Let's highlight stories of greatness in the Beach

[attach]4275[/attach]Recently, I was asked by the Town Crier to consider writing a column on local issues from the perspective of someone who has been deeply involved with the community. I accepted based on the idea that it might be a wonderful vehicle to talk about our people and neighbourhoods free from the limitations of the rough and tumble of politics — to highlight the positive and to accentuate the many good things of life in Beaches-East York.

During my time in office, I saw numerous examples of the foregoing every day. Now I would like to take the opportunity to tell the stories of the people in our community who volunteer for community causes, design great and creative ideas, go the extra mile for a neighbour, coach our youth or look out for the preservation of the quality of life we value so highly in this community.

I am looking for your help in doing this. If you would like to recommend someone or something that you think is great and needs to be brought to our attention, please let me know.

To kick off this new undertaking, I would like to mention the following neat things going on in our community.

Ashbridge’s Bay Yacht Club is hosting an open house for its Learn to Sail Summer Programs for all ages. This is a great opportunity to get out on the water and enjoy the pleasures of boating right here in our community.

The open house is at 30 Ashbridges Bay Blvd., at the foot of Coxwell Avenue on May 12 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Another great event is The Beach Guild of Fine Art, 8th annual Small Paintings for Small Spaces Art Show from May 13 to 15 at the Gardener’s Cottage in Kew Gardens. View the talents of our local artists and consider a purchase for your home.

I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the distinguished service of MP Maria Minna and her staff, Joanne Linton and Tania Cirone who have served this community well for many years.

Matthew Kellway, our newly elected MP for Beaches-East York, is a long-time community member and I hope to interview Matthew in the coming months. Send your comments and ideas to my email at [email=sandrabussin@gmail.com]sandrabussin@gmail.com[/email].