Milton Villager Magazine Volume 2, Issue 10 - September 2015 www.MiltonVillager.com
If you would like to advertise in Milton Villager email rick@dilorenzo.com Publisher - Rick Di Lorenzo, rick@dilorenzo.com Photographers - Ann Kornuta, Denise Cooperwhite, Grant Rushton, Trevor Black Reporters - Stuart Service, Laura Steiner, Genevieve Rushton-Givens, Kiran R. Khan, Salman Alvi, Eugene Correia, Emmanuel Ponce Graphic Designer - Tudor Maier Cover Photo - Kenn Macfie, Jaxon Macfie and Sam Kassam-Macfie Printed in Canada. All rights reserved. Opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily that of the publisher and no liability is assumed for omissions or errors. Follow us on Facebook at http://facebook.com/MiltonVillager Milton Villager Magazine is available at these fine local businesses: Grocery stores: Metro, Food Port, Real Canadian Super Store, La Rose Bakery, Little Kabul Fine Food, Food Basics, Sobeys, Longos Food: Hero Burger, Pizza Nova, Troys Diner, Coffee Culture, Heritage Fish and Chips, Symposium, Shoeless Joe’s, Luigi’s Lasagna & Pizzeria, Mama Mila’s Cafe, Quiznos, Empire Wok, Mr. Sub, Tim Hortons, The Hen and the Roost Recreation: Milton Sports Centre, Leisure Centre, Milton Centre for the Arts, Making Waves Swim School Shopping: Milton Mall, Home Hardware, Canadian Tire
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2 | Milton Villager | September 2015
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Muslim Association of Milton hosts By Laura Steiner Photos by Ann Kornuta
W
hen Choudry Shoukat founded the Muslim Association of Milton (M.A.M.) he estimates there were only 50 Muslim families in Milton. They used their basements for daily prayers and kids’ Qur’an classes. Now he estimates there are 5000 Muslim families. “I’m very proud of it,” Shoukat said of the group’s growth. M.A.M. attracts an estimated 1000-1500 people to Friday afternoon prayers held at the Milton Sports Centre. M.A.M. was founded in 2005 with the goal of establishing “a place of worship and community centre.” Ten years later, work is underway on a Masjid (Mosque) on a property on Highway 25, north of the 407. “The community is supporting us, thank God,” Shoukat said. The group needs to raise approximately $1 million for the construction. “It’s a good cause,” Iqbal Hussain added. Hussain is a member of the Board of Directors.
M.A.M gives back to the community through their annual Family BBQ for the last six years. The event doubles as a fundraiser for the Milton District Hospital Foundation (M.D.H.F). This year’s BBQ was held on Saturday August 8, 2015 at the Croatian Club of Milton. “Every year we donate approximately $5000”, explained Shoukat. Over the last six years that works out to approximately $30 thousand. This year was no different, with M.A.M. making another cheque presentation.
Raghad Hadi, Ammar Altahan, Fatima & Yasseen
4 | Milton Villager | September 2015
It was a family-themed event that included bouncy castles, henna, and a magic show for kids. The menu included chicken, beef burgers, hot-dogs, cotton candy, and ice cream. For local resident Raghad Hadi and her family it was a good chance to meet new people. A friend of her daughter told her about the BBQ. “This way they get to meet each other, and play together.” The family is new to living in Milton. “We didn’t know there is a Muslim community in Milton,” she said. To learn more about M.A.M. including about how to donate: visit their website: www.miltonmasjid.com.
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September 2015 | Milton Villager | 5
6 | Milton Villager | September 2015
Magna employees and representatives from Magna and Milton Hospital pose with the $3 million cheque.
Milton hospital gets an injection of
By Eugene Correia | Photo by Trevor Black
$3 million for its expansion project
M
agna International made a magnanimous donation of $3 million to the Milton District Hospital (MDH) for the latter’s expansion project that’s already begun. The money will be used to build and expand the Diagnostic Imaging Department, which will be named after the corporation. The donation forms 10 per cent of the goal of $30 million for the expansion of the hospital. It will increase emergency and surgical services, medical/surgical inpatient units, critical care, maternal newborn and diagnostic imaging and support services, and from 63 to 129 inpatient beds. The hospital will add 330,000 sq-ft to its current size of 125,000 sq-ft. Additionally, 80 per cent went to single-patient rooms for improved infection prevention and control and to provide increased patient privacy and a quieter healing environment, the first Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine, and a Level 2A Special Care Nursery with capacity for eight bassinettes in the Maternal Newborn Unit. These improvements will make the MDH a modern, high-efficient healthcare centre in the region to meet the future needs
of Milton, the fastest growing community in Ontario, when completed in 2017. Mike Sinnaeve, Vice President of Operations, Magna Corporation, remarked, “Milton is a key region for Magna as we have two major manufacturing facilities there. In line with our philosophy that we help support the communities in which we operate, we are excited to contribute to the health and wellness of the Milton community and its surrounding areas.” In thanking Magna Corporation, Brian Penman, Board Chair, Milton District Hospital Foundation, said “Your substantial investment will help ensure the health and wellbeing of Milton families, friends and neighbours and Magna International employees who are vital to our community. Our inclusion among your leading philanthropic ventures is something for which we are deeply grateful and will do much to build awareness and encourage the Milton community to get involved.” Janet Skupsky, Chief Operating Officer, Milton District Hospital, added: “We are so fortunate to have such a generous community to support this project. We are grateful to
Magna Corporation for their unprecedented gift to expand and enhance healthcare in Milton, and their leadership in encouraging the community to share in their support through their $3 million gift. We are pleased to be able to recognize this generosity with the naming of the Magna International Diagnostic Imaging Department.” Mayor Gord Krantz remarked that a healthy community is a wealthy community and a wealthy community is a healthy community. He praised Magna for its generous gesture and thanked its employees for their goodwill. More than 50 employees were gathered in the workshop to see an architect’s design of the new wing unveiled and later pose for a photograph. They and other guests, many from the hospital foundation, were treated to a slice of cake that was cut to mark the ceremony. The company is a leading global automotive supplier with 319 manufacturing operations and 85 product development, engineering and sales centres in 29 countries. Magna has approximately 136,000 employees producing body, chassis, interior, exterior, seating, powertrain, and other accessories.
September 2015 | Milton Villager | 7
Marly, Ramy and Rashy Botros, Father Kyrillos Atiia, Kenzy Rizk, Rafik, Daniel and Monica
by Salman Alvi Photos by Ann Kornuta
O
n August 1st, Milton’s lone Coptic Orthodox Church of St. George and St. Abanoub celebrated their fourth annual festival of St. Abanoub, The Child Martyr (The Feast of Our Dearest). The event was open to all families in Milton while preserving the remembrance of St. Abanoub’s death. The background of St. Abanoub is a telling tale which spans back to the third century. Despite being severely tortured by the roman empire, this saint was punished for not leaving Christianity and was martyred at the ripe age of 12. “This young boy contained a lot
of strong faith and with events like this, it’s a great way to pull the community together,” explained Father Kyrillos Attia. The building for the church was bought in late 2008 and initially absorbed a mere 20 families. Fast forward seven years later and the number of families that partake in the church’s activities has grown to a monumental 300. “Our church provides an assortment of programs, trips, Sunday school activities for kids and we serve the Milton community without any differences,” stressed Head Organizer Ramy Botros.
Ramy Botros
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Blanketed under mother nature’s sunshine, the weather received no criticism as waves of families came out to commemorate the festival. Bouncy castles, inflatable playgrounds, basketball and face painting were many of the kid’s affairs that had parents doing laps in the church’s parking lot. Marly Mehani patrolled the grounds to ensure that kids were deemed safe while participating in all activities. “I basically lead the games and direct the kids on how to be safe when having fun,” said an ecstatic Mehani. While the back of the church was the “kids zone,” the front of the establishment was laterally busy with refueling. Egyptian dishes such as: shawarmas, kebda (beef liver) and kofta were leaving the tables faster than you can blink. Conversely, the traditional burger, hot dogs and fries were also being served as an alternative. The popular and historic deserts of Koneffa and Om Ali satisfied the sweet tooth of all in attendance, Om Ali, (combination of nuts, milk, raisins, pecan and walnuts) of all deserts perhaps being the most meaningful in the history of Egypt. Myth has it that Om Ali was the first wife of the sultan Ezz El Din Aybek. Subsequent to the sultan’s death, his second wife had a dispute with Om Ali, resulting in the second
wife’s death. To celebrate, Om Ali made this dessert and distributed it among the people of the land, which was ultimately named after her, Om Ali. Veteran helper, Sawson Kondos provided some insight on how the food (being sold) was amalgamated by at least ten families and took about three hours to prepare.
Regardless, the chain of families partaking in this event spoke volumes. Ward 7 councillor, Rick Di Lorenzo was also on hand in support of the Egyptian community along with many more Miltonians whose attendance reinforced this community’s existence. For more information on this church, feel free to visit: www.sgsamilton.ca
Amir Hanna and daughter
Father Kyrillos Atiia with Michael and Mina
September 2015 | Milton Villager | 9
Nancy Cuttle
IS BACK IN MILTON
O
ctober 2015 will mark the 17th anniversary of the annual FASM Studio Tour presented by the Fine Arts Society of Milton. “FASM has been in existence since 1998,” said Ursula McDermid, President of the Fine Arts Society of Milton. “We are a group of visual artists who support the organization through the work of our volunteers.” FASM is a non-profit organization that was formed to bring together people with a common interest in visual art and to provide the opportunity for members to further their growth in art and art appreciation. It was founded by 16 artists and the membership has now grown to 155 very diverse artists. “The tour stretches from Limehouse to Eden Mills to Carlisle to Cedar Springs and almost to Trafalgar Road to the East and throughout Milton,” said McDermid. There are 35 artists of various media in 21 locations. There will be a variety of mediums used by artists, such as metal work by Doris Treleaven, jewellery by Catherine Mambourg, fabric art by Helen Nagel, Sherry Snider mosaics, chainmaille jewellery by Mona Corby, pottery by Denise Keats, woodturning and live edge furniture by Dan Prices, and other participants. “The artists are very accomplished individuals and have shown their work extensively,” said McDermid.
Jenny Panda, a retired teacher and a participant of FASM says that it is “a great central spot to show artwork.” “I joined the Fine Arts Society of Milton in 2003 and have participated in the annual Studio Tour since then, mainly in Waldies’ Blacksmith Shop on James Street in downtown Milton,” said Panda. Panda’s portrait is of blacksmiths, painted with acrylics and mixed media with emphasis on patterns and texture. She also does illustrations for children’s novels, which she started writing after her retirement, which will also be available during the Studio Tour. “The tour follows the gentle winding roads of Milton within the town, into the surrounding communities and through the fall colours of our beautiful countryside,” said Panda. Tina Newlove, another participant, is looking forward to showcasing her work capturing the Campbellville landscape as the background to figures which struggle to be seen and heard and yet at the same time sink away from the viewer’s sight line. “Layers of paint define and then defuse the themes, adding complicated relationships between repeating shapes and overall composition,” said Newlove, describing her artwork. The gallery is located in the Milton Mall, where a number of member’s artwork is kept, said McDermid.
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By Kiran R. Khan
The Studio Tour will take place on October 3rd and 4th, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors will get a chance to enjoy the breathtaking scenery around Milton as they travel the tour. Brochures with maps are available on-line at www.fasm.ca. “If you’ve always thought you might like to take up painting or pottery, here’s a chance to meet and talk to actual artists in your community,” said McDermid. “This is FASM artists’ opportunity to welcome the public into their studios and group locations.”
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September 2015 | Milton Villager | 11
Hundreds of Milton Residents Attend the
Official Opening of
Azim Rizvee’s Campaign Office
M
ILTON, ON – Federal Liberal candidate for the new Milton riding, Azim Rizvee, officially opened his campaign office on August 16, 2015 amongst hundreds of Milton residents and dignitaries.
The inauguration of the campaign office included a family BBQ where supporters from Milton and surrounding communities came out in droves. Some of the supporters included: Indira Naidoo-Harris, MPP Halton; Vic Dhillon, MPP Brampton West; Mahmood Khan, Community Leader and the father of the late Max Khan; Asghar Ali Golo, Consult General of Pakistan; and, Will Angquiangco, President of the Halton Region Basketball Association.
“I am grateful and humbled by the continued support from respected leaders who share my passion for social issues and community initiatives,” said Azim Rizvee. “The outpouring of support from my fellow residents is also a humbling reminder that our community needs a strong voice in Ottawa for the new Milton riding.” As the federal representative in Ottawa Azim plans to continue focusing on local infrastructure, healthcare and education projects, and help fund them through Federal Transfer Payments commensurate to the growing needs of the town and region. “It’s time to stand united against the proposed CN Intermodal Terminal to preserve our properties and valuable green space,” said Azim Rizvee. “I am ready to
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work with local and provincial partners to help build a University Campus and push for funding to support more frequent GO train service in Milton.”
Throughout the campaign, Azim and his team will be connecting with all members of the community to spread the message of Real Change. “The Liberal party has a solid plan to bring fairness back to families like ours in Milton,” said Azim Rizvee. “Let us continue to work together to put Milton First so we can leave a lasting legacy for the generations to come.” Residents are welcome to visit the office at 7500 Derry Road in Milton to learn more about Azim’s campaign to bring Real Change by Putting Milton First.
Khalida, Azim, Vikkie Dhilon, Indira Naidoo-Harris, Suriya
Ali, Malik and Zainab
Susan, Mahnoor, Shiva
September 2015 | Sponsored Content | 13
Official Opening of
Azim Rizvee’s Campaign Office
Haroon with Gerry Stickland
Abeer and Kashif Abrar
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Canadian Pakistan Association of Halton celebrates
By Mian Abubaqr | Photos by Rick Di Lorenzo
Pakistan Independence Day T he Canadian Pakistan Association of Halton (CPAH) hosted the 68th Pakistan Independence Celebration on August 14th, 2015 in Milton which was the first ever in the history of Halton Region. The Pakistani Community in the Halton Region celebrated this festival with enthusiasm and joy. The event was colourful with a jampacked agenda and received an overwhelming response. Lisa Raitt, Federal MP and Minister conveyed the congratulation message from Prime Minister Harper to the Pakistani Community. The Mayor of Milton, along with Regional Councillors and many Town Councillors of Milton graced their presence and took part in cake cutting and singing the national anthems of Canada and Pakistan. The majority of people dressed up in green and white to show their love for Pakistan. Children also enjoyed this day to the fullest. The children sang national songs and enjoyed scrumptious refreshments. The quiz show and face paintings were the main attractions for the children. The audience enjoyed the enthralling performances of the various patriotic songs by various singers with patriotism and great passion. It was indeed a very memorable and enjoyable day for everyone.
September 2015 | Milton Villager | 15
Milton welcomes
Marketplace Medical Centre & Pharmacy Photos by Rajazz Abbas/Diversity Reporter Media.
M
ilton opened doors for the new Marketplace Medical Centre & Pharmacy on August 1st welcoming neighbours to the grand opening. “We had a great turnout, many people showed up and we were honoured by the acting mayor Cindy Lunau and Counsellor Rick Di Lorenzo,” said Tony Kassis P.Eng., co-owner and managing director of the Marketplace Medical Centre & Pharmacy.
The medical centre is operated by Dr. Lorette Kassis, an experienced family physician, who has been practicing medicine for the past 8 years here in Canada.
“At Marketplace Medical Centre we provides customers with a Excellent Medical Care and treat people with respect and dignity.” “We care about people’s health and well being,” added Mr. Kassis. When asked about what makes them different from other pharmacies and clinics, which already exist in Milton, Kassis responded by saying that “we are totally committed to helping the community. I personally ensure that our staff and myself provide every patient that walk into our door with the best service possible.”
“Our goal is to serve the community with all their medical needs,” said Mr. Kassis, “We provide family practice and walk-in service to Milton, Oakville and neighbouring communities.”
The facility is fully equipped with an On-Site Lab operated by two certified lab technicians. The centre offer as a variety of services including: family planning, immunization and Wrinkle Free Treatments to mention but few. The centre will soon be home to an In-house Pharmacy and two other specialists to serve the community best. “Dr. Kassis has been successfully providing Wrinkle Free treatments at Kingsridge Medical Centre in Oakville for the past two years,” said Mr. Kassis. “Her clients are extremely satisfied and her amazing surgical skills are giving her a huge edge in this specialized field.”
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The centre is located at Bronte & Louis St. Laurent, providing patients with a comprehensive family healthcare.
“We’re very excited about the opportunity to serve our Milton community and surrounding areas and like to welcome everyone to your new Medical Centre. Please stop by and meet Dr. Kassis and our friendly and knowledgeable staff. we are currently accepting new patients. Please feel free to check us out online: www.marketplacemedicalcentre.com” concluded Mr. Kassis.
September 2015 | Milton Villager | 17
By: Laura Steiner | Photos By Ann Kornuta
T
he name came from the fact life with kids can be a zoo sometimes. Sam Kassam-Macfie put together the words family and zoo, and that’s how Famiizuu was born. She sensed the community’s need for kids’ programming. “I couldn’t let them down,” she said of Milton parents. Kassam-Macfie officially launched the business on August 15, 2015 at Milton Fair Grounds with a family fun fair. The most popular area was a reptile presentation where kids were able to touch, pet and hold some of the scaled creatures. It ended with the presenter giving the kids a chance to pet a snake, which was very cool to the touch.
to allow messiness in the house,” Macfie explained. There was an area set up for art where kids would stick their hands in paint, make a handprint on a sheet of paper, and using coloured pencils turn it into a ladybug. Parents get as much out of it as their children. Mom Maika Gergereau has three kids ages 2-6 years old. Famiizuu has been about building relationships
Famiizuu offers programming for 0-6 years in programs like mathematics and art. The art programs are known as the “little Picasso,” and allow the kids to be messy. “Sometimes parents are hesitant
18 | Milton Villager | September 2015
for her and the children. “The friends I met five years ago are going to be my life-long friends.” Famiizu has been important to helping develop the kids’ social skills. “Otherwise they’re stuck at home, and they’re not talking to anybody. Or they’re fighting, because that’s what siblings do.” she said.
Kassam-Macfie already has plans to expand her business. She wants to do programs around community involvement for 9-year olds where they help pick-up garbage, or with food drives. “And also encouraging intergenerational relationships as well.” She hopes to partner with local retirement homes so the kids can go in, and read to
the seniors. “It helps build their (the kids’ confidence), and works on the literacy component. The sky is the limit for Kassam-Macfie according to Gergereau: “With this new name, Sam’s going to do wonders,” she said. The best way to get in touch with Famiizuu is through its Facebook page. It comes up on google as the first match.
Achilles Mazda of Milton helped sponsor this fantastic event
September 2015 | Milton Villager | 19
Valentina, Mia and Emma holding paintings
A Day of Italian Culture and Family By Emmanuel Ponce | Photos by Grant Rushton
T
he sun was scorching and the air was hot and humid. But that didn’t stop a full turnout from showing up at the Italian Canadian Club of Milton’s Annual Family Picnic.
to enjoy the event,” said Posteraro. “We want to be a big part of the community and to share the culture with everyone.”
For most people there, the ICCM annual picnic was not solely about celebrating This year’s picnic included a full day of Italian culture, but also spending time tasty food and fun events—from hot with family. Stefano Dal Bello, who has dogs, ice cream and authentic wood been attending the annual picnic since oven pizza to pony rides, live music, he was a child, was there with his family, balloon animals and children’s games enjoying the sunny weather, food, and (courtesy of Sneezy the Clown), as well watching his kids play bocce and get as traditional Italian games, such as their faces painted. When asked what bocce and briscola. he enjoys most about the picnic Dal Bello points to what keeps him coming When asked about the idea behind the back every year. “It’s the simple things— annual picnic, Angelo Posteraro, ICCM’s enjoying time with your family,” said president, emphasized that the picnic Dal Bello. was open to not just Italian families, but families of all cultures. “The idea is to let Lisa Raitt, MP for Milton, was also people know you don’t have to be Italian there with her team, supporting the
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Staci
event’s effort to share Italian culture within the Milton community and speaking with families. “The first thing you think of when you come down here is the food,” said Raitt. “But really, it’s the people here—they want to share their culture, and it’s a great event to come to.” What brings a community together more than good music, fun events, and delicious food?
Phil, Tom, Sylvia and Ernesta with bocci balls
Genana, Farrah and Victoria with Candy Cones
These days, when most people spend their time looking down at their digital devices, a sense of togetherness with family is sometimes lost. But the ICCM annual picnic provided a great opportunity to bring families together, while also giving people a chance to embrace a taste of Italian culture. As summer comes near its end, the ICCM annual picnic gave all who attended a chance to reflect on what matters most. Indeed, it really is the simple things.
Isabella with Sneezy the Clown
Sacchetti family
Stefano Dal Bello & family
Alex Anabusi and Angelo Posteraro
Tyler Fergus the Magician (www.firstclassmagic.ca)
September 2015 | Milton Villager | 21
By Salman Alvi Photos by Trevor Black
Azim Rizvee got several good hits.
A
lot of components can be calculated when uniting countries for a special occasion. Food, festivals, concerts are some of the communions that countries share when attempting harmonization. The game of cricket has always been the neutralizer when India and Pakistan meet. Whether win or lose, this bat and ball game always manages to bond the two countries.
Team Event Ontario - Azhar, Mubashir and Naeem
Maintaining that same perception, Event Ontario presented their first ever social project called, “Azadi Celebration.” This event’s primary objective was to celebrate the independence of both Pakistan and India, which is respectively on August 14 (Pakistan) and August 15 (India). The day’s main earmark was a friendly cricket match between Miltonians dwelling from both communities.
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Milton’s first cricket pitch, located in Sherwood Park (Tremaine & Main St) received full cooperation from Mother Nature as the weather played a pivotal role to the success of this event. Besides the adults hitting run after run, the kids digested the most fun, both on and off the pitch. “It was a fun experience. You don’t have these events often and it’s one of the first crickets matches I’ve played since moving here”, replied 14 year old Basim Shafi. Bouncy castles, a clown show, food and merchandise were other branches of entertainment, all backdropped with patriotic songs blasting from the DJ’s tent. Along with live commenting of the match, hoards of families were seen cheering their respective players (family members) as the match transpired. “This
is more of a fun event pertaining to both countries, all through the means of cricket,” said Event Ontario founder Naeem Tariq. Eventually all the running around and ball chasing does a number on your body. So what do you do when the body is breaking down? Easy, you go eat and hydrate. There was certainly no shortage of food, as traditional Indian and Pakistani dishes whisked away to the hungry. Birayni, haleem, chat papri and gol gapay were the feature items that left the food tents at insatiable measures.
underscored the beauty of our Canadian values that brought people from both backgrounds together to celebrate each others’ independence” said Councillor Zeeshan Hamid. Event Ontario’s first attempt at an event of this caliber was impactful. The bar is set now and only time will dictate how anticipating 2016’s iteration of “Azadi Celebration” will be. For more information on Event Ontario and their services, go to: http://www.eventontario.com
Amongst many people, there were several familiar faces whose presence spoke volumes. Milton’s dignitaries Mike Cluett, Rick Di Lorenzo, Zeeshan Hamid, Alex Anabusi and Azim Rizvee were spotted along with Milton’s very own YouTube star, Shahveer Jafry. “It was heartwarming to participate in the combined celebration of independence of both Pakistan and India. It also
Pollillo The Clown was there making balloons and smiles for all the children.
Everyone had a great time and lots of fun
Team Wasim wore white
Team Alex wore Orange for the cricket match
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