February is Black History Month in Canada, let’s celebrate together
I want to start by recognizing that February is Black History Month, a month when we honour the legacy of Black Canadians and their immense contributions and strength.
I want to thank the entire Black community in Orléans for your community engagement and valuable contributions to our culture and the entire community of Orléans.
This year’s Invictus Games will be held in Vancouver from Feb. 8-16. On Jan. 29, I had the honour to meet with two Orléans residents and athletes participating in the Games. Good luck to Mona Robillard and Louise Smith. Orléans and Canada will be cheering for you!
Wishing a happy Lunar New Year to our East Asian communities as they welcome the Year of the Snake, symbolizing wisdom, strength, and intelligence.
Green public transportation in the East End is an important part of the transit future of Ottawa. I was thrilled to see firsthand the work being done at the Orléans LRT Trim Station on Jan. 30 and to thank the project leaders and crew on site for their work.
Over the last weeks, I had the pleasure of visiting several seniors’ residences. I’m always amazed by the conversation we have and a great occasion to remind them how important staying active physically and mentally is.
On Feb 1, I had the privilege of presenting the King Charles III Coronation Medal to 35 outstanding individuals from our community on behalf of the Government of Canada (30) and the Government of Ontario (5) in a ceremony that took place in the beautiful hall at the St-Joseph d’Orléans Church.
As Winterlude is in full gear, the Shenkman Arts Centre is holding its annual free event “Fête Frissons”, this Sunday, Feb. 9, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with performances, art making, workshops, storytelling, face painting, and, of course, outdoor fun in the snow.
The HST tax break will continue until Feb.15. This tax exemption is helping reduce the cost of food and other essential goods, allowing us to better support our local small businesses and restaurants.
I want to remind you that the deadline to nominate an outstanding woman or girl for the Orléans Leading Women and Girls Recognition Awards is coming up very shortly. You have until Feb. 14 to submit your nomination form, which you can request by email at Marie-France.Lalonde@parl.gc.ca.
Thank you once again for helping us to recognize the essential role women and girls play in our community by celebrating their accomplishments and their volunteerism.
OYSTER NIGHT at the Orléans Brewing Co., 4380 Innes Rd. from 6 to10 p.m. Indulge in the finest oysters and unwind with a drink in hand. We also offer wine and ciders for the non beer lovers!
ROYAL OAK ORLEANS Cabin Fever Dart Tournament starting at 12:30 p.m. Entry fee is $15 with all funds going back to the players in prizing. Registration deadline is 12:30pm, games will start at 1pm. Pre-register at the bar to save your spot today!! The Royal Oak Orléans pub is located at 1981 St. Joseph Blvd. near Jeanne d’Arc.
BeYOUtiful WOMEN’S EXPO from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Shenkman Art’s Centre with over 35 exhibitors and seven guest speakers covering the topics of health, wellness, beauty and fun. Tickets $10 at the door.
OYSTER NIGHT at the Orléans Brewing Co., 4380 Innes Rd. from 6 to10 p.m. Indulge in the finest oysters and unwind with a drink in hand. We also offer wine and ciders for the non beer lovers.
