens’ groups that has formed since news of CN’s plans broke. “Milton Says No is about having one place for you to go for information,” spokesperson Stacey Newman described. She worries about the big changes the development will bring to that part of town. “It’s going to change the culture of this town,” she remarked to the crowd. The other group is RAIL (Residents Affected by Intermodal Lines) led by Rita Vogel Post. CN owns 1000 acres making Post wonder if they really plan to stop at the described 400 acres. “What is the potential for this to grow into? How do we make them accountable?” she asked the crowd. She founded the group in response to CN’s first proposal made in 2001. Both groups can be found on Facebook with links to their websites, and information on how to get involved. Milton Says No has its own lawn signs, and a Go Fund Me campaign to cover costs. Petitions are available to print off on their websites. CN has established an office in Milton to share information on the project. “You can go to their information centre, hear what they
have to say, and speak to them about your concerns,” suggested Ward 7 Councillor Rick Di Lorenzo. The information centre is located at 61 James Snow Parkway Suite 202. Its hours are: weekdays from 12pm-8pm, and on Saturdays from 9am-2pm. CN has filed its project description with CEAA, which became available online April 7, 2015. To follow the progress visit their website: www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca. On April 17, the Region of Halton responded on behalf of five municipalities. In a news release they asked that CN be subjected to a full Environmental Assessment and allege the company has provided incomplete information and narrowed the scope of relevant environmental effects. “As municipalities, we have key responsibilities to protect the public interest,” Regional Chair Gary Carr said. Opportunities for residents to make their voices heard throughout the process will be advertised through CEAA’s website. Residents can also email CN directly at milton@cn.ca or call them at: 1-800-216-9466.
Create your own scent event
FRIDAY, MAY 8th, 4:00 - 8:00 pm & SATURDAY, MAY 9th 12:00 - 4:00 pm Do you favour tangy citrus or romantic florals? Mix and match a custom blend of scents in a unique perfume bottle to treat yourself or to give as a Mother’s Day gift. *$5 donation per 10 ml bottle, all proceeds benefitting the Milton Community Resource Centre Infant Food Bank. *while quantities last. For more details, visit our Facebook page. Corner of Ontario and Main miltonmall.com
May 2015 | Milton Villager | 11
By Ann Kornuta | Photos by Grant Rushton
Chosen as Milton Chamber of Commerce’s Citizen of the Year W
hen you meet Laurie Goodman for the first time she instantly she wants to know more about you. For her a life story holds the key to a life message, something that she has been finding in those around her through the power of her camera. This local photographer was chosen as the Milton Chamber’s “Citizen of the Year” by a simple yet grandiose task of bringing out those life messages to share in a crowd funded book called Laurie Goodman Photography’s Life Messages (TM) Book of Inspirational Canadian Women”. “I was quite taken aback,” Laurie said when she got the news. “I was at my loft studio and my cellphone rang and I found out that not only was I nominated but I had won. I had to sit down. I was quite surprised and I had no idea.” Last spring, Laurie had an idea to take photos of women holding a heartfelt message in her studio in hopes of reach out to others and empowering them through their messages and her medium of photography. What happened was it helped the women holding their messages to become empowered by
12 | Milton Villager | May 2015
their own message that quickly spread like wildfire.
out loud that we did this in 6 months, yeah, it is quite something.”
“The whole project evolved organically and it just made sense to make a book,” Laurie said. “Within three months I shot one hundred and twenty women, within twenty days we superseded our Kickstarter goal of fifteen thousand dollars, within five months we were interviewed by Susan Hay of Global News for her Making a Difference segment and within six months we published the book and had an inspirational show and raised two thousand dollars for Girls Inc. of Halton”
The stories are plentiful, touching and motivational ranging from messages from women battling cancer, women fighting abuse, successful entrepreneurs, and motivational individuals. As the women started using their own Life Message photo as their Facebook profiles, their friends would see and would start following Laurie to see what the next Life Message of the day would be.
Part of what helped Laurie’s vision was her dedication to her craft and something she calls “following your goosebumps.” “I followed my goosebumps all the way through,” Laurie said. “Goosebumps are little signs that tell me I’m on the right track and lead me to what I need to do. I was definitely surprised at the momentum of it and I think people found it to be a very relevant project, they identified with it and social media helped to kind of snowball the speed of it all. When I sit here and tell you
“There is a part of me who would be interested in reading about what people said about me when they nominated me and some ways I feel so young to receive this honour- I look at the late Mario Belvedere who won last year and his arms length full of accomplishments and amazing things he has done, I feel as if I should learn from him. Mario inspires me to be more, to do more and to challenge others to give a voice to their lessons through Life Messages. I am so very grateful to my MAFE (Milton Area Female Entrepreneurs) sisters and community for nominating me and to the Milton Chamber of Commerce for this prestigious award.”
Balance Health Service 647-271-4645 Zhao McPhail, R.Ac, RMT, Ph.D Registered Acupuncturist
316 Martin Street, Milton ON L9T 2R6 email: daria_talanova@yahoo.com
MILTON FAIRGROUNDS MAY 16 17 18 Miltonboomfest.ca
O NLY Beer Garden
Petting Zoo
Food Vendor’s Family Fun – all weekend long
Doogloversdays.com DogLoversDays is a fun filled family day with your dog!
Two nights of Fireworks Mini show on Sunday Gala Show on Monday
A
DM
ISSI O N
!
Inflatables!!!
OUTDOOR MOVIE SAT NIGHT, MAY 15
A day when you can relax and watch YOUR dog be the star. A complete interactive "dog" festival where the family dog has fun running agility and speed tracks and much more. If it’s called a dog festival, it should be "all about the dog". Your dog can have a ball running a lure course, get the star treatment in the Pamper Zone, have some fun in the Doggie Play Zone, or visit a Holistic Healer at the Health and Wellness Centre. Of course, for the adults, there are numerous vendors and lots to see.
Bring Your DOG!!!!!!!!!!!
May 2015 | Milton Villager | 13
A
bout 4 years ago Lisa Roach, of the Roach Family Real Estate Team, was introduced to the Children’s Aid Foundation of Halton (CAFH) as a guest to their Annual Stardust Gala and immediately she was hooked. At the time she had 2 small children and their message of “helping families thrive” really resonated with her. “I practically joined the Board of Directors that night!” she tell us. While she was drawn to the children, their stories and their need for support, she was pleasantly surprised to learn that the CAFH directs 100% of their donations to the programs run by the Halton Children’s Aid Society (HCAS). They’re able to do this because of generous donors whose continual contributions go towards the Foundations’ annual administrative costs. “I am dedicated to giving back to the community I live in, and for years I had dreamed of putting together a run for families in Milton,” she says. So, in 2014 the Milton Family Fun Run was born. The event consisted of a 1k Tot Trot, a 5k Run/Walk and a Kids Zone full of activities for the whole family. Lisa tells us she’s excited to be hosting the 2nd Annual
14 | Milton Villager | May 2015
Milton Family Fun Run on May 31st, 2015 at the Milton Fair Grounds. “This year we are celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the Children’s Aid Foundation of Halton supporting the Halton Children’s Aid Society.” The Milton Family Fun Run promises to have a great line up of events, activities, food and shows which will be a great and exciting day for the entire family. But most importantly it will help raise awareness for the HCAS and as well as the surprisingly high number of children they help right here in Milton. To register your family for this event and/or become a sponsor, please visit MiltonFamilyFunRun.Ca.
Milton Family Fun Run Agenda 9:00 - 9:45am
On-site registration
9:30 - 11:30am
Tour the Fire Truck
9:55am
Warm up for 1k participants with Fire Power Kids
10:00am
1K Tot Trot begins
10:20am
Zumba Warm up for 5K participants with Change it up 360
10:30am
5K begins
10:30am
Kid Zone Opens
11:30am
Award ceremony and Entertainment
12:00pm
First Class Magic Show
12:30 - 3:00pm
More Shows and Demos
3:00pm
Event ends
For your complete window covering needs
w een Decor
Services we Offer California & Plantation Vinyl Shutters Roller Blinds & Shades Vertical Blinds PVC and Fabrics Horizontal Blinds 1� Aluminium & 2� Wood & Faux Wood Pleated Shades, Roman Shades Panel Track Blinds, Vienna Blinds Silhouette Blinds, Glass Door Inserts
Call us for an immediate quote to fulfil your needs while remaining within your budget.
160 Main Street East, Milton, ON, L9T 1N6
905-462-1582 / 416-878-5378
May 2015 | Milton Villager | 15
Spring Thaw event to Melt Hearts
M
ake sure you get your tickets for the upcoming performance on May 23rd of the Milton Choristers Spring Thaw concert. Featuring a selection of popular pieces, a special arrangement of songs from the movie Frozen has a special story behind it.
Another special treat will be the Milton Philharmonic Orchestra who will be accompanying the Choristers on three songs, French composer Gabriel Fauré’s Pavane, an arrangement of Bridge Over Troubled Water, and the overture from the H.M.S Pinafore. “After they play the overture, we are going to sing two “In October, the grandson of two people selections and those are called Over The in the choir celebrated his birthday,” Bright Blue Sea, and then We Sail the Stephanie Kimmerer of the Milton Ocean Blue,” Stephanie said. “People Choristers said. “Instead of gifts, guests attending his party were asked to bring who know this work are really going to money. The purpose was to collect enjoy it; it’s very fast, it’s a good clip and enough so that the child could buy there is good harmony.” the music from the movie Frozen for Make sure you get your tickets for “Grandma and Grandpa’s choir.” the spring performance of the Milton The goal was made and the Choristers have Choristers. The event takes place at 7 been working hard on the Frozen medley pm, May 23rd at Knox Presbyterian so that they could return the gift and wish Church, 170 Main Street East, Milton. him a Happy Birthday seven months later. To purchase tickets, please call 905-875As an extra bonus, tickets for children and 1730 or visit www.miltonchoristers.com students have been made at a special rate of for more information. $5 from the adult cost of $25 each.
16 | Milton Villager | May 2015
By Ann Kornuta Photos by Grant Rushton
Enhance Cosmetic Centre & Spa Y Photos by Denise Cooperwhite
ou work hard all day and your skin and body feel the effects of everyday life stresses. It’s vital to give your skin the attention it needs - we’d love to tell you about a spa located in the heart of scenic downtown Milton.
(there are four strengths) that promotes a turnover of skin cells, drawing out impurities and damage. The best part is: no downtime. You can have the peel done on your lunch break and then head back to the office with glowing skin.
In 2009, The Nail Spa opened on Main Street. After five successful years, they desired a larger location to offer more services, and found the perfect space at Main & Martin. They were joined by ECC Laser, a team of top laser technicians with years of experience and top-of-the-line equipment. In May 2014, Enhance Cosmetic Centre & Spa opened at Main & Martin.
Enhance’s team is highly skilled and the laser clinic’s director has more than 30 years of experience in the field. The number of services offered is incredible: laser hair removal; electrolysis, skin tightening (including eyes and lips); IPL photo facials; microdermabrasion; vaginal tightening; incontinence treatments and nail fungus treatments.
If you’re searching for unique spa services by experienced aestheticians and technicians then you’ve found your spot. Enhance offers couples facials and couples lie-down pedicures. Enhance’s pedicure stations are private and equipped with a personal TV. Their specialty is also in gel nails – no false tips are used – sculpting is done with gel. If you’re feeling as though your face could use a healthy boost then try an Eminence Organic facial – your skin will be left feeling hydrated and lifted. An exciting addition to their services is the Miracle 10 Facial Peel – a light monthly peel
Understanding that your dollars are hardearned, Enhance strives to make spa visits affordable and offers monthly and last minute specials on their website and social media pages: www.enhance.ca Facebook: www.facebook.com/enhancemilton Twitter: www.twitter.com/enhancemilton Enhance would love to meet you! During the month of May, to celebrate their 1 year anniversary, they are offering new clients a 50% discount. Please visit www.enhance.ca for a printable coupon.
May 2015 | Milton Villager | 17
Rita Albin-Curtis A fiery sun gleamed through the windows of a popular Milton café, when only moments before, heavy rain had fallen. Sitting across from me one early Wednesday evening was a beautiful woman whose eyes twinkle with warmth when she smiles. Awarded Lifetime Achievement Award with the Milton Chamber of Commerce for 2014, the smiling beauty is Rita Albin-Curtis. Born in Toronto, her parents moved to Milton when she was eight years old. Having lived in Milton for fifty years, Albin-Curtis has seen a lot of changes and in fact named Hawthorne Village as part of a Mattamy Homes contest in 2000. A mother of three; two daughters and one son, she is also a grandmother to two babies, one grandson, born in December 2014 and a granddaughter, born in February 2015. Twenty years ago, after dealing with a personal tragedy of losing her first husband when he was only thirty-four years old, Albin-Curtis came across a small ad in the Canadian Champion seeking people wanting to become board
18 | Milton Villager | May 2015
By Elizabeth Kogan | Photos by Grant Rushton
members for a children’s hospice. Desiring to learn more, she was introduced to a neonatal nurse working with premature babies who dreamed of opening a hospice for terminally ill and chronically ill children. Offering to establish a fundraising committee in Milton, Albin-Curtis organized fundraising events, and eventually the Rose Cherry’s Home was established. It was later renamed The Darling Home for Kids. As a result of her dedication to this organization, Albin-Curtis won The Woman of the Year Award in May 2000. Albin-Curtis sees life’s challenges as a blessing. She says, “The love and support from the people of Milton helped my children and me though the darkest time in our lives. Through this help, I learned the true meaning of love.” She quotes Mother Teresa, “Love cannot remain by itself – it has no meaning – love has to be put into action and that action is service.” Over the past twenty years, Albin-Curtis has being actively involved in various committees for the Milton Community Nursery School; Parent/Student Council; Milton District Hospital Auxiliary;
Church outreach as well as numerous nonprofit and charity organizations. When the call came through that fateful day and she learned that she was selected for the prestigious Milton Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Achievement Award, she was astonished. “I was shocked and truly humbled. It was unexpected, because I do things quietly, but I am very grateful and will treasure it always.” She congratulates all nominees and winners applauding their passion; selflessness and compassion for others. Expressing gratitude for her life, she describes her spouse (she remarried in 1998), as a “wonderful, loving man who I call my gentle giant. He is my torch bearer and an inspiration who continues to show me the blessings in life!” Tenderly she adds, “I am forever grateful to the many people who never tire of me, never say no, and help to keep my light burning bright in the darkness.”
By Elizabeth Kogan | Photos by Denise Cooperwhite
T
winkling lights gently graced the Teatro Conference and Event Centre during the evening of March 26, 2015. Beautifully dressed women sauntered through the hall and the sound of animated chatter filled the air with hopeful expectation. The occasion was the Milton Hospital Auxiliary’s Fashion Show fundraiser presented by Ditto’s Boutique. Jane Rushak, event co-organizer along with Marilyn Goodale, shared that Lolita Babalis, owner of Ditto’s, approached the Auxiliary about working together on a fundraiser and from there, the event idea was born. With the hospital expansion slated for spring 2015, raising funds for the hospital is critical. Established in 1959, the Milton District Hospital Auxiliary is a volunteer organization and registered charity involved in numerous hospital fundraising initiatives. Rushak reported that the Auxiliary fundraising efforts raise $100,000 annually for the hospital. MDH Chief Operating Officer, Jane Skupsky, eloquently spoke of this year being an exciting moment in time for the community as plans are underway to significantly enhance hospital services. Naidoo-Harris, MPP Halton, a Milton resident for almost twenty-five years, spoke of the hospital being close to her heart, and the necessity of the expansion. With the town’s epic growth comes the inevitable: a
hospital equipped to deal with the medical needs of its residents. The existing facility, currently 125,000 square feet, will expand to 330,000 square feet. Items projected for expansion: emergency; surgical services; maternal/newborn and diagnostic imaging and support services; increase inpatient beds from 63 to 129; and the implementation of the hospital’s first Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine.
on.ca or phone: 905-878-2383 ext. 7740. If you’re interested in volunteer opportunities, contact Janice Cowen via email: jcowen@ haltonhealthcare.on.ca or phone: 905-8782383 ext. 7740.
The fundraiser event was stylish and elegant – featuring local artisanal shopping and a fashion show executed by Babalis. One after another, gorgeously attired women modelled furs; gowns; and casual wear. MC and DJ Rob Hewlett kept the energy high in the room, and crooned a few tunes, with guests clapping happily along to the entertainment. Chinese and Bollywood dancers took to the floor enchanting the room with colourful costuming and skilled and expressive dancing. An evening rich in entertainment, 18-year old Maddy Little, who has been singing for 10 years, strummed her guitar and melodically sang beautiful original pieces. It was a ladies night out that won’t soon be forgotten and the best part? It was all for a great cause; resulting in $3,000 raised for the hospital. If you’d like to learn more about the Auxiliary, the organization can be contacted via email: mdhauxiliary@haltonhealthcare.
May 2015 | Milton Villager | 19
Donna Coulter Y ou often hear of people whose extraordinary life stories are the stuff that book dreams are made of. Rarely, however, do you find yourself sitting across the table from one such individual. On a chilly spring evening, I met with the sharp witted and charismatic, Donna Coulter. “There’s only one of me,” she says with a laugh. Born and raised in Milton, Coulter has watched the town grow and she too, has grown and evolved with it. A self-described “big busy bee,” she and her spouse Norm, ran a business for forty years (originally City Service Oil Company; then later Northend Datsun and then Northend Nissan). She and her spouse have two children, one daughter who lives in Rochester, NY and one son who lives in Milton. They have one grandson through their daughter. Coulter’s community involvements include: Milton District Hospital Auxiliary; the Order of the Eastern Star, Halton Chapter 280; former United Way Milton campaign chair;
20 | Milton Villager | May 2015
By Elizabeth Kogan | Photos by Grant Rushton
Milton Lawn Bowling Club; and she donates and gets involved in as many community events and charitable causes as possible. In previous years, she won the esteemed Milton Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year and Business Person of the Year awards. She is also known for her avid photography hobby which she has made into an iconic art form, garnering her local media attention over the years. Dubbed, “Milton’s original paparazzi” by some, Coulter has captured numerous Milton based events. Sharing that she was often “off with a camera on a Saturday” to photograph a grand opening; a Colonel Chris Hadfield appearance; or charitable affair; Coulter credits Jim Dills, a Milton Walk of Fame Inductee, as having ignited her interest in photography. Stating that she’s “not a computer girl,” Coulter remains faithful to the almost lost art of letter writing. She still handwrites letters and cards and takes great joy in the personal touch of sending her wishes through the power of the pen.
In 2014, this inspiring go-getter was struck by illness. One day, while in her Florida home, she found a lump in her breast. She proceeded to pack up and head back home to Milton. The lump was malignant. Coulter underwent breast cancer surgery followed by four chemotherapy treatments. She feels it’s important to share her story to encourage others and let them know that they’re not alone. “I am a survivor!” she triumphantly declares. The experience reminded her of the importance of “not sweating the small stuff.” In February 2015, Coulter got the call that she’d been chosen as a Pan Am torchbearer in the Toronto 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Games. Selected through the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation’s ‘Pass It Ontario Program’, Coulter says, “I was absolutely ecstatic” when she’d learned the news. She intends to wear her white satin uniform with pride as she carries the torch on June 23, 2015. Undoubtedly, Milton will be watching her with pride.
May 2015 | Milton Villager | 21
MYFEST 2015 by Salman Alvi | Photos by Grant Rushton
T
he weather was glistening with sunshine while the temperature was crisp and welcoming on April 18th. A beautiful day overall. Proportionately, that same aura was relegated to Rink C of the Milton Sports Centre as MYFest 2015 made its 2nd consecutive appearance. People of the Milton community and neighbouring harbours congregated to this joyous event where nothing was short of informative, entertaining, feast-full and fun. It wasn’t a surprise for the organizers to be overwhelmed with expectations. Rink C was packed throughout the day as waves of people orbited the plethora of stalls. Milton Mayor Gordon Krantz was also on hand to present awards to MYRec’s Basketball League. MYFest is an event of MYRec.
dialogue with many individuals who made it to MYFest just to convene with relatives whom have somewhat disconnected. “I’m from Mississauga and my sister is close by, she informed us about MYFest so we came,” said Saddam Khan. “When I received the flyer, it looked very appealing to me and now that I’m here I realize how much fun our family is having,” said Marian Balock, who was waiting for her kids reeling from one of the playgrounds.
Proceeding along the isles of the arena, I unearthed oodles of professions. From a business perspective, legions of vendors hailed the event as an apparatus for their relevant target consumers. Vendors from clothing, jewelry, food and real estate were occupied serving customers. “We came to promote our Teatro Banquet Centre and want to show people in the community that we now do Indian food and also halal for all our menu options,” said an elated Horst Summer. Every
“The purpose of MYFest is to bring the broader community together under one roof and permit children of all ages to have fun together. We target different ages and have food, bouncy castles, rock climbing and stage performances for everyone,” said Imran Merchant, one of the many organizers. Strolling along, I noticed scads of kids taking advantage of the inflatable castle while other children had their faces painted. Many families used the event as an umbrella for a reunion. I had some fortuities in exchanging
22 | Milton Villager | May 2015
MYRec is a volunteer based organization that targets Muslim youth and families of Milton by offering innovative programs to build a more flourishing community. For more information about MYRec, visit:www.myrec.ca
vendor was ecstatic for the amount of exposure their businesses were fetching. Compared to 2014, this year’s episode was more palatial and harnessed over 90 volunteer staff members, usage of two community rooms and the arena floor. A food court and bazaar that accommodated over 45 vendor booths, of which over 7 were food vendors, tons of free giveaways, door prizes and a digital scavenger hunt. “We made a mark last year with Winterfest, but after seeing such an amazing turnout, we decided to go bigger and better this year,
I
t just got HOT in Downtown with the grand opening of Bikram Yoga Milton studio. Owner and Director Nuzhat Jillani teaches the balance and strength building lessons to help people stay fit, overcome health issues and benefit the overall health body and mind of her students. “It literally saved my life,” Nuzhat said. “I was suffering from diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, I was given a notice from my doctor that I have to change my lifestyle or he would put me on insulin.” Nuzhat was already taking up to fifteen different prescriptions for other issues and this news of her deteriorating health was concerning her. A Yoga studio had recently opened up near her house so Nuzhat decided to enroll. “I started practicing and started seeing the amazing results!” Nuzhat said. “Next year I ended up taking the teachers training in Los Angeles and finally after three years we decided to open our own business here.”
increasing the event by four times the size, and opening new areas like a dedicated Kid’s Zone and on stage entertainment! Keep a look out for next year, because MYRec is putting Milton on the map,” said Hina Mirza, another one of the organizers. My experience at MYFest was absolutely thrilling. As a matter of fact, it’s intriguing to speculate what management has mediated for MYFest 2016. Regardless, with the myriad of accolades MYFest has collected, it’s fair to say that MYFest is definitely everyone’s fest.
Nuzhat explained that Bikram Yoga is an amazing practice for everyone because it helps to stretch the muscles and ligaments in the body further which cannot be done in colder temperatures. Heat helps to increase the blood circulation, so the ninety minute classes are set at 40 degrees celsius and at 40% humidity to help push the body to the limits. “Bikram is a series of twenty-six postures taken out of the eighty four hot yoga practice,” Nuzhat said. “In todays life, nobody has time to practice three hours a day the eighty four postures so what Bikram did is he took the twenty six postures and designed it in a way that maximises the benefits from each posture and the series is designed from starting with the breathing.”
in love with the area,” Nuzhat said. “People here are super nice I have to tell you, we went to other cities and the best way is to just sit down in a small cafe and see how people interact and we found this place to be the most friendliest.” www.bikramyogamilton.com info@bikramyogamilton.com 310 Main Street E. Unit 106 289-878-3896
Nuzhat said that Milton was just the perfect fit for her studio. “We were looking for a place where to settle in especially with the business and we looked at a few other cities and we came to Milton and totally just fell
May 2015 | Milton Villager | 23