President's Report
Jeff Forsyth
Posted May 07
This month we kick off our annual membership campaign. Tony Sibley has been working hard to organize this year’s campaign getting the canvasser kits assembled and recruiting volunteer canvassers. Last years’ membership numbers were lower than in recent years. The reduction can be traced to a lack of volunteer canvassers which translates into reduced membership numbers. Tony has listed in the newsletter a number of streets requiring canvassers. Please consider volunteering even if it is only for part of a street. We particularly need canvassers in the new developments in our community. Considering the number of new homes built in our community in the last few years our membership numbers do not reflect a large number of members from these areas.
Our membership drive is our major and only way we raise funds for the association. Please remember that you can also purchase your membership on line.
On March 31 we held our first “Harmony on the Palate”, an evening of wine tasting music and culture. It was a sold out evening at the West Rouge Community Centre. With plenty of positive feedback, everyone enjoyed the evening while learning something about the art of wine tasting and food pairings. Thanks to Heather Lemiuex of CCRA and Lyn Shepard of West Rouge Sports and Recreation for organizing this very successful evening. Thanks also to the many volunteers who made contributions or helped with this event.
On April 25 the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) was to conduct a hearing on an application for development of 18 lots on a parcel of land on the east side of Meadowvale Rd. south of Wanita Rd. The developer, Honeywood Developments, appealed to the OMB on the grounds the city did not respond to their application within the time limit specified in the Planning Act. The City was going to be present at the hearing to oppose the application. We will advise you of the OMB decision once it is rendered.
On May 12 the Community Police Liaison Committee will be holding an Open House and Picnic at the 43 Division Police Station on Lawrence Ave., east of Manse Rd. CCRA Liaison Committee Rep Marilyn Hodge has additional details of this event elsewhere in this newsletter.
For the past couple of years we have had a Youth Rep on our executive. Unfortunately our Youth Rep Paul Lewkowicz returned to a school out of town and was no longer able to continue as Youth Rep. We are looking for a replacement. If any of our youth are interested in becoming the Youth Rep on the executive please contact me or any other executive member. This is an opportunity to get involved in your community and bring the youth perspective to the association.
Looking ahead to June Heritage Day is planned for Saturday June 16th beginning with a parade along Lawson from Centennial School to Highland Creek Village starting at 10:00 a.m. Further details of this event will be in our June newsletter.
Jeff Forsyth President