Connecting the Community

Getting to Know Vincent Ho, MP for Richmond Hill South

This was an introduction to Vincent Ho, the newly elected Member of Parliament and a lifetime Richmond Hill resident, to the residents of Richmond Hill.
The conversation centers around the pressing issue of immigration in Canada, highlighting a broad consensus across party lines for the need to reduce immigration levels.
The discussion emphasizes the strain on housing, healthcare, and job markets, illustrating the disconnect between the number of homes being built and the influx of new residents. Vincent argues that the current immigration policy is unsustainable and contributes to a housing crisis.
Vincent Ho | Member of Parliament, Richmond Hill South

Exploring the Art of the Artists at the Artists' Co-op Richmond Hill

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre speaks with artists Karen Pasieka and Claudia Galletta, members of the Artists' Co-op Richmond Hill.
They discuss their artistic journeys, the materials they use, and the influence of nature on their work.
The conversation also touches on the importance of community, the joy of gift-giving, and the workshops they offer to engage with the public. Both artists express their love for their craft and the supportive environment of the Richmond Hill art community.
Check out their website Artists Coop Richmond Hill
It's open November 13 to December 28, Thursday to Sunday. 11 to 6 pm.
Here's the link to the workshops that Claudia and Karen, and the other artists at the gallery are offering EVENTS | Artists Coop Richmond Hill

Exploring Trauma Through Poetry

In this conversation, Marj Andre speaks with poet Greg Sass about his life experiences, the impact of trauma, and his recent publication 'Child of War.'
They explore the definitions of trauma, the importance of discussing it, and the therapeutic role of poetry. Greg shares his personal experiences with trauma, his reflections on war, and the significance of childhood in shaping one's life.
The discussion also touches on the necessity of understanding the emotional weight of war, especially on children, and concludes with a reflection on community and nature.
Click HERE to order the book from Amazon 

Micro-Mobility in Richmond Hill: What You Need to Know. A Conversation with Scott Thompson

In this podcast, Marj Andre interviews Ward 2 Councillor Scott Thompson about the city's micro-mobility strategy, focusing on e-bikes and related regulations.
They discuss the definition of micro-mobility, safety concerns, infrastructure plans, and community engagement regarding e-bikes in Richmond Hill.
Check out the report Micromobility-Strategy
This bylaw is a bit technical but a worthwhile read 90-25.pdf
Scott can be contacted at scott.thompson@richmondhill.ca
 
 
 
 

Meet the Creative Minds of the Artists' Co-op Richmond Hill

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre speaks with artists Wendy Emery and Kathleen Rodgers, who are part of an artist co-op in Richmond Hill.
They discuss their artistic journeys, the unique experience of the gallery, the importance of supporting local artists, and the inspiration they draw from each other and their community.
The conversation highlights the significance of workshops and community engagement in fostering creativity and connection among artists and art lovers alike.
 
The Gallery is open Nov. 14 to Dec. 28, Thursday to Sunday, from 11 to 6 pm, plus the 5 Saturday evenings (Nov, 14 to Dec. 13), 4 to 8 pm.
See all the beautiful creations Artists Coop Richmond Hill
Here's the link to the workshops, including the 3 offered by Wendy. EVENTS | Artists Coop Richmond Hill

Richmond Hill United Church has always been evolving, including a new sanctuary ceiling

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre interviews Doug Loweth about the Richmond Hill United Church, discussing its historical significance, architectural features, current renovations, and the church's role in the community.
Doug shares insights into the church's past, the ongoing restoration efforts, and the financial aspects of maintaining such a historic building.
The conversation highlights the importance of community engagement and the church's vision for the future, emphasizing its commitment to serving not just its congregation but the wider community as well.
Check out their website Richmond Hill United Church
Click HERE to subscribe to their newsletter 
Doug Loweth may be contacted at dloweth@rogers.com
 
 
 
 
 

Temperanceville United Church - giving us history and food and community.

In this podcast, Marj Andre speaks with Roseanne Rose and Valerie Petroff from the Temperanceville United Church about the church's rich history, its vibrant community, and the upcoming Christmas Bazaar.
They discuss the church's evolution, the diverse congregation, and the integral role of food in fostering community spirit. The conversation highlights the importance of inclusivity and tradition, as well as the various events that bring the community together.
The bazaar is November 15th, starting at 10 am.  Check them out - Temperanceville United Church
Rosanne and Valerie can be contacted at temperancevilleunitedchurch@hotmail.com

The Urgent Need for Supportive Housing

This conversation focuses on the Richmond Hill Supportive Housing Collaboration, highlighting the personal stories of advocates Kathleen Mochnacki and Maggie Veltheer, their motivations for involvement, the challenges faced in accessing supportive housing, and the urgent need for initiatives like Housing First.
They discuss an upcoming event aimed at raising awareness and engaging the community, as well as the importance of political advocacy in addressing homelessness and mental health issues in Richmond Hill.
 
Here are the details for the October 30th RHSHC Open House - Registration Form

Understanding Electoral Systems: First Past the Post vs. Proportional Representation

In this podcast, Marj Andre interviews Wendy Morihovitis, a retired mechanical engineer and volunteer with Fair Vote Canada.
They discuss the importance of electoral reform in Canada, focusing on the first past the post system and its shortcomings. Wendy explains the concept of proportional representation and its benefits, including better representation and reduced polarization.
The conversation also touches on the impact of false majorities and policy lurch, emphasizing the need for grassroots advocacy to push for change in the electoral system.
 
Please reach out to Wendy at wendymorihovitis@gmail.com
Here's their web site Fair Vote Canada - Proportional Representation

New Horizons Band welcomes older adult musicians. It's never too late!

In this conversation, Marj Andre speaks with Randy Kligerman, president of the New Horizons Band of Toronto, about the importance of adult music education and the unique structure of the New Horizons Band.
Randy shares his personal journey into music, the history and philosophy behind the New Horizons Band, and the differences between community bands and New Horizons bands.
The discussion also covers the growth of the organization, the role of music in personal development, class structure, membership costs, and the power of music in enriching lives.
 
See their website  New Horizons Band of Toronto – It's Never Too Late
Listen to this TVO documentary about how New Horizons Band of Toronto got started: https://vimeo.com/400286741
 
Here's a City News Interview 2023, Return from Covid: Back to Music
 
Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NHBToronto
 
Randy can be reached at president@nhbt.ca