West Edition

KITCHENER’S ORIGINAL COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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Visit us atForest Glen Plaza700 Strasburg Rd.

KitchenerStore hours: Monday to Friday 8:00am to 9:00pm

Saturday 8:00am to 8:00pm and Sunday 9:00am to 6:00pm

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SMILE while you save!

Comfort Foot Clinic will be joining Dr. Moona and his health care team at the Advanced Pain Relief Clinic at 163 Victoria St. South, Kitchener.

www.kitchenercitizen.com • Thursday, August 7, 2014 • Circulation 32,500

www.kitchenercitizen.com • twitter@KitchCitizen

What’s Inside...LINK Festival & the Grand...Local wins conservation award...40 years of Pride...Opinion...Councillor Columns...Sports...Arts & Entertainment

page 3page 4pages 6page 7pages 13-14pages 15-16pages 17-18

519-748-1914 • waterlooregionmuseum.com

Our living history village features farm animals and fun activities for all ages.Open daily 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Doon Heritage Village Open for Season!by Helen Hall

Kitchener is known as a fast-ball city, and local enthusiasts

don’t want us to forget those who helped make it that way.

Organizers of the 2014 Inter-national Softball Congress (ISC) Championships are unveiling a tribute at the Peter Hallman Ball Yard to their “starting nine” - nine longtime volunteers who have passed away since 1999.

Bernie Daley, Doug Davies, Peter Hallman, Paul Hutcheson, John MacTavish, Donald (Pete) McIlwraith, Laverne Reichert, Sue Sherry and Donna Weber spent countless hours helping with local, national and international fastball (also known as softball) tournaments in Kitchener, and helped the Peter Hallman Ball Yard off Hayward Avenue become a top-rate facility.

A five foot high by five foot wide carved granite stone is a project of Kitchener Fastball Promotions, and will be unveiled on August 8 at 8pm, prior to the start of the ISC

tournament. The engraved stone is located just past the outfield of the first diamond, by the walkway into the park. It has benches on either side.

Organizer Tom Clancy said that one of the family members of the recognized group told him “To have this tribute in the park where they spent so many hours is so appropriate.”

“It’s a very unique project,” said Clancy, another fastball fanatic, who is in the Waterloo Region Hall of Fame for his volunteer efforts, and was the previous chair of the ISC tournaments in Kitchener in 2002 and 2006.

Clancy said he, current ISC chair Duncan Matheson, Kitchener Fastball Promotions President Ray Alviano, Larry Lynch and John Thompson started working on the project a few years ago. Some dedications had already been done in the park, including naming the food building ‘Donna’s Diner’ after Donna Weber, and the bridge after Pete McIlwraith, but they wanted to recognize others

who had contributed to their sport.“Larry said he knew a guy in

Moorefield who engraved rock,” Clancy said. After inviting the artist Robert Robinson to Kitchener, their Angels in the Outfield project was born.

The group raised about $25,000 for the stone, carving, transportation and set-up, as well as landscaping and site preparation. It is possible that more names will be added to the monument in the future.

Angels in the Outfield Honourees include:

Bernie DalyMinor softball coach, management

committee member and tireless volunteer; treasurer of Waterloo Ontario Fastball Association; valued member and key contributor for the ISC 2002 Host Committee

Doug DaviesLong-time coach of Tien Hoa Inn

in KFL; Twins coach and venerable umpire; member of Waterloo Ontario Fastball Association, assisting in coordinating announcers, scorers and

‘Angels in the Outfield’ will watch over Peter Hallman Ball Yard

Your local, trusted voice at Queen’s Park.

Daiene Vernile MPP Kitchener Centre

Call me with any provincial concerns

1770 King Street East, Unit 6C, Kitchener, Ontario N2G 2P1T: 519.579.5460 | F: 519.579.2121 | dvernile.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org

Rainy weather didn’t keep people away from

the Downtown Kitchener Ribfest and Craft Beer Show at Victoria Park

July 18 to 20. Ada, 17 months,

enjoyed some ribs with the help of her mom Jenn.

Photo by Andrea Hall

...Continued on page 3

by Helen Hall

They are springing up in neighbourhoods all

around Fischer-Hallman Road.People are coming together to

create new community groups, and the latest to come on board is the Huron Community Association (HCA).

And city councillor Kelly Galloway-Sealock is getting pretty good at helping them get off the ground.

Representing Ward 5, which is bursting with new development, Galloway-Sealock recently helped the Huron Community Association become established, and prior to that, helped the Williamsburg Community Association come to life and get its own community centre in the Williamsburg Towne Centre.

“This group has been so energetic from the get-go,” Galloway-Sealock said of the

volunteers in the new Huron Community Association.

Derik Fuller and Kevin Phillip are Co-chairs of the HCA.

Fuller said the HCA boundaries are Huron Road, Fischer-Hallman Road, Stras-burg Road, and Bleams Road.

It includes about 7,000 homes that have been built in the past eight years, as well as the Huron Natural Area.

“The Huron Natural Area is a real gem in the city,” Fuller said of this natural park in their neighbourhood. It features walking trails and wildlife.

He said there are nine people on the board for the community association.

They were excited when Jean Steckle Public School opened this year on Woodbine Avenue, because it gave them a location within their boundary where they could do programming. They are looking at offering such programs as ballet,

children’s sports, Zumba and pickleball in October.

Without its own community centre at this time, its administration will go through the Williamsburg Community Centre.

The Huron Commmunity Association also has plans for an outdoor “Movie Under the Stars” in Parkvale Park on August 30 at 8pm. The movie will be Disney’s Frozen.

There will be a number of food trucks at the event, and a portion of the proceeds from the sales will go back to the Huron Community Association.

The movie is being funded by the Forward Church, which is located on Strasburg Road.

Fuller said he has lived in this neighbourhood for three years and decided to get involved.

“It’s where my kids are. It’s where I call home,” he said. “This neighbourhood has a ton of potential. We want to bring people together.”

You can learn more about the Huron Community Association by visiting its Facebook page www.facebook.com/HuronCommunity or following it on twitter @HuronCommunity.

Page 2 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l August 7, 2014

Huron Community Association to offer programsat Jean Steckle Public School this October

* FREE GAMES * LIVE MUSIC * BBQ * FAMILY FUN *

RAIN OR SHINE! Schlegel Urban Developments & Williamsburg Town Centre Tenants

Generously supported by:

Sunday September 7th 11:00am - 4:00pm

8thAnnualCommunity Festival

DETECTIVE MURDOCH VISITS CAMBRIDGELaura Saunderson, 9, of Kitchener, poses with Canadian actor Yannick Bisson, who plays William Murdoch in the television series Murdoch Mysteries. Saunderson, who is a fan of the show, met Bisson during a filming in the historic Galt area of Cambridge on July 8. The show is set in 1901 and its 8th season will air on CBC this fall. Photo by Helen Hall

by Carrie Debrone

Two, large ‘Carnival’-style costumes depict-

ing the civilization and nature of the Grand River will be on display on August 21, 2014 at Kitchener’s Victoria Park Pa-vilion where viewers will also have the opportunity to meet the creators and costume de-signers.

The costume show is a fund raising prelude to the August 23 - 24 LINK Picnic Festival, which will feature the costumes as part of the carnival parade on Sunday, August 23 in Victoria Park, Kitchener.

A weekend celebration of African and Caribbean culture, the festival will include exhibits, workshops, dance, Jazz, R&B and Folk singing, a limbo contest, steel pan drumming and a variety of Caribbean and African food.

Funded by the Region of Waterloo Arts Fund, this year’s costumes have been designed in keeping with the 2014 theme of Our Rivers.

Local 14-year old artist, dancer and scholarship winning athlete George Okot has been chosen as the male model for the LINK Picnic Festival

Carnival King of the Parade costume. The Queen costume will be modeled by 13-year-old Brianna Wilson, a cheerleader and competitive dancer with Sam’s Steps Dance Centre in Kitchener.

LINK Picnic Festival event manager Sylma Fletcher said this year’s Our Rivers theme allows designers to promote the diversity of the Grand River.

“More than 720,000 people live in the Grand River watershed and it is an important waterway in our area,” she said.

“The male costume will depict the diversity of the river and what it provides to all of us, and the ladies’ costume will be based on the nature of the river.”

Last year, local costumes were presented at Toronto’s

Junior Carnival for the first time and the queen costume took 4th place.

The costume was also part of the Louis Saldenah Mas-K Club band featured at the Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival (formerly Caribana) last summer.

At the coming costume show, audience members will have the opportunity to meet top designer Danzo Balroop who has been designing carnival costumes since age five. Louis Saldenah, Canada’s top bandleader with the most Band

of the Year wins at Toronto’s carnival, will also be in attendance.

The fundraiser will have a cash bar. Tickets are $10.

People attending are invited to bring a piece of clothing or accessory to bling up the costumes with left over jewels and sequins.

Residents can view last year’s king and queen carnival costumes on display at several locations in Waterloo region.

For details of the festival and costume viewing locations visit www.LINKpicnicFestival.com

August 7, 2014 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l Page 3

AUGUST 23 - 24 AT VICTORIA PARK IN KITCHENER

LINK Picnic Festival featuring costumes depicting nature on the Grand River

Three great community papers

to serve you!

East Kitchener

Call Carrie

519.578.8228

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519.897.6889

West Kitchener

Call Helen

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COMMUNITY NEWS - WEST • DECEMBER 10 , 2008 • 3

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NEXT ISSUE OF THE COMMUNITY NEWS ISJuly 2, 2008.

COMMUNITY NEWS KITCHENER...because good news is news too!

Angie Martens Degroot

Brianna Wilson, 13, works on the large, Carnival-style costume she has been chosen to model at the LINK Picnic Festival to be held in Kitchener’s Victoria Park August 23 - 24. A weekend celebration of African and Caribbean culture, the festival will include exhibits, workshops, dance, Jazz, R&B and Folk singing, a limbo contest, steel pan drumming and a variety of Caribbean and African food.

Join Berry’s Team

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Visit my website for latest campaign updates, to get involved and for news about my

campaign office opening later in August.

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Authorized by the CFO for the Berry Vrbanovic Campaign.

statisticians for national tournaments at Hillside Park and the 2002 ISC Tournament, designing a model for volunteer management that’s been emulated ever since

Peter HallmanA key supporter of minor softball in Kitchener-

Waterloo and area for leagues and tournaments spanning many years; dedicated supporter of Kitchener’s entry in the Ontario Fastball League; the original “Hallman” sponsor of the Twins, without whom local senior men’s fastball may not have flourished through the ’80s and ‘90s

Paul HutchesonFormer manager of the Kitchener Evergreens

in the Kitchener Fastball League; a personable, pleasant and always smiling volunteer scorekeeper for a multitude of tournaments; game announcer and scorer for the Twins and scoring coordinator for the 2006 & 2007 ISC Tournaments

John MacTavishA long-time player with Big Bill’s in the

Kitchener Fastball League; former coach with the Waterloo CHYM’rs; volunteer for several major tournaments and a huge fastball fan at a multitude of venues worldwide for Canadian, ISC and ISF championships

Pete McIlwraith A good ball player who assisted many

organizations over many years. He was the driving force behind the KW Civitan’s diverse community efforts. His many accolades include: Softball Canada Hall of Fame and PWSA’s Outstanding Service Award as well as being installed into the Guelph Sports Hall of Fame.

Laverne ReichertExecutive member of Waterloo Ontario

Fastball Association, as well as Kitchener Fastball Promotions; lead volunteer of bid committees to bring several Softball Canada

national championships to the community; member of the original bid group to initiate the prestigious ISC Tournament coming to Kitchener

Sue SherryMember of Waterloo Ontario Fastball

Association and Kitchener Fastball Promotions; key volunteer for administrative/financial responsibilities at local tourneys, national tourneys and ISC Tournaments; assisted in ISC Hall of Fame inductions in Midland, MI, and Quad Cities, IA/IL

Donna WeberLead catalyst at Donna’s Diner during

Kitchener-hosted ISC and other major tournaments, taking ball park food service and menu to a new level, coordinating her huge band of volunteers, and initiating the popular “Anna Mae’s pie & ice cream” feature

* * *Your Neighbourhood Credit Union is the title

sponsor of the 2014 ISC tournament.Just over 60 teams will participate between

August 9 and 16 in three divisions - Junior, Legends, and the World Tournament Open. A new format means that each team will play a minimum of four games. Teams will move down to the losing bracket on their first loss. Their second loss moves them to the ISC II division, which will also have a champion.

The tournament is expected to bring about $5-million into the local economy. Previous ISC tournaments in 2002, 2006 and 2007 each drew about 50,000 spectators and raised about $100,000 each time for local charities. Proceeds from this year’s event will go to K-W Minor Boys Softball, Kitchener Minor Girls Softball, Children’s Wish and KW Habilitation Services.

Chair Duncan Matheson said they are still looking for volunteers. For more info visit www.isc2014.ca and email robway@rogers.com.

Angels in the Outfield...from page 1

Page 4 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l August 7, 2014

Local ecological hero and K-W Field Naturalist wins Ontario Nature conservation award

We’re pleased to announce the expansion and renovation of Westmount Funeral Chapel.

The newly-named Westmount Memorial Celebration Centre can accommodate

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parking on site.

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T h e c e l e b r a t i o n o f a l i f e t i m e b e g i n s h e r e

by Helen Hall

Big Music Fest appears to have gone smoothly.

There were no major incidents during the three-day music festival held at McLennan Park in Kitchener July 11 to 13.

“The credit goes to staff for all the planning they did ahead of time,” said Ward 6 councillor Paul Singh.

“It was very well managed,” he said. “They knew they had to be sensitive to the neighbours for it to be a success.”

There were less parking complaints than the city had anticipated, but there were some concerns about the noise levels.

And while staff will file a report with city council in September, Singh said he would like to go back and hear from the neighbours directly before making any decision about bringing Big Music Fest back to the park in 2015.

Singh said he was surprised at how quickly the park emptied each night. Shuttles carried concert-goers to offsite parking and in 20 minutes, most people had left the park.

City of Kitchener Manager of Special Events Jeff Young confirmed that Waterloo Regional Police and Emergency Medical Services said there were no issues during the concert weekend.

Part of the park remained

closed for a few days after the concert while the stage was being dismantled.

“By the Wednesday after-noon, it was back to being a park again,” Young said.

Kitchener council to review Big Music Fest in September and decide if it should return

Kim Mitchell was one of the many acts at Big Music Fest held at McLennan Park for the first time on July 11 to 13. Other headliners included Aerosmith and Bryan Adams.

Photo by Helen Hall

by Carrie Debrone

Craig Campbell, local ecologist, nature steward

and member of the Kitchener-Waterloo Field Naturalists, has been awarded the Ontario Na-ture W.W.H. Gunn Conserva-tion Award for demonstrating outstanding personal service and a strong commitment to conservation.

The award ceremony was part of Ontario Nature’s annual general meeting at the YMCA Geneva Park, near Orillia on June 21.

Over the last 50 years, Campbell has devoted his life to the study of Ontario’s natural heritage, and his extraordinary work has played a major role in documenting the occurrence of many endangered species. He has published many articles and studies on the mammals, plants, reptiles, birds and amphibians of Waterloo Region.

He was instrumental in the Regional Municipality of Waterloo’s adoption of environmental planning and the identification of Environmentally Sensitive Areas, becoming one of the first municipalities in Canada to identify local Environmental Protection Areas.

Campbell has also contributed to countless citizen sciences initiatives, including censuses, surveys and atlases.

Campbell said his interest in nature was developed early in his life by his parents and grandparents who taught him how to draw and paint wildlife, and by his mother who was a naturalist. He said he was also greatly inspired by information he garnered from reading National Geographic magazines when he was a child.

“He stands out because he has such a breadth of knowledge of natural history and ecology.

He is such a great steward of natural resources,” said colleague and fellow KWFN member Ken Dance, who has known Campbell since the

1970s.“He is one of the most

preeminent naturalists locally, and very talented,” he said, adding that his work is even more astonishing because Campbell is essentially self-taught.

“He’s done so much original work on the ecology of local plants, birds, butterflies, reptiles and amphibians”.

“In the 1960s there was no environmental industry and scientists didn’t do any studies on the impact that buildings and structures had on the nature around them. Craig was part of the beginning and the development of that science,” Dance said.

“He could see that there was a real need to advocate for good decision-making around conserving and protecting nature and to influence governments at all levels to protect the environment. His

contribution is of national significance,” Dance said.

Campbell worked as a conservation consultant for many local companies, including the Region of Waterloo, where he was asked to choose and document local Environmental Protection Areas. He also did research for the Ministry of Natural Resources, and worked on conservation initiatives in urban planning for a private ecological company in Toronto, and worked on several City of Kitchener parks including Steckle Woods.

Before becoming a conservation consultant he was a high school teacher, and later taught English and History at Wilfrid Laurier University.

Campbell also worked on many local environmental campaigns in the 1970s and 1980s. He fought a

CRAIG CAMPBELLPhoto by Brett Woodman

...continued on page 5

August 7, 2014 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l Page 5

Races becoming more competitive for fall municipal election

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2014-Kitchener_Citizen-6x8-TSHW-Show_and_Shine-V2.pdf 5/28/14 1:36:34 PM

OCTOBER 27TH, 2014

as councillor for ward

SuPPORT PAuL, REQuEST A SIGN, VOLuNTEER www.VotePaulSingh.ca

paulsinghward6@gmail.com

RE-ELECT

COMMITMENT, PASSION and LEADERSHIPI'm passionate about serving Ward 6. I'm committed to providing you with good representation and will continue to lead and speak up loud and clear for good governance, fiscal responsibility and improved city services.

Candidates continue to come forward for the

October 27 municipal election. Deadline for applications is 2pm on September 12.

CITY OF KITCHENERIn the City of Kitchener, three

people are running to fill the mayor’s seat. Carl Zehr is not running again after spending 17 years as Kitchener’s mayor. Ward 10 councillor Dan Glenn-Graham, Ward 2 councillor Berry Vrbanovic, and former downtown business owner Peter Martin are vying to replace him.

The following people have registered to run in the city wards.

Ward 1: Incumbent Scott Davey is the only declared candidate.

Ward 2: Newcomers Wasai Rahimi, Dan Graham, Grayson Zeilstra and Chris Letizi have declared they are running to replace Vrbanovic in this ward.

Ward 3: Incumbent John Gazzola is running again in Ward 3, which he has represented since 2002.

Ward 4: Two people have declared they will run against incumbent Yvonne Fernandes this fall, Rolf Malthaner and Wayne Buchholtz. Buchholtz is currently a trustee on the Waterloo Catholic District

School Board.Ward 5: Incumbent Kelly

Galloway-Sealock has announced she will run again in this ward. Newcomer Lala Malik has also declared.

Ward 6: Incumbent Paul Singh has declared in Ward 6.

Ward 7: Fauzia Mazhar has registered to run in Ward 7 against incumbent Bil Ioannidis and Harald Drewitz.

Ward 8: Incumbent Zyg Janecki is running again in this ward.

Ward 9: Four people are now vying for Ward 9. Incumbent Frank Etherington is being challenged by Tessa Jennison, Terry Ross and Steve Strohack.

Ward 10: Three candidates have registered to replace current councillor Dan Glenn-Graham, who is running for mayor. They include James Howe, Adam Kochanski, and Sarah Marsh. Sheryl Ann Lewis has withdrawn from the race.REGION OF WATERLOO

There have been changes in the race for the Regional Chair’s seat in the municipal election this fall.

Businessman Bob Oberholt-zer, 79, has withdrawn from the race for medical reasons, and some new names have come forward.

Incumbent Ken Seiling is looking to return as Regional Chair, a position he has held since 1985.

Kitchener resident Paul Myles filed his papers to run against Seiling, and LRT opponent Jay Aissa has been reported by other media to be joining the contest, but had not filed his paperwork as of July 31. Aissa is the head of the Coalition Stop Waterloo LRT.

Aissa did not respond to several phone calls or an email from the Citizen to confirm whether or not he is running.

So far, four people have registered to run for the four spots around the regional council table allocated to Kitchener councillors. None of them are incumbents. They include Eric Bohner, Greg Burns, Elizabeth Clarke, and Cameron Dearlove,

Current councillor Jim Wideman has announced he is not running again in the fall. The other incumbents, Tom Galloway, Jean Haalboom, and Geoff Lorentz, have not yet declared their intentions.

bridge in Elora that would have spanned the Elora Gorge in an environmentally damaging spot. He helped save the Oriskany Sandstones in the region of Haldimand Norfolk, tabling a major paper to the Ontario Municipal Board, and was successful in saving a portion of the only outcrops of sandstone in Canada that a company had planned to totally quarry.

Campbell also helped save the second and third Baden Hills, just past St. Agatha, sometimes known as the sand hills, from being quarried.

“Those hills are so vital to our landscape in the area,” he said.He also worked two years with the World Wildlife Fund on a

project to protect rare butterflies.Campbell advocated for reptiles and amphibians, and was one

of the first people in the region to recognize that these animals were beginning to lose their habitat in the 1960s, causing many of the species he studied to be placed on the endangered list.

He helped create the amphibian and reptile atlas, a map of every species and where it can be found in the local area.

“He taught people like me how to recognize many reptile and amphibian species and was a great mentor. He can identify frog species by their calls,” Dance said.

Nominated by Graham Macdonald, President of the K-W Field Naturalists, and Dance, the nomination form states that Campbell was an active director on the Board of the Kitchener-Waterloo Field Naturalists between 1957 and 1960, and again from 1964 to 1966, and played a leadership role on its Conservation Committee. He was the editor of the KWFN publication “The Heron” for some years, and received an Honorary Life Membership Award in 1991 for his service to the club. In 2001 the club nominated him for a Province of Ontario Volunteer Award.

“There’s a lot more environmental work to do at every level of government,” Campbell said, adding that money for ecological conservation and protection projects is very scarce these days –with the shortage unfortunately coming at a time when it is very crucial to protect all our natural areas.

* * *Ontario Nature is a charitable organization representing more

than 30,000 members and supporters and 150 member groups across Ontario.

Craig Campbell...from page 4

Page 6 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l August 7, 2014

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6097519-744-6307www.kwhab.ca

2012 BUILDINGACHIEVABILITY CAMPAIGNKW Habilitation has been inspiring abilities

and enriching lives of children and adults withdevelopmental disabilities for over 40 years.

To continue our work we need a new building,so we can provide a fresh new environment

that encourages activity and growth.

SUPPORT US IN REACHING OUR GOALPlease donate at www.kwhab.caWhen you give, it enriches all of us!KW Habilitation supports employees in our community.

by SHelley byerS

Danika Blackstock has been horseback riding

for over 10 years. Now prepar-ing for her first year in univer-sity, she took time out to dazzle guests with her dressage talents and, with the aid of a volunteer, she was able to maneuver her horse through the course with ease.

A spectator would never realize that Danika has a visual impairment.

“It makes you trust yourself, your horse, your volunteers. There is a feeling of freedom...of confidence and independence,” the young rider said of the Pride Stables therapeutic horseback-riding program.

Playing soccer or other physically active games is impossible for Danika. By the age of 9, she had endured 13 heart surgeries and another since.

“I missed the smell of the barn the most,” she says of the weeks recuperating in hospital.

Danika, who is looking forward to studying social development and law in the fall, wants to advocate for people with special needs when she graduates, and believes her experience at Pride has helped give her the courage to do just that.

“Horseback riding takes you above what you thought you could do.”

Pride Stables celebrated 40 years of therapeutic horseback riding with the help of a cheering crowd on Saturday, June 21.

Riders spurred on the fun with demonstrations, including dressage and obstacle courses. Serving the Waterloo Region since 1974, riders, volunteers and staff have changed over the years, but the magical feeling of the program remains.

Rider Samantha Quesnelle took home a ribbon in dressage with the help of volunteers and her horse, Pepper. She was excited to participate in the

celebration after six years of riding with the program.

“The best part of riding is saying goodbye to my wheelchair,” she said.

“Everything going on during the day disappears when I ride.”

After many years using borrowed land, horses and equipment, Central Ontario Developmental Riding Program, Pride Stables, put down roots on Pioneer Tower Road, Kitchener in 1988. The program now welcomes over 340 riders and 250 volunteers each year to experience the magic of Pride.

Madison Cook sports two ribbons for participating in both demonstrations.

“I feel confident, like I can do something good,” she says. Riding since last fall, she was thrilled to show off her newfound skills.

“The best part of riding is feeling free with the wind in my hair. I feel really good.”

Anniversary celebrations included a childrens’ fun area, history tent, food and prizes. Well-wishers kept a close eye on the game of horse-poop bingo, and sang Happy Birthday while munching on cupcakes made especially for the day.

“We are proud to thank the community for their ongoing support of our program,” says Heather MacKneson, Executive Director.

“Our biggest thanks goes to our riders who take the reins and show us that anything is possible. They are the reason we will be here for another 40 years.”

The charity relies on generous donations from individuals and corporations, as well as special events such as the Waterloo Roadbreakers Road Hockey Tournament.

“We are always looking for sponsors for our riders, horses, paddocks and property,” said MacKneson.

“It’s an ongoing need that never changes.”

From humble beginnings, the program has grown to include an indoor riding arena, an integrated summer day camp, Camp Pride, and 26 horses and ponies - the life-blood of the program.

Nicolas (Nico) Batky began riding during Camp Pride last summer when he was 8 years old. He and his mother, Melba, haven’t looked back since.

“Pride Stables is a treasure,” says Melba.

Nico endures a rare disorder affecting his sight, hearing, and muscular system. He uses a wheelchair, but with help is able to balance with a walker. Since discovering Pride Stables, his mom has noticed a marked improvement in his posture and balance, but it is the emotional impact the program has left that touches her most.

“It’s like he discovered he could fly -- feeling the wind on his skin,” says Melba.

Nico’s connection with his pony, Angel, and the natural surroundings at the barn eases his frustrations and he calms down when he hears the word horse.

“It’s the whole package. It’s magical,” she said.

To become a volunteer or donate to Pride Stables, contact the staff at www.pridestables.com or call 519-653-4686 for more information.

Danika Blackstock, who has been riding at Pride Stables for 10 years, demonstrates the difficult dressage half pass with her horse Lionel during the 40th anniversary celebration of the local Central Ontario Developmental Riding Program.

Pride Stables volunteers helped during the therapeutic horseback riding program’s 40th anniversary celebration, which featured riding demonstrations, history tent, children’s games, food and prizes. The program now welcomes 340 riders and 250 volunteers annually. From left: Shelley Byers, Dan Ziegler, Kathy Ziegler, Adam Cox, Tina Taylor, Adrienne MacFarlane and Heather MacKneson (Executive Director).

OFFERS THERAPEUTIC PROGRAMS

A great ride - Pride Stables celebrates 40 years

August 7, 2014 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l Page 74 • APR IL 29 , 2009 • K ITCHENER CIT IZEN

PUBLISHER/EDITORCarrie Debrone

debrone@sympatico.ca

NEWS REPORTERSJennifer LeppekHelen Hall

Charlotte Prong Parkhill

CONTRIBUTINGCOLUMNISTSZoe Avon

Dee ConstantJennifer LeppekMarilyn LincolnTed MartinJohn MilloyJack NahrgangJanet OzarukPeter SchneiderJohn Smola

Berry VrbanovicBruce WhitestoneEverton WIlmot

Stephen Woodworth

GRAPHIC DESIGNAudra NobleHelen Hall

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519-578-8228

As a relatively new arrival in Kitchener I've been exploring thephotographic arts opportunities here and first impressions are veryencouraging. It's just not just in the tech side of quality that the communityshould be judged. A thriving Arts community usually does well. This cannot always be measured in the financial spectrum as the living standardexpectations of artists are remarkably low.

We don't want that two bedroom house within convenient drivingdistance to the golf course or mall. Speaking as one of those underfundedindependent art producers i'll tell you I've lived in some very badconditions just to be close to my working environment. An example beingwhen living in my various illegal Toronto warehouse studios many yearsbefore they were condoized.

There are basically two reasons for artists to be in an area. A slightlycompact arts community with low rents and the availability of galleries orvenues to showcase the art produced. I have noticed that there is a vibranttheatre network here that none the less is going through hard times. Themusic scene is really good with a solid choice of local talent that is wellpublicized by a few local free publications. Radio generally follows thestandard corprock but the University of Waterloo has an outstandingcommunity station.

The huge pool of university students to draw from for a vocal audiencewith some disposable cash helps in keeping the cities vibrant andenthusiastic. The number of professional artists is still small enough so thatthey know one another.

We are quickly seeing astounding growth in the digital imagingindustry. Fortunately, as a photographer who has been working in digital

for years it helps me integrate my own work into video, 3D, web,advertising, etc. So I think, personally, the opportunities in Kitchener arebetter than Toronto. An example being the cable TV (Rogers) that worksvery hard to involve the regions schools and artisians in locally producedprogramming.

Let's not forget that Kitchener/Waterloo was voted the most intelligentcity and speaking as a newcomer it is very evident that the level ofprofessionalism is visibly high here. People waste little time and thewelcome i've received in presenting my own portfolio to various galleriesand companies has been warm and enthusiastic. A very nice event heldin town is the quarterly parties at the KW regional art gallery. Mellowpeople who enjoy art meet each other with cool jazz and some ambientdub from the djs.

With the projected growth of the regions artists in all mediums I havefound there are many dynamic, specifically targeted plans, by themunicipal government in particular, to foster a (relatively) largecommunity investment in development towards artist integration. I was

very impressed by the Arts office at City Hall and with how they providedme with information about what was going on here. Those people in turnhave offered their own advice and contacts, so again two thumbs up forthe level of support they give each other.

Yes, there are already many photographers doing the normalphotographic needs of the region, but the opportunity to work withemerging image companies like web designers, animation houses, softwareproducers, locally based video firms, electronic images for broadcastersetc.is growing as the manufacturing base has declined. The liveentertainment industries, local graphic designers and most especially theemerging gallery system bodes well for business opportunities, even in thisdownturn.

Kitchener is projected to be growing by a conservative estimate of100,000 people over the next 20 years and plans call for a big investmentin conversions of existing warehouse buildings into studio style live workspace. Technically the manufacturing base has down- turned and left a lotof empty buildings.

If out of those numbers there are 10 percent artists in all media thatactually work at their art all of us are going to need some of this space tobuild up our community. Artists, being artists though, do not like to betold how to do things. The local government is working hard to reach thatlevel where they can integrate the needs of the artistic communityseamlessly into their development plans.

Many studies have shown time and again how efficient an Arts basedcommunity can be. A planning group called The Prosperity Councilspecifically calls for a huge investment for artists and art based businessesto encourage them to choose Kitchener as a place to work. This is the firsttime I have found a directed approach to our niche, but very valuablesegment of society. If even fifty percent of the plans get done it is still anattractive place to build a career.

Our image production is now all pixels and with the recentannouncement of a new 5 million dollar Federal grant to establish amassive digital media centre in the downtown core, it offers unexcelledopportunities to work with some of the leading edge image systems in theworld. In fact there are plans to make Kitchener a regionalcommunications hub and that leads into the possibility of thousands of newuses for my photos.

There is a very good internet system here and if you would like moreinfo just go to the net and most community plans are available. The nextthree years will establish this region of one of the "Silicon Valley" inspiredexamples of a thriving gateway of new ideas and I feel very fortunate tobe able to establish myself here with so many other creative artists.

Letter to the editor

Just what makes Kitchener so good at Arts development?

&RANTS ravesTHE KITCHENER CITIZEN OPINION PAGE

Dear Carrie Debrone,I was pleased to get your Kitchener Citizen (east edition) and found it

quite informative and I thank you for it.I just read your short article regarding the natural gas rates going down

for residential customers.You write that Kitchener Utilities have a 2,100 cubic meter average use

annually for its residential customers. I still have an imperial gas meter,which shows the consumption in cubic feet. I have never been able to readthat meter and as for that matter, even the meter readers seem to have aproblem with it as well. Why else would the city issue a bill in the amountof $452?

My January bill had been $222.16. February, $295.79, there I already satup and took notice, but then excused it by, the winter being especially harsh.However, when I received my March bill, I knew that something was verywrong. I called the Utility Office and was asked to take a piece of paperand a pen and read the meter myself. To this request I replied that I did notknow how to read the imperial meter and aside from that, it wasn't my job.The lady I talked to was very nice and agreed to send somebody out to do

another reading and also promised to call me back once this was done. Itwas the very next day that I received her call telling me that the new amountowing was now $200.10, a mere difference of $251.90. I only wonder howoften the meter had been misread in the past.

My neighbours on either side have metric meters and I had previouslyasked if I could get one that I would be able to read. The answer to thatconsisted of a flat NO.

The city had pre-authorized withdrawal privileges for 2004/005 whichthey bungled up so badly that I revoked that privilege. I did ask that officeto please send me a paper trail for my records which I never received nordid I get an answer to my request and, of course, one can forget about anapology.

I realize that it is up to your discretion to publish or not to publish myletter. However if you decide to print it I would like to warn my fellow"Kitchenerites" to be extra "vigilant" every time that Utility Bill arrives.

Respectfully,Ingrid E. Merkel

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LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Kitchener Rocks!The biggest stage in North America has now been

dismantled. The tour buses have left town. McLennan Park has been cleaned up and returned to the community. And, the tens of thousands who celebrated in Kitchener went back to their regular lives, with stories and one even has a cherished tattoo. Now is the time we start asking: what are the takeaways from Big Music Fest?

Kitchener rocks! We proved to ourselves and the world (or at least to those ticketholders from places like Denmark and Australia), that Kitchener is more than able to host a multi-day, outdoor music festival with major rock headliners. I received great feedback from the acts about how smoothly the event ran. Most importantly, they were truly impressed with how warm and receptive our hometown audience was. The crowd was also very responsible with only a handful of minor incidents reported by police.

The event also proved to be a big hit with local hotels and restaurants. Many business owners tell me that their establishments were completely packed for the whole festival.

Many people were concerned at the outset that the surrounding neighbourhoods would be inundated with noise, cars and garbage.

Given the scale of the event and the fact that Big Music Fest had never been held in our city before, this concern was completely understandable. I’m proud of the way city staff engaged the public through community meetings and notices to address those concerns. In fact, as residents knew about the concert well in advance, many people chose to hold neighbourhood parties over the weekend to soak up the rock and roll vibe.

Are there things we could have done better? Absolutely. That’s why city staff and the concert organizers will be meeting shortly to debrief about the event. We know the event was a tremendous success, and the lessons learned will enhance future events.

I want to thank the people of Kitchener for embracing Big Music Fest. Sure, change can be worrying. But now we see how events like Big Music Fest fit into the bigger picture of our growing and dynamic city. I also want to thank the concert organizers for taking a chance on Kitchener. They assure me that the experience more than exceeded their expectations! A final hat tip to city staff who worked hard behind the scenes to make sure that the event was a hit – not just for concertgoers but the city as a whole.

Bil IoannidisKitchener City Councillor - Ward 7

Thanks for embracing Big Music Fest

INVITATION TO BE A GUEST COLUMNIST The Kitchener Citizen invites you to share your experi-ences with the community as a guest columnist. Do you have a rant? A viewpoint about a local event or opinion about an important issue? Or, do you have a personal or funny story? The Kitchener Citizen is looking for writers who are willing to share their views with their neighbours in a guest column. Columns should be 400-500 words long and submissions must include your name and contact information.To submit your column by email or mail, please call editor Helen Hall at 519-394-0335 or email citizenwest@hotmail.com.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Kitchener Citizen welcomes Letters to the Editor. All letters must clearly state the writer’s full name, address, phone number and be signed. Names will be published along with the letter, however, addresses and telephone num-bers will be used only for verification purposes and will not be published. Letters should be submitted at least one week before the publication date. This newspaper reserves the right to edit, condense or reject any contribution for brevity or legal purposes. Copyright in letters and other material submitted to the publisher and accepted for publication remains with the author, but the publisher may freely reproduce them in print, electronic or other forms.

As the Chair of the Standing Committee on Veterans Af-fairs, it is truly and honour to work each day in support

of Canadian Veterans. Just this week our committee released a report entitled the New Veterans Charter: Moving Forward. I am pleased that all members on the committee worked hard to provide 14 positive recommendations to the government.

I encourage all Canadians, and especially our veterans, and their family members to read this report found at www.parl.gc.ca

It is not a Conservative, Liberal or NDP report. It is a bi-partisan, unanimous committee report on the issues that are facing Canadian veterans and their families.

And what do we call for? Above all else, we call on the government to review the medical releasing process in the Canadian Armed Forces so veterans will have a smooth transition when they arrive at Veterans Affairs. We call on the government to enshrine the Veterans Bill of Rights into legislation giving it the full force of law. And, we call on the government to streamline programs, review the Disability Award and expand programs for veterans’ families.

We recognize that the majority of Canadian veterans and their families are well served under the New Veterans Charter, but we as a committee, as a government and as a country must remain focused to help those who fall through the cracks. There are some 700,000 veterans living in Canada of which approximately 140,000 are in receipt of a benefit. This is a big job but I believe

our government is up to the challenge, And I expect that our bi-partisan committee report will help move things forward, so we can be confident we are doing the best we can for our injured veterans and their families.

Greg Kerr MP West Nova

Under the Ontario Election regulations, the city council-lors’ columns “Notes from City Hall” published in each

issue of the Kitchener Citizen can not be printed in the coming September, October, November or December issues.

The popular columns will return following the swearing in of the new council after the October 27th municipal election.

We look forward to working with the new coumcil elected on this date.

Helen HallEditor

Kitchener Citizen - West Edition

New Veterans Charter Report releasedLETTER TO THE EDITOR

EDITOR’S NOTELast municipal councillor columns

until after fall election

Page 8 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l August 7, 2013

I was pleased to honour Canada’s newest citi-zens in July. On Canada Day, we welcomed

new citizens from around the region at a ceremo-ny in Woodside National Park. I then invited all new Kitchener Centre citizens to a special recep-tion at my office on July 8th. It is important to recognize the brave and extraordinary efforts im-migrants make in becoming citizens of Canada.

Canada’s immigration system is well recognized as one of the most generous and welcoming in the world, but we must make sure that it continues to protect and promote Canadian interests and values. The Government of Canada has already taken important steps to improve the efficiency and integrity of our immigration system, and the Strengthening Canadian Citizenship Act— the first comprehensive reform of the Citizenship Act in a generation—will build on its accomplishments.

These reforms include important measures to strengthen the value of Canadian Citizenship, while continuing to improve the citizenship system. The government’s changes are a reflection of the belief that Canadian citizenship is not just a passport of convenience. Rather, Canadian citizenship comes with rights and responsibilities, and a commitment to Canada and Canadian values.

To help ensure that citizenship applicants maintain strong ties to Canada, the government is extending the residency requirements to four of the six previous years for which a physical presence in Canada is required. We will also require that applicants between the age of 14 and

64 years of age meet language requirements in French or English and pass a knowledge test. These requirements will help ensure that new Canadians are fully prepared to participate in Canadian society.

The government is improving the integrity of our immigration system and discourages citizenship fraud with stronger penalties for misrepresentation. It is making sure people who commit serious crimes abroad can’t become Canadian citizens. It is also revoking Canadian citizenship from dual-nationals convicted of terrorism, high treason, spying offences or who take up arms against Canada. What’s more, any permanent resident who commits any of these acts will be barred from applying for Canadian citizenship.

In recognition of their important contributions, the government will fast track applications for permanent residents who serve as members of the Canadian Armed Forces. The government will extend citizenship to children adopted or born to Canadian parents serving abroad. It is also taking action to right the historical wrong of so-called “Lost Canadians” once and for all.

Canadian citizenship is more popular than ever. In addition to strengthening requirements for citizenship, important measures that the government is introducing to streamline the application process will significantly improve the efficiency of our immigration system. Reducing the decision-making process from three steps to one is projected to reduce the processing time to less than a year by 2015-2016.

PARLIAMENTARY REPORTby Stephen Woodworth MP for Kitchener-Centre

To say that the past few months have been a whirlwind is an understatement!

From April, when I was nominated, to the six week election campaign, and then a rare July sitting of the Ontario legislature, it’s been an exhilarating roller coaster ride.

Traditionally, when new MPPs are elected, they have several weeks to orient themselves, hire staff, and move into their offices before the legislative session begins. Premier Kathleen Wynne, however, had promised to recall the legislature within 20 days in order to reintroduce the budget, so things moved along quite a bit quicker for the Class of 2014.

Within 48 hours of being elected, I was at Queen’s Park going through the orientation process for new MPPs, trying to absorb, as quickly as possible, house procedures, protocol, and learning the day-to-day operations of the legislature.

To save time, the usual individual swearing-in of MPPs was scrapped in favour of a seldom-used “mass” oath taking. Soon after, I was pleased to learn of my appointment as Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Research and Innovation. With Waterloo Region a premier hub of innovation in Ontario, this portfolio is a natural fit.

Then, it was time to get to work. True to her promise, Premier Wynne recalled

the legislature for July 2nd. The first order of business was reading the Throne Speech. It was an honour being asked to deliver the first “maiden speech” among the new MPPs, initiating the Throne Speech debate in the house. This is a tradition for new members, sharing insights from

their communities, and personal stories.There is nothing quite like addressing the

Legislative Assembly. As you stand and look around the chamber, you can feel the weight of history, knowing that you are a part of a tradition dating back to 1867.

Just over a week later, the 2014 Budget – which triggered the election – was re-tabled. On the heels of this, committees were struck, and I was appointed to the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs. While most committees usually start in the fall session, SCFEA began immediately, tasked with examining the budget. We heard from various stakeholders, and then debated the budget line by line.

It was an absorbing process, and gave me a real appreciation for all the positive initiatives in the budget, especially those concerning our region: all-day 2-way GO service, expanding Highway 7, funding for the Quantum Computing Institute, and support for the developmentally disabled, just to name a few. After two days of intensive work, the committee sent the budget back to the house for the final vote.

And so, three months and one election campaign after its initial introduction, we passed the 2014 Budget.

With the house adjourned, and now back in Kitchener, the focus turns to serving constituents. The past few months have been fast, and fascinating, and utterly unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.

It’s an honour and privilege to serve the people of Kitchener, and bring you these inside perspectives from Queen’s Park.

PROVINCIAL ISSUESby Daiene Vernile

MPP for Kitchener-Centre

MarketNEWS

Visit our website for details and to register:

www.kitchenermarket.ca

BIKE IT, YOU’LL LIKE IT! Every Tuesday in August, 11:50 a.m.-1 p.m.Join us for a community bike ride and receive a $5 lunch coupon for the Kitchener Market! Meet at Kitchener City Hall. Rides are 20-25 minutes and are led by Easy Riders Cycling Club. All rides end at the Kitchener Market where cyclists can enjoy a delicious lunch.

Cooking classes in the MarketplaceIt doesn’t matter if you know your way around the kitchen, can’t

tell a saucepan from a frying pan, or just want a fun night out - we

have a class for you! All classes are $45 unless otherwise noted.

To register: Visit www.kitchenermarket.ca/cookingclasses,

call 519-741-2287 or email info@kitchenermarket.ca

Japanese cuisineWednesday, Aug. 6, 6:30-8:30 p.m.Traditional Japanese food incorporates simple ingredients and

flavourful sauces, dips, or fillings to create healthy and delicious

dishes. Seafood, grains, and root veggies are staple ingredients

used in Japanese cooking! Our professional chefs will guide you

along with step-by-step instructions to make the recipes you’ll

ake away quick and easy to prepare in your own kitchen.

Wine & ArtThursday, Aug. 14, 6:30-8:30 p.m.Join us for a fun series - Wine & Art! Hosted by a certified Art Innovators

teacher, this two-hour class will feature hands-on instruction as you

create two pieces of artwork, accompanied by wine and a platter of

gourmet cheese. In this class the works you will create are: a chalk

pastel project, and a tropical scene using acrylic paints.

SpanishWednesday, Aug. 20, 6:30-8:30 p.m.Spain is known worldwide for its lively culture, fast-paced music,

and flavourful food. Despite the fast and fun lifestyle, food is not a

thing to be rushed in Spain! The same could be said of our Spanish

cooking class, where you will learn how to develop flavours in

traditional Spanish recipes.

Get the MarketNEWS delivered every month to your inbox!

Sign up: kitchenermarket.ca/newsletter

Community bike rides, wine and art, a culinary trip to Japan and Spain –

this month we will tantalize your taste buds!

August 7, 2014 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l Page 9

Libro Credit Union honours local Community Builder Scholarship winnersLibro Credit Union recog-

nized the 2014 Com-munity Builder Scholarship recipients from the Kitchener-Waterloo region, Aly Pintea and Faith-Anne Wagler, during special cheque presentations at Libro’s Williamsburg branch.

Libro awarded a total of 12 scholarships valued at $3,000 each to youth across southwestern Ontario, between the ages of 17 and 25, who demonstrated outstanding commitment in their local communities through volunteerism, leadership and academic performance. Since 2012, Libro has awarded nearly $150,000 to 72 students through

its scholarship programs. Pintea is the Student

Council President of Huron Heights Secondary School, the Volunteer Chair on the School Relay for Life Committee, and Chair of Youth Issues on the Kitchener Youth Action Council. She’s been involved in a variety of activities, such as public speaking, fundraising and managing volunteers. Recently, she was able to travel to India to build a school in Bagad.

“Through hard work and passion, one can change their community,” Pintea said. “And I hope to never cease pursuing this passion.”

Wagler has served as the Co-Chair of the Graduate Association for Recreation and Leadership Studies Symposium, a student-run graduate research conference, and has developed a passion for teaching through a University of Waterloo on-campus program

that trains graduate students how to more effectively instruct and lecture. She has been a youth leader at her church and also a team captain/coach for a co-ed soccer team.

“While we live in a society where it is all too easy to disengage, maintaining my

presence in the community through volunteering and leadership is an important part of who I am and who I will continue to be,” Wagler said.

To learn more about the 2014 Community Builder Scholarship recipients, visit libro.ca/scholarship.

Scholarship recipient Aly Pintea (right) with Martin Kihle, Libro Credit Union Regional Manager, Kitchener-Waterloo.

Scholarship recipient Faith-Anne Wagler (left), with Martin Kihle, Libro Credit Union Regional Manager, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Financial Planner Scott Macleod of the Williamsburg branch.

Page 10 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l August 7, 2014

DOWNTOWN KITCHENER ROCKSThe 3rd annual Rock and Rumble Motorcycle Show in downtown Kitchener was expanded to a two-day event this year. On Friday night boxing was featured on the “Ring on King” in front of Kitchener City Hall. On Saturday, motorcyclists gathered on King Street. There was also motorcycle equipment on display. From left: Darlene McLennan and Les Bryce of Rogue Machine Company in Scarborough show their custom-made bikes.

Photo by Helen Hall

City of Kitchener work crews will soon head out with line trimmers to knock

down the weeds growing through the cracks on traffic islands, as they do every year at this time, and again in the fall.

On August 6, 7, 12, and 13, crews will begin at 3 a.m. and work until approximately 7 a.m. when traffic begins to build.

Using line trimmers is an effective way to remove the weeds, but the trimmers throw rocks and debris in all directions.

For the safety of the crews and to avoid possible damage to passing vehicles the work

must be done when there is minimal vehicle traffic.

In other years, the islands were sprayed to eliminate the weeds, but this option is no longer available since the Province of Ontario amended its Pesticides Act of Ontario, which deals with cosmetic use and sale of pesticides.

Most of the traffic islands are not on residential roads, and the crews work quickly to not be in one location for extended periods of time.

However, the noise may stir some residents, particularly households with the windows open during that time.

Traffic island clean-up may cause noise disruption

The Region of Waterloo Archives has re-ceived a donation of significant original

architectural drawings. The original hand draw-ings were created by Charles and Jonas Knechtel from the 1880s to 1940s and donated to the ar-chives by Patricia Perrett (nee Knechtel).

These very rare drawings are an important part of our local architectural history and are now publicly accessible.

They include well-known buildings such as St. Mary’s rectory in Kitchener, the laundry and bakeshop building for St. Agatha Orphanage,

and several private buildings. Jonas Knechtel (1842-1894) is reputed to

be the only architect active in the Kitchener-Waterloo area in the late nineteenth century. Charles Knechtel joined his father, Jonas, in 1886. Charles continued to work in the area until the 1940s.

The Region of Waterloo Archives preserves and provides access to the documentary history of the region. The Archives is open to researchers on weekdays between 9am and 4pm., preferably by appointment.

Early architecture records donated to Region of Waterloo Archives

www.colourparadise.cominfo@colourparadise.com

1209 Bleams Road, Mannheim519.745.0200

We’re closer than you think -3 minutes west of Sunrise Centre

on Ottawa Street South in Kitchener

August Hours: Mon. to Sat. 9am-5pm Closed Every Sunday

Fall planters and fall mums ready

soon!

Great selection of perennials available.

Gift card fundraisers.

Custom Container Design

Annuals

Perennials

Herbs

Vegetable Plants

Hanging baskets

Patio Planters

by Carrie Debrone

Before writing her most recent book, Kitchener

author Jane Orend thought she knew the Region of Waterloo well, so she originally planned to write a fictional story about this area, adding in some of its interesting local facts.

“I’ve lived here all my life and I thought I was pretty familiar with things. I thought I knew a lot about Waterloo region, but I was wrong. When I started my research, I found out it was much larger than I thought. There was just so much to discover,” Orend said.

With that realization, the project promptly morphed into her newly-released, non-fiction book titled ‘This is Waterloo Region’ – a project that took five years to complete, in part because she also personally gathered the photos included in the book and did the layout and design herself.

‘This is Waterloo Region’ is Orend’s second major book. She is also the author of Making Working from Home Work, published in 2006.

Unable to include everything that is interesting about one of Canada’s most innovative regions, Orend said she had to be very selective with the information she chose for publication.

“It was difficult. There are just so many great things going on here. The book could have been huge,” she said, but in

the end she is satisfied that the information she chose to include will not only inform and engage people who don’t live here and are interested in learning about the region, but also be an easy-to-read book that will provide some fun facts to those who call Waterloo region their home.

“It would be a great gift for non-residents, but I think it’s something that everyone can enjoy,” she said.

The self-published, 72-page, hard-cover book is filled with information about Waterloo

region’s businesses, everyday life, sports, arts, history, health care and education. Its pages include many photos, maps, charts and colourful fact boxes.

The introduction provides information on the region’s population, location and physical geography, and the Early Settler’s section looks at the region’s rich history, including its Aboriginal People, Six Nations, Mennonites, German, English, Newfoundland and Portuguese settlers.

Another section titled

‘Regional Glue’ includes information on how local residents work, celebrate and support their community. The book also includes a section on close-by locations, offers an explanation about why the region is positioned well for the future, and a list of places to further research the region.

Orend plans to update the

book annually, keeping its contents current.

‘This is Waterloo Region’ ($38.20) can be ordered from Amazon.ca or from Wordsworth Books in Waterloo. ibook and Kindle versions are also available. For more information and to see sample pages from the book visit www.thisiswaterlooregion.com

August 7, 2014 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l Page 11

Food waste is turned intocompost and used by

local farmers

Residents just like youknow that

green binning is recycling

Don’t waste food waste

519-575-4400 TTY 519-575-4608www.regionofwaterloo.ca/waste

Get your green bin to the curb!

Space provided through a partnership between industry and Ontario Municipalities to support waste diversion programs.

ymcacambridgekw.ca

HAPPY 100 YEARS!In one of her first official duties as newly-elected Kitchener Centre MPP, Daiene Vernile presented 100-year-old Elsie Thompson with a certificate at a special birthday party held July 12 for Thompson at Trinity Village Studios retirement residence in Kitchener. Thompson is the first resident living there to celebrate a centennial birthday. At the party, she was joined by about 50 fellow residents and several of her relatives, including her granddaughter Lana Mullin of Kitchener and her great granddaughter Marilou Langlais from Gaspe Bay, Quebec. Thompson has five children, 11 grand-children, 17 great-grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter. Photo by Carrie Debrone

Politicians at the provincial and federal levels are usually busy battling each other and their parties at every chance they get.

But the Kitchener-Waterloo riding’s Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal presentation has apparently brought out the cooperative spirit.

In a rare showing that politicians can cooperate and work with each other, Liberal MPP of Kitchener Centre John Milloy, former Conservative MPP of Kitchener Waterloo Elizabeth Witmer and newly elected New Democrat MPP of Kitchener Waterloo Catherine Fife, will all be present at the medal presentation ceremony for the Kitchener Waterloo riding recipients to be held January 16 at Kitchener City Hall.

Milloy was asked to give out the medals on behalf of Elizabeth Witmer after she left provincial politics. He decided instead to wait until after the by-election, allowing the opportunity to whom ever was elected to present the medals in their own riding.

The commemorative medal, created to mark the 2012 celebration of the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the Throne as Queen of Canada, is in recognition of those who, like Her Majesty, have dedicated themselves to

service to their fellow citizens, their community and their country.

Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medals will be presented January 16 to the following Kitchener-Waterloo riding recipients:

Chandrika AnjariaChandrika Anjaria has been

a tireless volunteer within the community. The focus of her community work has been empathy and compassion for others. An employee for the University of Waterloo’s Information Systems and Technology Department, Chandrika also served as past chair of UW’s United Way Campaign. She has also presided as co-chair of three local hospital walkathons, and is the chair of the Earthquakes, Cyclone and Tsunami relief fund. Chandrika is a member of the India Canada Association, past chair of several cultural festivals and a founding member of Club 55. In 1997, Chandrika was honoured as one of Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest’s Women of the Year.

Ariarani AriaratnamAriarani is the founder and

former Executive Director of Focus for Ethnic Women in KW. Active in supporting women and children, Ariarani served the KW YWCA locally and internationally. She has also served on the Immigration

and Refugee Board of Canada. Ariarani is passionate in helping newcomers understand, integrate and become fully active members of our community. She is a member of the board of the South Asian Seniors Association of Waterloo Region. A recipient of the Citation for Citizenship Award from the Government of Canada, Ariarani also received the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002 for her outstanding work in promoting the rights of immigrant and visible minority women.

Ronald BeaudreauRonald Beaudreau served as an

Air Cadet, Leading Aircraftman in the reserve Air Force and as a Radar Operator in the regular service. He is a member and past president of the 404 K-W Wing RCAFA of the Air-Force Association of Canada. He also assisted in starting the Out of the Cold program in Kitchener-Waterloo and has been a youth counsellor for boys aged 6-18 for the past 45 years.

Marjorie Carroll-NelsonMarjorie Carroll-Nelson was

elected the first female Mayor of Waterloo in 1977, and remained in this role until 1988. As a nurse and as a public servant, she was an outstanding choice to chair the K-W Hospital Foundation from 1989-1992. A devoted volunteer and fundraiser, Marjorie’s efforts resulted in a remodelled childbirth centre at Grand River Hospital, renamed the Marjorie Carroll Childbirth Centre in her honour.

Connie DeckertConnie Deckert successfully

ran Motivair Canada Ltd., a local auto company for 35 years. The company was sold in 2008 and she changed careers. Connie is now a member of the LPGA Teaching and Club Professionals, as well as the Canadian Golf Teachers Federation. She is a member of the Canadian Association of Women Executives & Entrepreneurs. Connie is also a recipient of the Women Of Waterloo Region (WOW) Award, as well as a graduate of Leadership Waterloo Region. She is a member of the Kitchener-Waterloo Chapter of Zonta International and the K-W Business Women’s Association. She is a board member of the KW Symphony and Executive Women’s Golf Association.

Jim ErbJim Erb has been associated with

Erb and Good Family Funeral Home for 43 years. He is known for his commitment to serving Waterloo as a city councillor from 1980-1988, and is remembered as getting the most votes of any Waterloo candidate in three consecutive municipal elections. Jim has been a member of the Kitchener Conestoga Rotary Club for 28 years where he has chaired their annual Turkey Drive in support of House of Friendship. Jim has served on the board of directors of Kitchener-Waterloo Community Foundation, KidsAbility Foundation, Shalom Counselling Services and is a past President of Kitchener Waterloo Council of Churches. He was a founding member of Habitat for Humanity, the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery, founding Chair of the Wellesley Apple Butter and Cheese Festival, past chair of the

Ontario Board of Services and was recognized at the Mayor’s Dinner for the Working Centre in 2011. He is a member of Erb Street Mennonite Church in Waterloo and has been active in various inter-faith initiatives in the community

David GrahamIn his contributions to our

community, David Graham has worked diligently as a past Chair of the Board at St. Mary’s General Hospital, the 1990 Ontario Summer Games, Leadership Waterloo Region, K-W United Way, Rotary Club of Kitchener, and the Canadian Red Cross K-W Branch. Currently, David serves on the boards of the St. Joseph’s Health System. In recognition of his service, David was awarded the K-W Citizen of the Year in 1990, the Waterloo Award, the Canada 125th Anniversary medal and the Queen Elizabeth Silver and Golden Jubilee Medals.

Owen LackenbauerOwen Lackenbauer began his

career of service to the community by enlisting in the Canadian Army, serving from 1953-1965 and in the Army Reserve from 1972-1985. In 1969, he co-founded KW’s Oktoberfest which continues to thrive to this day. As a past President of Kitchener Oktoberfest, Lions Club, K-W Untied Way, Kitchener Chamber of Commerce, K-W Community Foundation, and Westmount Golf & Country Club, 1979 K-W Citizen of the Year, and a Paul Harris Fellow (Rotary International in 1995), Owen’s contributions to our community have been profound. He is past Honorary Colonel of the Royal Highland Fusiliers of Canada, Waterloo Region’s reserve infantry regiment.

John LynchJohn Lynch, a long-time

Rotarian, was 1981-1982 President of the Rotary Club of Waterloo and is a Paul Harris Fellow. His contributing involvement with KidsAbility spans over three decades. He was President 1991-1993 during the raising of $8 million for construction of the current treatment centre. From 1996-2002, he was President of KidsAbility Foundation, which currently raises in excess of $1 million dollars annually. He helped bring the 1986 Brier Canadian Men’s Curling Championship to Kitchener-Waterloo. He was also treasurer for Campaign K-W, which raised $27 million for expanded services at Grand River Hospital. A Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario, he isa retired partner of KPMG, where he initiated the writing of Roots: History of KPMG in Waterloo Region. In 2011, he received the Waterloo Award, the City of Waterloo’s highest civic honour.

Joan McKinnonJoan McKinnon spent twelve

years in public service as City of Waterloo and Region of Waterloo Councillor and Mayor of Waterloo from 1997-2000. She was the founding Chair of Community Safety and Crime Prevention Council and a member of such Boards as Wilfrid Laurier University, University of Waterloo and the AGO. Joan

has demonstrated a lifetime of community service through her involvement volunteering with the Girl Guides of Canada, summer camp for disabled children, the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery, the K-W Symphony, the Grand River Conservation Authority and St. Mary’s Hospital. In 1985 she was named Oktoberfest Woman of the Year and she has also received the Ontario Volunteer Service Award for her outstanding work in the Region.

George SimGeorge Sim’s faith, his loyal

dedication to his friends and family, his caring heart and his delight in storytelling are an inspiration. During the Second World War, George was a member of the Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers, serving the Ontario Tank Regiment, Oshawa in Europe. His experience during the war inspired him to become ordained in the United Church, and to serve as a Chaplin for the Waterloo Legion for 40 years. George has devoted his life to serving his fellow veterans; listening to their stories and helping to heal their suffering. A kind soul, George is known to offer a hug and story to all and enjoys playing the harmonica.

Rosemary SmithRosemary Smith is a visionary

leader in our community who has served as mentor to many. Since 2001, Rosemary has been the CEO of the Kitchener-Waterloo Community Foundation. She has also had leadership roles with many organizations, such as Chair of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce and has served on many boards such as the K-W YWCA, K-W Big Brothers, and the Prosperity Council of Waterloo Region Resources Task Force. Rosemary has also been a member of the United Way, Cambridge Women in Networking, K-W Women in Networking, Leadership Waterloo Region, Zonta Club of Kitchener-Waterloo, Waterloo Region Immigrant Employment Network and Opportunities Waterloo Region. Rosemary has also had the honour of being recognized as a Woman of Distinction in the area of business by the Cambridge YWCA and named as Kitchener-Waterloo’s Citizen of the Year for 2009.

Lynne WoolstencroftSince moving to Waterloo in

1970 Lynne Woolstencroft’s belief in community-building expressed itself in public service and involvement in many organizations. She held elected positions (City of Waterloo Councillor, Region of Waterloo Councillor, Mayor of Waterloo, Waterloo County Board of Education school trustee, with three years as Chair). She served on numerous boards (K-W Social Planning Council, Waterloo Public Library, Grand River Conservation Authority, and Waterloo Regional Police Service).

She was President of the Association of Large School Boards in Ontario. Her commitment to the environment led Waterloo to receive numerous awards, including the Greenest City in Ontario from TVO.

Page 6 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l January 17, 2013

MPPs from three parties work together to hand out Jubilee medals in KW riding

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THIS IS WATERLOO REGIONKitchener author’s new book includes Waterloo Region’s most interesting people, places and facts

Kitchener author Jane Orend holds a copy of her recently-published book ‘This is Waterloo Region,’ which contains fun, easy-to-read facts about Waterloo region’s interesting people, places, history and culture.

Regional councillors recognized several individuals for their dedicated and tireless contributions that make a real difference in Waterloo Region. “We are very fortunate to have so many citizens in our community who give so much of their time to the community in which we live,” said Regional Chair Ken Seiling. This year’s winners are:Lieutenant Governor’s Ontario Heritage Award LifeTime Achievement Award - Ken McLaughlin, a retired professor of history at St. Jerome’s College at the University of Waterloo, has been a pillar within the local heritage community throughout his lifetime. Ken was the founding member of the Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation, a non-profit organization funded through the Region of Waterloo. He served on the Foundation from 1974 to 1982. Ken was also instrumental in obtaining National Heritage Site status for Joseph Schneider Haus. He helped to establish and was a founding member of the Joseph Schneider Haus Board between 1979 and 1984 and helped to manage the site prior to the Region’s ownership. Ken was employed as the project historian for the Region of Waterloo History Museum, a role which he went above and beyond to ensure that the new Museum was able to effectively and appropriately reflect our local historical development. Dr. Ken McLaughlin’s expertise and knowledge are highly valued

in our region; as is his generosity as a tireless and dedicated friend of heritage for over 40 years. It is with great gratitude for a lifetime of contributions that the Region of Waterloo congratulates Dr. Kenneth McLaughlin on his receipt of the Lieutenant Governor’s Life Time Achievement Award. Ontario Heritage Trust Certificate of Lifetime Achievement Award - Marion Roes is a leading figure in the preservation of the history of Waterloo Region. As a skillful researcher, communicator and networker, Marion has contributed to the vibrancy and cohesion of the local heritage community. She is a longstanding and active member of the Waterloo Historical Society (WHS) and has for many years been the editor of the Society’s newsletter. Marion served as president of the WHS from 2008 to 2012 and was instrumental in its 100th Anniversary celebrations held in 2012. An active volunteer at the Region of Waterloo Museum, Marion helped to organize the annual History under the Trees event, and contributed her time to the communal task of stitching a replica Conestoga wagon cover for display in the recently opened permanent gallery space. In 2001 Marion wrote and edited a DVD publication to mark the 50th anniversary of the Waterloo Chapter of the Pennsylvania German Folklore Society. Marion Roes’ ability to share information and connect people and their stories, has contributed greatly to the local

historical community within Waterloo Region. The Region of Waterloo is grateful for the opportunity to celebrate the lifetime achievements of Ms. Marion Roes, and hopes that her involvement in the community will continue for many years to come. Ontario Heritage Trust Community Recognition Award, Built Heritage - Donna Kuehl enthusiastically reaches out for volunteer opportunities, bringing energy and innovation to the undertakings of heritage related groups throughout the region. She is very knowledgeable about fundraising, promotional events, building team spirit, and discovers the most unique ways of engaging the public’s support. Donna has been actively involved in the preservation and maintenance of the Waterloo County Governor’s House and Gaol, one of the region’s oldest buildings. She was instrumental in the establishment of a heritage garden within the old Gaol walls. She has participated on the Heritage Kitchener Advisory Committee where she coordinated the annual Heritage Day displays for the City of Kitchener. In addition to being involved in the Waterloo Regional Arts Council, Donna keeps history alive through her singing and acting roles in Gilbert and Sullivan reproductions. Donna has been recognized numerous times for her ongoing volunteer community service by the City of Kitchener and the Air Force Association. Ms. Donna Kuehl takes a creative and personal approach to conserving both built and cultural heritage for the broader community. The Region of Waterloo appreciates the opportunity to acknowledge and honour Ms. Kuehl’s contributions.Ontario Heritage Trust Community Recognition Award, Cultural Heritage – Pauline Todkill is well known in the City of Cambridge for her enthusiasm of the promotion of its cultural heritage. She is a long standing and active volunteer with Heritage Cambridge. Utilizing her expertise and skills in communications and marketing, Pauline raises awareness about important heritage matters in the community, such as the Preston School seniors’ apartments; achieving a Heritage District designation for a portion of Main Street in Galt; the restoration of the Sheave Tower in Blair; the preservation of McDougall Cottage in Galt; and restoration work on the Gore Cupola in Centennial Park. Pauline was instrumental in the development of the walking tour booklets featuring historic houses and areas throughout Cambridge. She is a long standing member of the Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation. Pauline has a passion for promoting and organizing heritage related events. She enthusiastically recruits and coordinates the many volunteers needed to assist with the Heritage Showcase, Grand River Conservation Authority Day Workshops, Doors Open Waterloo Region and the Cider and Spirit Walking Tours. The Region of Waterloo is pleased to recognize Pauline Todkill’s substantial contributions of local heritage matters in Cambridge and Waterloo Region. Ontario Heritage Trust Community

Recognition Award, Natural Heritage and 2013 Ontario Senior of the Year Award – Ed Dennis is a valued team member of the Heritage Garden Program at the Waterloo Region Museum and Doon Heritage Village. For the past six years, Ed has been a member of the team that tends to the many heritage vegetable and flower gardens at the living history site. Since his retirement from an accomplished career with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in 2007, Ed has enjoyed working at Doon Heritage Village twice a week each season, volunteering close to 600 hours. During this time, Ed has tended to the gardens without modern labour saving devices. He applies his knowledge, his love of the outdoors and well developed people skills to interpreting and tending to the gardens for more than 68,000 visitors annually. Ed’s wonderful sense of humour and easy going manner bring a smile to the face of every visitor and museum staff person he meets. He spends the rest of his spare time helping the Grand Valley Trail Association to maintain and develop new trails, and volunteers at the Brantford General Hospital. Ed Dennis truly demonstrates a senior who is making a difference in his community.Ontario Heritage Trust Community Recognition Award, Natural Heritage – John Tennent & Irene Thurston are solely responsible for the stunning gardens that surround McDougall Cottage in Cambridge. They are wonderful ambassadors for the site and always happy to share their knowledge about gardening. Since becoming the Cottage’s volunteer gardeners in 2008 and 2009 respectively, John and Master Gardener Irene have together spent over 1500 hours transforming and maintaining the gardens. The gardens are historically accurate and their hard work of weekly weeding, watering, pruning and fertilizing has coaxed the plants to their full potential. Both strong supporters of their community and of McDougall Cottage, John and Irene have not only worked tirelessly to make the garden the showpiece it is today, they regularly participate in, and volunteer to help out at many of the Cottage’s events.Ontario Heritage Trust Community Recognition Award, Young Heritage leaders – Krista Stemmler is part of the Junior Interpreter Program at the Waterloo Region Museum. Dressing in historic costume, Krista is responsible for assisting staff with the interpretation of rural activities in 1914 to more than 68,000 visitors annually. Krista is confident and well-spoken and has been actively involved in the Waterloo Region Museum’s “Day in the Life” and Christmas programs. She has contributed an amazing 180 hours of volunteer time in just 13 months. Krista is an intelligent, dedicated youth volunteer who is always inviting and offers a warm welcome to all visitors. In her spare time she is a youth leader at her church, plays the violin and has been involved with Girl Guides for the past 14 years, and is a former volunteer at Joseph Schneider Haus. Krista is an

inspiration to other youth volunteers and it is a privilege to acknowledge her efforts with this award. Ontario Heritage Trust Community Recognition Award, Small Group Project, Built Heritage – Friends of Waterloo Region Museum. The Friends of Waterloo Region is a voluntary public foundation dedicated to the preservation of Waterloo Region’s history and culture. Since 1983 the Friends have donated more than $200,000 to support built heritage projects. For more than 50 years, the Friends have financially supported the development of the village, most notably with donations to support the purchase and conservation of furnishings in buildings in the living history village. Some recent efforts have supported restoration of the Dry Goods Store, the Martin Farm House, The Petersburg Train Station sign and the Blacksmith Shop. Each year the Friends partner with the Waterloo Region Museum to host numerous public events and workshops. Their signature fundraising event, Starry Night, is held annually in December. Attendance at this event is always sold-out and has become a tradition for many in the Community. Ontario Heritage Trust Community Recognition Award, Small Group Project, Cultural Heritage - Waterloo Region Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame is overseen by a Board of Governors with volunteer representation from across Waterloo Region. Currently more than 400 individuals and groups are recognized in the Waterloo Region Hall of Fame for their significant contributions to Waterloo Region. They are well known for their ongoing community involvement and support of cultural heritage. Many in the group have been involved with the Hall of Fame for over 30 years. The vision of the Waterloo County Hall of Fame Board of Governors has made a significant impact in the preservation, promotion and celebration of the Region’s history. Ontario Heritage Trust Community Recognition Award, Small Group Project, Natural Heritage - Huron Heights Secondary School. Every year the Waterloo Wellington Children’s Groundwater Festival aims to educate more than 4,000 students in grades two to five about the importance of water in their daily lives. The week-long festival requires the help of more than 500 volunteers. Since 2007, the students at Huron Heights Secondary School have enthusiastically volunteered at the Groundwater Festival. These student volunteers are committed to educating younger students about the importance of water. They take their role very seriously and spend a great deal of time and effort preparing for the festival. The students work hard to make the activities interactive, interesting and entertaining for younger students by challenging them to consider the importance of water to themselves and to society. The activities teach respect and to conserve our valuable water recourses. These high school students are investing their time in mentoring water stewards of the future.

Page 12 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l August 7, 2014

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Regional councillors recognize exemplary local citizens

August 7, 2014 l Kitchener Citizen -West Edition l Page 13

Ihope you have been enjoyingthe summer so far. If you are

looking for an exciting destination to

visit with your family, you may wantto check out the Huron Natural Area(HNA) located at 801 Trillium Dr. Notonly is it Kitchener’s largest park, itis also home to some significantwetlands and species. Withkilometres of trails and boardwalks,there is truly something foreveryone.

The park also offers lots ofeducational experiences, includingan upcoming presentation and walkentitled All About Bats, happeningAug. 24 from 8-10 p.m. You mustregister in advance to participate.

If bats aren’t your thing, you maybe interested in an event calledGanödagwёhda:’ dosgёhgёhö:de’ – village close by thestream, which is a chance to learnabout the rich archaeologicalheritage of the area. This is a drop-inevent on Sept. 21 from 1-4 p.m.Please visit www.kitchener.ca,keyword search “HNA” for moreinformation and to register.

Every year I look forward to theWilliamsburg Community Festival.This year the event will be takingplace on Sunday, Sept. 8 from 11-4

p.m. at Max Becker Commons.While the details are still beingfinalized, you can expect lots ofgreat games, food, activities andentertainment for the whole family.Everyone is invited and I hope to seeyou there!

I want to leave you with a finalthought on fire safety. If you have apropane BBQ, please rememberthat the canisters have a shelf life.Propane cylinders must beinspected and re-certified orreplaced every 10 years. Enjoy therest of your summer! n

notes from city hall

The beautiful weather hasbrought to light someresident concerns regarding

our newest major city park —

McLennan Park. Some key featureslike the large splash pad, dog parkand the walking trail are very wellattended. The number of peopleusing these amenities, plus somevery hot weather, has made itevident that more shaded areas andseating are needed in key areasaround the park. As this is still anewer park, trees have not reachedmaturity to provide sufficient shade,and planting more trees at this timewould not solve the issueimmediately for the same reasons.So, I have been working with our

parks staff, who are investigatingsome options.

Another inconvenience that I’msure has hampered the enjoymentof McLennan Park has been theclosure of the main bathroomfacility. This has been due to somesanitary and structural issues thatare taking longer than anticipated toaddress. As a temporary measure,portable washrooms have beenmade available. Understandably thisis not the desired alternative. I askyou for your patience until theappropriate repairs can be made.

This year, my wife and I took greatpleasure cruising the streets ofWard 6 in order to nominatedeserving properties for theKitchener in Bloom awards to beheld on Sept. 12. Many of you areproud homeowners, taking the timeto beautify your properties. I wantedto make certain that those of youwho go above and beyond would beacknowledged for your efforts inbeautifying your front yards. I amvery happy to say I was able to sendin more than 200 nominations forresidents in Ward 6. n

Iam pleased the city recentlyinstalled sharrows as a pilot

project along King Street fromMadison Avenue to Francis Street in

the downtown core, allowing cycliststo occupy an entire lane, similar to amotorist. Kitchener also has manymarked bike lanes.

In my recent travels to Chicago,Vancouver and Ottawa, I observedone-way and two-way bike lanes ondowntown streets. Some of thesebike lanes are marked with elephantfeet (extra-wide crosswalks, showingthat bikes are permitted to rideacross using the green section astheir travel lane) and are separatedby either planter boxes, collapsibleplastic bollards or raised curbs to

separate the bike riders from themotorists. I also noticed sharrows onthe curb lanes of four lane streets inChicago, which allow motorists topass any cyclists in the passing laneif they are not travelling at the speedlimit.

I have also checked out bike laneson trails and dedicated bike lanes todetermine if there are any gatesbefore approaching a publicroadway. Having biked in StanleyPark and the waterfront inVancouver and Toronto, I have yet todiscover any gates at road crossings.

In fact, Stanley Park has extensiveone-way bike trails and only one gateto separate bicyclists frompedestrians using the local beach.

Well-marked directions, bike speedlimits and separated pedestrian orbike paths are well designed asnoted on numerous park billboards.The Vancouver parks departmentalso provides an extensive BikeVancouver route map and guide.While we have made great strideswith our cycling strategy inKitchener, there is clearly room togrow. n

The summer of 2013 hasbeen terrible for weeds inKitchener. It began when

Region of Waterloo decided to

eliminate the roadside grass cuttingbudget as a cost-saving measure.The region contracts out the serviceto the city but when the moneydisappeared, the city had no choicebut to stop maintaining roadsidegrass.

Wisely, after receiving a lot ofpushback from Kitchener and othermunicipalities, the region reinstatedthe money but unfortunately, amaintenance backlog had beencreated. This backlog, combinedwith an unusually rainy spring andOntario’s pesticide ban, created the

perfect storm for weeds. Recently, I met with city staff to

see how this issue could beaddressed. It is important to notethat grass maintenance iscompleted on a three-week cycle byroutes. The trim crew performs basictrim maintenance on cul-de-sacs,park frontages and aroundplaygrounds and park furniture.Larger mowers cut the main areasof the parks. Staff have alsoinformed me that the maintenancecycles will tighten up as we return tothe drier weather of July and August.

Another solution would be to allowsome areas to be naturalized. Citystaff would work in consultation withresidents to locate appropriateareas that might be beneficial toreturn to a natural state, like valleylands and meadows.

In addition, I am in the process ofdrafting a motion to bring beforecouncil that would seek to increasethe amount of maintenanceperformed on city land. I certainlysympathize with residents who arerightly proud of our community andwant to keep it looking its best.n

Office: 519-741-2783Email:bil.ioannidis@kitchener.caTwitter: @bilioannidis

Office: 519-741-2798Email:frank.etherington@kitchener.

Got a complaint...who yougonna call? Your complaint-

buster councillor, of course.

Lately, in the hot, stickysummertime, I have been hummingthat Ghostbusters ditty whilehandling legitimate beefs aboutbass-thumping music, high weeds,geese droppings and dying trees.

And that’s why — amid complaintcalls — it’s a relief to receive positivecomments from people delightedabout a city-backed program toreintroduce rental boats to VictoriaPark.

As councillor, I have neverexperienced such a refreshing flow

of complimentary responses about acity project. It’s been great to seethe way residents have embracedthe efforts by Canoeing the Grand toreturn boats to the downtown park.

That company is also donating $1from every boat rental to a park-maintenance fund.

Everywhere I go, people tell methey like seeing boats back on thelake after a 20-year hiatus. Many ofthe comments come from residentswho remember spending enjoyablesummer weekends boating on the

lake during past decades.I recently met one resident in a

neighbourhood grocery store who,as a young man, used to rent boatsfrom the city in the park. He lovedseeing the program return andcommented that, years ago, it cost$3 to rent a boat. He’s amazed that,decades later, it’s still possible torent a boat for $5 per half hour foreach person.n

Office: 519-741-2300Email: mayor@kitchener.ca

What does yourneighbourhood mean toyou? This is the

question that is being asked ofresidents as part of the 20thanniversary of Kitchener’s Festivalof Neighbourhoods.

Typically, residents would host acommunity event and register theirevent to be entered into a randomdraw for a $10,000 capitalimprovement grant to be used intheir neighbourhood.

Since this year marks the 20thanniversary of Kitchener’s Festival ofNeighbourhoods, we thought wewould add even more excitement tothis already outstanding event andcreated the Mayor’s Challenge. It’ssimple; all you have to do is tell mewhat your neighbourhood means toyou. Maybe you want to share a storyabout the memories you have ofgrowing up in your neighbourhood,the impact that one specialneighbour made in your life, or thehistory of your entire neighbourhood.There is no right or wrong answer;just share what your communitymeans to YOU!

You can tell me about yourneighbourhood in any way that youchoose. Write a story or essay of 500words or less; draw, paint or create apicture on an 8.5x11 inch page;create an audio recording of fiveminutes or less, or film a video offive minutes or less.

Please submit your entry to SarahFitzPatrick, executive assistant to themayor, via email,sarah.fitzpatrick@kitchener.ca or bymail, 200 King St. W., Kitchener, ONN2G 4G7. Submissions must bereceived no later than 3 p.m. onSept. 30.

But now the big question – whatdo you win? Since this is the Mayor’sChallenge after all, the winner andhis/her neighbours will have theopportunity to take me on a walkingtour of your neighbourhood. You canshow me your favourite spots, chatabout topics that are of interest toyou or share your vision of how yousee your neighbourhood in thefuture.

If you have questions or needmore information, please contactJanice Ouellette at 519-741-2200x7227 orJanice.ouellette@kitchener.ca.

I look forward to reviewing all ofthe entries and will see one luckywinner this fall! n

Office: 519-741-2793 Cell: 226-748-3109 Email: paul.singh@kitchener.caTwitter: @paulsinghward6

Office: 519-741-2796 Residence: 519-57Email: zyg.janecki@kitchener.ca

Office: 519-741-2791 kelly.galloway-sealock@kitchener.caTwitter: @gallowaykelly

TRAFFIC CALMINGAs a councillor, I hear a lot about

traffic calming issues. Naturally,

residents are concerned about drivers who speed and ignore street signs, particularly on neighbourhood streets where lots of children play outside. Let’s remember to slow down and recognize that people live on these streets. Residents tell me that Parkvale Drive is of particular concern, including reports of collisions on the street. Traffic counts have now been completed and will be done again once the school year resumes. At that time, Parkvale Drive will be reviewed and compared to other traffic calming priority streets to determine what

further action is required and when those steps would be taken. In the meantime, city staff are looking to see if a three way stop is warranted at Parkvale Drive and Featherstone Street. Again, I encourage everyone who uses Parkvale Drive to slow down and be aware of children playing in the area.

NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATIONS

I want to extend a huge thank you to all of the wonderful volunteers at the Williamsburg Community Association (WCA) and the Huron

Community Association (HCA)! Your hard work and dedication are much appreciated. On August 30, HCA is holding a movie night at Parkvale Park scheduled to start half an hour after sunset. On September 7, WCA will be participating in the Williamsburg Town Festival at Max Becker Commons from 11 to 4 pm – come out and enjoy the fun. Please note that registration for association programming begins August 19. For more details, contact Jenn Sullivan at: jenn.sullivan@kitchener.ca.

This will be my last article in the Kitchener Citizen for this council term. I trust I’ve been able to keep you up to date with what’s happening in ward

8 and at City Hall since becoming councillor in 2010. I also trust I’ve been able to assist or represent your interests when you have called on me for help. In previous articles, I have provided you with some of my opinions on various issues and my voting position on important matters that have come before council and seek to do so again in this article.

Recently, the issue of sidewalk installation on developed neighbourhood streets without sidewalks on one or both sides of

the street has come before council on more than one occasion. City policy adopted back in the 1990s recommends that sidewalks be installed when reconstruction on older city streets takes place where no sidewalks are present on one or both sides. Sidewalks are important as they provide a safe walking route and connection to other streets. I support having sidewalks throughout most of the city, especially on major roadways, collector roads, school and park routes. However, at times, common sense needs to prevail as

certain local streets and cul-de-sacs can remain without them. As well, listening to the needs of the local residents and the neighbourhood should be taken into consideration. There is no point in spending and wasting taxpayers’ money on sidewalks when they are not needed.

If you have any questions or concerns on any issue or need assistance in my ward, please feel free to contact me as your local ward 8 councillor. I’m glad to help you. Have a wonderful fall.

BIG MUSIC FESTBig Music Fest was in a word:

awesome. On July 11, one of

Ontario’s biggest music festivals rolled into Kitchener for a three day extravaganza unlike anything the city has ever seen. On Friday, things kicked off with Breaking Bands – a talent search to find the hottest emerging bands in the province. On Saturday night, Bryan Adams took the stage, along with other acts including Styx, Moist and Collective Soul. On Sunday, the show wrapped up with a completely sold out lineup that included Aerosmith, Slash and Kim Mitchell. Big Music Fest was a great opportunity to see some

major acts right here in our own backyard. It was also a chance to showcase our city to visitors from as far away as Denmark and Australia. Most importantly, Big Music Fest provided a big boost to local hotels, businesses and restaurants. I was happy to be part of the team that brought this event to Kitchener.

ILLEGAL DUMPING IN NATURAL AREAS

I recently received an email from a resident who is concerned about the condition of our local trails. Like many of you, he sees

the trails as a tremendous asset for our community but he is worried that people are increasingly using our natural areas as a dumping ground for yard waste. Obviously, disposal of tree limbs and grass cuttings etc. in our park system impacts everyone’s ability to enjoy our shared spaces. It is also illegal. Be aware, Kitchener’s by-law office has decided to step up enforcement in the area. I also encourage you to report illegal dumping to the city’s by-law department at 519-741-2330.

When the mayor and six councillors reject a move to protect historic inner-city buildings, I start to worry about the future health of Kitchener’s heritage policies.

That’s what happened at our final council meeting when 12 of 48 core properties were refused listing status as heritage buildings after a series of identical 7-4 votes. Listings were rejected despite recommendations they be approved by heritage staff and committee members.

The properties were not listed because owners expressed concern that this might restrict development possibilities for the buildings. Their concerns remained despite repeated staff explanations that listing a property does little more than delay demolition.

In the council debate, I said the

listing process is not the scary boogie man some councillors make it out to be. I said that because, based on recent heritage-related votes, a few councillors seem intent on demolishing older buildings and undermining heritage neighbourhoods. I was glad to see that 36 properties where owners did not object to heritage status were listed by council.

As council’s sole representative on the heritage committee and someone committed to preservation of older buildings, it troubles me when a majority of councillors ignore provincial laws that require us to list heritage

buildings. The votes were particularly distasteful because outgoing Mayor Carl Zehr along with two mayoralty candidates in the Oct. 27 election were among seven councillors voting against listing the 12 properties.

It left me wondering what could happen if and when a truly historic building finds itself in the way of an inner-city development project. Perhaps a building and end result similar to one that represents Kitchener’s most atrocious example of downtown development at heritage expense — the 1973 demolition of our beautiful old city hall.

I want to congratulate city staff for their diligent and hard work in helping to ensure a successful July 11-13 Big

Music Fest (BMF) weekend. The next steps will be for staff to

prepare and present a report to council on September 8, summarizing staff’s debrief following the music festival. The report will include feedback received from the area residents, city staff, emergency services, and the BMF team outlining the successes and areas requiring improvement.

I have received considerable positive and helpful feedback from the Ward 6 community since the festival. The neighbourhood certainly noticed the extra effort that was made

to ensure the event was sensitive to the community’s needs in relation to parking, safety and overall impact on the neighbourhood. I hope to hear more feedback from Ward 6 residents to ensure it’s included in the report to council.

I had a great time this year again, driving throughout the ward to take part in the Kitchener In Bloom nominating process. While touring Ward 6, I observed that many of you are conscious of water usage, and have installed one or more rain barrels. I want to bring to your

attention that you are likely eligible to receive a 20% reduction on your utility bill from storm water management (SWM) charges.

I was adamant that a decent credit be offered to conscientious residents trying to reduce stormwater runoff—therefore I pushed for this minimum 20% credit. I strongly encourage you to reward yourself and put money back in your pocket with this credit program. To do this, just fill out a simple form found at www.kitchener.ca, key word search, “stormwater credit application.”

I’d like to start off my last Kitchener Citizen column by expressing my sincere thanks for the support, kind words, notes and conversations I have had with many of you over the years. I have been fortunate to have met many of our citizens and learn about their vision for Kitchener – what they thought was working, what wasn’t, and how we could work together to make it even better.

Although saying goodbye is never easy, looking back over the past 17 years as Mayor, and 11 years as a City Councillor, I am pleased with the numerous successful projects that have made Kitchener a better place to live, work and play. Some of the municipal amenities that have been built, expanded or upgraded over the past 17 years include:

• 12 community centres built or expanded upon;

• Activa Sportsplex built (2 ice pads, indoor walking track and boxing facility, LEED Gold Certified);

• McLennan Park and Huron Natural Area created;

• Dom Cardillo Arena expanded twice in partnership with the Kitchener Rangers;

• Walter Bean Grand River Trail developed and river crossing built;

• 6 of Kitchener’s 7 current fire stations built;

• Sportsworld Arena purchased and upgraded (2 ice pads);

• Peter Hallman Ballyard upgraded to tournament standards;

• New Kitchener Market built;• 3 of the City’s current libraries

built or significantly renovated;• Victoria Park upgrades

completed, including rehabilitation of the lake, and;

• Kitchener Operations Facility built.

I am deeply honoured and grateful to have had the opportunity to play a leadership role in many of those accomplishments and believe strongly in the community we have built - no one individual, including myself, can take credit for all of this amazing work.

Although I will not be part of the upcoming election, I would strongly encourage you to vote in the municipal election taking place on October 27th. Take the time to learn about the candidates for your ward councillor and mayor – read their websites, follow them on social media, or attend a debate. It is up to you to choose who will be your voice on council, and who will best represent your needs. Remember, your vote matters, so make it heard!

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Page 14 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l August 7, 2014

notes from city hall

Office: 519-741-2784 Residence: 519-498-9056 scott.davey@kitchener.caBlog: www.scottdavey.info

As Kitchener’s finance chair,I’d like to detail my pride in

staff and council for bringing what Ibelieve to be the best budget thus

far in our term. You probably haven’theard or read much about the 2013budget because, to be frank,“KITCHENER DELIVERSRESPONSIBLE BUDGET” isn’t exactlyheadline news.

I was elected more than two yearsago on a platform of efficiency andfiscal responsibility; borne of therealization of strained taxpayers anda stagnating economy.  

With that in mind, back in May Isuggested we conduct arepresentative survey of residents to

determine affordability ofservices.  Staff implemented thesurvey with expediency and theresults came back as suspected. Itis best summarized as maintenanceof services with tax increases nogreater than inflation.

At the time of the survey, inflationwas projected to be 2-2.5 per cent;little did we know it would dropsharply in the latter half of the yearsettling at 1.4 per cent. 

Still, with significant work fromstaff and council, we managed to

bring in a budget at 1.39 per cent —the lowest increase of the tri-cities,and among the lowest in Ontario.

My pride in reaching this figurestems from the fact that it wasaccomplished without beingregressive. We made a $500,000payment to debt, dedicated$800,000 to major parks (includingKiwanis Park), $1.65 million totrails, and $320,000 to replacetrees affected by the emerald ashborer.  In short, we’re strongerfiscally and still managed to makeKitchener a little bit better. n

Office: 519-741-2779 Residence: 519-895-1569yvonne.fernandes@kitchener.ca

The final budget was ratified inJanuary, setting Kitchener’s

tax rate at 1.39 per cent. Throughpublic input, research surveys and

the interactive website, this is whatcitizens told us they could manage.No significant cuts were made toservices such as community centres,snowplowing, and grass cutting;however, one significant reductionthat council made affected our firedepartment. Their budget wasreduced by $480,000 to account forthe retirement of four firefighters;two fire prevention officers havealready retired. This reduction waspresented by senior staff as a viableoption to limit the potential increaseto the fire budget. Even after the

reduction, the overall budget for thedepartment will still go up in 2013.

I understand how the public mayperceive these cuts; I respect thework our firefighters do. It takes aspecial people to do these jobs and Iknow that the communityappreciates this essential service.The reality of the fire departmentbudget is that it has gone up 31.3per cent over the past six years dueto increases in salary, and theopening of an additional fire station. 

Salaries are often decided througharbitration. These decisions have

caused unsustainable salary levelsat the municipal level and, if theycontinue, cities could experience anunstable financial position. Citiesneed to send a clear message to theprovince that these methods are notsustainable and taxpayers don’thave limitless funds to pay theseincreases through their taxes.

Everywhere we see efforts toreduce spending, we must lead byexample at the city. Please contactme with your questions orconcerns.n

For the first time in 10 years, Ivoted in favour of the tax

budget, which resulted in anincrease of 1.39 per cent; slightlylower than the annual increase inthe inflation rate. This was

accomplished without cutting anyintegral services.

The most contentious issue wasreducing four firefighters in the firedepartment through attrition. Thisresulted in annual savings of$480,000. I supported this,requesting staff investigate ways toprovide this essential service in amanner that we can afford now andin the future. No action will be takenuntil thorough studies are carriedout, which clearly result in nocomprise to the safety of our citizensand risk to our properties.

Although the increase in taxes isat a reasonable level, I wasextremely disappointed in theincrease constituents will be facingthrough other essential services:water and sewer rates areincreasing by 4.75 per cent. I hadput forward a limiting increase ofthree per cent, but received supportfrom only three councillors. Ourutilities are in a strong financialposition and could withstand givingour consumers a slight reprieve. Inthe last 10 years, the inflation ratehas increased by about 20 per cent.

During this same period, water andsewer rates have increased 199 percent and 293 per cent respectively.

Users of our recreational serviceswill again be facing a further threeper cent increase in fees foractivities such as swimming andskating. Hydro rates are alsoincreasing and many will faceincreases over the next four yearsdue to the change in propertyassessment values. The taxincrease was reasonable, but we fellconsiderably short in other essentialservices provided to our citizens. n

The main branch of KitchenerPublic Library on Queen Street

is open during construction, and ifyou have not seen the progression ofthe new 25,000-square-foot

addition, you will be pleased with thenew space and its changes once itopens this spring. Improvements willthen begin on the original building.For more information on programsand services at all the KPL locations,check out their wonderful andinteractive website www.kpl.org.

The new underground parking atthe main branch library is open andconstruction will be completedsometime this spring on the otherparking garage to the east of thelibrary. And yes, a great public spaceis planned above these parking

garages; your input will be requestedsoon.

KW Art GalleryLooking for something creative for

you or your family to do? Take a tripto see the great exhibits at the KWArt Gallery and find out about theircool art programs there for kids,teens and adults at www.kwag.ca.Let the inner artist out to play andcheck out the wonderful art that is inyour very own backyard at Centre InThe Square!

40 km/hour school zonesLastly, I am moving that the City of

Kitchener consider a pilot program todetermine the effectiveness of areduced speed limit of 40 km/h onelementary school frontages in the2013/2014 school year.

A staff report will come to thecommunity and infrastructureservices committee on April 8. Weneed to develop a culture that sayspedestrians first, especially littleones!

Keep in touch with your great ideasor concerns at dan.glenn-graham@kitchener.ca or519-741-2786. n

Office: 519-741-2786 Residence: 519-576-3501 dan.glenn-graham@kitchener.ca

Office: 519-741-2243 Residence: 519-896-7300 berryv@kitchener.ca@berryonline

Office: 519-741-2790Residence: 519-744-0807john.gazzola@kitchener.ca

Office: 519-741-2300mayor@kitchener.ca

Family Day is only a few daysaway, so if you are stilllooking for something fun

to do on Feb. 18, I suggest checkingout Mayor Zehr’s Movie Morning, insupport of the Multiple SclerosisSociety of Canada. Doors open at 8a.m. and movies begin between8:45 and 9:15 a.m., at EmpireTheatre on Gateway Park Drive.

There are great movies to choosefrom this year, including The Lorax;Ice Age: Continental Drift;Madagascar 3: Europe’s MostWanted; Transformers: Dark Sideof the Moon and The HungerGames.

The morning is sure to offersomething for everyone! There willbe Lucky Looney draws, great doorprizes, face painting and visits fromOnkle Hans and Miss Oktoberfest.For more details on this event, visitwww.mayorsmoviemorning.com.

Although March Break is stillweeks away, it’s time to startthinking about what your childrenwill be doing with their newfoundfreedom. Will they be visiting withtheir grandparents, spending theweek at home with family, or visitingfriends?

Another great option is MarchBreak Camp at the BreithauptCentre, running from 9 a.m.-4:30p.m. daily with additional supervisedhours available. Children in JK tograde six will spend the weekplaying games both indoors andoutdoors, making new friends, andgoing for a daily swim. For moredetails and to register, visitwww.kitchener.ca, keyword search“camp.”

On April 12, I will host the annualState of the City Address. Thisbreakfast event provides anopportunity for me to share insightssurrounding the 2013 budget, theprogress and planning of citywideprojects, upcoming initiativesaffecting our community, and manyother issues affecting the citizensand businesses of Kitchener, andour entire region.

This charitable event is open to allmembers of the public, with netproceeds from ticket sales donatedto the Kitchener and WaterlooCommunity Foundation. For moreinformation on this, and past Stateof the City addresses, visitwww.kitchener.ca, keyword search“state of the city.” I hope to see youthere!

MisconceptionsThis month’s column is dedicated

to a couple of fiscal/economic misconceptions relating to Kitchener.

The latter case also includes our friends to the north (Waterloo) and south (Cambridge) due to the data-collection methods of Statistics Canada.

Misconception #1: “Kitchener will have financial difficulty in the future because it’s hundreds of millions of dollars in debt.”

Reality: It’s quite true that Kitchener’s debt peaked at around $112 Million in 2013. However, due to aggressive budgeting and financial planning, it will have already dropped to $93M by next year, and

will continue to drop to about $39 million over the following 8 years, *without* the need to either cut city services or raise taxes. Barring actions of future councils, Kitchener’s debt will continue to decrease to inconsequential amounts without additional tax-payer burden.

Misconception #2: “The local economy has been struggling due to job losses at Blackberry, Maple Leaf etc.”

Reality: Statistics Canada measures Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge as one economic area.

I’ve monitored StatsCan data closely since concerns first arose about our economic performance, and it’s starkly different than public-perception. As of the most recent data, Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge actually boasts the highest employment rate in all of Ontario! Likewise, we enjoy an unemployment rate of just 6.6%, nearly a full percentage point lower than the province.

For questions on this, or any other issue, please don’t hesitate to contact me at 519-741-2784 or by email at scott.davey@kitchener.ca.

It’s hard to believe that the current term of Council is almost at an end. This will be my last column for this term of Council as we are not permitted to have columns in the two issues in the lead up to the

municipal election on October 27th. I would like to begin by thanking

Kitchener Citizen owners/editors Carrie and Helen for the opportunity to communicate with you, Kitchener residents, about some of the issues that are important to you and our community through this newspaper. This column, along with other communication methods such as social media, community meetings and attendance at countless community events, are important ways through which I continually learn about the issues that are important to you. I also want to thank each of you for reading my column monthly and often taking the opportunity to share your thoughts

and questions about issues with me afterwards.

NEW PLAYGROUNDS AT EBY PARK & TECUMSEH PARK

A shout out and sincere thanks goes out to the Stanley Park Community Association who helped fund new playgrounds at both of these parks in Wards 1 & 2 out of their programming proceeds. These playgrounds will be welcome additions to the recreational facilities available in both of these well used parks. The grand openings for both parks will take place on August 23rd, with an outdoor fun event at Eby Park from (11am-1pm) and a movies in the park event at Tecumseh Park from 7:30-

10:30pm.COPS PROGRAM ONCE AGAIN A

BIG SUCCESSThe COPS youth outreach program,

which puts police and fire mentors together with neighbourhood youth is once again off to a great start. The program, which I co-founded in 1998, continues to run today not only in the Centreville-Chicopee neighbourhood, but has been expanded into both the Kingsdale and Mill-Courtland neighbourhoods as well and has almost 100 participants this year. Thank you to all the volunteers, the neighbourhood associations and the sponsors, which help make the program a success!

Big Music Fest – It appears that the Big Music Fest recently held at McLennan Park was extremely successful with no negative impact on the park or the immediate

neighbourhood. I understand the event was completed without any complications or serious problems. I congratulate both staff and the promoter for this effective venture.

A full report on the event will be tabled with Council on September 8th. I will be anticipating a complete financial reporting at that time. Financial estimates prior to the occasion were vague and provided limited information. Further; since the Promoter received $150,000 in Public Funding from the Province, he too must provide a full accounting,

which I hope, will be shared with the City and ultimately with the general Public.

Final Article – Even though this term of Council continues until November 30, 2014 this will be this term’s last article in the Kitchener Citizen. I want to publicly thank the Citizen for giving me the opportunity to communicate through their newspaper with many constituents through their newspaper. The Kitchener Citizen provides an invaluable service in keeping the public informed on all the many civic issues constantly before us. All of this

at no cost to the readers.I also want to thank the many

constituents throughout the City who have contacted me during the past four years. I appreciate that you have taken the time to contact me to apprise me of your many legitimate concerns. As I have said many times; I value and appreciate your comments.

If I can provide any assistance to you in the months please feel free to continue to contact me at your convenience. Please enjoy the rest of the summer!!!

Writing this column has been a great opportunity for me to connect with residents during the past four years as councillor for Ward 4. I have

enjoyed representing your concerns and interests shared with me, around the council horseshoe during this term of council.

We need many streams with which to inform and engage our citizens today, whether it’s through our website, newspapers or social media, it’s crucial that we engage you in our discussions. So please join me at my community centre drop-in on the evening of September 11 for a chat.

As we come to the completion of the “Your Kitchener, Your Say!” public workshops, I find it concerning that

more people were not interested in attending to discuss their interests in our city’s future. We know that it is important for the voice of our citizens to be heard, yet we struggle to engage significant numbers of citizens to gain an understanding of how you wish to see the next City of Kitchener Council address future goals.

The 10 ward councillors and mayor are your representatives at the municipal level making decisions that could potentially impact each of you on a daily basis. Whether it is setting your taxes, building community centers,

adding parks or trails, reconstructing roads and/or sidewalks, plowing the streets and mowing the grass in our parks, your municipal council has been elected by the public to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and represent the public interest. Your input is, therefore, most important.

I realize that many citizens feel their voice does not make a difference, but I assure you it does. I urge you to vote in this year’s municipal elections on October 27. Again, your vote is your voice.

Days of Kitchener Awesome! No offence to our neighbours to the north, but our downtown has had it going on this summer!

I hope you were able to check out the epic Summer Lights Festival held on June 21 from 9pm to 2am. Incredible events, music, artistry, edibles and energy all night long, even the wee ones were loving it! I personally loved sponsoring a “Summer Snowball Fight” with cotton snowballs I bought. I was at Centre in the Square and many unsuspecting patrons turned into snowball fighters. Hilarious!

How about the 11 Days of KW Awesome? We ran this event from Canada Day to July 11 and it was

a huge hit bringing tons of folks downtown to experience everything from food trucks to games nights and art markets. Our streets should always be this vibrant and our friends from the suburbs got a taste of why it is so cool to live within a walk to downtown.

Coming up, join fans downtown to kick off the 2014 TD Kitchener Blues Festival on August 7 at the OLG Clocktower Stage in Victoria Park. The line-up of talent is fantastic at this four day downtown festival wrapping up the evening of August

10. Visit www.kitchenerbluesfestival.com for event times and locations. I have met many folks at this festival from cities in Canada and the U.S. who now say this has become one of the very top rated Blues events anywhere, and it’s all free with the exception of the opening and closing acts.

I am at the Kitchener Market from 6:30-8am next Saturday, August 9, then 8-9 the next week, and will continue this rotation until September 6.

Connect with Kitchener, Anytime,

AnywhereService to the public has always

been a priority at the City of Kitchener, and the next evolution of the city’s Customer Service Strategy focuses on making it even easier to get the answers and information you need – whenever you need it.

PingStreet is a mobile app that allows users to connect with Kitchener– right in the palm of your hand. The location-based app is free and works on all smart phones. With one touch, you can follow the city on social media, report a problem, learn about local government, and even keep track of yard waste and garbage pick-up schedules.

The city’s centralized contact center has now fully implemented 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week service. No matter when you call, you will reach a ‘real’ person. And, with the easy-to-remember phone number - 519-741-2345 – reaching the city is simple and convenient.

For more information or other ways to connect with Kitchener, visit www.kitchener.ca/connect

Developing a Neighbourhood

StrategyThe City of Kitchener, with the help

of a wide variety of community groups, has a history of helping to plan, build and support safe and thriving neighbourhoods. In continuation of these efforts, we are now working to develop a Neighbourhood Strategy.

Taking on this extensive project will help us come up with a more strategic approach to all the work we’ve been doing around building and supporting the unique characteristics of our neighbourhoods. Through this we hope to increase citizen engagement, give a greater sense of belonging, create a healthy community, and more.

Citizen engagement will be one of the most fundamental principles in developing this strategy. We want this strategy to be built by the neighbours, for the neighbourhoods. You can tell us what you think by filling out our online survey at www.kitchener.ca/neighbourhoodstrategy. The survey closes Aug. 30.

August 7, 2014 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l Page 15

Local SPORTS

Fun and valuefor every age.Special of the Month! For the month of August, twilight starts at 2 p.m.! Come join us for an early twilight start all month-long! Monday - Friday beginning at 2 p.m. for Rockway’s 18 and Doon Valley’s 18 and 9 hole courses. Practice for less this Civic Holiday long weekend with our driving range-pitch and putt combo! Get a small bucket of balls and a round on the 9-hole pitch and putt for $5 per adult or child. Book your tee time at kitchenergolf.ca today!

Kids CampsJust a few weeks left!Week long camps for kids 6-14 run from June 30 – Aug. 29, 2014Full and half day programs available*New this year! Extended care options from 8:30-9 a.m. and 4:30-5:30 p.m.Visit us at kitchenergolf.ca/juniorcamp to learn more or call 519-741-2949.

Health Fair at RockwayRefreshments, snacks and prizes…all in addition to learning more about your health and wellness! Find alternate ways to a healthy lifestyle that can also affect your game! Learn how yoga, chiropractic care, massage therapy, osteopathy and naturopathic wellness, among others, can help improve your mind, body and game!Join us on Thursday, Aug 14, 2014 from 7 – 9 p.m. at Rockway golf course and learn with us!

We are MOBILE!Book your tee time from anywhere with our new mobile website! No matter where you are, you can plan your next round, register for a clinic, book lessons, find out about events, sign up for our e-newsletter and so much more.Come visit us at kitchenergolf.ca on your tablet or smart phone today!

519-741-2949

Kitchener Klassics U14 team heading to New Brunswickby Helen Hall

Skill, and a little luck, is helping to send the Kitchener Klassics U14 softball team

to the Eastern Canadian Championships in New Brunswick this month.

The girls competed in the provincial finals in Guelph in July, but their fourth place finish knocked them out of attending the Eastern Canadians, which are being held August 21 to 24 in Quispamsis, near St. John. However, when two of the teams that finished ahead of them declined the opportunity to go, the Kitchener Klassics team moved up the ladder. Two teams from Ontario will attend the tournament.

Rep convenor for the Kitchener Minor Girls Softball Association Trevor Botting said he looks at it as an opportunity that some of the players may never have again.

“I thought ‘Let’s give the girls the experience’

(of playing in a national championship),” Botting said. The Eastern Canadian Championships feature teams from Ontario, Quebec and the Maritime provinces. There is also a Canadian Championship tournament that has teams from all of the provinces. That U14 tournament is being held in British Columbia this year.

All 11 members of the team are attending the tournament. The girls are fundraising for the expense of attending, which they estimate will run about $2000 per player for travel fees and accommodation.

To learn more about how you can help the team with their costs, email info@kmgsa.com. The Kitchener Citizen has been a sponsor of this team for four years.

During the tournament, you can track their progress by following their twitter account at @klassicsu14 or visiting the tournament website at www.kvsoftball.ca/u14-easterns.html.

Members of the Kitchener Klassics softball team that are going to the Eastern Canadians are, from left: back, Kadyn, Sheyanne, Danielle, Jamie, Jillian, Maiya, Madison; front, Portia, Paige, Sarah; kneeling Cari.

Waterloo’s RIM Park will host both the 2014 Pickleball Provincial Champion-

ships and the 2015 Pickleball Eastern National Open Championships.

Pickleball is widely recognized as one of North America’s fastest growing sports, and Pickleball Canada currently has over 1300 registered members.

The game is played on a doubles badminton-sized court with the net lowered to 34 inches at the center, with a polymer ball slightly smaller than a wiffle ball, and paddles made of composite material.

Municipalities across North America are converting existing tennis court facilities to meet pickleball specifications, or even building new dedicated venues for the sport, and many private tennis, golf and fitness clubs are adding courts to their established facilities.

According to the USA Pickleball Association, the game was co-invented in 1965 in Seattle, Washington by U.S. Congressman Joel Pritchard, William Bill Bell, Jordan Steranka, and Barney McCallum. The name came from a family dog named Pickles who would chase after balls and

then hide them in the bushes. Pickle’s Ball was later shortened to “pickleball.”

The 2014 Pickleball Ontario Provincial Championships will be held September 17-18, 2014. The championships are organized by the Pickleball Association of Ontario and are open to PAO members only.

The Pickleball Canada National Open Championships have been held in Abbotsford, BC for the past three years. The 2015 Pickleball Canada Eastern National Open Championships being held in Waterloo marks the first time Pickleball Canada has awarded a Canadian championships to an Ontario host. There will be a Western National Championship in Kelowna, BC.

More information about pickleball in Canada can be found on the Pickleball Canada websitewww.pickleballcanada.org.

Plans are currently underway to engage community pickleball groups and organizations, potential sponsors, and most importantly volunteers for a collaborative hosting effort. Those interested are requested to contact Laurence Bishop at 519-496-0613.

Waterloo lands pickleball provincial, national championships

Page 16 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l August 7, 2014

Next edition - September 18, 2014To advertise call 519-394-0335

Sharon Schmidt, director of the Welcome Home Refugee Community (left) and mural artist Pamela Rojas.

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STANLEY CUP CHAMP COMES HOMENHL player and Kitchener native Tanner Pearson brought the Stanley Cup to Kitchener July 20 after winning it in his rookie season with the LA Kings. About 2000 people waited in the rain at Kitchener City Hall for a chance to see the cup and get Pearson’s autograph. Pearson is a graduate of Forest Heights Collegiate.

Photo by Jennifer Birnstihl

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August 7, 2014 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l Page 17

Arts & ENTERTAINMENT

Join my Facebook group today and start saving! bargainhuntingmomma.wordpress.comLive Life Large On Less

Your local on-line source for smart living, savvy shopping, deals & affordable family fun.

Welcome to the Kitchener Citizen’s

I LOVE LIVE THEATRE TICKET GIVEAWAY!

WIN TWO FREE TICKETS THAT CAN BE USED AT ANY DRAYTON ENTERTAINMENT 2014 SEASON

PERFORMANCE!Send citizenwest@hotmail.com an email stating

“I Love Live Theatre!” and we’ll put your name in a draw for two tickets to a

Drayton performance.Winning tickets may be used for any performance at any of the

following Drayton Entertainment venues, during the 2014 season:*• Dunfield Theatre Cambridge • St. Jacobs Country Playhouse •

Schoolhouse Theatre • King’s Wharf Theatre • Drayton Festival Theatre • Huron Country Playhouse •

Playhouse II* Tickets must be booked in advance. Performance dates and times are

subject to availability. To see what exciting shows Drayton Entertainment has in store for you this

season call 1-855-DRAYTON (372-9866) or visit www.draytonentertainment.com. The ticket winners will be announced in the

Kitchener Citizen each month.

JULY WINNER: Ralph Bieber

The Region of Waterloo has awarded 23 Arts Fund grants for a total of $129,400 to

local artists and arts organizations.The Arts Fund initially received 81 requests,

for a total of $549,475, a record number of applications. After the first round of technical evaluation, 53 applicants were invited to submit more detailed Stage 2 applications from which the 23 grants were selected.

Since 2002, when it was established, the Arts Fund has supported 452 projects for a total of $2,170,131 in grants.

Grants will be given to the following:Lost & Found Theatre, $5,000 to assist with

the development of a new play, ‘Pocket Rocket’, by Gary Kirkham and Lea Daniel;

Neruda Arts, $4,000 to introduce new children’s programming, workshops and performance to the summer Kultrún indigenous and world music festival;

Waterloo Chamber Players, $5,000 to commission a clarinet concerto by Michael Purves-Smith, to be premiered and performed by clarinetist Becky Maresciuc at a concert in November;

Rock the Mill, City of Cambridge, $1,000 to assist with the development of expanding music genres through additional staging for acoustic bands/acts;

The New Quarterly, $10,000 towards creating and publishing ‘Falling In Love with Poetry’, a new anthology of Canadian poets on the loved poems of childhood that influenced the poets they became;

Robert Achtemichuk, $6,500 for a project called ‘Orienteering Content’, to include research, documentation, and painting, comparing the historic locations and ‘time/place’ of Homer Watson’s travels as an artist with today’s sites;

Stealth, $10,000 to create and record a debut album of original contemporary music written and performed by ensemble members, Kathryn Ladano and Richard Burrows;

Modus Vivendi Village Players, $4,000 to prepare a festival of LGBTQ-focused cutting-edge theatre, poetry, and other performances;

Isabella Stefanescu, $6,500 to create an animated short film, entitled ‘Fifteen Notes on the Art of Draftsmanship’, based on a text by Virgil Burnett;

Vanyah Venhuizen, $10,000 to record and manufacture a debut full-length album of his original songs;

Erik O’Neill, $6,500 towards creating a lifestyle documentary series about the lives of ordinary people and how they make our community function;

Deborah Pryce, $1,000 towards materials for an exhibition of mixed media works entitled ‘Spirit of Change’;

KW Poetry Slam, $2,500 towards paying artistic fees to performers at local poetry slam events;

Janice Lee and the Free Radicals, $6,700 to film a newly choreographed dance music video of their song ‘How Do We Fall’;

Canadian Clay & Glass Gallery, $5,000 towards the production of a catalogue to accompany an exhibition and series of live drawing/sound performances entitled ‘Objects on a Table’ using art from the gallery’s permanent collection;

Chestnut Hall Camerata, $9,000 to create a music and video arts performance, entitled ‘The Enchanter’s Saga’, that explores the mythical nature of Merlin Ambrosius, and the convergence between technology and the arts;

Michael Jeong, $3,000 towards post production sound/video effects of a two-episode short film entitled ‘Dead Weight’;

12 Angry Filmmakers, $8,000 towards a series of twelve original short films created by a local collaborative group involved in every aspect of filmmaking;

Dan Howler Band, $6,200 towards creating a full-length debut recording of original music;

Andy Houston and Peter Hatch, $3,000 towards the first workshop of a new music/ theatre/video intermedia project, entitled ‘Algorithmyth’ which explores the rituals and mythology of the algorithms that shape our world;

Kitchener Blues Community Inc., $2,500 towards the cost of mounting a Tom Wilson career retrospective concert series at the Kitchener Blues Festival;

Soulstack, $4,500 towards the performance and video/recording of new and existing material during a live acoustic stage show;

LINK Picnic Festival, $9,500 towards the creation of children’s King and Queen costumes to showcase at the festival’s carnival parade in August.

The objective of the Arts Fund is to “make art happen” – stimulate arts activity – immediately, by funding projects throughout the Region that will occur within the next 12 months and, over the longer term, will enhance the ability of an artist or arts organization to make more art happen through future projects.

The funds are made available through Regional Council’s allocation of 40 cents per capita.

The next deadline for applications to the Arts Fund is 4:00 pm on Friday, September 5, 2014; full details are available on the website: www.artsfund.ca.

23 local artists and arts organizations to receive grants from the Region of Waterloo

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& Advertising

Call519-394-0335

Page 18 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l August 7, 2014

THIS MONTH’S READING:Don’t Ever Get Oldby Daniel Freedman

REVIEWED BY:Lesa Balch, Senior Manager

Service DevelopmentFor more great reading ideas, visit www.kpl.org and click on the “Books and More” tab.Want to share your own review of your favourite read? The library’s online catalogue enableslibrary card holders to write a review for any item in the collection. Simply click on the “AddReview” tab for your selected book, and write away!

WHAT WE’RE READING

Meet Buck Schatz. He’s 87 years old, likes tosmoke and swear, and is a former Memphis

homicide detective. As Buck says, “Not having tocare about making things easy for anyone else is oneof the three best things about being old. The othertwo are smoking and telling people what I think aboutthem.” The reader is often treated to Buck’s wrysense of humour. When asked how he managed tomake it to 87 with all his own teeth, his answer is “Ialways moved my head out of the way whensomebody tried to sock me in the mouth.”

In this story, Buck is called to the bedside of a dyingfriend, who tells him about gold bars that were stolenat the end of World War II. Buck decides to huntdown an old enemy from the war who abscondedwith the gold. Going along for the ride is Buck’sgrandson, who reminds Buck that things aren’t theway they used to be, and neither is he.

Buck shows us how life experience, streetwisdom, and a sense of humour can outsmart evenmodern-day criminals. At the same time, we seeBuck’s relationship with his grandson grow beyondbrusque observations, and watch how he deals witha hiccup in his marriage. We get a better idea of whatit’s like to be approaching 90 and how life looks fromthat perspective.

As more obstacles arise and bodies pile up, Buckadmits that he feels “old and obsolete, like a cowboywhose frontier had turned into outlet stores and golfcourses.” But Buck just keeps smoking his LuckyStrikes and doesn’t give up, and we keep cheeringfor the old cowboy, wanting to see good win out overevil. Good does win, but with an interesting twist, ofcourse.

The second book in the Buck Schatz series, Don’tEver Look Back, was released this year.

A monthly column featuring great reads as suggested and reviewed by librarians from theKitchener Public Library. Follow along each month and discover your next great read!

August 7, 2014 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l Page 19

LUNCHTIME LECTURE SERIES - Join us for an informative and entertaining lecture on Thursday, August 14 from 12-1pm at Homer Watson House & Gallery given by featured artist in the 24th Annual Watson Exhibition, Tom Samolczyk. Tom will outline the thought process, meaning and inspiration behind his work in this Lunchtime Lecture. The event will also include a question and answer period as well as tasty appetizers donated by local food suppliers. Tom, a retired medical practitioner, has been drawn to sketching and painting since his childhood. His interest in nature has contributed to the evolution of his work in the outdoor painting style. In his lecture “En Plein Air” and Capturing the Outdoors, he will discuss the history of the French expression meaning “in the open air” and how it has informed his own work. Please remember to bring a lunch. Admission for this event is $10 per person. Complimentary admission is offered to those who hold a valid membership. For more information, please call 519-748-4377 or visit www.homerwatson.on.ca.

CRUISIN’ TO END MS - Canada has the highest rate of MS in the world. That’s why, on Thursday, August 21, A&W is teaming up with the MS Society to host its 6th annual Cruisin’ to End MS day to benefit and raise awareness for Canadians living with MS. One dollar from every Teen Burger® sold across the country on Thursday, August 21 will go to the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada. In its first five years, Cruisin’ to End MS has raised $5 million to support people living with MS and MS research in Canada. A&W will also donate $1 to the MS Society of Canada for every RSVP to the A&W Cruisin’ to End MS event on Facebook and every tweet or retweet with the hashtag #CruisinToEndMS

KIDNEY WALK 2014 - One in 10 Canadians has kidney disease, and millions more are at risk. More than 10,000 people in Ontario are on dialysis today and 1,100 are on the wait list for a transplant. This year marks the 50th anniversary of The Kidney Foundation of Canada and Kidney Walks are taking place in over 40 communities in Ontario with the goal to support those affected by kidney disease through education, patient support programs, advocacy, and by funding research to improve understanding of kidney disease and its treatments. Waterloo Region’s Kidney Walk will take place at Bechtel Park, 185 Bridge Street W., Waterloo on Sunday, September 7. Registration: 10am, Walk: 11am. For more information, please visit www.kidneywalk.ca or call Rizwana Ramzanali at 519-850-5362 or rramzanali@kidney.on.ca.

FRIENDS FOR LIFE WALK

– The Friends for Life Walk will take place in 17 communities across Ontario over the weekend of Saturday, September 20 and Sunday, September 21, 2014. Each event includes a fundraising walk and lots of fun activities for walkers and their four-legged friends and will raise funds and awareness for the protection and care of all animals in Ontario. Each community walk will be led by its own local spokes-animal with a special rescue or adoption story. Outstanding fundraising efforts will be rewarded and every registered walker is eligible to join the “TOP PAW Club” and earn individual rewards. Visit www.friendsforlifewalk.ca or www.ospcawalk.ca to register for the walk.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT CONNECTIONS – Golf Social on Tuesday, August 12 at Rockway Golf Course, 625 Rockway Dr, Kitchener at 11:30am BBQ lunch begins, 12:30pm Golfing begins, 7:00pm Players Dinner http://golfsocialwr.com. Formerly known as, “Twitterment”, the Golf Social is a non-traditional Golf Tournament that creates powerful conversations and lasting memories through social activities, challenges and the sharing of unique business and personal stories through social media. $110 per golfer, includes lunch and dinner.

MEALS ON WHEELS EVENT- The Mayor’s Souper Sampler for Meals on Wheels on Saturday, October 25 at Cambridge City Hall from 10am-2pm, 50 Dickson Street, Cambridge.

3rd ANNUAL IAN HAY MEMORIAL GOLF TOURN-AMENT - will be held Friday, August 15th at Savannah Golf Links in Cambridge, in support of The Kidney Foundation of Canada. Currently 4,500 Canadians are waiting for a life-changing kidney transplant. Ian was one who waited. Of the 4,500 waiting for a transplant, 75% of those people are waiting for a kidney. Registration at 11:30am on Friday, August 15th at Savannah Golf Links, located at 1206 Cheese Factory Road, Cambridge. Golfers and guests will have a chance to mix and mingle before the 1pm shotgun start. Golfers will be able to try their hand at the closest to the pin, longest drive and hole in one competition, followed by prizes, auction and a delicious steak dinner. For more information visit www.kidney.ca/ontariogolf

8th ANNUAL INSPIRING WOMEN EVENT – September 18 at Bingemans, Kitchener, 8am – 4pm featuring Erica Ehm, Kelsey Ramsden, Janet Podleski, Julie Cole and Dana Florence. Tickets $150 per person or $1100 table of 8. Call 519-749-6048 for details or tickets or visit inspiringwomenevent.com

HERITAGE GREENS LAWN BOWLING CLUB – located right in

your neighbourhood, 800 Heritage Drive, beside the Lyle Hallman Pool. Participaction Canada tells us to get up and get moving. Lawn bowling is an excellent sport to keep your mind and body active and a great way to socialize. Why should we have all the fun? Come on out and join us. We look forward to meeting you! For more information email Sandra at sandra@sandrascand.com

SUNNYSIDE SENIORS’ SERVICES NEEDS VOLUN-TEERS - Do you speak Croatian, Serbian, Romanian, or Hungarian? If so, we could use your help to visit a resident at Sunnyside. If you are interested, please contact Janice Klassen, Coordinator, Volunteers at 519-893-8494, ext. 6372 or email her at jklassen@regionofwaterloo.ca.

DIVERSECITY TOAST-MASTERS CLUB - Do you have trouble finding the right words when speaking to a group? Need a career boost? Want to polish your presentation skills? Toastmasters is the place for you. Learn communication, leadership and presentation strategies in a friendly, supportive atmosphere. DiverseCity is a new club and is open to all. It runs Mondays, 7 - 8:30 pm at Kitchener City Hall, the Conestoga Room. For more information contact Georgina Green, 519-743-7655 or gggreen@rogers.com.

REEP OPEN HOUSE - REEP House for Sustainable Living, 20 Mill Street, Kitchener is open every Saturday from 10am to 2pm. An interactive community resource,

t h i s

100-year-old home has been renovated by REEP Green Solutions to exceed modern building standards while maintaining heritage value; working demonstrations of household energy-efficient and water management technologies; certified energy adviser available to answer your home energy and water savings questions. Contact info@reepgreen.ca or call 519-744-9799.

REEP HOUSE WEDNESDAY EVENING TOURS - REEP House for Sustainable Living, 20 Mill Street, Kitchener is open from 6:30 – 8:30pm every other Wednesday. Free. Registration required. Contact: info@reepgreen.ca or call 519-744-9799. Drop in and experience trusted home energy and water management information from a certified energy advisor, who is available to answer your questions. The 100-year-old REEP House has been renovated to exceed modern building standards while maintaining heritage value; working demonstrations of household energy-efficient and water management technologies.

ADULT DAY PROGRAM - Did you know Trinity Village has an Adult Day Program for seniors wishing to socialize with other seniors? The cost is just $8 per day and the program runs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 am to 1 pm, at Trinity Village Care Centre, on Kingsway Drive, near Fairview Park Mall. Self-referrals welcome or contact CCAC, 519-748-2222. For more information call the Day Program Coordinator

at 519-893-6320 ext. 235.MAKE NEW FRIENDS WITH

BETA SIGMA PHI - Are you a woman looking for new friends and fun things to do? Do you enjoy a social, community service-oriented group? If so, you might be interested in our Beta Sigma Phi chapter. Beta Sigma Phi is an international women’s friendship network. For more information about Beta Sigma Phi visit the international website: www.betasigmaphi.org. There are 200 members in KW alone. Our chapter of 8 women has members in our mid 30s and early 40s, mostly married, with small children. We meet twice a month May – Sept. and plan socials throughout the year too. Email betasigmaphiKW@gmail.com for more information.

ROCKWAY ENTERTAINERS - choral group singing four-part harmony. Recruiting new members... Membership open to those over 50 years old. Rehearsals are Thursdays at 1:30 – 3:30pm from September until May at Rockway Centre Auditorium, 1405 King Street East, Kitchener. Please phone 519-885-9978 or 519-741-2507 for more information.

PART-TIME HELP NEEDED - May Court Consignment Shop (714 Belmont St. W) is hiring part-time staff for Friday evenings (4-7) and Saturdays. All profits support women and children in need in Waterloo region. Minimum wage paid. If interested please send resume to shopmaycourt@gmail.com or deliver to the shop to the attention of the shop manager.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Page 20 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l August 7, 2014

www.sunriseshoppingcentre.com1400 Ottawa St. South at Fischer-Hallman Rd.

Canadian Tire • Pita Pit • Bowring • Peggy’s • Stitches • Nygård • Petcetera • Le Nails Salon • Cleo

Reitmans • Pizza Nova • Hallmark • Dentist - Dr. Pfeiffer • La Vie en Rose • The Home Depot

Fairweather • International Clothiers • Mark’s Work Wearhouse • Quiznos Sub • Trends For Men

Ardène • Black’s Photography • Casey’s Bar & Grill • Bell World • Wal-Mart • Bulk Barn • Ricki’s Trade Secrets • Jones New York • Shoppers Drug Mart • Payless Shoe Source • The Source • Sears Future Shop • Walking On A Cloud • Old Navy • First Choice Haircutters • Starbuck’s Coffee

No Longer A Blue Sky DreamYes, They’re Going Back To School!

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