Oakville North-Burlington Newsletter February 23, 2024

“I’m thrilled to announce the approval of $76,400 in funding through the Ontario Trillium Foundation to Halton Food for Thought. Their tireless efforts result in meals being provided to 92,000 students annually. I was proud to support Halton Food for Thought’s this month for their FEEDUARY campaign. 

This investment will significantly bolster their ability to serve our community. By strengthening their operations, Halton Food for Thought will not only continue, but also enhance their invaluable support for our youth.

This funding exemplifies our shared dedication to investing in initiatives that directly benefit our community, paving the way for a brighter future for all.” – MPP Effie Triantafilopoulos

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I was honoured to join in the Town of Oakville’s Lunar New Year celebration as we usher in the Year of the Dragon.

The Year of the Dragon is steeped in symbolism and tradition, representing strength, prosperity, and good fortune. It is a time when the fiery spirit of the dragon ignites our hearts and fills us with a sense of power and possibility. As we embark on this new lunar year, let us do so with hearts full of hope, minds open to new possibilities, and spirits filled with the fiery passion of the dragon.

May this Year of the Dragon bring abundant blessings, prosperity and happiness. On behalf of Premier Doug Ford and the Government of Ontario, we wish everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous Year of the Dragon!

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I had the honour of attending and speaking at the book launch of Oakville author
Olamidotun Votu-Obada, as part of our Black History Month festivities. Ola has penned enchanting and uplifting children’s books that showcase the stories of extraordinary Africans.

Reflecting on her own childhood, she was inspired by the tales of greatness from her heritage, realizing that with determination, attitude, and joy, she could pursue any dream she set her mind to. Thank you for inviting me to share this moment with you, Ola!

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As part of Oakville’s Black History Month celebrations, I had the pleasure of joining Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton President Andrew Tyrrell at the African Canadian Art Exhibition – “Our Journey” at the Queen Elizabeth Community Centre.

This exhibition by renowned artist Joan Butterfield displayed some of her compelling artworks.  Each piece is a testament to the depth of talent and cultural richness within our Halton community.

I encourage all art enthusiasts to seize the opportunity to experience this exceptional display of artistic expression.

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I had the pleasure of joining the Nigerian Community of Halton at their annual Family Cultural Day Celebration, as part of this year’s Black History Month festivities in Oakville.

It was such an enlightening experience, immersing ourselves in the beauty and diversity of Nigerian culture while also celebrating the rich tapestry of Black history in Ontario. From mesmerizing dance to lively music and a colourful fashion show, each moment was a reminder of the resilience and vibrancy of the Black community.

Grateful for the opportunity to honour and learn from this incredible heritage.

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Thank you to the Oakville Power Boat Club for a day of sunshine, good company and a delectable brunch hosted by wonderful hosts John and Effie.
Thank you for the invitation and warm hospitality. The atmosphere was as delightful as the spread, making it an unforgettable experience. Grateful to the OPBS community and the Gaidatsis family for creating such memorable moments!

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I rose in the Legislature to ask the Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity Charmaine Williams what actions our government is taking to expand opportunities for women to find good work, and good pay in the skilled trades.
When women succeed, Ontario succeeds.

Watch our exchange here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNahuL5aFl4&ab_channel=EffieTriantafilopoulos

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The wait is over! Tuesday was the first day back in the Legislature at Queen’s Park after a productive winter. It was wonderful to cross paths with former Premier Ernie Eves with my colleagues Christine Hogarth, Robin Martin, and Donna Skelly. We reflected on his leadership and lasting legacy for the people and province of Ontario.

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Queen’s Park hosted its annual Black History Month celebration! Premier Doug Ford delivered a passionate speech, highlighting the positive impact the black community has in all facets of life in our province.

Our riding of Oakville North-Burlington was well represented with guests from the Nigerian Community of Halton, Author Olamidotunvo, the African Caribbean Council of Halton, the Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton, Black Mentorship Inc and Re-Imagine Ontario!

Thank you to all who attended and helped in celebrating the rich history and culture of the Black community.

Black History is Ontario History! Black History is Canadian History!

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Seniors Community Grant Program Applications Now Open

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Applications are now open for the Ontario Seniors Community Grant Program. The seniors grants support local, not-for-profit community groups and organizations to deliver programs and learning opportunities for Ontarians aged 55+.

Activities and services supported by the program include:

  • Fitness and nutrition classes to keep adults aged 55+ active, healthy, and socially connected to their communities.
  • Opportunities for community engagement, such as book club gatherings and technology training seminars, to reduce social isolation and increase volunteerism.
  • Increasing access to information through initiatives such as free lectures and supports for health prevention and promotion.

Applications for 2024-25 are open now until March 28, 2024. Community organizations interested in applying can visit Ontario.ca/getfunding for more information.

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Ontario Keeping Energy and Housing Costs Down

The Ontario government introduced legislation that, if passed, would reverse a December 2023 decision by the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) that would have significantly increased the costs of building new homes across the province.

Reversing this decision will prevent an average of $4,400 being added to the price of new homes, or tens of thousands of dollars being added to the price of a home in rural Ontario.
The Keeping Energy Costs Down Act, 2024 would, if passed, give the province authority to reverse the OEB decision to require residential customers and small businesses to pay 100 per cent of the cost of new natural gas connections upfront. These costs would have previously been paid over forty years. Once the government introduces a Natural Gas Policy Statement, a recommendation of the Electrification and Energy Transition Panel’s final report, it will require the OEB to consider this issue again.
The government will also appoint a new chair of the OEB this spring with the expectation that the board and commissioners conducts appropriate consultation – in line with the proposed legislative requirements – before reaching decisions that support the objective of an affordable, reliable, and clean energy system.
Learn More: https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1004217/ontario-keeping-energy-and-housing-costs-down

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Oakville North-Burlington Spirit Awards

It’s truly an honour to shine a light on the dedicated volunteers who have contributed to making our community better. Thank you for your community spirit. If you would like to nominate a member of our community who has gone above and beyond to contribute to our community, please contact my office and let me know at Effie.triantafilopoulos@pc.ola.org

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